Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Why do we Need the Tourism Journal CACTUS or an Argument for the Tourism Journal CACTUS? Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: PhD THESIS AND THEIR RESEARCH RESULTS Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/phD.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Religion - A Continuous Challenge to Romanian Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/phD.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Rodica Elena Minciu Author-Name-First: Rodica Elena Author-Name-Last: Minciu Author-Email: rodica.minciu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Ana Mihaela Pădurean Author-Name-First: Ana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Pădurean Author-Email: mihaela.padurean@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Sustainable Development in Metropolitan Areas Abstract: The economic and social development process involves a balance between the existing resources and their careful use. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt some coherent and unitary programs for the unitary development of the entire area. A sustainable approach for the growth of the welfare in the metropolitan areas will require an integrated action, on an economic and social level for environment and space. The evaluation of the sustainable development in metropolitan areas, in the DEMOS project has been carried out with the help of a series of indicators specific for this area, as for example: landscape, natural resources, the evolution of the population, the development of the housing sector, education, sanitary system and so on. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: sustainable development; evaluation; indicators; metropolitan area; the movement of the population Classification-JEL: Q01, Q56, O18, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/sustanable.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Ţigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Ţigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Email: state.olimpia@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Socio-Economic and Ecological Indicators of the Metropolitan Area of Bucharest Abstract: The metropolitan area is defined as an association on the basis of a voluntary partnership between urban and rural localities, where collaboration relations are established at different levels. The level of influence of the metropolitan area is established depending on the territory it organizes as a regional, national or international metropolis. As a result of the researches carried out, (inclusively in the DEMOS project) the Metropolitan Area of Bucharest (MAB) may include 61 administrative units within a radius of 50 km around the capital. In comparison to other capitals and metropolitan areas from Central and Eastern Europe (Berlin, Budapest, Prague, Warsaw), Bucharest occupies the fifth rank in terms of number of population and square kilometres, but it is ranking the first in terms of density (inhabitants/square kilometre), with 1266 inhabitants/ sq. km, in comparison to the second ranking city – Warsaw – having only 638 inhabitants/sq. km. This fact makes a strong argument for developing a metropolitan area in Bucharest. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: metropolitan area; population density; urban agglomeration; administrative unit; development association Classification-JEL: O18, O44, Q01, R11, Q57 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/socio-economic.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia Elena Ţuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia Elena Author-Name-Last: Ţuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mihai Felea Author-Name-First: Mihai Author-Name-Last: Felea Author-Email: mihai.felea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina Ţală Author-Name-First: Mădălina Author-Name-Last: Ţală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Commercial Services in Metropolitan Areas Abstract: A major advantage for the metropolitan areas is the establishment of a coherent commercial system. Therefore, in Romania there are more than 100.000 shops, our country being a leader in Europe in what the number of shops per thousand inhabitants is concerned. Presently, in our country there are different ways of selling the products: in supermarkets, hypermarkets, cash&carry, malls, specialised centres and so on. More and more well known companies are interested in the potential of the markets from the Romanian metropolitan areas. This paper analyses the Romanian commerce and the large chain stores which invest in our country. Our present research is a part of the DEMOS project. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: commerce; metropolitan areas; retail trade Classification-JEL: R11, O18 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/comercial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Irina Mărunţelu Author-Name-First: Irina Author-Name-Last: Mărunţelu Author-Email: irina.maruntelu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Creating Identities and Promoting the Image of the Metropolitan Areas Abstract: Urban marketing is an essential element for the strategies of economic development of cities, in the context of the intensification of competition among urban communities. The creation of identity and the promotion of town image, which are activities of the operative marketing mix, are elements contributing to the creation of a town’s brand and this represents one of the grounds for obtaining the success of the development strategy from the marketing perspective. The management of urban marketing can only hope that the actual image will be created according to the desired and conveyed town identity. The aim of the present work is to evaluate and the present the method employed for the procedures of urban marketing to become efficient instruments of local economic development. The work brings to discussion the success of urban marketing practice which enhances the attractiveness and the value of a town, with a stress on the creation of the identity and the promotion of the image of urban communities. It also presents elements which individualize the application of urban marketing in municipalities on the European territory. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: urban marketing; metropolitan area; identity; image; promotion Classification-JEL: M31, O18 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/creating.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Viorica Ionaşcu Author-Name-First: Viorica Author-Name-Last: Ionaşcu Author-Email: viorica.ionascu56@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: “Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Romania Author-Name: Monica Neacşu Author-Name-First: Monica Author-Name-Last: Neacşu Author-Workplace-Name: “Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Romania Author-Name: Diana Coconoiu Author-Name-First: Diana Author-Name-Last: Coconoiu Author-Workplace-Name: “Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Romania Title: Standard of Life – Premise and Consequence of the Development of the Iasi Metropolitan Area Abstract: The Metropolitan area Iasi is an important area of development in Romania. To characterize the main elements of standard of life were used synthetic indicators in the area, in the constituent settlements, but also in the county of Iasi. In terms of total area, Iasi County is ranked 23rd in the hierarchy of the country, but it is 2nd in terms of total population (1st July 2006), 7th in terms of population of cities and towns, 1st in terms of natural growth, 18th in terms to net nominal average income, but 23rd by the gross domestic product per capita. These indicators point out the development potential of the area and consist of the synthesis of the amount of information discussed and analysed in this paper. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: standard of life; synthetic indicators; gross domestic product; population; state of accomplishment Classification-JEL: H75, J21, O18 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/standard.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Baltaretu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Baltaretu Author-Email: baltaretuandreea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: „Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Romania Title: Ile-de-France-Metropolitan Area European Model Abstract: Metropolitan France is a term which designated the European part of the French state. In the European Union treaties the judicial term which is used is the French territory located in Europe. The metropolitan area Île-de-France is placed in the Central-Northern part of the country including Paris, the small ring and the large ring. From the point of view of the population, Île-de-France contains almost 20% of the total number of population from metropolitan France. It is the third most populous country subdivision in the European Union after North Rhine Westphalia and Bavaria from Germany. One can say that the region Île-de-France is one of the engines of the international economy and its GDP is higher than the GDP from important countries like Brazil or Russia. Île-de-France was created in 1976 when it replaces the District of the Paris Region, created in 1962. The infrastructure of the metropolitan area Île-de-France is presently suffocated by the car flow, residents and tourists and therefore some immediate measures need to be taken in order to improve the daily traffic. From the 2 357 hotels from Île-de-France, more than 63% are in the capital. Paris and the peripheral communes have similar objectives in what the infrastructure and the travel management is concerned: the reduction of the pressure of the vehicles, the promotion and the development of the common transport and of the light means of transport, the management of the stations according to these objectives. One needs a high coordination between the numerous actors involved because there are some disparities between the time and the way of putting these aspects into practice. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Keywords: metropolis; territory; infrastructure; transport; economy Classification-JEL: L83, O18, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/ile-de-france.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: The Handbook of Service Industries Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/book.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Articles/Studies Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol1/events.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Services Specialization (a Possible Index) and its Connection with Competitiveness. The Case of Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: PhD THESIS AND THEIR RESEARCH RESULTS Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/phd.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-21 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Ways of Approaching Religious Tourism through the Offer of Monastic Settlements and the Specificity of Travelers' Demand for These Destinations Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/phd.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-22 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Improving the Management Relationships in Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/phd.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-23 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Dorel Abraham Author-Name-First: Dorel Author-Name-Last: Abraham Author-Workplace-Name: Center for Urban and Regional Sociology (CURS), Bucharest Author-Name: Ionela Şufaru Author-Name-First: Ionela Author-Name-Last: Şufaru Author-Workplace-Name: Center for Urban and Regional Sociology (CURS), Bucharest Author-Name: Vasile Gherasim Author-Name-First: Vasile Author-Name-Last: Gherasim Author-Workplace-Name: Center for Urban and Regional Sociology (CURS), Bucharest Title: Methodology to Establish the Borders and Structure of Metropolitan Areas Abstract: The paper is focused on CURS’ research experience developed in the DEMOS Project in order to identify and to describe profiles of the metropolitan areas in Romania. A metropolitan area is defined as an integrated unit in which the core city and the surrounding localities have direct, diverse and continuous interrelations as it is developing as a functional and systemic area. In the paper there are showed both some international significant experiences in the field (from USA, Canada, Europe – METREX) and from Romania. The proposal methodology we elaborated and pre-tested on Bucharest area is seen on a kind of standard methodology to be used as a framework in order to identify the metropolitan area borders and to describe the profile of this area. Thus the methodology should take into account four stages or steps. The first step is to survey the local authorities from the surrounding localities (as a survey frame or sample universe, including all localities within an established distance). The data for interrelation indicators such as population migration, community, space building under the influence of the core city, tourism potential etc. were collected from the local authorities. The second step is to analyze these data and to establish which localities should be included in the metropolitan area. An integration index was also built covering the values of the main indicators. The data were normalized to be compared and share ted so the final indexes or score showed the hierarchy of the integration of the surveyed localities. The most integrated localities are suggested to be incorporated in the metropolitan area. The third step is to assess the population support for the establishment of a metropolitan area. A representative survey at the level of the surrounding localities reported to be included in the metropolitan area is conducted. Here we are talking about the relations this population has with the core city, the perception of the advantages and disadvantages of the metropolitan area and their attitude, pros and cons the settling of a metropolitan area. The fourth step is about the establishment of an interdisciplinary team (with localities representatives, architects, economists, lawyers and sociologists) that will analyze the data and will design the new metropolitan area with borders, structure, objectives and own management. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Keywords: methodology; survey; indicators; interdisciplinary team Classification-JEL: C18, L83, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/1.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: gabriela_stanciulescu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Email: state.olimpia@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Ţigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Ţigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Economic and Social Development of the Metropolitan Areas Abstract: The economic and social development process of the metropolitan areas needs to provide a balance between the existing resources and the way of planning these resources. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt some coherent and unitary programs for a balanced development of the entire area. A sustainable approach for the improvement of the quality of life in the metropolitan areas will require an action integrated on the economic and social level of the environment and of the space in order to bring an improvement of the welfare of the metropolitan areas. The present paper tries to look through some of the important aspects of the social and economic development from the metropolitan areas. The authors research these issues in the DEMOS project. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Keywords: quality of life; welfare; metropolitan areas; sustainable development; public-private partnership Classification-JEL: L83, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Rodica Minciu Author-Name-First: Rodica Author-Name-Last: Minciu Author-Email: rodicaminciu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mihaela Padurean Author-Name-First: Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Padurean Author-Email: mihaela.padurean@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Impact of Metropolitan Development on Recreation Areas Planning Abstract: In the context of the intensification of economic competitiveness, depending both on the economic activities unfolded as well as on their territorial location, on the distribution and spatial relationships that these activities have with resources, on afferent workforce, on the equipment, services and sales markets, it is obvious that the urban strategy has to be directed towards the involvement of urban centers, of metropolitan areas in harnessing natural and cultural resources, thus constituting a hierarchical system of multi/zones of development by realizing competitive products and services. Having to consider all these, the intensification of the influence of the equipment and recreation areas system on the economic vitality of the metropolis, on the complexity and quality of the recreation services and equipments, enhance the reputation and image of a region and has positive effects on its attractiveness; at the same time, the recreation service system creates jobs, stimulates tourism and facilitates a series of advantages regarding the economic and social domains. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Keywords: planning; recreation areas; metropolitan areas; tourism Classification-JEL: L83, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/3.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Viorica Ionaşcu Author-Name-First: Viorica Author-Name-Last: Ionaşcu Author-Workplace-Name: „Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Drăguţ Bogdănel Author-Name-First: Drăguţ Author-Name-Last: Bogdănel Author-Email: dragut_bogdan@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: „Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Bucharest, Romania Title: Monograph of the Metropolitan Area Iasi Premises for the Development of Moldavia Abstract: As a result of the urban and structural concentration of the suburbs, the cities expand and get involved in the increasing processes of the adjoining areas, creating socio-spatial societies called metropolitan areas or regions. The metropolitan area assumes the approach as a partnership system on long and medium development, focusing on the possibilities offers of living, which are necessary and relaxing for the population from the area, business opportunities, investments, arrangements for the academic and research institutions, solving the issues of the environment, attracting funds for an infrastructure etc., fundaments that allows a territorial development for more locations from the area and the immediate surroundings. According to the Urbanism Law 350 from 2001, annex II, the metropolitan territory is defined as the surface situated circa the first rang districts, including the places situated till 30 km distance, where the mutual relations of influence are created, in the field of the communication means, economy, social, cultural and town infrastructure. At the beginning of 2003, the Collaboration Agreement has been signed between the Council of the District Iasi, the Municipal Council and the Coordinators of the Program GRASP (Governance Reform and Sustainable Partnerships) regarding the approach of the development project of the metropolis. On 8th of April 2004, The Council of the District Iasi, the Municipal Council Iasi and the Municipal Councils of the 13 enclosed villages have signed the constitution act of the Metropolitan Area of Iasi and they have created the Metropolis Council of Iasi, founding the regional development. Therefore, the development of the area can be made by elaborating a proper plan of the metropolitan territory. Its purpose is to obtain a global frame and a unitary documentation regarding the possibilities of development – in the concept of a lasting development – of this territory in a district and national context. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Keywords: development; metropolitan area; potential; plan; objectives Classification-JEL: R11, R13, R58 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/4.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Băltăreţu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Băltăreţu Author-Email: baltaretuandreea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: „Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Bucharest, Romania Title: Particularities of the Inter-Community Development Area Alba Iulia from Romania Abstract: The inter-community development area Alba Iulia is situated in the Central-Eastern part of the county Alba. The association with the same name was founded on June 27th 2007. In the analysed are one can find accommodation units and foodservice operators, treatment facilities and ways of entertainment which are not concentrated around a resort but are spread in an artificial form in the hotels with a high degree of comfort. The position of the town Alba Iulia is favourable in relation with the heritage values, creating premises for the development of the tourism. The municipality Alba Iulia shows a unique combination of competitive elements: history, architecture and environment. The vision of development in the period 2005-2020 is based on a historic basis related to the Roman times, refined by the German culture and having inestimable symbolic values, as the military fortress Vauban. In what the tourism possibilities from this area are concerned, there are some tracks which lead to the main tourism objectives or which lead to areas and landscape of an unimaginable beauty. We can also mention the fact tat due to the chalk and conglomerates composition of the mountains, some gorges have been formed which were already introduced in tourism circuits, the so called “Green Roads”. The Forestry Directorate Alba Iulia has initiated some tourism packages which it sells in the inter-community development area Alba Iulia, the accommodation is offered in its own welcoming units. One can also mention other sight in the surroundings of the town Alba Iulia, which can lead to the growth of the flow of tourists and implicitly to the development of the local economy as well as to some new tourism tracks and entertainment bases. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Keywords: accommodation structures; tourism heritage; tourism tracks; tourism planning; recreation area Classification-JEL: L83, R5, R11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/5.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: International Handbook on the Economics of Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/book.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Papers Presented Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/events.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-19 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: PhD THESIS AND THEIR RESEARCH RESULTS Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2010 Creation-Date: 2010 Volume: 2 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol2/phd.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2010-20 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: International Projects - Sustainable and Nature-based Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/6INTERNATIONAL_PROJECTS.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: 53rd World Congress FIJET, September 17 – 25/2011, Congress Theme: World Cultural Heritage in Travel Press Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/FIJET.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Ancient Commerce and Distinguished Faculty of Commerce at Its 60 Years Aniversary! Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Bernd Hallier Author-Name-First: Bernd Author-Name-Last: Hallier Author-Email: hallier@ehi.org Author-Workplace-Name: Prof. Prof. E. h. (RUS) Dr., Managing Director EHI Retail Institute Title: Defining the Mining Tourism. Case Study Idar-Oberstein Abstract: In order to be successfully promoted in the targeted markets, a destination must be favourably differentiated from its competition, or positively positioned, in the minds of the consumers. A key component of this positioning process is the creation and management of a distinctive and appealing perception, or image, of the destination.2 The paper introduces the area of Idar-Oberstein belonging to the “German Route of Gemstones”. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; Mining; Revitalization; Gemstones Classification-JEL: L72, L83, Q26, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Hallier.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Overview of the Romanian and Spanish Approaches on the Tourism Economic Impact Measurement Methods Abstract: The tourism activities have a real impact on the social and economic development, as it has great contributions to the GDP formation and the role it employs on the labor market. The economic branch of tourism has been and still is playing an important role in the economy as a whole, at macro level. The degree of importance has grown or diminished over the years, yet it certainly proved itself to be a notable factor of economic growth, no matter the level. Also, the tourism sector maintains codependent relationships with other sectors, mutually sustaining themselves, like transportation or lodging. The tourism sector as a whole is greatly characterized by a strong presence of and dependence on the labor force. It creates new work places, this way attracting the work force surplus from other sectors, which consequently has a good impact on reducing the unemployment rate. The high number of the people employed in the tourism domain could be mainly explained by the scarce possibilities of mechanization and automatisation of the tourism activities and operations. Also, one shouldn’t forget the indirect effect that the increasing number of employed people has on other sectors. Studies in this field reveal that one work place in tourism can create up to three other work places in the economic frame. That is precisely why tourism, being as it is a great consumer of goods and services, has a beneficial influence on the number of employees in its “supplying” economic branches: agriculture, Food and Beverage, constructions, etc The tourism impact measurement methods are every time more efficient and more accurate. Yet, because these measurement methods differ from one country to another, it is extremely difficult to conclude analyzes between tourism destinations worldwide, in terms of tourism economic impact. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; Measurement methods; Tourism economic impact; Approach on tourism; GDP in tourism; Employment in tourism Classification-JEL: E01, E24, J20, M18 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Nica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Promoting the Tourism Potential of Dâmboviţa County Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/7Proiect_Dambovita.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Books Published by Romanian Publishing Houses Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/4Books.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Books/Chapters Published by International Publishing Houses Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/5INTERN.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vasile Bogdan Călăreţu Author-Name-First: Vasile Bogdan Author-Name-Last: Călăreţu Author-Email: calaretubogdan@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The impact of Tourism on Mountain Community Development Abstract: The mountain area represent a pole of attraction for tourist because of the diversity of activities can take place here, but also for climatic factors. The tourism in this area have increased spectacular in the last two decades and this involve many benefits for local community but also some negative impacts on residents. This paper is a exploratory research, based on a secondary sources of how mountain tourism influence the economic, social and ecological environments, and to identify which of this effects are present in the Sinaia mountain resort through a direct observation. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Keywords: mountain tourism; local community; mountain resort; sense of place Classification-JEL: Q 23, Q 26, J 48 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Calaretu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Elisabeta Molnar Author-Name-First: Elisabeta Author-Name-Last: Molnar Author-Email: elis@remtours.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Optimization of European Air Transport - Generous Intentions, Difficult Implementations and Controversial Results Abstract: The paper's theme is research within the fields of socio-economic and human priority aimed primarily to stimulate partnerships in priority areas such as planning, balanced development, polycentric, based on transport systems. Important element that focuses on all research undertaken, consider policies and strategies offered by the EU in transport, and launching a new strategic concept (NCS), the European air routes optimization, allowing quick and easy movement into desired areas. In addition, it was found that many airports need a substantial upgrade. Scientific results and conclusions of this research are to draw some color pan European airline to optimize connections between Eastern and Western Europe. The industry is shifting gears in the recovery cycle. Growth is slowing towards normal historical levels in the 5-6% range. Relative weakness in developed markets is being offset by the momentum of economic expansion in developing markets. We see a strong end to 2010 that boosted the year’s profit forecast to $15.1 billion. Slowing traffic growth is in line with our projections for a reduced profit of $9.1 billion in 2011, that’s a 1.5% margin. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Keywords: Air transport; Airlines alliance; Airport; Passengers; Performance Classification-JEL: L 93, M 10, R 41 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Molnar.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION STRATEGIES AND THEIR EFFECT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THIRD SECTOR ORGANIZATIONS Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/8Rezumat_teza.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Bauer Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Bauer Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Agro-Tourism: A Piece of History at Our Fingertips Abstract: The agro-tourism is an important component of the overall touristic activity, with multiple benefits for both local communities and environmental protection. This touristic activity plays an important role in getting the young people who left their rural communities to come back to them. The role that the agro-tourism has in this matter is to create jobs and by stimulating the businesses in the rural area, to participate in the development of rural communities. It is a wide spread form of tourism, especially in countries such as France, Germany, Italy. Romania has a great potential for this type of activity and also, a great need for the advantages that this type of tourism brings Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Keywords: Ecotourism; Agro-tourism; Sustainable development; Renewable energy Classification-JEL: Q 17, Q 18, Q 13, P 25 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Bauer.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: TJWAR Awards Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 3 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol3/Premiile.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: It's time for the balance sheet Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/1_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Marin-Pantelescu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Marin-Pantelescu Author-Email: marindeea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The business travellers' motivation and behaviour Abstract: An understanding of way people buy business trips, why they choose one particular company over another, and why they choose to travel when they do this is vital to those who work in the tourism industry. Yet curiously, we know relatively little about tourism motivation because the reasons for their choices are little understood. This is not entirely the result of a lack of research, because many companies are doing research regarding the tourists’ behaviour, but as this is ‘in house’ research, the information is confidential to the company concerned, and seldom becomes public knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to explain the business travellers’ motivation and behaviour by making a difference between leisure and business tourists’ specific motivation and behaviour. The paper also presents the world and national evolution of these two particular segments of travellers and includes comments regarding their future perspectives. