BIRDWATCHING POTENTIAL IN THE PROTECTED NATURE AREAS OF THE VILLAGES OF OMOLJICA AND IVANOVO, VOJVODINA, SERBIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59267/ekoPolj25031089DKeywords:
Birdwatching, protected nature areas, Omoljica, Ivanovo, tourist motivation, satisfactionAbstract
This study explores the key motivations and satisfaction factors influencing tourists’ intentions to revisit protected nature areas for birdwatching in the villages of Omoljica and Ivanovo in Vojvodina, Serbia. The research surveyed 210 domestic tourists who participated in birdwatching excursions organized to mark World Tourism Day in September 2024. Logistic regression analysis revealed that motivations related to socializing and relaxation negatively affected revisit intentions, while satisfaction with transport services positively influenced the likelihood of return visits. The findings underscore the importance of improving transport quality to support birdwatching tourism. This research contributes to a better understanding of tourists’ motivations and satisfaction with birdwatching experiences and offers practical insights for the development of tailored tourism offers in protected rural areas.
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