Development of innovative tourism product in rural areas: Challenges and security issues

Abstract

This paper is the result of research into the relationship between the current state in Serbian rural areas and the position of tourism, economy of agriculture, culture and safety. Over the last decade stakeholders have promoted a few development projects in rural areas. Hence, there is a need to understand how the existing risks can affect these innovative actions. Having in mind the regional inequalities, rural tourism may not be suitable for every location. The extent to which some adopted strategies in rural areas were realized remains the subject of much debate. Security issues are one of these subjects. In rural areas, tourist engaged in various types of tourism can be jeopardized: from eco, gastro, adventure to culture, and others. The results address the need that tourism product must be created in a way to attract and keep tourists safe. The conclusion is that rural communities that consider offering a safe innovative tourism product will have more opportunities for development.