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: motivation; business travel Classification-JEL: L83, M1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/9_Marin_Pantelescu_Andreea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-23 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Timothy Lee Author-Name-First: Timothy Author-Name-Last: Lee Author-Email: timothylee728@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Queensland, Australia Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stanciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stanciulescu Author-Email: gabriela.stanciulescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Magdalena Bunghez Author-Name-First: Magdalena Author-Name-Last: Bunghez Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Camelia Grozea Author-Name-First: Camelia Author-Name-Last: Grozea Title: Models of dependancies between economic development and corporate social responsibility Abstract: In the current context of the economic-financial crisis, corporate social responsibility represents a bridge for the harmonization of the interests of all stakeholders on the economic-social scene. The article is focused on two main objectives. The first goal was to point out the existent dependences between the general economic growth, corporations and stakeholders, through the corporate social responsibility. These dependencies are reflected in international principles and behavioural models (UN Global Compact Management Model, The Blueprint for Corporate Sustainability, CAUX principles) proposed by the European Community and the international organisations UN Global Compact and OECD. The second objective is to carry out an analysis model in main components and a hierarchical classification which has confirmed moreover that the large economic powers are the cause and explanation of their involvement in the principles of social responsibility. This article points out the implementation level of the principles of corporate social responsibility in Romanian. The characteristic is the involvement of most of the companies especially in donations and sponsorships. The economic-financial crisis has led to the movement of the accent towards partnerships based on entrepreneurship, especially in what the relation between the companies and non-governmental organisations are concerned, in order to provide funds and to take employees in voluntary actions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: Transnational society; Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); Analysis models in the main components Classification-JEL: M14, F23, C54 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/10_modele.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-24 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vasile Bicajanu Author-Name-First: Vasile Author-Name-Last: Bicajanu Title: 1. Efficiency Measures and Deconcentration Of Public Services Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/1.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-25 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Viorel Mionel Author-Name-First: Viorel Author-Name-Last: Mionel Title: 2. Urban Segregation. Case Study: Bucharest Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-26 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Title: 3. Approaches and Evaluations of The Tourism Sector in Emerging Economies Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/3.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-27 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anamaria Răvar Author-Name-First: Anamaria Author-Name-Last: Răvar Author-Email: anamaria.ravar@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The importance of print and visual media in the promotion of hospitality enterprises Abstract: As the development of tourism cannot be realized without the selling of tourism products and services, and this selling is not possible in the absence of promotion activities, the marketing activities in the field of tourism are essential to ensuring the success of tourism activities. The current paper illustrates the importance of print and visual media in the promotion and communication of tourist destinations and accommodation facilities. Flyers, brochures and catalogues create a link between the service provider and the end consumers, informing and educating them, creating notoriety, facilitating acquisition and stimulating demand. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourist marketing; print and visual media; hospitality Classification-JEL: L83, M13, M31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/11__masterand.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-28 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: The 2011 International Conference on Tourism . Papers presented at international conferences, with program committee, outside Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/conferinte.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-29 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: BOOK REVIEWS: CITY AND REGION MARKETING. CONCEPTS, TRENDS, CASE STUDIES by BERND HALLIER Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/book.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-30 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Carmen Moraru Author-Name-First: Carmen Author-Name-Last: Moraru Author-Email: cmoraru@mturism.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Ministry of Regional Development and Tourism Director General, Bucharest, Romania Title: Romania's competitiveness as a tourist destination Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/1_Moraru_Carmen.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Elena-Cristina Mahika Author-Name-First: Elena-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Mahika Author-Email: cristinamahika@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Current trends in tourist motivation Abstract: Currently, in an evolving economy, the study of tourist behaviour is crucial for the field specialists. Influenced by a variety of factors, tourists tend to change their behaviour in time. An important indicator of tourist behaviour, tourist motivation has the purpose of revealing consumer's desires and apirations when opting for a vacation. The analysis of tourist motivations has the advantage of preparing tourist practitioners, and therefore to prepare and forecast the oferr of tourism products that match the current and future demand. This paper is an exploratory research, based on data and studies on recent evolution of the travelling reasons, in order to identify the changing trends. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourist motivation; consumer behaviour; tourism market; tourist destination Classification-JEL: D11, L83, P46 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/2_Mahica_Cristina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Ţuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Ţuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: How film and television programs can promote tourism and increase the competitiveness of tourist destinations Abstract: This paper outlines the correlation between the power of film (both movies and television series) as a motivational and image-making tool and the attractiveness of tourism destinations. In the light of this relationship, our research analyses the phenomenon of film-induced tourism. Even this phenomenon has been recognized and reported, very few comprehensively studies of it have been published. The evidence that has been put forward to date has mostly been anecdotal, pointing towards the capacity of popular films and television series to attract tourists, in the form of enthusiastic fans and interested audience members. Despite the fact that statistics concerning directly the impact that films have had on tourism are limited, there are still some remarkable figures. Countries like UK, Australia, and New Zealand have an increasingly interest in studying and developing the film-induced tourism. Given the existence of this type of tourism and the potentially significant economic value of this strand of tourism to the economy, understanding the drivers of film-induced tourism and exploiting its effect are crucial issues to comprehend. This paper evaluates a number of key questions and provides a stronger insight into the nature of productions which can induce tourism and recommends ways in which this relation can be strategically maximized from the economic and cultural point of view. In the current context of decreasing the Romanian tourism and film industry development, approaching together their augmentation can represents a valid solution for both industries. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: film-induced tourism; tourism imaging; tourist destination competitiveness; economic impact of filmmaking tourists Classification-JEL: L83, M39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/3_Tuclea&Nistoreanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: gabriela_nicoleta_diaconescu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Impact of human resources in quality achieving and development, premise of gaining success in tourism Abstract: In the current context of financial crisis, the importance given to human resource of tourism has known significant changes regarding the ways of motivation and involvement in order that organizational objective to be achieved. Quality is a sine qua non condition for gaining success in business which must be integrated into the company management and maintained to rates as high as possible. First objective of this paper it’s been represented by emphasizing the idea that staff of travel agencies has a decisive role in achieving quality services, involvement of human resources at all levels allowing to use their skills and knowledge for the organization benefit. In this respect, a special attention is given to the human resources professional training and to the skills improvement at work or outside of it. This idea is supported by all stakeholders need to transfer, especially to the customers, confidence and sense of safety in tourism products, elements that lead to their loyalty and to obtain long-term partnerships. Highlighting this fact is another objective of the article. But, if these are not a priority, consumer perception of the company is influenced in a negative way and results in an image acquisition unfavorable, requiring higher costs and efforts to improve it. Thus, the current economic situation, launches a challenge to all companies, to secure a brand that consumers can identify and call, and it lies in the ability to create all favorable conditions for achieving staff integration and motivating in order to create quality at all levels. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: human resources in tourism; quality of tourism; motivation; ethics; professional training Classification-JEL: M12, H12, J24, O15 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/4_Diaconescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Băltăreţu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Băltăreţu Author-Email: baltaretuandreea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: „Dimitrie Cantemir” Christian University, Bucharest, Romania Title: Methods of monitoring the visitors inside the natural protected areas Abstract: The monitoring activity represents a part of the management plan which is constantly evaluating the actions inside a protected area. The tourists’ monitoring is made through specific means that are established on a scientific basis. It can be done by the staff of the protected area, after an appropriate training or by scientists in joint programs. This process requires considerable resources, time and effort, collecting, processing and interpreting the data, how they will be used and the obtained results. This process also requires time, effort and the availability of the visitors. The information collected from visitors, if they are collected by appropriate means, can support the initiation of educational and interpretation activities within the protected area. Therefore, monitoring should include tourism and educational activities as from its results it could develop long-term trends and ways to be followed in this domain. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: monitoring; experience; information; communication; natural protected area Classification-JEL: O13, Q26 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/5_Baltaretu_Andreea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-19 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mirela Mazilu Author-Name-First: Mirela Author-Name-Last: Mazilu Author-Email: mirelamazilu2004@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Craiova, Department of Geography, Romania Title: Regional tourism from the perspective of the Danube strategy – iron gates region Abstract: In the context of a global economy, the sustainable development strategy of Romania must emphasize the catalyst factors of economic and social change, in order to promote economic growth. At the same time, the strategy must be sufficiently flexible for the adaptation to shocks and change processes. The complex of negative factors (the status of the infrastructure, the outdated mentalities, the poor professional training, the long economic crisis, etc.), to which we may add a certain inertia or/and superficiality of some local public administrations regarding the meaning and the definition of local development of tourism, explains the difficulties dealt with by this sector, so dependent on the general status of the national economy. That is why the existence of a national program for the regional development of sustainable tourism is of maximum importance, being identified firstly with the priority objectives of some less evolved areas, which would revive their economy. In this context, the "Strategy of the European Union for the Danube Region" is beneficial for the Iron Gates Region - tourist micro-destination, representing a multinational program through which the European Community has proposed to reduce the delays - firstly economic - between the countries located on the superior course of the old river as well as of those located on its inferior course. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourism; strategy; regional development; potential; heritage; destination; Danube Region Classification-JEL: L8, L83, Q01, O2 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/6_Mazilu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-20 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mădălina Lavinia Ţală Author-Name-First: Mădălina Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Ţală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Ciuciulă Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Ciuciulă Author-Workplace-Name: National Council of Private SMEs from Romania Title: SMEs' networks - modern method to develop Romanian tourism Abstract: In recent years, due to the globalization phenomenon and the increasing role of the Internet, a new concept has revolutionized humanity: networks. Whether they have an informal or professional structure, networks have become a highly effective means of communication. But one cannot find networks only in the virtual sphere. They are configured and functioning in real life with members who are attending regular meetings. From a business point of view, there are many advantages of being involved in a network’s activity. The domain of tourism has become an area where communication is established as a sine qua non of evolution. Thus, SMEs (Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) from tourism sector find themselves facing a new challenge, that of visibility, as the correct expression of the business content in order to increase awareness and its natural consequences, one of which is competitiveness. Belonging to a tourism network of SMEs in tourism determines, inter alia, an improved communication, acquisition of new techniques of expression, the ability to act together in order to face the problems, access to best practices experienced by other organizations. For these companies from tourism sector is a moment to change their long term strategy and to follow a simple principle - competition must be regarded with different, more "friendly" eyes. In a world where tourism is a regarded as a domain which undoubtedly registers a rising trend, the benefit of communication and collaboration must be strictly higher than that of competition. By being a member of such networks, the SMEs can reach unexpected performance and can strengthen their position on the market. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: SME; networks; business; tourism; communication; entrepreneur Classification-JEL: L26, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/7_Tala_and_Ciuciula.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-21 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ovidiu Dobre Author-Name-First: Ovidiu Author-Name-Last: Dobre Author-Email: ovidiudobre87@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Strategies for sustainable competitive advantage in real estate industry Abstract: In order to differentiate from other companies, the real estate developers should understand and accept the fact that the industry is not facing a cyclical problem but it has fundamentally changed and in the following years the industry will remain less attractive. The paper focuses on the strategies a real estate developer could implement in order to develop a long term sustainable competitive advantage. On one hand a competitive advantage can be obtained by having a lower cost than the competitors and consequently obtaining higher margins when selling at the market prices. On the other hand a competitive advantage can be created by differentiation, by the ability to use the company’s unique skills and resources (better utilization of land and human capital, more appealing design, innovation) in order to obtain higher revenues by requesting a higher price. Knowledge is the key competitive advantage in real estate industry, the element which creates and sustains the competitive advantage on the long run. A developer may have a great knowledge of particular customer needs, a specific area, of the market in which operates or it can be better than the competitors in terms of economic intelligence. However, implementing a proper human resource strategy is at least as important as exploiting knowledge. Consequently, by achieving an efficient human resource management, real estate developers can take advantage of future innovation, better customer relationship or complementary growth strategies. In addition, the human resource strategy should facilitate the knowledge transfer within firm, as to fully exploit the knowledge competitive advantage and to support the knowledge creation. This paper is an exploratory research, based on secondary sources about strategies for developing competitive advantage on the long run, in real estate industry. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2011 Creation-Date: 2011 Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Keywords: competitive advantage; differentiation; human capital; learning organization File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol4/8_Dobre.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2011-22 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: New Team and New Challenges for the Department of Tourism and Geography Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/editorial_.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Books Published by International Publishing Houses Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/events/Carti.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vincent Magnini Author-Name-First: Vincent Author-Name-Last: Magnini Author-Email: magninivp@longwood.edu Author-Workplace-Name: Pamplin College of Business, Virginia Tech University, USA Title: Poising Frontline Service Providers for Success: An Integrative Review and Future Directions Abstract: It has long been understood that frontline employees are a critical marketing tool in hospitality and tourism businesses. In fact, empirical research indicates that consumers often perceive the frontline employees with whom they interact as the company itself (Mohr and Henson, 1996). Due to the pivotal roles of these frontline employees, a growing corpus of research examines how to be select, train, motivate, and manage these individuals. This article synthesizes research from diverse disciplines to provide an up-to-date synopsis of these areas. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Keywords: Customer Service; Frontline; Motivation; Recruiting; Training File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/articole/Magnini.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cristi Frenţ Author-Name-First: Cristi Author-Name-Last: Frenţ Author-Email: cristi_frent@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute of Research Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Economic Contribution of Tourism at Local Level: An Application for Predeal Resort in Roman Abstract: In many cases, the measurement of the economic effects of tourism is carried out at national but also at regional level using different methods such us Tourism Satellite Accounts, Input –Output analysis, Computable General Equilibrium model, multipliers. However at local level (resort, town, city, and village) mainly due to some methodological difficulties, the application of these methods is severely limited. Under these circumstances the contribution of tourism to local economies may be outlined by the analysis of the existing statistical data at local level. This paper aims such an analysis (based on the existing statistical data) customized for one of the most famous tourist resorts in Romania, Predeal located in Brasov county. Choosing this resort is not accidental: unlike other resorts located on Prahova Valley, Predeal did not benefit from a strong industry in the communist period and not even before, so its economic profile from the historical point of view is almost exclusively based on services, in particular tourism services. A series of statistical indicators that characterize both the Predeal local economy at the sectoral level (number of firms, turnover, average number of employees, labor productivity) and tourism as a distinct activity through specific indicators (the capacity accommodation and food and beverage units, occupancy, number of arrivals, overnight stays, length of stay) will be analyzed. The results obtained show that tourism as an economic activity has a major contribution to the local economy of Predeal. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Keywords: Economic contribution of tourism; local economy; statistics; Predeal Resort Classification-JEL: O12, M19 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/articole/CristiFrent.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Doru Tudorache Author-Name-First: Doru Author-Name-Last: Tudorache Author-Email: tudoru@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Victor Timotin Author-Name-First: Victor Author-Name-Last: Timotin Author-Email: victor@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Alina Cârlogea Author-Name-First: Alina Author-Name-Last: Cârlogea Author-Email: alinacarlogea@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Roxana Aştefănoaiei Author-Name-First: Roxana Author-Name-Last: Aştefănoaiei Author-Email: roxanasirbu@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Inventory of the Objectives Bucharest Fortification Belt for Tourism Arranging Purposes Abstract: Built over 100 years ago, at the initiative of King Carol I, the belt of fortifications of the Romanian capital, a remarkable achievement of the national military architecture, has currently reached an advanced state of decay. The analysis of successful European models (Hollandse Nieuwe Waterlinie forts of Utrecht - Holland, Vesting Antwerpen line - Belgium or fortified line of Essex - United Kingdom) demonstrates that such objectives can be successfully converted into museums, cultural centres, urban parks, recreation centres or even accommodation units, with a great potential in this regard. Their tourist arrangement is required both to stop degradation of valuable cultural-historical objectives (recently classified as historical monuments) and to diversify the out of town cultural recreational opportunities, in order to strengthen one of the most important and fastest growing national tourist destination. This material proposes an inventory of the fortified objectives around Bucharest, to identify those that are best suited to be arranged for tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Keywords: Fortifications; Tourism arrangement; Inventory Bucharest for the forts; Cultural entertainment Classification-JEL: N94, O31, R14 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/articole/DoruTudorache.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anamaria Răvar Author-Name-First: Anamaria Author-Name-Last: Răvar Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Opportunities and Challenges in the Assurance and Improvement of Service Quality in Higher Education Abstract: The twenty-first century, human resources stand at the basis of the society’s economic and social development. After all, man is in control of all the other production factors, finding new means of exploiting the primary resources and continuously improving the technical capital. Indeed, man leads development. With one condition: to have the knowledge, abilities and experience to use the rest of the resources as efficient and effective as possible. Thus, man also needs to learn, to improve, to experiment. And what place would be more adequate to do all these and many more than universities, as institutions of science and knowledge? In a society in which individual personal and professional performance is seen as being determined by the provision of high quality education services, quality assurance and improvement initiatives are not only necessary, but rather mandatory for maintaining the competitiveness of public and private universities alike. The current paper aims to present and analyze the main opportunities and challenges of service quality assurance in the Romanian higher education, providing a specific focus on the tourism higher education – a domain which has undergone significant change during the last decades and which currently strives to comply with the standards and requirements set by both foreign institutions of tourism higher education as well as by professionals and other stakeholders in the hospitality and travel industries. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Keywords: service quality; university education; performance; quality assurance Classification-JEL: H42, I23, I28, L15, L84 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/articole/RavarAnaMaria.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Prof. Vincent P. Magnini Author-Name-First: Prof. Vincent P. Author-Name-Last: Magnini Author-Workplace-Name: Virginia Tech University, Virginia Title: A challenging and friendly professional Fulbright experience Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/events/Magnini_Event.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: International Projects Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/events/4.Proiecte.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: National Projects Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/events/Teme_cercetareComert_final.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Papers Presented at International Conferences, with Program Committee, in Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 5 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol5/events/ConferintaIulianaPop.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ştefan Constantin Author-Name-First: Ştefan Author-Name-Last: Constantin Author-Email: constantin.stefan89@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Gastronomic Traditions and Eating Habits in the Far East Abstract: One of the little known and mysterious regions of the world in the eyes of Western people is the Far East. Most have a very hazy and unclear view of this region’s culture, nations, languages, religions and cuisine. Focusing on the local gastronomy of the countries of the Far East, this article aims to clear some wide-spread myths and misconceptions regarding Asian food and Asian people and offer a clear and impartial description of the regional cuisine and culture to potential tourist and curious Westerners alike. The current paper will offer its readers concise descriptions of dishes, beverages, restaurants and elements of history and local culture of China and other countries of the Far East. Furthermore, it will point out some of the more unusual features of the local eating habits and attempt a brief comparison between Eastern and Western cuisine. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: Gastronomy; China; Japan; Far East; Cuisine; Food; Beverages Classification-JEL: I12, L66, L83, N70, N95 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/6_Stefan_Constantin_.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: RSAI World Congress 2012, 9-12 May 2012, Timişoara, Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/claudia_popescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-20 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia Popescu Author-Name-First: Claudia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Name: Alexandru Gavriș Author-Name-First: Alexandru Author-Name-Last: Gavriș Title: The Impact of the Economic Crisis in the IT & C Industry - Evidence from Bucharest Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/claudia_popescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-21 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: A case study for Bucharest city, Romania. It was presented at the 32nd International Geographical Congress in Cologne Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/iuliana_armas.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-22 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Books Published by Publishing Houses Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/books.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-23 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ciuchete Georgiana Author-Name-First: Ciuchete Author-Name-Last: Georgiana Title: Managementul riscului la nivelul turoperatorilor europeni Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/stela_ciuchete.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-24 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Elisabeta Molnar Author-Name-First: Elisabeta Author-Name-Last: Molnar Title: Operationalizarea transporturilor turistice aeriene Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/elisabeta_molnar.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-25 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana Mădălina Driha Author-Name-First: Oana Mădălina Author-Name-Last: Driha Title: Spanish hotel-real estate foreign investment evolution: 2000-2010 Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/madalina_driha.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-26 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ştefan Constantin Author-Name-First: Ştefan Author-Name-Last: Constantin Author-Email: constantin.stefan89@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Gastronomic Traditions and Eating Habits in the Far East Abstract: One of the little known and mysterious regions of the world in the eyes of Western people is the Far East. Most have a very hazy and unclear view of this region’s culture, nations, languages, religions and cuisine. Focusing on the local gastronomy of the countries of the Far East, this article aims to clear some wide-spread myths and misconceptions regarding Asian food and Asian people and offer a clear and impartial description of the regional cuisine and culture to potential tourist and curious Westerners alike. The current paper will offer its readers concise descriptions of dishes, beverages, restaurants and elements of history and local culture of China and other countries of the Far East. Furthermore, it will point out some of the more unusual features of the local eating habits and attempt a brief comparison between Eastern and Western cuisine. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: Gastronomy; China; Japan; Far East; Cuisine; Food; Beverages Classification-JEL: I12, L66, L83, N70, N95 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/6_Stefan_Constantin_.