Evaluation of Bilecik Pelitözü Pond in Terms of Glamping Tourism Potential

Abstract

With the radical changes in consumer behavior, alternative tourism types have come to the fore in the 21st century, where the superiority of mass tourism, which is the dominant tourism approach, has been eliminated. Consumers, who mostly prefer niche markets, have turned to nature and touristic activities centered on nature due to the pandemic. Glamping tourism is also a type of tourism that has started to trend among alternative tourism types. In addition, since it is a type of tourism that increases the potential of destination tourism, is sustainable and focused on rural tourism, appeals to all segments and supports rural development, it is the reason for research on many subjects. In this context, the aim of the research is to reveal the glamping tourism potential of Pelitözü Pond in Bilecik. In this context, the literature related to Bilecik Pelitözü Pond was scanned and a field trip was made to determine the current situation. Within the framework of the information obtained, the tourism potential and SWOT analysis of Bilecik Pelitözü Pond in the context of glamping tourism were tried to be revealed. Considering the strengths, the positive perspective of the local people on tourism and the fact that they do not lose the sense of hospitality show that tourism activities will produce positive results. Again, the presence of various non-governmental organizations in the destination region, the presence of tourism and educational institutions, and the presence of many activities to support glamping tourism will help the development and growth of glamping tourism in the destination region. The weaknesses are that the public and local governments do not reach a sufficient level of knowledge about glamping tourism and do not realize how much glamping tourism will contribute. In addition, increasing the promotion activities of the destination region where glamping tourism will be made is a great opportunity for both investment and human resources transfer to the region. It is recommended that future investments or decisions related to glamping tourism should be made by considering the SWOT analysis.