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria Ioncică Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Ioncică Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Important outcomes of the 22nd international conference of the – RESER–European Association for Research on Services, entitled "Services and economic development: local and global challenges Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/Maria_Ioncica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Georgică Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Georgică Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: georgica.gheorghe@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiunistoreanu@yahoo.it Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Social Tourism – an Alternative Form of Tourism in Romania Abstract: Social tourism is a particular form of tourism practiced by social groups with limited income and oriented to their cognitive, cultural and recreational needs. Concretely, the term "Social tourism" is based on tourism services offer a low price. These holidays may be accompanied or educational services and/or therapeutic benefit services. They may also be specially built camps for use by persons with disabilities. On the other hand, social tourism can refer to highlighting of tourist sites and natural heritage, cultural, artistic, historical or geographically isolated areas less known, thus pursuing economic boost through the development of poor areas tourism impact on local communities. This paper proposes to identify which are and on what does social tourism programs in Romania. The paper is structured as follows: introduction to the social tourism in Romania, social tourism programs, tourism indicators and conclusions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: Social tourism; Calypso; ANAT (The National Association of Travel Agencies from Romania); ANTREC (National Association of Rural; Ecological and Cultural Tourism); OPTBR (Organization of Spa Tourism in Romania) Classification-JEL: L83, O19 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/1_Gheorghe,_Bulin,_Nistoreanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria Roxana Dorobanţu Author-Name-First: Maria Roxana Author-Name-Last: Dorobanţu Author-Email: mariaroxanadorobantu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiunistoreanu@yahoo.it Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Hospitality - a component of Romanian Rural Tourism Products Abstract: Tourism is an important sector of the economy, with a remarkable growth, with much higher opportunities than other sectors of the economy, which has shown that it can overcome some of the States yet. In the coming years expects tourism to develop in such a way that its effects are unlikely to occur with more intensity on a large number of urban and rural settlements. From the perspective of modern man, rural tourism can represent great chance in the sprawling unification process, offering the possibility to approach people, to know, to discover the life and culture of others filming his fellowmen, to better understand those with whom they live, to struggle together, thus creating natural or cultural heritage, hoping to maintain his and transmission as it looks today. The sustainable development of the rural areas constitutes a high priority for Romania. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourist product; rural tourism; tradition; gourmet; food; hospitality; village Classification-JEL: L83, O19 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/2_Dorobantu,Nistoreanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Răzvan Dina Author-Name-First: Răzvan Author-Name-Last: Dina Author-Email: rdina@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriel Sabou Author-Name-First: Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Sabou Author-Email: gabriel.sabou@csie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Influence of social media in choice of touristic destination Abstract: In a society dominated by information, online communication between people, companies and groups comes as an easy, normal, ordinary solution. The spectacular development of social media applications, characterizing nowadays online communication systems, determine more and more people and businesses to use them for acquiring and giving information, for promoting or criticizing products and services. Despite the fact that the use of social media applications seem very efficient, cheap and easy to use for promoting a company’s products or services, there is a high risk of failure associated with. The organization has to take into account the messages transmitted might be received differently by the targeted users. Hence, a well documented communication strategy is needed also for social media applications which, based on community particularities, on different possible behaviors of community members, on past information and feedback, can successfully construct a positive image for the company. The purpose is to efficiently and effectively make known a company’s products and services, but also, to react fast and in the most appropriate manner when negative rumors from truly or deceitfully unhappy customers are expressed through social media channels. The current paper aims to present the main issues related to the use of social media applications in presenting and promoting a company’s products and services with special focus on hospitality and touristic services. To this purpose, a research was performed on 123 Romanian young people regarding their trusted sources of information when choosing a touristic destination. The results show that online environment is considered as a trustworthy source of information and social media channels are intensely used for acquiring information before planning a trip. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: social media; tourism; online communication; consumer behavior Classification-JEL: L83, L86, M37 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/3_Dina_Sabou.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Marin-Pantelescu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Marin-Pantelescu Author-Email: marin.andreea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Trends in International Tourism Abstract: Travel and tourism has many positive benefits, including that it is for many countries, the main source of job creation and revenue (Pender and Sharpley, 2005). Tourism provides around 6 to 7% of the world’s jobs and millions more indirectly via the multiplier effect in other sectors from construction to agriculture or telecommunications. Also tourism accounts for 30% of the world’s exports of services (US$ 1 trillion a year) and 45% of the total export of services in developing countries (World Tourism Organization, 2010). In 2012, the tourism industry reached an historical point with one billion international arrivals in one year for the first time according to World Tourism Barometer (2013). Taking in considerations these facts, the paper presents the evolution of the international tourism in the world analyzing the trends and the economic implication. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourism; international tourism; travel; tourist; trends; forecasts Classification-JEL: L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/4_Marin_Andreea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Anca Dodescu Author-Name-First: Anca Author-Name-Last: Dodescu Author-Email: adodescu@uoradea.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania Author-Name: Lavinia Chirilă Author-Name-First: Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Chirilă Author-Email: lavinia_cipleu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania Title: Tourism Sustainable Development and Regional Policy in North-West Region of Romania Abstract: The paper presents research findings about the evaluation of the EU regional (cohesion) policy through Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013 for the North-West Region of Romania in the field of tourism sustainable development and promotion of tourism. The paper specific goals are to identify projects contracted and completed until 1.10.2012, to evaluate the regional impact of these projects through indicators achieved and to understand main barriers and problems faced beneficiaries from the North-West Region of Romania in the implementation phase of projects dedicated to tourism sustainable development and promotion of tourism. The paper concludes with recommendations in the elaboration and implementation of regional policy in Romania regarding tourism sustainable development based of the Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013 experience. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism sustainable development; EU regional policy; Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013; NorthWest Region of Romania Classification-JEL: L83, O25 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/5_dodescu_stanciulescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Papers Presented at International Conferences, with Program Committee, in Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2012 Creation-Date: 2012 Volume: 6 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol6/events_conferinte.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2012-19 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana Mihaela Pădurean Author-Name-First: Ana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Pădurean Author-Email: mihaela.padurean@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Tourism: Technology and Innovation, Tradition and Singularity Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Cristina Iorgulescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Iorgulescu Author-Email: cristina.iorgulescu@yahoo.com Title: Developing creativity and innovation in the hospitality industry in Romania by improving the human resources management practices Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Iorgulescu_Cristina_.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Irina Leca Author-Name-First: Irina Author-Name-Last: Leca Author-Email: kristine_leca@yahoo.com Title: Research on cross-cultural communication as a factor of stress in multinational companies Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Leca_Irina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Irina Mişoc Author-Name-First: Irina Author-Name-Last: Mişoc Author-Email: irina_misoc@yahoo.com Title: The evalution of the human resources in services. Methods of raising the employees’s satisfaction and the economical results of a company Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Misoc_Irina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Răzvan Rădulescu Author-Name-First: Răzvan Author-Name-Last: Rădulescu Author-Email: radulescu.d.razvan@gmail.com Title: The strategic management of the organizational behavior change for private enterprises Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Radulescu_Razvan.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Casiana-Alexandra Răduţ Author-Name-First: Casiana-Alexandra Author-Name-Last: Răduţ Author-Email: casiana.radut@gmail.com Title: Strategic Alternatives for Penetrating Foreign Markets Hotel Groups Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Radut_Casiana.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anamaria Sidonia Răvar Author-Name-First: Anamaria Sidonia Author-Name-Last: Răvar Author-Email: anamaria.ravar@gmail.com Title: Innovation and Creativity in the Sustainainable Development of Cultural Tourism Destinations Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Ravar_Anamaria.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Sava Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Sava Author-Email: anamaria.sava89@yahoo.com Title: Services in Knowledge Society and Their Implications in the Labor Market Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Sava_Ana-Maria.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nicoleta Popescu (Spârchez) Author-Name-First: Nicoleta Author-Name-Last: Popescu (Spârchez) Title: Globalization and cultural-religious services Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Sparchez_Nicoleta.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina Ioana Mihaela Ţăpescu Author-Name-First: Alina Ioana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Ţăpescu Author-Email: alina.tapescu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Title: The Role of Higher Education in Developping Human Resources in the Field of Tourism Abstract: The present paper aims at a two-fold analysis of the labour market in the Romanian tourism field, both from the point of view of the latter’s particularities – identified in the specialized literature – as well as by means of the data gathered from statistic-running sources pertaining to the main markers which characterize the labour market in this field (the employed population, structure of employed population based on gender, age groups, attained level of education etc.). Moreover, the paper features an outline of the current state of higher education in the field of tourism from the point of view of the university offers and the needs which should be satisfied by the study programs encompassed in the offers. Furthermore, the research comprises a survey-based analysis of how the students enrolled in the masters programs of the Faculty of Commerce within the Academy of Economic Studies of Bucharest perceive the quality and relevance of the courses they are attending, as well as their opinion on a future career in tourism from the point of view of motivational factors which may positively or negatively influence the choice of this professional field. Taking into consideration the unquestionable importance of human capital in providing high-quality services in tourism, the training of human resources in this field should be maintained at the highest of standards, all the while acknowledging the key-role of higher education. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Keywords: human resources; tourism; higher education; labour market Classification-JEL: I20, I25, J40, M53 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/4_Tapescu_Alina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Technical Operation in Internal and International Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/5_Book_presentation.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-19 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria Stoian Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Stoian Author-Email: prof.maria.stoian@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Agronomic Science and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Romania Title: Studies on the Rural Tourism Marketing Made in Romania’s Villages through Traditional and Gastronomical Events Abstract: The aim of this paper is to bring in the foreground some of the Romanian rural tourism achievements during its existence. Before the celebration of two decades of existence we will draw the line and we will attempt to analyze the progress made throughout this period. One of the rural tourism promotion strengths, much less supported by the national authorities than the mass tourism, has been the way of doing it. Achieving own marketing strategies has made the holidays in the countryside to overcome the barrier of infrastructure shortcomings, at the beginning even the ones in services and staff training. Punctually, we refer to the traditions, customs, agricultural activities, costumes and gastronomical products, which are emphasized instead of being ignored, while everything that signifies the essence of the life in the village is sustained and promoted. One of the initiatives of the Romanian rural tourism and newly established guesthouses was represented by the partnerships initiated in order to support the villages’ significant events organization, each one with different characteristics and particularities. As conclusions for these actions are the results obtained over the time, as well as the notoriety given to a new movement that appeared in Romania at the end of the XXth century. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Keywords: rural tourism; marketing; traditions; festival; gastronomy File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/2_STOIAN_.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Fortuna Şchiopu Author-Name-First: Andreea Fortuna Author-Name-Last: Şchiopu Author-Email: andreea.schiopu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Challenges in Tourism Research Abstract: Delivering on the objectives of a research project undertaken in the tourism sector can be challenging, especially on account of the economic and societal changes that the world is going through. Among the critical success factors of a research project one should mention the ability to obtain the necessary funding to support the initiation and implementation of that action and to find the ways to cope with a dinamic, complex and competitive global research environment. The latter could be easily done through association, given the fact that the chances of success could be increased by relying on a collaborative organisation of individuals working together to provide support in finding the accesible sources of funding and the proper ways to collect, evaluate, analyze, organize and disseminate information. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/3_schiopu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina-Cerasela Aluculesei Author-Name-First: Alina-Cerasela Author-Name-Last: Aluculesei Author-Email: alina_cerasella@yahoo.com Title: Innovative ways to exploit the natural resources of Romania spa services through travel Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Aluculesei_Alina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihai Badralexe Author-Name-First: Mihai Author-Name-Last: Badralexe Author-Email: mihaibadralexe@yahoo.com Title: Competencies, factors, activities and processes that generate start-up success Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Badralexe_Mihai.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ştefania Bodolcă Author-Name-First: Ştefania Author-Name-Last: Bodolcă Author-Email: bodosca.stefania@yahoo.com Title: Priorities and strategies of sustainable development for tourism in the North East region of Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Bodolca_Stefania.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ştefan Constantin Author-Name-First: Ştefan Author-Name-Last: Constantin Author-Email: constantin.stefan89@yahoo.com Title: Quality and Competitiveness in the Tourist Sector: Relations, Evaluation Methods and Development Strategies Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Constantin_Stefan.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Nicoleta Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Nicoleta Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: gabriela132@rocketmail.com Title: Methods of approaching the management of tourist destinations through the prism of the sustainable development Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Diaconescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Alina Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: alina.gheorghe87@yahoo.com Title: The ecotourism services quality. Assessment methods and strategies to improve it in Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 7 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol7/Gheorghe_Alina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Contemporary Approaches and Challenges of Tourism Sustainability Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/0-EDITORIAL.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-20 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Irina Gabriela Besciu Author-Name-First: Irina Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Besciu Author-Email: gabrielabesciu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Behaviour of the Consumer of Tourist Entertainment Services Abstract: The main objective of this paper is to study the behaviour of the consumer of tourist entertainment. This objective was achieved by analysing consumer’s behaviour in general, and the peculiarities of tourism services behaviour and ultimately of the consumer of tourist entertainment. Assumptions set out in the research on the extent of calling on entertainment services have been verified by a questionnaire-based research which confirmed some assumptions and rejected others. Given the changes in demand for tourist packages with leisure or entertainment services included, further research is required by deepening the options tourists have for certain tourist entertainment services. The research results are embodied in a series of conclusions and proposals addressed to tourist entertainment service providers to diversify the service packages and to improve the activity efficiency. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Keywords: consumer behaviour; tourism services; tourist entertainment; leisure; festival Classification-JEL: D03, D11, M31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/1-Besciu_Irina_EN.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-21 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iulian Gabriel Păun Author-Name-First: Iulian Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Păun Author-Email: gabipaun90@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Economic Crisis Impact on Tourism Abstract: Being a complex and dynamic sector of activity, an important job and cash flow generator and also a source of economic development and growth, the tourism industry represents one of the most important pillars of the economies of countries. Starting with 2007, humanity began to face a severe economic crisis of unprecedented dimensions in a society that has never before been so closely connected and interdependent. This paper seeks to examine the emergence of the global crisis, conduct a review of the main paradigms of current economic thinking and to relate some of the experts' opinions about the causes of the economic crisis creation. In the same time, the importance of tourism to the economy is highlighted, starting from a global point of view and moving into an European perspective. The impact of the global crisis on tourism is observed and, especially, that suffered by national tourism. In the last part of the work, a forecast is made of the arrivals indicator for a period of three years, with the aim of observing future trends in Romanian tourist activity. Knowledge of how individuals make choices and how these choices have changed after the economic crisis may offer important advantages in business practice and can help in making policies that lead to the development of Romanian tourism. Also, this paper can contribute to understanding the effects of the economic crisis in the tourism industry in order to readjust the policies supporting this sector. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Keywords: economic crisis; impact; tourism; travel; Romania; Europe; forecasts Classification-JEL: A10, B53, E20, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/2-Iulian_Gabriel_Paun.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-22 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Florina Apostol Author-Name-First: Florina Author-Name-Last: Apostol Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Defining and practicing etnotourism Abstract: In the current context of globalization, folklore is the most affected part of the culture of a nation. But Folklore proved to be the best item by which a nation can individualize itself in this millennium . Romania has a great historical and cultural heritage, and an impresive ethnic hetritage of a great value that ca be used as a tourist attraction. There are over 700 cultural heritage sites of national and international interest which constituted the values of the World Heritage of UNESCO The 2006 country report based on a field research conducted by WTTC recommends that Romania should focus on the developing of wellness and spa tourism, and cultural tourism to the detriment of mountain tourism and winter sports and seaside tourism , especially in the offer for foreign tourists . Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Keywords: etnotourism; traditions; festival; folklore File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/3-Florina_Apostol.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-23 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Title: Hotel Market Analysis and Valution International Issues and Soft ware Applications Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/4_Book_Market.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-24 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihnea Dan Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Mihnea Dan Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Title: Gastronomic tourism - option for the development of local communities Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2013 Creation-Date: 2013 Volume: 8 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/Vol8/5-Diaconescu_Mihaela_Dan-Nistoreanu_Puiu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2013-25 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nicolae Lupu Author-Name-First: Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Lupu Author-Email: nicolae.lupu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Faculty of Business and Tourism – a new beginning Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 9 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol9/lupu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: gabriela.stanciulescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Diana-Mihaela Strugari Author-Name-First: Diana-Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Strugari Author-Email: dianastrugari@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Considerations about european tourism in lagoons Abstract: The main theme of this article is to present the capitalization in terms of lagoons in Europe. European countries have realized the importance of tourism to the economy, the advantages and the benefits that it brings. The lagoons, intermediates areas between sea and land with unique ecosystems and wonderful landscapes have a major potential. It has been made a desk research using existing resources like the Internet, books, articles in the press, statistical publications and analytical reports. It has been found that many countries in Europe have one or more lagoons on their territory and how those capitalized them. In this moment, there aren’t enough studies on the topic, but the competent authorities should take into account this major potential on tourism activity. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Keywords: lagoon; tourism; Europe; travel; ecosystem Classification-JEL: L83, P48, Q01, Q26, Q57 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol9/strugari.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Georgică Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Georgică Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: georgica.gheorghe@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Petronela Tudorache Author-Name-First: Petronela Author-Name-Last: Tudorache Author-Email: petronela.tudorache@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Gastronomic Tourism, a new trend for contemporary tourism? Abstract: The purpose of this article is to give insight into gastronomic tourism in Europe. The second idea that we develop in this article refer to the values of the gastronomy, precisely: ethical and sustainable values, which are established on local products, culture, lifestyle and landscape. Gastronomy has appeared like an indispensable element in order to get to know the culture and lifestyle of a destination and so embodies all the traditional values associated with the new trends in tourism: respect for culture and tradition, a healthy lifestyle, authenticity, sustainability, experience… etc.. This leading role of gastronomy when choosing a travel destination has resulted in the growth of gastronomic offer based on high quality local products and the consolidation of a separate market for food tourism. Provided that everything mentioned above constitutes the main reason or motivation to travel for visitors to a particular destination or at least on significant motivation. Tourists are more experienced and informed, have more disposable revenue and more leisure time to travel, and thus tourism permit them to escape from the daily routine of their usual working and living environment. Tourists are looking after the origin of the gastronomic food, legends and stories about the food, history, making it an expression of cultural tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Keywords: gastronomic tourism; trends; tourism; tourist; tourism products Classification-JEL: M2, I31, R5 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol9/nistorescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iulian Gabriel Păun Author-Name-First: Iulian Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Păun Author-Email: gabipaun90@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The intercorrelation between tourism and the environmental evolution in the context of the economic cycle. Case study: Romania Abstract: Because the effects of economic cycles and, in particular, the crisis of recent years, are becoming stronger and more extensive , affecting whole sectors of the world economy and national tourism through important role to contribute to mitigating these negative consequences . To help increase however , support and economic recovery, it is necessary to identify factors that have a strong influence on indicators of tourist traffic. This will then allow the ranking factors exerted by link indicators hierarchy that can be a foundation for the design of strategies and policies to maximize the positive effects of tourism on the national economy. At the same time, it can contribute to a better understanding of how the determinants of tourism act at different stages of the economic cycle. This paper examines the links between a number of macroeconomic indicators ( GDP, employment, real wages ) and a number of indicators of tourist traffic (number of overnights , arrivals, departures). Analysis period includes the years of the economic cycle (2005-2012) and highlights the links between economic growth , economic recession , and the correlations for the entire period. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Keywords: environmental; economic cycle; tourism; influence factors; Romania Classification-JEL: A10, B53, E20, E32, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol9/paun.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Mădălina Nicolescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Mădălina Author-Name-Last: Nicolescu Author-Email: nicolescumariamadalina@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Some motivational factors that determine Romanian people to choose certain travel packages Abstract: The primary theme of this research paper is to study the motivational factors that determine Romanians to choose certain travel packages. This research issue will be explained by applying a number of 100 questionnaires during the spring edition of Romania's Tourism Fair of 2014, as follows: 50 questionnaires were applied to the fair visitors and the rest were applied to the exhibitors. By analyzing the survey responses, we have come to the conclusion that Romanian people choose foreign destinations, to the detriment of Romania, due to the price/quality ratio. Also, promotion is a major problem of the Romanian tourism, as stated by both groups of respondents. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Keywords: motivation; holiday; tourism; Romanians File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol9/nicolescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Marin-Pantelescu Author-Name-First: Andreea Author-Name-Last: Marin-Pantelescu Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Romanian tourism fair (13th of November-16th of November 2014) – a retrospective look Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Remus Ion Hornoiu Author-Name-First: Remus Ion Author-Name-Last: Hornoiu Author-Email: rhornoiu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Climate change impacts and implications for tourism in protected areas Abstract: Tourism, as a distinct field of activity, is strongly linked to climate change: in a positive way – by providing the necessary resources and factors to reduce the action of climate change through the use of alternative energy technologies with low environmental impact, and the controlled development of tourist flows – and a negative one – through energy consumption, visitors transportation, the quantities of waste. Among the solutions mentioned, the present research has focused on protected areas since the argument was less debated in the scientific literature, but also in business practice. As the main service providers regarding ecosystems and biological resources, protected areas meet the requirements to preserve species worldwide and are vulnerable to climate change. Tourism in protected may became a tourist travel motive more prominent in the future as the natural environment and the species from protected areas are threatened by climate change. Therefore, the paper explains different climate change impacts and implications for tourism in protected areas. The research field proposed aimed to assess the direct and indirect impact of climatic changes for tourism in protected areas. The objectives were related to: determine the level of importance of different changes in the structure of the major components of tourism in protected area under the direct climate change impact; indicate the importance level of changes in natural characteristics of environments which could influence negative tourism by reducing the perceived attractiveness of a protected area, under indirect climate change impact; highlight the importance level of modifications, induced by indirect climate change impact, in socio-economic environment of local communities in protected areas which could affect tourism. Based on the research findings proposals for an appropriate strategy in the field of climate change mitigation was elaborated. This work was supported by the project “Excellence academic routes in the doctoral and postdoctoral research – READ” co-funded from the European Social Fund through the Development of Human Resources Operational Programme 2007-2013, contract no. POSDRU/159/1.5/S/137926. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/hornoiu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Dragoș Vasile Author-Name-First: Dragoș Author-Name-Last: Vasile Author-Email: dragos.vasile@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Copying with organizational change in the tourism industry Abstract: The paper tackles the issue of organizational change in the tourism industry. The tourism industry is faced with a dynamic and complex environment that exerts constant pressures on its organizations and the adequate response of SMEs in tourism consists in making organizational changes. The paper examines four dimensions of organization`s ability to cope with change: (1) communication between the organization and its external environment, (2) the process dimension, (3) participation and communication, and (3) the capacity for change. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Keywords: organizational change; tourism; readiness for change; change process; communication; capacity for change Classification-JEL: L21, M10, O44 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/dragos_vasile.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andrei Ion Author-Name-First: Andrei Author-Name-Last: Ion Author-Email: andrei_pion@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Should countries worldwide be more interested in hosting sports mega-events? Abstract: Tourism is nowadays recognized as an important sector that has an impact on the development of country economy. Tourism activities have a real impact on economic and social development as they contribute to the GDP and because of its role that it plays on the labor market. The ability of the national economy to benefit from tourism depends on the availability of investment to develop the necessary infrastructure and on its ability to supply the needs of tourists. Hosting sports megaevents is a theme with important impacts on the national economy. The scope of the paper is to present the impact of sports mega-events tourism on the hosting city/country. The paper also treats why sport mega-events are an attractive opportunity for countries but also what some possible loses may appear if choosing to host them. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourism; event tourism; sports events; mega-events Classification-JEL: L83, M2 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/Andrei_Ion.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana Raluca Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Oana Raluca Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: oanaraluca.gheorghe@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Types of niche tourism in Romania Abstract: Tourism represents all the relationships that can result from the movement and the holidays of peoples that spend time outside their residence, people who are not motivated by a permanent establishment or a gainful activity. From this brief definition, it can be said that the tourism industry is one of the most important industries of a country or a region and it is an industry which generates capital, jobs and creates the image of a country / region. Noteworthy is that the tourism industry is constantly evolving and with the acceleration of technical progress, the tourism industry is also growing. This evolution cause the appearance of new types of tourism, which gradually turns into tourism market niches. This article aims to identify and describe the two major forms of tourism, and to emphasize the importance of each of them on the tourism market in Romania. The structure of the article comprise: a brief introduction, the relation between mass tourism and niche tourism, tourism niche in the literature, niche tourism types and conclusions related to niche tourism development in Romania. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Keywords: niche tourism; mass tourism; tourism market; Romania Classification-JEL: M2, R5, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/oana_raluca.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Raluca Mihaela Păun Author-Name-First: Raluca Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Păun Author-Email: paunraluca_mihaela@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Customer satisfaction in tourism. How to measure it? Abstract: Measuring customer satisfaction is indispensable nowadays, for public organizations, to verify if they are doing the right thing. The position of a public institution is not always easy, because of the nature of the client on the one hand and the public, on the other hand. Citizens / customers have different faces and different roles; sometimes they are customers service and sometimes behave as citizens, especially when they have to pay taxes or comply with certain rules. This is reflected also in differences between the provision of public services and the provision of services in the private sector. In addition, most public sector organizations are providing services. Services have some clear characteristics that make them special and different as products, therefore, customer satisfaction measurement is vital for the development and continuity of services, especially in tourism. Service-quality studies in the tourism and hospitality industry are important in identifying the factors that determine visitors’ satisfaction or dissatisfaction. The present article focuses on measuring the tourist satisfaction with a destination and the specific methodology. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Keywords: satisfaction; tourism; hospitality; service quality; perception; measurement Classification-JEL: L83, E01, R40 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/paun_mihaela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Shituni Kristaq Author-Name-First: Shituni Author-Name-Last: Kristaq Author-Email: shitunikristaq@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Human Resources in tourism and hospitaliy. Case study: Human Resources in Albanian tourism Abstract: The purpose of this article is to show the vital need for human resources in tourism, the contact of the employee with the customers and the direct influence purchasing a service. Albanian potential tourism sources, the foreign request for this destination and also the situation of human resources in the tourism industry. The improvement of the quality of human resources being key factor to succeed in this sector. In this article will consider the request for the Albanian tourism destination also the quality of human resources in this sector. It will be shown how obvious is the influence of seasonal work in human resources skills and competencies in the tourism sector, a factor which shows that tourism services management must fix this gap by relative improvement and the right training methods. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourism; human resources; employment; Albania; new destination; hospitality Classification-JEL: L83, O15, E24, J23 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/shituni.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alexandru Gavriș Author-Name-First: Alexandru Author-Name-Last: Gavriș Author-Email: alexandru.gavris@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, Romania Title: IGU REGIONAL CONFERENCE IN KRAKÓW, POLAND, 18th-22nd AUGUST 2014 Abstract: The study investigates and analyzes the representation of on-line content emerging from travel blogs as part of a narrative process. To analyze the tourist image and other relevant characteristics revealed from the text of the travel blogs, text mining techniques are used to analyze the blogs corpus. The city of Bucharest is the case study of this research that helps us to examine the characteristics of over 600 travel blogs before and after the integration into the EU. The aim is to provide insights into the image communicated by tourists through their social narrative experience and to bring into the light the produced image of the chosen destination throughout the two respective periods. The research sharpens our understanding about the path of one former communist capital city and the role of tourism and blogging for city production. In doing so, it will broaden the geography of tourism research and it will offer a bridge between the little explored tourism of the capital cities of Central and Eastern Europe and the tourism of other capital cities. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/gavris.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Bogdan Gabriel Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Bogdan Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: bogdan.nistoreanu@fabiz.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: 19TH IGWT SYMPOSIUM “COMMODITY SCIENCE IN RESEARCH AND PRACTICE CURRENT ACHIEVEMENTS AND FUTURE CHALLENGES”, 15th-19th SEPTEMBER 2014,CRACOW, POLAND Abstract: The universities in our country, like others in Europe, pass through major changes that must help them meet increasingly important challenges. The last decade has been marked by changes produced in the higher learning institutions in European countries, following the transformations generated by the Bologna Process in the academic world. In Austria, Spain, Germany different initiatives regarding the way of making change happen in higher learning institutions have taken place. Keeping this in mind we considered as necessary an analysis of the opinion of academic educational services consumers in Romania, linked to the changes registered following this reform. This research represents something new for the Romanian academic environment, because such an analysis has not been made before on the level of the economic university environment. We were interested especially in the opinions of the students which follow the courses of the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies (the most prestigious Romanian institution of this type, which has marked a century of existence last year). The paradigm change, from the traditional perspective on education towards a knowledge society perspective implies the need for higher and higher competitiveness of the educational systems. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/nistorescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tamara Simon Author-Name-First: Tamara Author-Name-Last: Simon Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute of Tourism Research Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Doru Marian Tudorache Author-Name-First: Doru Marian Author-Name-Last: Tudorache Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute of Tourism Research Bucharest, Romania Title: NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP ROMANIAN CULTURAL INDUSTRY Abstract: The concept of Cultural Industry has become more and more up-to-date during the 3-4 decades in the field of Culture; it works to equal human talents with their way of expression. Within UNESCO and OMC organizations, thy cultural industries, also called creative, are based on a combination between creation, production, distribution and promotion of goods and services typical for culture, due to their origin and structure; they are protected by their rights of intellectual property. This concept has also appeared due to UNESCO, even since 1986. It has been defined as related to the cultural means of expression, in the context of the 2005 UNESCO Convention regarding the protection and promotion of the different ways to emphasize cultural. Still, these cultural ways of expression are directly influenced by the multiple demographic characteristics of a nation. The choice of the cultural action is made both by the majority of the population and the ethnic groups according to the number of inhabitants, density, age, group distribution, education, profession, living area and quality of life. After 1989, Romania has been crossing both a period of economic and demographic transition, with negative implied accents. In May the 1th 2014, the population number was of 19.517.953, 44% living in the country, respectively. 69.7% represents the group of 15-64 age, 14.7% the over 65 age and the rest are the 0-14 age. The main ethnic groups are represented by the Romanians who are the majority, Hungarians, Gypsies, Ukrainians, Lipovenians, Serbs, Slovenians, Bulgarians and Turks. Within this context we can find modern cultural manifestations, as well as traditional ones. After 1990, the freedom of expression and cultural manifestation is reflected in Romania by the multiple cultural activities which have been determined just by the creative industry itself. The present research emphasizes the way by which the creative industry has appeared and developed according to the main demographic characteristics for a longer period of time. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2014 Creation-Date: 2014 Volume: 10 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol10/state.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2014-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Education for practice, innovation and creativity in tourism schools and universities Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Training experts in tourism Abstract: The tourism education and training system undergoes intense restructuring which starts with redefining qualifications and developing the possibilities training organisations have to provide relevant training programmes. Qualification redefining was triggered by the need to provide coherent and open training channels allowing for access to those willing to choose a job in tourism. The development of the skills of the future employees presupposes the existence of trainers, who use both relevant information and methods meant to improve the skills and abilities of the trainees. Vocational training is no longer an exclusive concern of the education system and training institutions. Greater emphasis is laid on forming partnerships between the training institution, on the one hand, and employers, communities in general, on the other hand. The training network which involves all the participants in the process of creating relationships that lead to the development of a strategy and long-term decision-making is the form under which these partnerships are achieved. Particularly important is a multidisciplinary approach, which is a prerequisite of vocational training in tourism. Tourism education presupposes the participation of all players and learning from others’ experience (or mutual learning). There already are multiple examples of this type of learning namely schools and universities which develop partnerships in order to identify common solutions. Tourism sustainable development implies equal opportunities for all participants and a new approach to moral values. The author of this paper sets forth several solutions regarding the training of human resources in tourism, on short and medium term so that tourism could exert its beneficial effects in Romania. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; Skills; Qualification; Workers; Vocational training Classification-JEL: A23, I23, L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/1_Stanciulescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Manuela Liliana Mureșan Author-Name-First: Manuela Liliana Author-Name-Last: Mureșan Author-Email: manumuresan@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Diana Maria Vrânceanu Author-Name-First: Diana Maria Author-Name-Last: Vrânceanu Author-Email: dvranceanu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Brief analysis on relationship. Non-formal education - youth tourismCase study - Romania Abstract: Youth tourism has a long tradition in Europe and is no stranger to Romania, being practiced here since 1968, two of the most important resorts are Costinești and Izvorul Mureșului. This paper aims to be the first who bring attention about the significant role in the development of youth tourism by the non-formal education and by her methods of activity. The future of the Romanian youth tourism in the national and international market consists in the cooperation of all stakeholders in creating a system for the Millennial Generation. The Romanian youth tourism is an extremely important segment of tourism industry able to generate long term profit. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Keywords: youth Romanian tourism; non-formal education; development; boot camp Classification-JEL: I28, M14, O13, Z13 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/2_Muresan.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daniel Avram Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Avram Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Agrotourism in Romania. Promoting through the Representatives in the Agricultural Field Abstract: The Agrotourism is a form of tourism by which Romania can diversify its offer in this field, as to other countries. The rural area habits, landscapes and foods which are made in the own household, all contribute to attracting both domestic and foreign tourists. Most often than not, they are people who spend most of their time in crowded cities and want to have a traditional style holiday. This article includes a quality research of the promoting materials distributed by the entities in the agricultural field and a quantity research regarding the evolution of financing of the projects submitted as part of Measure 313 – “Encouragement of tourist activities” in the 2008-2011 period. Elements were considered, such as: accuracy of the information presented, complete presentation of the contact points, presentation of good practices and examples of businesses in agrotourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Keywords: agrotourism; agrotourism in Romania; rural tourism; European funds in agrotourism Classification-JEL: L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/3_Avram.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihaela-Alina Bălan Author-Name-First: Mihaela-Alina Author-Name-Last: Bălan Author-Email: balan.alina13@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Innovations and Evolution of scientific activities in Romania Abstract: The scientific activities represent currently the support of innovations, which in turn contribute to a competitive advantage and thus to economic growth. They help in the development of more efficient production processes and management methods, as well as in providing high quality products and services, thus having a significant contribution in economic growth and to increase the quality of life. The analysis of their evolution provides useful information regarding the importance of innovation in Romania. In this context, the aim of this paper is to highlight the extent to which the scientific activities were present in the national economy during 2008-2013 and this will be accomplished through relevant economic indicators, GDP and the employed population. In the last part of the study the previsions of both indicators for 2014-2016 period will be presented. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Keywords: innovation; quality of life; competitivity; development Classification-JEL: R11, O32, O38, O40 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/4_Balan.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Sandra Valentina Cătălin Author-Name-First: Sandra Valentina Author-Name-Last: Cătălin Author-Email: sandra.valentina94@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Iuliana Daniela Corbu Author-Name-First: Iuliana Daniela Author-Name-Last: Corbu Author-Email: corbuiuliana94@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The analysis of social responsibility campaigns developed in Romania after european union accession Abstract: Once the Romania's EU access, the concept of social responsibility became more and more acquainted by the campaigns of Romania and the population as well. Within this context, campaigns are faced with a new challenge: adopting a responsible behaviour towards community and environment along their activities regarding the business environment. The purpose of our study is to answer the questions related to the Corporate Social Responsibility concept after the European Union accession: (1) How the social responsibility campaigns improved during the economic crisis? (2) Why the local and multinational companies in Romania have adopted the Corporate Social Responsibility practice? (3) What was the influence of these campaigns on community? The research is based on information about eighteen enterprises from Romania, obtained by analysing the specialized sites. Results show that there is a strong relationship between the concepts of the Lisbon Strategy - as social renewal, business competitiveness and sustainable development –and the social responsibility principles. Through this correlation we identified the main reasons why nowadays companies in Romania assume the responsibility on community. However, beside this social responsibility, which is fundamental, the Corporate Social Responsibility concept also means having an ethical behaviour regarding economic activities and respecting the law. This way we can affirm we have now a clear vision of the Corporate Social Responsibility concept, an ample subject regarding social behaviour of enterprises. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility; European Union; CSR campaigns; Lisbon Strategy; Romania Classification-JEL: M14, M29, O19, O52 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/5_Catalin_Corbu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Title: Books Published by Romanian Publishing Houses. Tourism and competitiveness in the emerging economies Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 11 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol11/events.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Looking back (2014/2015). Looking forward (2030) to the world wide tourism! Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anamaria Sidonia Răvar Author-Name-First: Anamaria Sidonia Author-Name-Last: Răvar Title: Innovation and creativity in the sustainable development of cultural tourism destinations Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Ravar_Rezumat.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriel Cristian Sabou Author-Name-First: Gabriel Cristian Author-Name-Last: Sabou Title: Exploiting the national heritage through touristic activities based on geographical information system applications Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Sabou_Rezumat.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Nicoleta Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Nicoleta Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: gabriela132@rocketmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Sustainable Development as a Human Principle, a Social Model in Tourism Abstract: Sustainable development is a reality of our society, given the urgent need to use resources efficiently turning to their ability of alternative benefits. Whether it is a profitable activity or a personal action plan, man is faced with the situation of choosing just for him and for society. The purpose of this paper is to present a social model based on the proposal of human principles as foundation for society and for sustainable development applicable in tourism. Using as a research tool the questionnaire, the study reveals how these human values contribute to the society and tourism sustainable development. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sustainable development; human development; sustainable tourism; social model in tourism Classification-JEL: O15, Q01, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cristina Lixandroiu Author-Name-First: Cristina Author-Name-Last: Lixandroiu Author-Email: curea@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest Author-Name: Adriana Radu Author-Name-First: Adriana Author-Name-Last: Radu Author-Email: adriana.trifan@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest Author-Name: Marioara Musteata-Pavel Author-Name-First: Marioara Author-Name-Last: Musteata-Pavel Author-Email: pmioara@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest Title: Addressing of local museum tourism from the perspective of applied research for local museums Abstract: The National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest elaborated, between March and September 2015, a research study regarding cultural tourism development at national level through the local museums and memorial houses. Within this research it was tried to emphasize the way in which the Romanian local museums and memorial houses are prepared to participate in the Romanian cultural tourism development and to find solutions to integrate the local museums and the memorials houses in the tourist circuit. It was also observed that there exist the needs to create an image of the localities through the existence of these cultural institutions. The aim of this research study is to demonstrate the need of inter museum exchange at the local, national and international level, regarding mobility and heritage specialists; promoting partnerships with: education, research, academic, affiliated or linked cultural and creative industries, media trusts, and construction companies involved in urban regeneration projects, or community development. The general objectives were connected particularly to two major issues that define local museums, namely: - Conservation, exposure, collecting, keeping track of exhibits, documentation, their restoration, scientific research;- Protection, development of owned heritage through exhibitions, publications and other forms of direct and indirect communication by visitors. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Keywords: Local museums; cultural tourism; sustainable local economy; cultural heritage tourism Classification-JEL: Z320 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Lixandroiu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Constantin Ștefan Author-Name-First: Constantin Author-Name-Last: Ștefan Author-Email: constantin.stefan89@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The influence of major geopolitical factors on a region's tourist industry and perception by tourists. Case study: Crimea Abstract: Periodically certain countries or regions of the world are affected by various types of political unrest, such as wars ‒ including civil, revolutions, power struggles etc. In some cases, these regions have significantly developed tourist industries. In case these political events are violent, the result is predictable: a complete or almost complete halt of tourism in the region, most often accompanied by the destruction of the tourist infrastructure. But when these events are not violent, the effects on tourism may vary. As of 2015, the Crimean Peninsula is one of Europe's geopolitical hotspots and one of the world's disputed territories. This reputation comes from the fact that in March 2014 the territory switched sovereignty from Ukraine to Russia, following what many other states have qualified as an invasion and/or an illegally-held referendum. The purpose of this article is to examine the effects this series of events has had on the area's tourist industry. The article features the results of a research based on a survey, which was meant to evaluate the respondents' perception of the region. This survey was conducted among subjects from numerous European and former Soviet countries. The results have shown that there are certain differences in the perception of Crimea between Europe and the former Soviet states. These differences have the potential to shape the tourist industry of the region in the near future. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Keywords: Crimea; Russia; Ukraine; tourism; influence of politics on tourism Classification-JEL: L83, F59 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Constantin.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ambra Loi Author-Name-First: Ambra Author-Name-Last: Loi Author-Email: ambra1.loi@studenti.uniss.it Author-Workplace-Name: Università degli Studi di Sassari, Italy Title: Climate change and its effects on tourism. The case of Sardinia Abstract: Climate change or called "global warming", refers to the rise in average surface temperatures on Earth. Scientifics maintain that climate change is due primarily to the human use of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the air. The gases trap heat within the atmosphere, which can have a range of effects on ecosystems. But the climate change can really influence the tourism in a specific area? The goals of this study is to present on the first part the cause and effects of climate change, taking into consideration the Case of Sardinia. First of all, I have wanted to show the Sardinia from historical, geographical, socio-economic point of view and the problem with the tourism. This situation has a strong effect in Sardinia, its climate is changing on coastal areas, and in fact are increasing the appearance of extreme events related to weather, sea storms, increased wave energy, the action of winds, rising sea levels, decreasing trend in rainfall and with the consequence reduction of the contribution of river sediments to the beaches. Why have I wanted to talk about Sardinia? Because it is a region that has much to offer, but for many reasons hasn't found a solution. The main problem as well as of the effects of climate change is the relationship with the tourism in high season. The tourism is concentrated only in one period, in the summer, this may mean that tourists don't visit the center areas to discover a less popular side of the island, which is characterized by its landscape, cultural heritage and traditions. We need to convince the tourists that exists other type of tourism, explore new culture and the adventure. In this way, Sardinia it must give itself the chance to open the road at winter tourism, and exploit of the nature offers. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; Climate change; Global warming; Sustainable tourism Classification-JEL: L83, Q01 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Student_Ambra_Loi.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela-Cosmina Tudor Author-Name-First: Gabriela-Cosmina Author-Name-Last: Tudor Author-Email: gabbi.tudor@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, România Title: Film Tourism – A successful journey for New Zealand. The steps towards being the world’s top film tourism destination Abstract: Film tourism is a phenomenon that has been emerging lately and. it brings a lot of benefits the filming location can take advantage of. This paper tries to present he impact that place-placement in a movie has on a destination and the key to the success of movie tourism. The data is gathered in a case study about New Zealand which is one of the best proofs of successfully influencing the influx of tourism through film tourism. All the information that was collected provides us with an inside view to the steps taken in order to increase the film tourism in this country. You can find out about the marketing activities and campaigns that sustain the image of New Zealand as the host country of the box offices The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. One must know that this linkage between New Zealand and these worldwide known movies has to be continuously supported and improved by help of the government and specialists. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Keywords: Film tourism; movie tourism; marketing activities; New Zealand; The Hobbit; Lord of the Rings Classification-JEL: L83, Z3 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Student_Gabriela_Tudor.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cătălina Alexandru (Vlad) Author-Name-First: Cătălina Author-Name-Last: Alexandru (Vlad) Title: Strategic resources in the services business expansion Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Alexandru_Catalina_Rezumat.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Alina Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Title: Ecotourism services quality. Assessment methods and strategies for its improvement in Sălaj County Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Gheorghe_Alina_Rezumat.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Cristina Iorgulescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Iorgulescu Title: The development of creativity and innovation in the hotel industry in Romania by the improvement of the human resources management practices Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2015 Creation-Date: 2015 Volume: 12 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol12/Iorgulescu_Rezumat.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2015-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: International Tourism Under the Sign of Records Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Rodica Pamfilie Author-Name-First: Rodica Author-Name-Last: Pamfilie Author-Email: rodica.pamfilie@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Andra Vasilcovschi Author-Name-First: Andra Author-Name-Last: Vasilcovschi Author-Email: andra.vasilcovschi@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Robert Bumbac Author-Name-First: Robert Author-Name-Last: Bumbac Author-Email: robert.bumbac@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: A new possible way of promoting tourist packages: gamification Abstract: Society nowadays is increasingly reliant on technology and the trend for the following years seems to maintain. At the same time, public and private organizations are searching for ways to innovate and optimize their activities and the internet as well as the increased use of electronic devices provide new perspectives for this. Besides the public sector, high ranking companies from domains such as commerce to health or tourism, have started using a new tool: gamification. While some of the first attempts to implement the idea of ‘games’ for selling products go as far back as 1912, the scientific concept of ‘gamification’ is quite new and has just recently been recognized as a study domain. In addition to this, a rising interest in the field is also proven by an increase in number of searches for the term on search engines as well as in scientific databases. From an organizational point of view, through the use of these techniques, institutions can obtain a positive influence on sales, enhanced customer retention, better marketing, improved employee-management communication, overall optimization of activity etc. This paper aims to offer a contribution to the research in the field of gamification, to show some of the revolutionary solutions found by top organizations, based on gaming techniques, and to propose a model for implementing gamification in a tourism organization. The research starts from studying the gamification model implemented by leading tourism platform, Tripadvisor and focuses on building a game-specific architecture that can be applied to Romanian tourism sites, ranging from tourist review sites, such as turistinfo.ro to online tourism agencies. This model includes elements specific to games, and characteristic for the gamification concept, such as: avatar, rewards, challenges, points, badges, leaderboard. The study finishes with opinions regarding the economic and social benefits of implementing gamification as an innovative technique in tourism and conclusions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: innovation; IT in tourism; social gaming; gamification Classification-JEL: O30, M10 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Pamfilie-Vasilcovschi.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adina-Gabriela Croitoru Author-Name-First: Adina-Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Croitoru Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Daniela Firoiu Author-Name-First: Daniela Author-Name-Last: Firoiu Author-Email: adina_gc@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Romanian-American University in Bucharest, Romania Title: Innovative strategies for increasing business performance – best practices from the tourism industry Abstract: In a global society, defined by the disappearance of borders of any kind, the unprecedented intensification of competition compels companies, regardless of the economic sector in which they operate, to permanently adapt their products and services to customers’ requirements. However, the challenge lies precisely in the fact that consumer demands are in a constantly and increasingly accelerated change. If until some time ago products and services were generally chosen based on value for money, now the trend is to make choices based on the fact that these represent a new concept, a new experience, so that innovation is more and more appreciated and gradually turns into the most appropriate way to bring added value to companies. The concept is evolving fast, however, and innovation no longer refers only to the creation of new products or services, but also, why not, even to the development of new strategies, most often marketing and management strategies, aimed at enhancing performance at the microeconomic level. It is obvious that pioneers in the creation of such successful strategies are primarily companies with economic power and know-how, often multinational companies, which outline directions in this respect and become real business performance models. Concrete examples regarding the use of innovation for achieving business excellence can be easily found in tourism, which is currently the fastest growing economic sector in the world. Thus, development strategies existing especially in the international hotel chains turn into real best practices not only for the hospitality industry, but also for other areas, contributing primarily to the companies’ success, but, furthermore, also to increasing the competitiveness of the whole world economy. This article aims to bring to the fore some of the innovative strategies successfully used by one of the largest hotel groups globally and, starting from the analysis of the current state of the hospitality industry in Romania, to identify some ways forward for increasing business performance. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: Innovation; competitiveness; business performance; management and marketing strategies; hospitality industry Classification-JEL: L83, O31, O32, Z31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Croitoru-Firoiu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Ţigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Ţigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Email: olimpia.state@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Marian Năstase Author-Name-First: Marian Author-Name-Last: Năstase Author-Email: nastasemarian@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Răzvan Cătălin Dobrea Author-Name-First: Răzvan Cătălin Author-Name-Last: Dobrea Author-Email: rdobrea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Management successors in tourism- leadership skills, competences and knowledge Abstract: A major challenge for any organization, which happens once in many years, is related to business succession. Given the specificity of the tourism industry, the takeover of a business depends on the managerial capacity of successor. Leadership is considered one of the key success factors in the businesses and therefore of their transformation. Leadership is also very important when we talk about the relationship between the members of the organization and motivating staff within them. This paper proposes to establish which are the appropriate leadership key skills, competence and knowledge for micro and small enterprises managers, for successfully taking over enterprises, within Europe’s tourism industry. For a clear picture about leadership competences, we considered the following key characteristics: management successors set an exemplary standard to co-workers and give directions both professionally and personally, management successors implement the necessary changes, management successors are open minded to new ideas and know how to assess risks, management successors check compliance of colleagues with professional, social and quality oriented standards, management successors are giving feedback and support personal development, management successors resolve conflict with and between co-workers. The secondary objective of the paper is to test correlation between leadership knowledge, skills and competences for successful business succession. To achieve these objectives, we analysed and interpreted partial results of a quantitative research, based on an online questionnaire. The results of this research can constitute a foundation to further policy papers for the business environment in European tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: Leadership; management; quantitative research; questionnaire; Pearson coefficient Classification-JEL: M12, M54, C83, C87 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Tigu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Raluca Georgiana Stoian Author-Name-First: Raluca Georgiana Author-Name-Last: Stoian Author-Email: ralucageorgiana.stoian@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Reviving tourism services through business tourism Abstract: The objective of this article is to shed insight on the tourism assistance and services that can be developed to optimize the tourism flow. This article will expose the fact that tourism combines several services, such as transport, accommodation, food, recreation, events, that make up the integrated tourism product and its marketing arrangements. Part of tourism services are designed to cover basic, everyday needs like rest, food, and another part is dedicated to specific necessities and particularities of tourism services (recreation, treatment, travel arrangements, etc.). The dynamism of tourism leads to the need for improvement of existing tourism services and develop new forms of tourism. Meanwhile developing tourism assistance and services leads to regional economic growth and professional development of people. Tourism plays an important role in the development of Romania's economic future and it is important to ensure that tourism resources are fully valued. Business trips or trips to congresses, conferences, meetings, etc. continue to develop, with increasing benefits for organizers. Many people who are involved in such activities are, in the same time, “holiday” tourists who want to discover the area that they are visiting. Tourism products and services are designed and developed to meet the needs of existing and potential customers. Tourists are becoming more experienced and sophisticated and expect high quality attractions, utilities and services, and rates / prices suited to their travels quality. Provided that everything mentioned above is the main reason or motivation to develop tourism and its services for visitors to events in which they participate; we will analyze possible options for improving the above mentioned services. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; tourism services; business tourism; tourist Classification-JEL: M2, O40, R5 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Stoian.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Elena Nicolae Author-Name-First: Elena Author-Name-Last: Nicolae Author-Email: enicolae93@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The role of nonformal education in shaping young economists Abstract: The present paper has as theme of research „The role of nonformal education in forming young economists”. These papers’ objectives/purposes are to identify the benefits of nonformal education in parallel with the formal education and it’s position to it. The specific purposes of this paper are to identify the number of youngsters that are involving themselves in these types of activities for a period larger than a year, to identify the impact of this type of education on the youngsters’ competences and also the influence of this on people’s personality. In order to reach these objectives, as a research method it was conducted a quantitative research (a set of questionnaires for the two target groups), as well as a qualitative research (one interview). The results of the research outlined that nonformal education completes the formal one and that the benefits of the two combined are big in number. So, the nonformal education is the practical expression of the formal education and it is the launching ramp in putting the bases of a career. The conclusions bring into sight the fact that young volunteers are more involved in the activities they deploy and have more trust in their abilities. So, the youngsters develop leadership and communication skills, these being of good use in the future. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: Nonformal education; formal education; youngsters; economy; labour market; AIESEC Classification-JEL: I25 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Nicolae-stud.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Liviu Dediu Author-Name-First: Liviu Author-Name-Last: Dediu Author-Email: liviu.dediu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Users’ reviews on tourism sites: their influence on the potential tourists Abstract: Online reviews represent one of the basic functionalities implemented under the Web 2.0 concept. Implementing the functionality of achieving reviews was made on public platforms and became the de facto standard for all web applications involving interaction between service/products providers and Internet users. Reviews information sources are used differently: first are followed peripherals clues (synthetic evaluation based on stars or ranking) as a stage of information retrieval and, after that, the processing of basic information (reviews) is shaping the person’s choosing alternatives. The study involved the use of exploratory research method. In this research we have undertaken an investigation which used a survey which was completed by 230 heterogeneous people The research resulted in finding preferred media information and the type of users who use them. Throughout our paper, the answers to two core questions concerning the approached theme can be found:• How important is, for a potential client, the online information, based on reviews published by other clients, made before choosing a tourist service?• How much do the online reviews influence the decision of buying a travel package? During the survey challenges have emerged whose solution requires additional research, thus reinforcing the importance of the chosen theme. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Keywords: Online Reviews; Tourism; User Generated Content; Touristic Web Apps; Potential Tourists; Tourism 2.0 Classification-JEL: Z32, L83, L86 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol13/Dediu-stud.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adrian Lucian Kanovici Author-Name-First: Adrian Lucian Author-Name-Last: Kanovici Author-Email: adrian_ase_rei@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Summer School “Territorial Intelligence for Sustainable Development” in The Hateg Country Dinosaurs Geopark Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/2_Editorial_Adrian_Kanovici.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Cecilia Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Cecilia Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Tünde Gál Author-Name-First: Tünde Author-Name-Last: Gál Author-Email: tunde.gal@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Casiana Răduţ Author-Name-First: Casiana Author-Name-Last: Răduţ Author-Email: casiana.radut@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Research Models, Education and Dissemination of the Best Practices Applied in the Activity of Domestic and International Tour Operators Abstract: The aim of the research is an exploratory analysis about the best practices of the domestic and international tour operators. The methodology is analytical, consists of research on product development, marketing strategies, marketing campaigns, consumer relationship of the domestic and international tour-operators. The main requirement of marketing activities is to respond to customers’ needs, balanced against the growing requirement of organizations to make the most sustainable as well as the most profitable use of existing assets and to achieve integration of management functions around customer-orientated objectives that respect sustainable goals. But marketing techniques are always essential inputs to specifying revenue-earning objectives that are precise, realistic, achievable and measurable in the markets or audiences in which an organization operates (Middleton et al., 2009). A tour operator must decide whether to concentrate on selling its brands to those who are already looking for a holiday or to try to expand the market by persuading others that they could indeed afford a holiday. The results of this study indicate that the active role should include a focus on tourism's distribution channels (Gartner and Bachri, 2010). The key elements in any marketing system are the attitudes and thought processes of the two parties – buyers and sellers in an exchange process. It should be noted that there is no natural or automatic harmony between what consumers want and will pay for and what producers are able or willing to provide. In practice there is usually continuing tension between a producer’s need for profit, the need to operate efficiently and sustainably with available assets and resources, and the customer’s search for low cost, best available value and satisfaction in the experiences they seek. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/9_Stanciulescu_conferinta.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Diana Maria Vrânceanu Author-Name-First: Diana Maria Author-Name-Last: Vrânceanu Author-Email: dvranceanu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Claudia Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Consumers' Price Fairness Perceptions on Hotel Services: Insights into Romanian Market Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/10_Tuclea_conferinta.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina-Cerasela Aluculesei Author-Name-First: Alina-Cerasela Author-Name-Last: Aluculesei Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8369-7899 Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Innovative Ways of Valuing Natural Spa Resources in Romania by Means of Tourist Services Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/11_Rezumat_Teza_Aluculesei.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Sava Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Sava Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Maria Ioncică Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Ioncică Author-Email: maria.ioncica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Development Directions for the Local Recreational Services Sector in Romania Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/12_Rezumat_Teza_Sava.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tünde Gál Author-Name-First: Tünde Author-Name-Last: Gál Author-Email: tunde.gal@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Evolving Tourist Behaviour at Sport Events? Abstract: The general objective of the current paper is to study consumer behaviour in a relationship with sustainability principles, as in recent decades, tourism industry has rapidly developed and brought various impacts to the nations and destinations. The specific objective of the current research is to investigate the consumer behaviour at sport events, to provide a deeper understanding of the behaviour of tourists engaging in sport events, such as motivation, expectations, underlying reasons for choices and decision making, what do they seek from their experience, what is their spending willingness during these events, and in what matter are they behaving according to the sustainability principles. The research methodology was based on field research, by collecting data through questionnaires and interviews from sport tourists to find out why individuals engage in sport events. Results indicate the typology of sport tourists based on socio-economic status, motivation and expectations. Sport tourism is an important part of both sport and tourism business generating large revenues and reshaping local communities and can stand as a basis for effective marketing to generate added value on tourism product development, but in the same time there is a high need for education about sustainability and environmental awareness on all levels in order to obtain a positive evolution of behaviour regarding sustainability in general and especially at sport events. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sport tourism; Sport tourist; Consumer behavior; Sport events; Sustainability Classification-JEL: Q56, Z21, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/5_Tunde_Gal.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anca-Georgiana Andrei Author-Name-First: Anca-Georgiana Author-Name-Last: Andrei Author-Email: anca.georgiana.andrei@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Impact of Nation Branding Campaigns on Country Image: Germany vs. Brazil Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to show how a successful nation brand campaign can influence the image of a country and to highlight its positive impact on different areas such as tourism or foreign investments. Two nation branding campaigns, implemented one in Germany and one in Brazil, during FIFA World Cup, 2006 and 2014, were examined in comparison in order to write out the necessary conclusions which support the hypothesis above. The study also proposes to demonstrate that Blue Ocean Strategy was used with success in Germany’s nation branding campaign. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: nation branding; country image; blue ocean strategy; nation brand index; globalization; competitive advantage Classification-JEL: M39, O5, Z29 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/6_Anca_Andrei.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: George Găman Author-Name-First: George Author-Name-Last: Găman Author-Email: gaman.george07@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Babeş-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, România Title: Changes of Tourists’ Motivations and Preferences towards Health Tourism Services. Case Study: The Potential Tourism Cluster Moineşti-Târgu Ocna-Slănic Moldova Abstract: In the context in which society is evolving at a high speed and lifestyle is becoming increasingly stressful, the tourist, respectively patient-tourist motivations and preferences meet changes also. In these conditions, health resorts are forced to fold on the actual situation and to adjust their tourist offer for meeting the customer’s needs and for keeping, at least, the number of tourist arrivals. The actual paper tried to ensure if the motivations and preferences of Romanian modern patient-tourist correspond with the conclusions of global trend described in specialized literature, through survey amongst residents of Moineşti municipality, Târgu Ocna and Slănic Moldova health resorts. According to the specialized literature, the modern tourist is well informed, he has a higher level of knowledge, he is looking for an active and sprinkled stay with unique and complex activities. The results highlighted several similarities and differences between specialized literature and the present study, showing that Romania’s situation does not entirely correspond with the global trend. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourist motivations; tourist preferences; health tourism; health resorts; Moineşti; Târgu Ocna; Slănic Moldova Classification-JEL: Z39, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/7_George_Gaman.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Abbass Issa Author-Name-First: Abbass Author-Name-Last: Issa Author-Email: abbass.issa82@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility Abstract: Corporate governance along with social responsibility represent a major point of interest for most shareholders and stakeholders, as it is desirable for any investor or organization to implement mechanisms that are able to ensure a proper control of a company’s operating framework. It would be ideal for the business environment in every country to adopt and respect policies which lead to a reliable and secure employment, a minimization of risks, a maximization of incentives, as well as protected communities and a preserved environment. Corporate governance and social responsibility form an area that includes various concepts, but based on information gathered, we may reveal that the compliance with certain rules and regulations can generate higher welfare and prosperity. We managed to analyze the interrelationship between the two notions, definitions, the factors that linked them, and some important issues that appear when integrating social responsibility into corporate governance, meaning behavioral norms and industry impacts, economic environment, regulation, and responsible decisions. For a full comprehensive picture, further reading is required. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: Corporate governance; Social responsibility; Sustainable development; Responsible leadership Classification-JEL: G30, G38, M14, F64 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/8_student_corner_Issa.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina Ioana Mihaela Ţăpescu (Stoian) Author-Name-First: Alina Ioana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Ţăpescu (Stoian) Author-Email: alina.tapescu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Maria-Cristina Iorgulescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Iorgulescu Author-Email: cristina.iorgulescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Generation Y’s Work Values and Their Impact on the Hospitality Industry Abstract: In the current business environment, it is considered natural to see people from different generations working together. As it seems to be widely accepted that each generation has its own attributes that reflect in a unique manner on the way work is perceived, managers are being confronted with new challenges in managing human resources. As a result, the paper underlines the main differences between the three currently active generations on the labor market (Baby Boomers, generation X and generation Y) and their implications on the workplace. The main purpose of the article is to present bachelors’ of business administration perceptions of the factors considered important for an ideal workplace and whether the hospitality and tourism industry is able to offer these factors. Consequently, the paper brings forward an exploratory research, conducted using a questionnaire-based survey on 2015 bachelor graduates at the Faculty of Business and Tourism (Bucharest University of Economic Studies): out of the 320 students who have been enrolled in the senior year (2014-2015 academic year), 237 graduates completed the questionnaire. The results of the survey indicate that generation Y members’ most valued workplace characteristics are having promotion possibilities, working with people who cooperate effectively, having free time for personal life and having the opportunity of receiving high salary increases, as they advance in their career. These findings are compared to the conclusions of previous studies presented in the literature developed on this subject. The results of the study are relevant for the tourism industry as they reflect the needs and expectations of generation Y, therefore enabling managers to develop new human resources practices in order to attract and retain young graduates and determine them to become loyal, engaged employees. Considering the limitations of the research, the theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: Generational differences; Generation Y; work values; tourism; hospitality; millennials Classification-JEL: J24, M12, M14, Z30 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/3._Tapescu_Iorgulescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Georgică Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Georgică Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: georgica.gheorghe@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Erasmus Programme Instruments for Enriching Young People’s Horizon Abstract: When economic crisis was raging through Europe, a social class was the most affected, in comparison with the others, that social class being represented by young people from all over Europe. That moment was the starting point in seeking for a solution to counteract the effects of this crisis among this social class. The solution found by the European Commission is represented by Erasmus + programme which has as main objectives: reduction of youth unemployment, increasing international experiences of young people, encouraging the cooperation between the research and educational institutions, encouraging volunteering, increasing the integration among the Member States of the European Union as well as with associated countries of the European Union. Erasmus will celebrate the 30 years’ anniversary of its opening, being one of the most successful programs ever undertaken at European Union level. By 2020 it is estimated that over 6 million young students will have benefited from the financial support for carrying out an international mobility. In this context, the following problems arise: Erasmus program is perfect or needs improvements, it truly contributes to the personal development of the participants in the project and if the money are allocated efficiently. These were some of the issues that I had in mind when I started this research. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2016 Creation-Date: 2016 Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Keywords: Erasmus+; students; Erasmus+ buget Classification-JEL: I2, I28 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol14/4._Gheorghe_Georgica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2016-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ţigu Gabriela Author-Name-First: Ţigu Author-Name-Last: Gabriela Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Promoting Tourism Destinations by Awarding with a Golden Apple Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/1_Editorial_Tigu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Kabalan Habib Author-Name-First: Kabalan Author-Name-Last: Habib Author-Email: habib.kabalan@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Introducing Theories and Practices Concerning ERP.The Case of the Pharmaceutical Industry Abstract: The Pharmaceutical field is a rapidly growing and highly variable market due to constant advancements in medical research. This industry is also considered one of the biggest markets currently in place. The competition in the pharmaceutical field requires companies to operate in a very efficient and effective way to ensure a competitive edge that allows them to keep moving forward. Furthermore, innovations in the IT industry have become a major part of businesses worldwide. One of the most advanced tools that companies are implementing nowadays is Enterprise Resource Planning systems (ERP) that runs the entire operational infrastructure in an automated way. This article aims to provide a qualitative approach to the integration of ERP in the pharmaceutical industry and the depth and spread of the available applications through testimonies from various head of departments within a pharmaceutical company that underwent a migration from a manual to an automated system. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/9.Stanculescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tünde Gál Author-Name-First: Tünde Author-Name-Last: Gál Author-Email: tunde.gal@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Sport Events Worth Travelling All around the Year Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/10.Stanciulescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Florența Larisa Vasile (Ile) Author-Name-First: Florența Larisa Author-Name-Last: Vasile (Ile) Author-Email: larisa.ile@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Traveling for Medical Tourism - The Diaspora' s Motivation Abstract: Medical tourism, considered the newest phenomena but, as well, an old activity of travelling on health purposes, is increasingly more often the subject of articles, seminars or conferences. Considering the factors that determine the motivation for medical tourism (investments in the health system infrastructure, the international certification and accreditation for medical services and suppliers, lower costs or better quality of medical procedures, political and social stability, excellent tourism infrastructure, good reputation regarding clinical excellence, implementation of the newest medical technologies, highly educated medical personnel, the insurance policies portability) and taking into account the conclusions of previous exploratory researches in health behavior, one of the possible segments of medical tourists is Diaspora. This paper highlights the decision process and preferences of tourists from Diasporas related to medical tourism in Romania. It uses data from a pilot survey that emphasis the medical travel motivations of Romanian patients resident in EU, Canada and USA. The first determinant is the cost, but there are several other motivations driving the decision to choose Romania as a medical tourism destination, such as confidence or cultural affinity. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: Medical tourism; Tourism; Health; Travel Classification-JEL: I150, Z300, Z320 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/1.Vasile_Florenta.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daniel Avram Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Avram Author-Email: avram89@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Trends of Tourist Demand in Romania. Positioning of Rural Tourists Among the Tourist Preferences Abstract: Rural tourism in Romania has significant potential, acknowledged both internally and internationally. Keeping up old customs in villages, including in regard to the daily life, existence of remarkably beautiful landscapes, as well as the promoting in the foreign press, create the premises required for the take-off of the activities specific to the rural area among the domestic tourists.Considering the resources at the disposal of the Romanian villages and assuming that modern people are more and more interested in returning to nature, for disconnecting from the job-related stress, the author wanted to find out what is the position of this type of tourism among the tourist demand. After carrying out an administered questionnaire-based quantitative survey, the results showed that the preferences concerning the place of spending the holiday are the seaside and the mountains, while the rural areas are considered as the main option in 2% of the cases. However, the tourist profile that arises from the research shows that there is a base from which the rural tourism can progress in the medium and short-term preferences, as the respondents reveal a significant preference over the elements of the rural tourist offer. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: Rural tourism; tourist demand; tourist demand trend; tourism in Romania; tourist profile Classification-JEL: L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/2.Avram_Daniel.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Irina Misoc Author-Name-First: Irina Author-Name-Last: Misoc Author-Email: irina_misoc@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Corelation Between Team Cohesion and Team Performance in Tourism-Based Organisations Abstract: This research focuses on the relationship between team cohesion and team performance in the tourism field.The literature review showed that researchers have found different results on the relationship between these two variables. The present case study was based on the hypothesis that, in the organizations that offer support to their employees, the teams with strong cohesion obtain better results compared with those with poor cohesion. The study was conducted in eight teams that share similar characteristic. The survey method was used for gathering data with two structured questionnaires: one questionnaire used for measuring the performance of the eight teams and another questionnaire used for measuring the team cohesion. The 5 point Likert scale was used to analyze both team performance and team cohesion. As a conclusion, the study revealed that the hypothesis is true, and the strong cohesive teams obtained higher scores in terms of performance, but the relationship between the two variables is more complex and should be studied in detail in future studies. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: team; team cohesion; team performance; team outcomes; team communication Classification-JEL: J24, M14 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/3.Misoc_Irina.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihaela-Alina Bălan Author-Name-First: Mihaela-Alina Author-Name-Last: Bălan Author-Email: balan.alina13@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Impact of the Tourist Behaivor on the Offer of Tourism Agencies in Romania Abstract: In spite of the existing natural and anthropic riches, the Romanians have lately preferred to spend their holidays in foreign countries, despite the rather timid efforts of the state to promote domestic tourism. The foreign holiday destinations are among the top of the Romanians’ preferences, especially due to the quality / price ratio, but also to the quality offered by hoteliers as well as to the numerous tourist attractions. We can also say that Romanians have become more demanding in choosing tourist packages and that they prefer to invest in their comfort by allocating more and more money for holidays, especially for those abroad. Below, shall be presented the results of a research carried out on the occasion of the Tourism Fair in Romania, November 2015, February and November 2016 editions, whose main purpose was to study the trends in Romania's tourism offer. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourist offer; holiday destinations; tourist preferences; tourist market Classification-JEL: L80, L83, D20, M19 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/4.Balan_Mihaela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Emma - Denisa Andrei Author-Name-First: Emma - Denisa Author-Name-Last: Andrei Author-Email: emma.andrei14@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: New Challenges in Recruitment and Selection - Attraction of the Y Generation Abstract: Recruitment and selection processes are one of the most important steps in a company beeing repeated periodically. Through them, the company attracts and hires staffing that are considered to have a major influence on the company's success. Attracting the younger generation can be challenging for companies, given their current need to be addressed in a different manner, in an innovative way. It is important to have their attributes acknowledged, but different ones and not those that are already reported in the CV. According to studies conducted by various companies, young people need leadership programs, mentoring or coaching. To better understand these concepts, I carried out an analysis of the company Catalyst Solutions which is a human resources company and it deals exclusively with the recruitment and selection processes for employing companies. Using qualitative research through a questionnaire, I could analyze the knowledge of students and graduates based on processes of recruitment and selection. In terms of research, young people want to be active in the labor market but feel a certain uneasiness when dealing with recruitment basis. They consider that processes can be sometimes too harsh and they believe that they are not appreciated at their true value. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: Y generation; recruitment; selection; human resources; evolution Classification-JEL: O15, J62, M51 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/5.Andrei_Emma.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Liviu Dediu Author-Name-First: Liviu Author-Name-Last: Dediu Author-Email: liviu.dediu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Manipulations of Users's Behavior Under "Social Monitoring" in Tourist Services Abstract: The influence of many factors determines, along with technological and communications developments, an increase in the speed that is required to solve any task in the time unit. Not in vain, this sense of shortening time was perceived as “Time has no patience with us.” Control can give rise to positive or negative effects. When the balance generated by the law that coordinates the processes is influenced by factors that apply control procedures, we can talk about the likelihood of manipulation actions. Can the users of tourist services be manipulated by “social monitoring”? To find the answer to this question we need to find out if we have people who imagine at the theoretical and practical level the study and the application of manipulation theories, legal entities that undertake to provide specific services based on the manipulative control of some target subjects, customers requesting such services and, last but not least, a market to be presented with a portfolio of services verified in practice. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Keywords: Manipulation; Tourism; Monitoring Applications; Potential Tourists; User Generated Content; Tourism 2.0 Classification-JEL: M30, Z32, L83, L86 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/6.Dediu_Liviu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adrian Bercovici Author-Name-First: Adrian Author-Name-Last: Bercovici Author-Email: patent@gmx.net Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Sustainable Strategy of Implementing IPR Management in Mergers & Acquisitions Abstract: The objective of this paper is to identify the right key questions, the right time stages and the right M&A phases for the implementing of the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) management and more exactly the IPR expert in the M&A DD process. With the help of these, the IPR expert can decide on an economically and time sustainable IPR DD process for the discussed investment types. The methodology used involves 6 different DD processes which were implemented in the course of 7 years in 2 different global corporations by the writers as well as a literature research of the best practices on the field. It is proposed to create a framework which guides and supports the path to a resource sustainable strategy of implementing the IPR DD. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/7.Stanciulescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Elisabeta Ilona Molnar Author-Name-First: Elisabeta Ilona Author-Name-Last: Molnar Author-Email: elis@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Partium Christian University, Oradea Title: Structure, Conduct and Performance Paradigm in Assessing Travel Agency Performances Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to present and exemplify traditional and neoclassical approaches to market structure and tourism firm performance analysis. The paper tackles some of the industrial economic thinking trends which were meant to fill the gaps left by the traditional approaches. Two approaches stand out from among the industrial economic trends: SCP paradigm and game theory. The results show that the strategy tourism operators prefer is to practice high prices; however there is no certainty that the competitors would adhere to such an idea at the beginning or during the season. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 15 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol15/8.Stanciulescu_Gabriela.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: deliapopescu2@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Nicolae Lupu Author-Name-First: Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Lupu Author-Email: nicolae.lupu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: 40 Years of Higher Education in Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/0.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Irina Ana Author-Name-First: Maria-Irina Author-Name-Last: Ana Author-Email: ana.mariairina@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Ecotourism, Agro-Tourism and Rural Tourism in The European Union Abstract: Ecotourism, agro-tourism, rural tourism are forms of tourism that emerged in the last century, becoming increasingly important sectors of the tourism industry worldwide. The new kinds of life-style, the evolving tourist behaviour and continuously changing customers’ preferences coupled with the widespread concern about environment, industrial heritage and sustainable development are all factors that led to the expansion of these niche market types of tourism. The objectives of this paper are to research important implications and identify significant trends of ecotourism, agro-tourism and rural tourism in the European Union, focusing on the New Member States area, as there is a lot of potential for the expansion of these forms of tourism in the region. The Old Member States earn significant income from agro-tourism, while in the New Member States this is rather an unexploited opportunity, despite the fact that the cultural heritage and number of unspoilt natural areas is much more abundant than in the West. This paper will also look at the policies in this field, as the European Union is very interested and active in supporting agro-tourism and sustainable development, and many policies, programmes and initiatives address the three types of niche tourism. Key features, economic, environmental and socio-cultural benefits, as well as current and future challenges for ecotourism, agro-tourism and rural tourism in the entire European Union, but more thoroughly in the New Member States will also be addressed, with the purpose of creating a comprehensive paper, able to convince the scholars and practitioners in the field to pay more attention to this rather new topic, as a proactive approach can enable investments and attract more tourists to the area. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Keywords: Ecotourism; agro-tourism; rural tourism; sustainable development; EU policies; niche tourism Classification-JEL: Q01, Q2, Q5, R11, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/1.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: deliapopescu2@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic StudiesBucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic StudiesBucharest, Romania Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic StudiesBucharest, Romania Title: Analysis of Tourism Development Disparities in Romania Abstract: In 1998 eight development regions were set up in Romania (North-West, North-East, South-West, South-East, South, West, Center, Bucharest and Ilfov), with a view to efficiently absorb the EU funds, in order to reduce the socio-economic development disparities. Tourism is an important sector of the world economy and also of the development regions, contributing to economic growth in less developed areas, which yet have a high tourism potential. The main aim of the present paper is the analysis of development disparities of tourism in Romania, by tracking the changes that have taken place since the moment of creation of the development regions, in the periods of pre-accession and post-accession of Romania to the EU. The research comprises a cluster analysis based on tourism supply and demand indicators in the regions and counties of Romania; the main hypothesis of the study is that the development differences of Romanian tourism have diminished after the accession, as within the regions there are counties with greater tourism activity, that may turn into engines of regional economic growth. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Keywords: Regional development; tourism indicators; cluster analysis; disparities; Romania’s development regions Classification-JEL: L81, O11, R10 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Stoenescu Cristina Author-Name-First: Stoenescu Author-Name-Last: Cristina Author-Email: cris_stoenescu@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: New Perspectives of The Tourism And Air Travel Relationship Abstract: Air transport and tourism have always been interconnected, influencing each other. Over the years, as air travel has been undergoing a series of changes, tourism organizations have also been affected, developing new tourism products, establishing partnerships and reinventing the services offered. This paper focuses on the impact of air travel on the tourism industry, taking into consideration the role of the airport in the regional economic development, the new forms of tourism developed as a consequence of the different changes in the airline industry and the recent position of air travel in the creation of tourism packages. At the same time, an analysis of data was made in order to highlight the role of air travel in tourism development in Romania. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Keywords: Air travel; tourism; tourism development; air transport; low cost airlines; tourism packages Classification-JEL: L93, Z32, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/3.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana-Diana Crîșmariu Author-Name-First: Oana-Diana Author-Name-Last: Crîșmariu Author-Email: oanadianacrismariu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Accessible Tourism – An Expression of Social Responsibility Abstract: Accessible tourism involves the provision of customized tourist services for people requiring special conditions (disabled, seniors, and young children). Everyone has the right to travel, thus, by creating these conditions, both public administrations and private enterprises should express their Social Responsibility. Due to the fact that in recent years accessibility has become a topic frequently debated at an international level, those involved in the Romanian tourism industry and political leaders have begun to show interest in supporting the development of a "tourism for all". In other words, a tourism where everyone can participate equally, regardless of the locomotor or sensory capacities. The present study presents the results of an assessment of the development stage of accessible tourism in Romania. We have interviewed people who have a direct implication in this niche of Romanian tourism, namely a representative of the President Complex in Baile Felix (awarded by the European Commission for accessibility) and the representative of the Sano Touring Agency, the only Romanian member of the European Network for Accessible Tourism).Success in this respect can come as a result of an appropriate professional approach to a number of factors that could lead to improved tourist offer with accessible services but also to encourage demand. In order to have a positive evolution, accessible tourism involves four steps: the awareness stage, the early stage, the development stage and the consolidation stage. In this paper we are going to analyse the stages that are currently taking place in Romania, namely: the awareness and the early stages. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Keywords: Accessible tourism; Social Responsibility; accessibility; tourism for all; ethical tourism Classification-JEL: L83, M14 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/4.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ioana Marin Author-Name-First: Ioana Author-Name-Last: Marin Author-Email: marinioana16@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Advantages of The School- Family- Local Community Partnership.The Example of an Italian School Abstract: In this paper we show how a constant and efficient collaboration between the school and the local community is needed in order to obtain positive effects and results in the pre-scholar education. The analysis is inspired from the Italian public school in which we have been directly involved in the framework of an experience exchange program as teacher in the public Romanian pre-scholar system. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Keywords: Pre-scholar education; Italian public school; Romanian public school; school partnership Classification-JEL: I21, I28 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/5.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iulian Gabriel Păun Author-Name-First: Iulian Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Păun Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Maria Ioncică Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Ioncică Author-Email: maria.ioncica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Public or Private Transport – Theoretical and Empirical Approaches and user Perceptions Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2017 Creation-Date: 2017 Volume: 16 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol16/6.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2017-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marius-Cristian Neacșu Author-Name-First: Marius-Cristian Author-Name-Last: Neacșu Author-Email: marius.neacsu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: One Hundred, One Hundred Thousand, One Billion, One Thousand Billions Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/1.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hugues Séraphin Author-Name-First: Hugues Author-Name-Last: Séraphin Author-Email: hugues.seraphin@winchester.ac.uk Author-Workplace-Name: University of Winchester, Winchester, United Kingdom Author-Name: Marco Platania Author-Name-First: Marco Author-Name-Last: Platania Author-Email: marco.platania@unict.it Author-Workplace-Name: University of Catania, Catania, Italy Author-Name: Manuela Pilato Author-Name-First: Manuela Author-Name-Last: Pilato Author-Email: manuela.pilato@winchester.ac.uk Author-Workplace-Name: University of Winchester, Winchester, United Kingdom Title: The Place of Heritage and Identity in the Marketing Strategy of Destinations: a Worldwide Approach Based on Dmo Slogans Abstract: In the tourist industry destinations are competing against each other to attract visitors. In this race to seduce visitors, cultural tourism (based on heritage and identity) appears as a very popular form of tourism used by destinations. Because branding plays a major role in attracting visitors, this paper therefore examines the slogan of 139 destinations around the world. Findings reveal that slogans tend not to use heritage but instead adopt a neutral position, this is to be explained by the fact that destinations want to appeal to maximum of visitors and also because they appeal to the emotions (as opposed to a cognitive strategy). Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Branding; DMO; world; heritage; identify Classification-JEL: M3, Z3 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Habib Kabalan Author-Name-First: Habib Author-Name-Last: Kabalan Author-Email: habib.kabalan@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Amine Ghoumrassi Author-Name-First: Amine Author-Name-Last: Ghoumrassi Author-Email: ghoumrassi.amine@hotmail.fr Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Stănciulescu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Stănciulescu Author-Email: cecilia.stanciulescu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Medical Tourism: Drivers, Trends and Destinations Abstract: Medical tourism is a highly growing trend globally, with an average of 6 million people traveling yearly to other countries with the sole purpose to get medical care. This number does not take into account people who travel within their own country from one region to another for the same purpose. The global market was worth USD10.5billion in 2012 and is expected to grow to reach an estimated value higher than 100 billion USD in 2019.This paper will base itself on a statistical and numerical data that is published by the leading authorities in the field of tourism as well as data and research from various high profile associations and organizations that specialize in the domain of tourism. The gathered data will be analyzed and an assessment of the leading countries in the field of medical tourism will be drawn, these countries will be evaluated in order to determine the main trends and influences that govern the behavior of tourists on the look for better medical services abroad. At the end of the analysis, it is expected to demonstrate that the main factors that overlook the medical tourism practice are the search for a high-quality medical service at a reasonable price. It is also expected to demonstrate that in addition to the cost/quality ratio, patients are on the look for ease of access as well as speed of medical treatment. The elements that will be established in this paper as the main factors behind medical tourism could be the basis of further study and lead to the development and amelioration of the touristic potential of countries especially those with low touristic attractions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; medical services; best practices; health Insurance; patient Care Classification-JEL: L83, Z32, I19 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/3.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Liviu Dediu Author-Name-First: Liviu Author-Name-Last: Dediu Author-Email: liviu.dediu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Email: olimpia.state@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Travel Agency Staff: The Need for Professional Training in the Information Technologies Context of Use Abstract: Tourism service providers cannot satisfy all the demands they receive with their own resources. Sustainability comes from being part of a structure. Thus, networks with a certain degree of specialization are created and operated, in which the structural factor is intertwined with the technological one. Yet, in tourism industry, a large part of the employees joins the labour force without formal vocational training, acquiring knowledge and skills while working. More specifically, to be effective the staff of a travel agency need to use specialized working tools. Identifying a local research gap in the form of the mismatch between the capacity of specialized training in the context of the new technologies and the contemporary context of communication, this paper addresses the impact of the use of tools developed through modern information technologies and the way these new tools are ready to provide support for learning. The employee in tourism should not be formed to compete with the specialized integrated system, but to exploit it and come with added value in the provision of services. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism 2.0; integrated training system; training; software Classification-JEL: Z32, L83, M53 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/4.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Lidia Alexandra Păun Năstase Author-Name-First: Lidia Alexandra Author-Name-Last: Păun Năstase Author-Email: nastaselidia@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Adelina Maria Cristea Author-Name-First: Adelina Maria Author-Name-Last: Cristea Author-Email: adelinamcristea@email.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Florența Larisa Vasile (Ile) Author-Name-First: Florența Larisa Author-Name-Last: Vasile (Ile) Author-Email: larisa.ile@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: High School Education in Economics – The Importance of Practice Abstract: The high school economic education in Romania has the main purpose to cover the scientific knowledge but also to develop the practical skills of young students. The requirement of applied economics courses in colleges has elevated because of the deficiency of practical abilities of graduates and consequently, because of the difficulty of their integration on the labour market. The Romanian school of economics is focused on diverse economic qualifications and comprises applied classes developed in partnership with local companies. Our research paper objectives are related to expose the students’ awareness about the importance of the applied trainings developed by partners firms and about their perception of the effect of the economic high school education upon their career. This pilot research may be a typical periodic survey for every single high school with economic profile and furthermore, could be a support for an analysis of the technological educational system in correlation with market changing requirements. The results of this survey demonstrate the reality of the actual education system in the economical field related to the high school level and could be extended to other surveys in different sphere of education. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Economic; education; high school; applied; students Classification-JEL: A210, I210 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/5.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Manuela Liliana Mureşan Author-Name-First: Manuela Liliana Author-Name-Last: Mureşan Author-Email: manumuresan@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Raluca Georgiana Stoian Author-Name-First: Raluca Georgiana Author-Name-Last: Stoian Author-Email: ralucageorgiana.stoian@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Current Business Tourism References. Case study: Hotel Novotel Bucharest Abstract: Business tourism has proven to be an important part of the hospitality industry in terms of both travel volumes and generated revenue. This type of activity, far from being a novelty, has expanded and seems destined to continue to grow at a higher rate every year. Growth is particularly marked by international events that bring important financial gains to host cities, generated not only by these activities, but also by the multiplier effect of all tourism activities. The motivation for the chosen theme results from the fact that in the hospitality industry, business tourism is a segment in which a variety of events can be organized, such as: local, regional and national conferences and meetings - organized by associations and corporations, congresses and conventions, international courses, trainings and induction courses, fairs, exhibitions, product launches, motivation tourism, exchanges addressed to students and teachers, travel of government employees, etc., with major economic impact both at national and international level for the development of society. The evolution of business tourism in Bucharest provides a strengthening of business relations, investments, more efficient use of hotel structures and obvious increases in revenues. The starting point of this research is represented by an analysis of the current context of the evolution of business tourism and the identification of its potential at the level of the Capital of Romania. Our analysis shows that there is a correlation between the hotel sector specific to events organizing services and the development of the business tourism segment. The case study on the Novotel Hotel in Bucharest brings to light the following striking themes in the field of tourism: the organization of business events as an engine for economic growth and the attraction of new tourists, as well as the impact of events in the MICE industry on the reduction of seasonality in the Capital. Research based solely on the processing of secondary data does not present issues related to the subjectivity of tourists nor does it present the point of view of the providers. Thus, the analysis of the events organized at the Novotel Hotel in Bucharest during the period 2012-2016 reflects that the business tourism is specific to the area of events, conferences, business meetings, etc., and may have an effect in reducing the seasonality in Bucharest, but also in increasing the economic profit for the hotel industry. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Business travel; MICE industry events; seasonality; profit Classification-JEL: M2, P0, Z310 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/6.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: vladd25sept@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Film-Induced Tourism Among Students – An Exploratory Study Abstract: Students and young people travel are a growing market, which is becoming increasingly important for tourism service providers. Film-induced tourism is also a rising form of tourism. However, there is not much research to link students' behavior to film-induced tourism. This research aims at researching two areas of tourism, focusing on students' general awareness of film-induced tourism and their experiences with accidental or intentional encounters with film settings. Furthermore, this paper also includes an analysis of students' interests in various film-related activities, such as visiting places that have become famous as a result of a movie, places where films have been cast, film-theme parks, movie tours or attending film premieres and film festivals. The study was conducted through an online survey in the form of a questionnaire that included both open and closed-ended questions. A total of 102 answers were collected and evaluated from students at various universities, up to age of 26 years. The interest in film-induced tourism among students is very high (about 88% wanting to participate in film-induced tourism activities), students being particularly keen on visits to places that have become famous as a result of a film (63.7%) and to places where movies were cast (61.5%).It also emerged that Romania is a little sought-after movie destination, but with a very high potential for growth, especially if the state was involved in promotion. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Keywords: Film-induced tourism; touristic behavior; travels; film festivals; FIT Classification-JEL: Z31, Z1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol17/7.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marius-Cristian Neacsu Author-Name-First: Marius-Cristian Author-Name-Last: Neacsu Author-Email: marius.neacsu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Our History is Geography . . . Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/1_Editorial_Neacsu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Diana Ioncică Author-Name-First: Diana Author-Name-Last: Ioncică Author-Email: diana_ioncica@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Maria Ioncica Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Ioncica Author-Email: maria.ioncica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Eva-Cristina Petrescu Author-Name-First: Eva-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Petrescu Author-Email: eva.petrescu@mk.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Anca Atanase Author-Name-First: Anca Author-Name-Last: Atanase Author-Email: atanase@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Protecting National and Cultural Heritage While Promoting Cultural Tourism in Romania – Unsolvable Dilemma or Missed Opportunity? Abstract: The current paper tackles the thorny issue of cultural tourism in Romania, trying to ascertain whether there is an actual chance of promoting it successfully in our country, without further damage to an already endangered national cultural patrimony. The question is whether we were facing a dilemma with little chances of being solved to our advantage – namely, if the promotion of cultural tourism would pose a threat or present an opportunity to a domain in which, unfortunately, very little has been done in recent years. The goal of the paper is twofold – it is meant, on the one hand, as a strong alarm signal, a wake-up call as to the necessity of a coherent, well-funded strategy regarding the promotion of cultural tourism in Romania, and on the other hand as a cautionary tale – one that could envisage what might happen if such a strategy were incorrectly devised and applied. Some hints in that direction are unfortunately already at hand, amply visible when considering the current situation of some essential sites to our cultural and national identity. Some of the case studies we discussed include The Danube Delta, Dacian sites, Bucovina Monasteries, or the Old Town area in our capital, Bucharest. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Cultural heritage; national heritage; cultural tourism; sustainable tourism. Classification-JEL: Q53 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/1_Ioncica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hans Josef Catedral Author-Name-First: Hans Josef Author-Name-Last: Catedral Author-Email: hansccatedral@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of San Carlos, Cebu City, Philippines Title: The Food Safety Culture of A Night Market Abstract: Night markets are a popular food destination among tourists in Southeast Asia. The off-premise nature of these destinations results in a higher risk for food contamination which has brought about the need to improve food safety culture in these destinations. Previous studies have focused primarily on food sanitation practices of vendors; however, food safety culture has been highlighted in recent years as an effective means for improving safety practices. That is why, the study examined the food safety culture of vendors of a night market in Cebu City, Philippines. This descriptive research utilized self-administered survey questionnaires to 40 night market vendors. Results showed high mean scores in the indicators of management and coworker support, communication and self-commitment while lower scores on environment support, work pressure and risk judgment. It is concluded that employees’ workload, provision of timely information and feedback are indicators that increase the level of food safety culture. The study highlights the role of management as food safety procedures are followed at a certain extent but time and management pressures contribute to a decrease in following safe food handling. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Food safety; food safety culture; night markets; descriptive research; Cebu City; Philippines Classification-JEL: M14, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/2_Hans_Catedral.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Grazia Calabrò Author-Name-First: Grazia Author-Name-Last: Calabrò Author-Email: grazia.calabro@unime.it Author-Workplace-Name: Department of Economics, University of Messina, Italy Author-Name: Simon Vieri Author-Name-First: Simon Author-Name-Last: Vieri Author-Email: simone.vieri@uniroma1.it Author-Workplace-Name: Department of Management, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy Title: Cultural and Rural Tourism: Potential Synergies for A New Economic Development Pattern. The Italian Case Abstract: Thanks to its important naturalistic, historical, cultural and artistic heritage, Italy is one of the countries with the greatest tourist vocation in the world. Consequently, tourism is the most important productive sector in the Italian economy, with an impact just below 12% on GDP. During the long period of economic crisis that affected the major world economies, between 2008 and 2014, some parts of the Italian tourism, including seaside for example, declined. This decline, at an aggregate level, has been however balanced by the development of cultural tourism. About 37% of external demand is attributed to expenditures for holidays in art heritage cities, representing the most dynamic part of Italian tourism. Although with more modest absolute values, agritourism and food and wine tourism are dynamic parts of the Italian tourism too and, sometimes, they are linked with cultural tourism. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that the development of cultural tourism, agritourism and food and wine tourism can be a single goal of economic policy aimed at creating new growth strategies in order to overcome the effects of the economic crisis. Organizing as a single economic system the different parts of Italian tourism can be the most coherent action in order to cope with the different development needs and potentialities of Italy, whose economic system is traditionally linked to the territorial values. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Cultural tourism; growth strategies; agritourism; art heritage cities Classification-JEL: Z32, O1, O2 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/3_Calabro.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Virgil Nicula Author-Name-First: Virgil Author-Name-Last: Nicula Author-Email: niculavirgil@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: University “Lucian Blaga” of Sibiu, Sibiu, Romania Author-Name: Simona Spanu Author-Name-First: Simona Author-Name-Last: Spanu Author-Email: simona.spanu@ulbsibiu.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University “Lucian Blaga” of Sibiu, Sibiu, Romania Author-Name: Christian Hell Author-Name-First: Christian Author-Name-Last: Hell Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Opportunities To Capitalize The Resources Of Gastronomic Tourism Abstract: This paper presents some opportunities for developing a new way to capitalize local resources through gastronomic tourism. Gastronomic tourism products incorporate environmental values, landscape, parts of the local culture, traditions, local cuisine, traditional costumes, local food and the rituals associated with the gastronomic experience -how foods are served and presented, ingredients, preparation methods. Identification of the culinary landscape tourist destination is one of the challenges of creating tourism products, in which an important role have the agritourist pensions from the five micro regions of Sibiu County. Gastronomy plays an indispensable role in promoting tourism at a regional and local level. Therefore, the creation of gastronomic tourism products is seen as a priority tourist destination that can offer experiences in this regard. Motivations of choosing tourist destination "Sibiu - European gastronomic region" are related to cultural and natural attractions, special events and festivals, food experiences in each micro-region, gourmet connections, social interaction and emotional, but also other opportunities for recreation and entertainment. In order to organize and promote the gastronomic tourism in the rural areas of Sibiu, it is necessary the establishment of partnerships among tourism providers (households / farmers in the rural community), local authorities, other economic providers of tourism related services, travel agencies etc. Only by working together they can solve the major problems of development and promotion of this form of tourism in the context of socio-economic development of rural communities, with beneficial effects on local tourism. Without a general infrastructure development and tourist facilities, one cannot speak of a competitive tourism in either micro-regions or localities. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Gastronomy; tourism; culture; sustainable development; environment values Classification-JEL: L83, Q10 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/4_Nicula.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Luciana Floriana Holostencu Author-Name-First: Luciana Floriana Author-Name-Last: Holostencu Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Economic Potential Of Cultural Heritage In The Rural Society Of Romania: The Case Of North Dobrudja Abstract: Rural tourism is an element of cultural and ethnic identity of the Romanian people, being directly related to the evolution and prosperity of the community. The traditional Romania's settlement has always been based on the cooperation between its residents, partnership which has led to the preservation of customs, pilgrimages and other traditional holidays. Unfortunately, in the recent decades, the economy, population, and even the well-known natural landscape of a traditional settlement have undergone significant changes, affecting by a negative manner its identity and prosperity. The objective of this research is to analyze the attitudes of different population members(both young and seniors) towards the tangible heritage of an unique region of Romania, the northern area of Dobrudja, from the perspective of the late changes. Disparities in specific bias, the willingness to be involved in the local activities and the approach regarding the sustainable conservation and economic progress of cultural built heritage assets were discovered to correlate with age and inclusion to a specific group. The cross-examination of the personal attitudes of people who are living in the rural area regarding its cultural heritage and its commercial potential may lead to the development of a specific guideline for the preservation and sustainable development of these cultural assets in a new rural area. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Rural tourism; Cultural heritage; Economic development; Education Classification-JEL: I25, P25, D83, L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/5_Holostencu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana Diana Crîșmariu Author-Name-First: Oana Diana Author-Name-Last: Crîșmariu Author-Email: oanadianacrismariu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Diana Dumitru Author-Name-First: Diana Author-Name-Last: Dumitru Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: From Izmir To Marrakech – Sustainable Tourism Through Slow Tourism And Gastronomy Abstract: The paper aims to present the existing situation in the countries of Turkey and Morocco, in particular in Izmir and Marrakech on how these cities have managed to promote their touristic offer by highlighting the local gastronomy and slow tourism, two components that are integrated by sustainable tourism. The paper presents some of the similarities and differences between the ways the two cities come to meet the needs of the tourists with regard to the local gastronomy, slow tourism and sustainable tourism. Based on the findings, the paper presents a successful model combining slow tourism, gastronomic tourism and sustainable tourism that could successfully be applied in other regions or countries. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2018 Creation-Date: 2018 Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sustainable tourism; slow tourism; gastronomy; cittaslow Classification-JEL: Z32, L83, Q01 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol18/Crismariu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2018-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Professor – Teacher, Researcher, but Mostly Mentor or ... the Need for Models Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 19 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_1/Editorial%20_2019.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Laura Gabriela Istudor Author-Name-First: Laura Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Istudor Author-Email: laura.istudor@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Tourism Abstract: Tourism is a dynamic industry, with an important potential to stimulate entrepreneurship and social innovation by creating new jobs. In this way, it contributes to a long-run smart, sustainable and inclusive local development. This paper supports the idea that the tourism industry and mostly the cultural tourism can advance through innovative entrepreneurship, by introducing new methods of production, new delivery methods or simply new products and services that will attract customers. Since innovation involves doing things in a different and better manner, the paper’s goal is to identify the available innovative methods that can be applied to the tourism industry. Special reference is given to the cultural tourism, as part of the creative and cultural industries. The paper includes a series of statistical data regarding tourism in the European Union and an analysis of the impact on the customer experience and local economy development. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism; cultural tourism; innovative entrepreneurship; entrepreneurship Classification-JEL: O31, R58 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_1/Laura_Istudor.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: vladd25sept@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: What is the Perception of Economics Students about a Career in Sales? Abstract: Students’ perception regarding a career in sales has long been studied, especially in the US, but with fewer studies in Europe. There is less research in Romania. The present paper questions students from five faculties within the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, the number of valid answers being 167. The main research results how that although they do not have a negative perception on the field, as it was generally indicated by the previous studies carried out in the Anglo-Saxon countries, students are not very attracted to a career in sales as a firs professional option. The situation changes to some extent if there is a firm job offer that many more would accept. Another important aspect is the influence of socio-demographic variables on the decision to pursue a career in sales, with particular regard to differences between boys and girls and income levels. Although in general, they believe that the subjects studied in college would be of use for them in order to work in sales, most of the students do not intend to make this professional choice. The overall conclusion of the study is that students from Bucharest University of Economic Studies do not have a deepened knowledge of the field, and the lack of interest in a sales job is the result of the unawareness of this field rather than a negative perception. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sales; career; students’ perception; curricula; willingness to work in sales Classification-JEL: M10, L81, L84 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_1/Vlad_Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Aura-Mihaela Voicu Author-Name-First: Aura-Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Voicu Author-Email: voicuaura95@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Research on the Perception of Employees with Regard to their Contribution to Creating Competitive Advantage in Luxury Hotels in Bucharest Abstract: The competitive advantage of a company brings together the unique elements and attributes that it owns and exploits them in order to set apart significantly from its competitors. Advantage benefit sources are multiple, and a combination thereof leads to a series of unlimited opportunities for strengths diversification against the competitors. One of the most valuable sources is the employees, whose contribution is vital to gaining competitive strengths. This paper aims to investigate the perception of the employees of the luxury hotels in Bucharest regarding their own contribution to the creation of the competitive advantage. The research was conducted using a questionnaire applied to people with work experience in 4- or 5-star hotels in the capital city, regardless of the position held, and was based on three main objectives. The first set goal was aimed to test the hypothesis according to which employees are the most important source of competitive advantage, but this was not fully confirmed by the respondents. The second hypothesis refers to the fact that all positions held within a luxury hotel can contribute to the creation of the competitive advantage, which is unanimously confirmed by the interviewees. The third objective of the research was to discover how the employees of the luxury hotels in Bucharest assess their own contribution to the creation of the competitive advantage within the hotel where they work; The conclusion for the proposed objective was that they assess on average their own contribution with a grade of 8 out of 10. The implications of this article may be found in other researches that could, for example, address the competitive advantages of luxury hotels in other cities worldwide, compared to those in Bucharest or the differences between luxury hotels in Bucharest and those located in other large cities in Romania, in terms of competitive advantage. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Keywords: Competitive advantage; employee perception; luxury hotels; Bucharest Classification-JEL: L83, C83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_1/Voicu_Aura.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adriana Ioana Raduță Author-Name-First: Adriana Ioana Author-Name-Last: Raduță Author-Email: adrianaioanaraduta@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Competitive Advantage Sources in Travel Agencies Abstract: This paper aims to identify the most used ways to obtain the competitive advantage for travel agencies. Thus, following the study of the literature from the specific databases, and also following the application of a quantitative research, there were obtained information regarding the today’s trend of the ways to overtake the rivalry in the field, as they are seen by the personnel employed in different types of travel agencies in Bucharest. Based on these, there may be noticed actual trends regarding the tackle of the travel agencies in order to obtain a market share as large as possible, and to secure the loyalty of the customers. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Keywords: Competitive advantage; competition; cooperation; loyalty; smart tourism; technology Classification-JEL: L83, C83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_1/Raduta.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Football and tourism, a mutual interest: Bucharest – part of the history Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Editorial_Bulin.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Author-Name: Georgica Gheorghe Author-Name-First: Georgica Author-Name-Last: Gheorghe Author-Email: georgica.gheorghe@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Author-Name: Maria Darabant Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Darabant Author-Email: maria.darabant@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Title: The Attitude of Romanian Tourists towards Film-Induced Tourism Abstract: The present study aims at identifying the interest of Romanian tourists for film-induced tourism. For this purpose, an online research was carried out between 5 October and 4 November 2017. The data was collected from 463 participants through a self-administrated questionnaire. In a word, our research has highlighted that 82% of respondents are interested in practicing this type of tourism and the natural landscapes presented in movies seem to be the main reason (44%). Most respondents (83%)believe that such a vacation should last between 3 and 6 days. The interest for practicing film-induced tourism is primarily influenced by the geographic region where respondents are living and by their place of residence(urban/rural).The main limitation of this study is that the sample was not representative at national level, but nevertheless, some interesting results were obtained. These results could be used, for example, to promote domestic tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Keywords: Film-induced tourism; FIT; film-tourists’ behavior; Romanian tourists; reasons for film-induced tourism Classification-JEL: M39, Z39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Tuclea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana-Diana Crismariu Author-Name-First: Oana-Diana Author-Name-Last: Crismariu Author-Email: oanadianacrismariu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Author-Name: Gabriela Tigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Tigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies Title: Perception of the Ambiance – Component of the Tourist Experience in the Hospitality Industry Abstract: The ambiance in the hospitality industry is represented by the material, social or moral environment, where customers can enjoy the facilities. The correct perception of this has a very important role in creating a truthful experience. In the actual context, the customers are not willing to compromise anymore, accepting some services of bad quality. Because they have a various scale of restaurants and hotels, they are looking for good experiences, which means serving excellent food, sleeping in great places, living unforgettable moments in an agreeable surrounding, this way benefiting by the best services. The present paper is made of four components synthetically presented. The first one, named "Outlooks of client experience in the hospitality industry" contains the main aspects about what experience means in hotels and restaurants, the second one ”Hotel and restaurant ambiance – a tool used to outline the client experience" explains what ambiance is in the hospitality industry. The third part contains “Main components of hotel and restaurant ambiance”. In the last part named "The impact of hotel and restaurant ambiance over Romanian tourists" the results of two quantitative investigations are presented, applied to find out what characteristics related to the restaurant and hotel surroundings are influencing the creation of a positive experience. The aim of this investigation is to discover the importance of the perception of a restaurant and hotel's surroundings has in creating the experience of customers. The success in this meaning can come from a professional landing regarding a succession of surroundings factors, which can determine the improvement of the restaurants’ and hotels’ services. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Keywords: restaurant ambiance; hotel ambiance; client experience; design; client satisfaction; perception; ambiance in hospitality industry Classification-JEL: L83, L84, M1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Crismariu_Tigu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Young Europeans – A Tourism Opportunity for the Capital City Abstract: Tourism has experienced a spectacular boom in recent years, with over one billion people spending at least one vacation in a country other than home. This is mainly due to the increase of the standard of living in more and more countries, the increase of the duration of the leave and of the leisure time in general, but also the decreasing tariffs of the tourist services and the easier access to the tourist resources. With the development of tourism, a form of it has become widespread, namely urban tourism. This is mainly due to people's growing interest in culture and knowledge of new places. The cities also offer a full range of attractions and leisure opportunities. Cities and tourism in these are very well promoted by the ministries and tourist offices in Europe, while Romania does not promote among the potential tourists the urban destinations of our country. The present article is aimed at filling the gap related to the expectations of foreign tourists regarding Romania. The study is focused on young people, aged 25-35 years, active on the labor market, and interested in short, intense, city-break type of travelling. The results of the research are presented in the second part of the article. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism destination; urban tourism; city-breaks; young tourists; European tourists. Classification-JEL: L83, M30, O18 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Nica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Fortuna Schiopu Author-Name-First: Andreea Fortuna Author-Name-Last: Schiopu Author-Email: andreea.schiopu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Daniela Georgiana Zloteanu Author-Name-First: Daniela Georgiana Author-Name-Last: Zloteanu Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Restaurant Innovation: What Do Customers Want? Abstract: This article takes a customers’ perspective approach to reflect on the importance of innovation in the restaurant industry. Innovation in restaurants is vital for the business to remain distinct, to attract new customers, and to differentiate themselves from competitors. The aim was to identify the main characteristics and habits of restaurants’ customers, to find out what customers value in a restaurant offer, and to identify the perspective of customers on new and innovative dishes from restaurants’ menus. The focus was on the innovations that the customers expect from restaurants. The authors conducted a survey which reveled that most people dine out for dinner and lunch and have a varied diet. Image is a significant feature in choosing a dish; the combination of ingredients is the most prominent innovative aspect of a dish. In terms of dishes that people want but could not find in restaurant menus, a special mention goes to desserts such as semolina/rice pudding, or plum dumplings, followed by vegetarian options such as cashew cheese and vegan broths. Modern dishes are associated with exotic ingredients such as avocado, Chia seeds, Matcha powder, or vegetable noodles. People seem to be ready to try new things and ready to take in new offers from operators. The likelihood of picking a new dish from the menu reached the score of 3.58 out of 5, a result that completes the portrait of the contemporary client. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Keywords: Innovation; restaurants; customer preferences; innovative dishes Classification-JEL: O30, O 39, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Schiopu_Zloteanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mădălina-Lavinia Tala Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Tala Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Anastasie-Gabriel Barica Author-Name-First: Anastasie-Gabriel Author-Name-Last: Barica Author-Email: baricaanastasie16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Religion – Travel – Youth: An Approach Based on an Empirical Study Abstract: This paper approaches the topic of religious tourism among young people, starting from theoretical aspects in the literature and continuing with the presentation of the main results of an empirical study conducted among young people in Bucharest, Romania, aged between 15 and 19. Religious travel is one of the oldest types of tourism in the world (some authors even state it is the oldest). This has been a means for people to try and discover themselves and divinity as well as to validate their faith. Given that it has stood the test of time, religious travel has taken on a much more complex role within tourism, including other aspects such as, for instance, curiosity and the desire to learn about elements belonging to other cultures. The research is based upon the completion of a questionnaire in the period March-April 2019, whose findings were centralised and used with the aim of fulfilling three objectives: O1 - Establishing the youth’s perception of cultural and religious development and the role of religious travel; O2 - Identifying the respondents’ level of interest in cultural and religious sights; O3 - Obtaining information regarding the requirements for organizing and undertaking a cultural and religious journey. The findings confirm the fact that religion and its resources are sufficiently appealing to the majority of young people, and form part of the tourism they practice or of their sightseeing intentions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2019 Creation-Date: 2019 Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Keywords: Religious tourism; youth tourism; culture; religious attractions Classification-JEL: L83, Z12, Z31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2/Tala_Barica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2019-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Tourism in the Time of Pandemic or the Right to Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Editorial_Tuclea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Leonor Perez-Ruiz Author-Name-First: Leonor Author-Name-Last: Perez-Ruiz Author-Email: lperezru@fyl.uva.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valladolid, Spain Title: Enhancing English Skills of Workforce in Castile and Leon Rural Tourism Sector Abstract: The growing interest in rural tourism within Spain has been given an extra impetus due to the increased demand in the region of Castile and Leon. There is now a noteworthy boost in the number of businesses which cater to tourists and in the number of rooms available. However, the traditional source markets - national clients - are slowing; therefore, the region of Castile and Leon needs to grow their national market to a wider international level. The purpose of this study is to analyze if the rural hospitality industry experiences cultural and language proficiency problems when hosting international travelers and, if so, to propose adequate solutions. A survey has been carried out among different workers of the sector in Castile and Leon. This needs analysis reveals that the hospitality industry lacks a mastery of English communication, which greatly limits the possibilities of the hospitality industry to effectively provide good service to international tourists. A possible solution to address this situation would be through education and training. Thus, with the information gathered through the survey, we have designed a program of English for Rural Tourism for the wooing of and catering to international tourists. We have taken into account the peculiarities of the region in terms of culture, heritage, environment and gastronomy, but also, different aspects of the acculturation of this industry are deemed. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Keywords: English for tourism; rural tourism; international tourism; culture; acculturation; ESP Classification-JEL: I25, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Perez_Ruiz.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Powel Maxwell Worimegbe Author-Name-First: Powel Maxwell Author-Name-Last: Worimegbe Author-Email: powelmaxwell@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria Author-Name: Agbaje Ifedayo Author-Name-First: Agbaje Author-Name-Last: Ifedayo Author-Email: agbajenov13@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria Title: Corporate Rebranding and Customers’ Retention. A Study of Selected Telecommunication Firm in Nigeria Abstract: Organizations rebrand as the need arises. The effect of this strategic action has divergent results in the literature, depending on the measure of performance. This study examines the effect of rebranding and how it drives customers’ retention in the telecommunication sector in Nigeria. The study is premised on the corporate identity, reposition, perceived quality and product features. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. Questionnaires were administered to 400 customers of 9Mobile Nigeria who were purposively selected. Using the simple regression, the result reveals the corporate reposition, corporate identity and perceived quality significantly affects customers’ retention while the product features dimension was non-significant in explaining customers’ retention in the telecommunication industry. The study recommends that firms should pay more to repositioning their brand in order to retain their customers. Corporate identity and perceived quality should be part of firms’ strategic plan. This will foster a sense of trust in the customers and give the business a touch of personality and culture. The study contributes to knowledge by establishing how corporate rebranding can be utilized as a strategy to retain customers in an organization. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Keywords: Corporate identity; Repositioning; Perceived quality; Corporate Rebranding; Customers’ Retention. Classification-JEL: D18, M14 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Worimegbe.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihail-Ovidiu Tănase Author-Name-First: Mihail-Ovidiu Author-Name-Last: Tănase Author-Email: mihail.tanase@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Jacqueline Harba Author-Name-First: Jacqueline Author-Name-Last: Harba Author-Email: jacqueline_harba@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Patterns in Undergraduate Theses Supervision in Business and Economics Abstract: Looking at three-year long BA (Hons) courses from the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, thesis writing and supervision play a crucial part for both students and lecturers, especially in the second semester of the third year of the course. Through the guidance provided, effective communication and constructive feedback, tutors have the ability to influence students’ perception of their learning process and contribute to their personal development, as well as build their self-confidence. The aim of this scientific paper is to present the advantages and disadvantages of thesis supervision, through discussion of published literature, as well as primary research result analysis. The literature review discusses the ever-changing roles of lecturers and students in the thesis supervision process, the similarities between thesis supervision and distance learning, as well as the advantages of individual meetings and group tutorials. The study uses a mixed research methodology: qualitative - a focus group with lectures from the Bucharest University of Economic Studies and quantitative - a questionnaire aimed at third year Bachelors students. Ultimately, this study provides answers to a knowledge gap, aiming to support fellow teachers to improve their way of interacting with students during the final stage of their Bachelors program. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Keywords: Thesis Supervision; Bachelor Program; Business and Economics; Higher Education. Classification-JEL: A22, I21, I23 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Tanase.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Aydın Unal Author-Name-First: Aydın Author-Name-Last: Unal Author-Email: aydin-unal@hotmail.com.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Kirklareli University, Turkey Author-Name: Baran Sinan Bayar Author-Name-First: Baran Sinan Author-Name-Last: Bayar Author-Email: sinanbbayar@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Kirklareli University, Turkey Title: A Research on the Local Community's Assessments on the Festivals Organized in Their Own Destinations Abstract: The study aims to determine the assessments of the locals living in the destination of 23rd Manavgat Peace Water Festival organized on 22-28 July 2019, which is a festival organized regularly every year in Manavgat district of Antalya province. 550 questionnaire forms prepared within this framework were delivered to the local people living in the relevant destination through face-to-face communication during the festival. The dataobtained from the returned questionnaire forms and found eligible for analysis (502 questionnaires) were analyzed via the SPSS 22.0 statistical data program. The results of study suggest that the local people consider the festivals useful for their destinations (89%) and have a positive perspective (91%) on the tourists who visit their destinations. Furthermore, the dimensions of the evaluation scale of the locals for festivals on the destinations they live were identified as the positive support for the development of the festivals, negative socio-cultural effects of the festivals, positive economic effects of the festivals, satisfaction for development of the festivals, and positive personal effects of the festivals. It was also determined that the local community consider the following four dimensions of study as high and positive: positive support for the development of the festivals, positive personal effects of the festivals, positive economic effects of the festivals and satisfaction for development of the festivals, consider the following dimension of the study as low and negative: socio-cultural effects of the festivals. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Keywords: Destination Marketing; Festivals; Local Community; Manavgat; Turkey. Classification-JEL: L80, L83, L89 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Unal.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: vladd25sept@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Stefania Tuclea Author-Name-First: Stefania Author-Name-Last: Tuclea Author-Email: stefaniatuclea@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bucharest, Romania Title: How Interested Young People are in Film Festivals? Abstract: Festivals are generally considered one of the key activities that stimulate the economy. The first film festivals originated in Europe about 90 years ago and quickly became a global phenomenon. The most important reasons why tourists participate in festivals could be integrated into the "push dimensions" (family reunion, socializing, escape, novelty of events, self-esteem) and the "pull dimensions" (fun, food and drink, information and marketing, transport). In general, festivals are considered a thriving tourist activity, the destinations offering unique events, combined with high quality services and opportunities for socialization. This study is based on research aimed at identifying young people's interest in film festivals and the influence of socio-demographic aspects on this interest. The sample consisted of 438 young respondents aged between 18 and 26 years. The research has shown that young tourists tend to behave similarly, which makes them a very attractive segment of tourists, even if their budgets are not very high. The results also showed that young people have as main tourism motivation to spend time with family or friends. Moreover, the preferences of young people for basic tourist services are quite clear and unsophisticated. However, the results suggest some need to adapt the commercial communication according to the gender of young tourists. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Keywords: Film festival; tourism; tourists’ motivation Classification-JEL: M30, Z32, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_1/Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Transforming Tourism For Tomorrow Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/editorial_Tigu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria Dărăbanț Author-Name-First: Maria Author-Name-Last: Dărăbanț Author-Email: maria.darabant@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: vladd25sept@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Tourist In My Town: How Attractive Is The City For Its Inhabitants? Abstract: The present study aims at identifying the interest of inhabitants of Bucharest in being tourists in their own city. For this purpose, an online research was carried out between 12 and 24 November 2020. The data was collected from 123 participants through a self-administered online questionnaire. The main idea that the study brings to the fore is the concept of staycation, a form of vacation near the area of residence. Such a holiday proves useful and popular in times of crisis for tourism. The research showed that there are some differences between inhabitants born in Bucharest and those from other places, as well as between women and men, in terms of tourist interest in the city of residence. The main limitation of this study is that the sample was too small and not representative, but nevertheless, some interesting results were obtained. These results could be used, for example, to promote domestic tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: Staycation; city tourism; proximity tourism; distance; mobility Classification-JEL: Z32, Z38, Z39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Darabant_Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Cristina Iorgulescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Iorgulescu Author-Email: cristina.iorgulescu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Luciana-Floriana Holostencu Author-Name-First: Luciana-Floriana Author-Name-Last: Holostencu Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Ionela Iordache Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Ionela Author-Name-Last: Iordache Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Lavinia Țală Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Țală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Ileana Vălimăreanu (Mircioi) Author-Name-First: Ileana Author-Name-Last: Vălimăreanu (Mircioi) Author-Email: ileana.mircioi@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Georgiana-Geanina Bursuc Author-Name-First: Georgiana-Geanina Author-Name-Last: Bursuc Author-Email: bursucgeorgiana19@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Students’ Difficulties Into Understanding First-Year Subjects: A Premise For University Drop-Out. Case Study: The Bucharest University Of Economic Studies, The Faculty Of Business And Tourism Abstract: The increasing rate of students enrolling into higher education leads undoubtedly to a more contrasted student body, impeding the identification of potential sources that might determine their option into continuing or dropping out of university, mainly after the first year of admission. Although there are various reasons why students drop out of university, ranging from personal, social or even technical ones (considering online blended learning), we will focus mainly on difficulties encountered by students related to specific subjects or teaching techniques, known as academic difficulties. Therefore, considering Romania’s higher education is facing retention problems among students in various universities around the country, the purpose of the present study is to analyze the influence of a particular variable which, lato sensu, consists in students’ inability of channeling their resources into getting a deeper understanding of various university subjects in order to achieve effective learning and therefore successfully continue their studies. A quantitative study consisting in a two-stages questionnaire was carried out with 70 first year students enrolled at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, the Faculty of Business and Tourism who agreed to take part into the development of their academic performance by joining the agenda provided via the Secondary Education Project – ROSE BT. The present research offers empirical evidence that might be useful for future decision-making in order to improve educational processes and both students’ and professors’ accomplishments in university settings. Also, the results have indicated that students who have difficulties into understanding first-year subjects are more open to engage into further communication and academic activities with their professors and also to adapt to improved teaching and interaction techniques or strategies. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: University drop-out; education; learning difficulties Classification-JEL: A29, I21 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Iorgulescu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mihaela Parteca Author-Name-First: Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Parteca Author-Email: parteca_mihaela@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Jacqueline-Nathalie Harba Author-Name-First: Jacqueline-Nathalie Author-Name-Last: Harba Author-Email: jacqueline_harba@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Emanuela Anton Author-Name-First: Emanuela Author-Name-Last: Anton Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Employee Skills Demand In The Hospitality Industry: Seasonal Vs. Non-Seasonal Tourist Destinations Abstract: Tourism in one of the fastest growing economic sectors, with high job creation potential and one of the main drivers for national economies’ recovery after the 2008 global economic crisis. According to Word Travel and Tourism Council (2019), at a global level, the tourism sector accounted for 10.4% of global GDP and 10% of total employment. Social circumstances, the geopolitical strategies and the new technologies are considerably hanging supply and demand of the sector, which means that the needs of the hospitality industry, which has to please more experienced and demanding travelers, must be investigated and fulfilled by the competencies and skills of the tourism workforce. These changes determine a need for skills forecasting. Moreover, it is essential to also identify the current gaps in the training and aptitudes of the workforce in the hospitality industry. The purpose of this scientific approach is to determine the requirements of four and five stars’ hotel managers in terms of competencies of their employees. This paper was based on the hypothesis that both employers' satisfaction and the skills of the employees differ weather the tourism facility they work in or are in charge with is based in a destination affected by seasonality or not. A comparative approach on two Romanian tourist destinations with different seasonal patterns, Bucharest, capital city and Mamaia, a seaside resort from Constanta city, was adopted by this paper, in order to identify and discuss the specific requirements of tourism businesses from each location. While the main results of this scientific approach show a drastic negative impact on the employee’s qualification, the main conclusion of the paper reveals the necessity of the tourism industry of a targeted curriculum on its needs, jointly developed by educational facilities and tourism businesses. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism workforce; skills forecasting; seasonality; employment; tourist destination; skill gaps; hospitality industry Classification-JEL: Z30, Z31, Z32, L83, M53 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Parteca_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Carmen Florentina Vlăsceanu Author-Name-First: Carmen Florentina Author-Name-Last: Vlăsceanu Author-Email: carmen_vlasceanu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Measuring Service Quality And Customer Satisfaction Performance Metrics In Cruising Industry Abstract: This article examines service quality in regard to cruise lines service performance from a customer perceived satisfaction perspective. The article provides a descriptive observation based on the empirical developments within the research community in terms of theory and practice underlining the service quality as a subjective trait, depending on a series of influential factors and market determinants. The first part of the article focuses on a theoretical explanation of the dimensions linked to service excellence within the cruising industry and the importance of market segmentation determinants in relation to building sustainable relationships with the customers in all phases of the service life cycle. This section is followed by a scrutiny of perceived value and quality management, from an efficient marketing mix perspective. Theories and thoughts of experts of the cross-cultural field are highly regarded, providing a detailed look at the motivational factors of consumers purchase decision inspired by the four psychosomatic factors: learning, motivation, perception and attitude. Service quality, customer satisfaction and experiential travel receive outmost attention in cruise hospitality and travel organizations, as customers’ preferences are influenced by the development of marketing tools and the impact of social media on travelers’ behavior, top management makes it a priority of increasing their focus on diversifying the offer in order to make their products and services appear unique. Conclusions are drawn and discussed following a brief overview of cruising industry’s’ trends within the contemporary transformational global business context. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: Cruise lines; performance; customer service quality; perceived value; experience; intrinsic motivation Classification-JEL: D81, D84, D91, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Vlasceanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Georgiana-Ionela Bădulescu Author-Name-First: Georgiana-Ionela Author-Name-Last: Bădulescu Author-Email: georgianabadulescu36@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Catalina-Iuliana Bădulescu Author-Name-First: Catalina-Iuliana Author-Name-Last: Bădulescu Author-Workplace-Name: National School of Political and Administrative Studies Title: Young Employees – Work Satisfaction And Motivation Abstract: Job satisfaction refers to a set of positive reactions of an employee towards his job. This implies not only economic yield but also social and personal performance, which means that the employee benefits from participating in work activities and also from obtaining personal advantages such as remuneration, a stable job and promotion prospects. Motivation refers to all the incentives and impulses that can push somebody to do something or to aspire to certain goals. This study is based on a research whose aims are to identify what satisfies and what motivates young people at the workplace. The sample consists of 151 young employees with ages ranging from 15 to 29 years old. The concept of job satisfaction is seen in literature and by both employers and employees as a state of wellbeing or a positive mood which results from combining the right amount of employee opinion, work climate and proper motivating management. The resulting work and level of satisfaction is directly influenced by the relationship with the management and co-workers and also by the work conditions. In terms of the stimulating part of motivation, it is shown that employees are feeling satisfied when their merits are considered, when they are rewarded accordingly and when they feel motivated for their next activities. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: Satisfaction; motivation; young people; Spearman coefficient Classification-JEL: M54, E24, C12 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Badulescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Oana Diana Crismariu Author-Name-First: Oana Diana Author-Name-Last: Crismariu Author-Email: oanadianacrismariu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Dan Anghelescu Author-Name-First: Dan Author-Name-Last: Anghelescu Author-Email: dan.anghelescu@lapiovra.ro Author-Workplace-Name: FIJET Romania and La Piovra Turista, Romania Author-Name: Miguel Angel Gonzalez Suarez Author-Name-First: Miguel Angel Gonzalez Author-Name-Last: Suarez Author-Email: presidente@cit-tenerife.com Author-Workplace-Name: CIT Tenerife and FIJET Spain, Spain Title: Exploring Sustainable Tourism In Tenerife, Spain Abstract: Sustainability is no longer an extraordinary challenge nowadays for the service providers in Tenerife; this has become a habit for several years. Gradually, they try to instill in tourists care and respect for compliance with the rules that sustainability implies. The hotels have resorted to various ways in which they can carry out their activity in a sustainable way, trying to inform their tourists very well about them. Destinations on the island -regardless of their profile (cultural, coastal, ecotourism, rural, gastronomic, etc.) - are role models for other tourist areas of the world, both through sustainable development and promotion solutions, and by locals' hospitality and openness to everything that is new. The article explores experiences in the south of the island, which highlight the above. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2020 Creation-Date: 2020 Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sustainable tourism; tourism destination; hotel industry; pandemic; tourism forms; cittaslow Classification-JEL: Z32, Z38, L83, Q01, Q20, Q26 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_2_2/Tigu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2020-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Holostencu Luciana Author-Name-First: Holostencu Author-Name-Last: Luciana Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Blockchain - A Tourism Industry's Potential Disrupter Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Holostencu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Siti Maria Author-Name-First: Siti Author-Name-Last: Maria Author-Email: siti.maria@feb.unmul.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Economics and Business, Mulawarman University, Indonesia Author-Name: Dirga Lestari Author-Name-First: Dirga Author-Name-Last: Lestari Author-Email: dirge.lestari@feb.unmul.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Economics and Business, Mulawarman University, Indonesia Author-Name: Eny Rochaida Author-Name-First: Eny Author-Name-Last: Rochaida Author-Email: eny.rochaida@feb.unmul.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Economics and Business, Mulawarman University, Indonesia Author-Name: Dio Caisar Darma Author-Name-First: Dio Caisar Author-Name-Last: Darma Author-Email: diocaisar@stiesam.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Department of Management, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Samarinda, Indonesia Author-Name: Heni Rahayu Rahmawati Author-Name-First: Heni Author-Name-Last: Rahayu Rahmawati Author-Email: heni.rahayu.rahmawati@feb.unmul.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Economics and Business, Mulawarman University, Indonesia Title: Self-Efficacy, Organizational Commitment, And Employee Performance – From Public Office Abstract: Employee performance is important because it is the foundation and direction of every organization. In this paper, we attempt to investigate the effect of self-efficacy on organizational commitment and employee performance, then the effect of organizational commitment on employee performance. The objectivity of the study refers to 100informant units obtained through a survey of employees in the Tourism and Culture Office of East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. The sampling approach uses a saturated sample method with Structural Equation Medelling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). These findings indicate that self-efficacy has a significant effect on organizational commitment and employee performance. Similar to the previous results, organizational commitment has a significant effect on employee performance. With these findings, it can contribute to the role of a leader who must have optimal leadership characteristics, so that self-efficacy, organizational commitment, and employee performance continue to be optimal as expected. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: HRM; Civil servants; Public office; Survey; SEM-PLS Classification-JEL: M12, D73, C83, C36 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Siti_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cosmin Nicolae Mirea Author-Name-First: Cosmin Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Mirea Author-Email: cosminnicolaemirea@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Alexandra Maria Sârbu Author-Name-First: Alexandra Maria Author-Name-Last: Sârbu Author-Email: alexandramariasarbu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Ionescu Andra Maria Author-Name-First: Ionescu Andra Author-Name-Last: Maria Author-Email: Andra.Ionescu@unilever.com Author-Workplace-Name: Central Europe - Unilever, Romania Title: The Relationship Between the Number of Tourists Arrived in Romania's Development Regions and the Gross Domestic Product Abstract: At national level, the contribution of tourism to the formation of the Gross Domestic Product is quite significant, considering the year 2019, when the contribution of tourism was 6.1% (World Travel & Tourism Council, 2021).Thus, the connection between tourism and Gross Domestic Product is indisputable. The purpose of this study is to find out the influence of the number of tourists arriving in the development regions of Romania on the Gross Domestic Product. The regression method was applied for data processing, using the statistical program EViews. The highest increase in the Gross Domestic Product, depending on the increase in the number of tourists, is registered in the South-Muntenia Development Region, and the smallest increase is registered in the Bucharest-Ilfov Development Region. The results show that a large number of tourists does not necessarily mean generating a considerable increase in Gross Domestic Product. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourists; Gross Domestic Product; Development Regions; Regression Classification-JEL: Z30, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Mirea_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Bassam Tarhini Author-Name-First: Bassam Author-Name-Last: Tarhini Author-Email: bassam.tarhini@liu.edu.lb Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies – ASE Bucuresti, Romania Author-Name: Layal Hafiz Author-Name-First: Layal Author-Name-Last: Hafiz Author-Workplace-Name: Lebanese International University - LIU, Lebanon Title: The Impact of Covid-19 on Consumer Behavior in the Retailing Industry of Lebanon Abstract: COVID-19 has changed many aspects of human lives. Life was paused for a while and humanity has been exposed to many threats unprepared at most levels. Several studies were conducted to understand human behavior amid crises and their behavior during COVID-19. Panic and spiritual buying dominates the buying behavior. This research investigates the emerged trends to the retail industry amid COVID-19. Several hypotheses were tested to understand the cause and effect relationship between the brick-and-mortar and online shopping. In order to reach a realistic result a quantitative research was conducted and a non-probability convenience sampling method was used where 191 respondents answered the survey questions on a 5 point Likert and nominal scales. It was found that consumer behavior is common across different countries amid COVID-19 with slight variation related to online shopping due to lack of trust with online sources. It was noticed that Lebanese post the pandemic became less price sensitive towards health products as they seek quality and willing to pay more to get it. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: COVID-19; retailing industry; consumer behavior; online shopping File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Tarhini_Hafiz.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Adina Irina Lăceanu Author-Name-First: Adina Irina Author-Name-Last: Lăceanu Author-Email: laceanuadina16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Organization of Events: A Possibility of Tourism Revival After COVID? The Case of Sibiu Abstract: The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Congresses, Exhibitions) market has recently experienced a rapid growth, as actors at both macroeconomic and microeconomic levels recognized the great potential of this kind of tourism income generator. The events have also become elements that helped shape a tourism destination image or brand, through organized systems such as the portfolio model. However, the Covid pandemic, with its subsequent limitations and economic crisis, has severely impacted the events industry. No events, at any scale, were allowed to be organized, thus resulting in losses of billions of euros worldwide. With the economies slowly reopening, due to the partial lifting of Covid-related limitations, there seems to be room for the revival of tourism destinations. The analysis of previous studies has revealed a scientific gap, related to the possibility of reviving an urban destination through a large scale event. Therefore, the aim of the present scientific paper is to fill this gap, by looking into the perception of potential tourism demand on this subject. It also investigated the specifics of such an event, with a focus on the Romanian city of Sibiu. To this end a survey was conducted in the beginning of the year 2021, and its main results are presented in this article. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism events; Covid pandemic; destination image; festivals Classification-JEL: L82, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Nica_Laceanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andra-Elena Gurgu Author-Name-First: Andra-Elena Author-Name-Last: Gurgu Author-Email: gurguandra@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Development of Wine Sector – A Way to Sustain Wine Tourism in Romania Abstract: This article aims to identify the influence of wine sector toward wine tourism in Romania. The article describes both wine sector and wine tourism. The study attempts to demonstrate the correlation between these two sectors pointing out that wine tourism in Romania is still in a developing phase. Therefore, understanding the link between these two merging industries and how they influence each other stands as the goal of the paper. Overall, the results suggest that there is a significant wine-growing potential with a conclusive outcome in wine tourism sector. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: Wine tourism; wine sector; development; vineyard Classification-JEL: L83, L66, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Gurgu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ana-Maria Badea Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Badea Author-Email: badea.anamaria98@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Influence of The Covid-19 Pandemic on the Entrepreneurial Intention of Young People Abstract: COVID-19 is an extremely infectious disease and a danger to human health, causing deaths worldwide. The aim of the paper was to identify how the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic negatively influenced the entrepreneurial intentions of young people. The study starts from the hypotheses that entrepreneurial intentions among young people have decreased due to the pandemic and that the existence of entrepreneurs in the family or circle of friends can positively influence young people. A review of the literature has created an overview of the importance of entrepreneurship in a country's economy and how the pandemic affected the entrepreneurs. To collect data, a questionnaire was distributed among young people between 16 and 35 years old. Following the evaluation of the respondents' answers, the two hypotheses were validated. It was found that young people who already have their own business also have relatives or friends who are entrepreneurs, who influenced them to follow the path of entrepreneurship. The pandemic has negatively affected young people, as before March 2020,35.6% of young people wanted to start their own business, now 24.4% are undecided due to restrictions and uncertainty, and 1.6% gave up the idea setting up a business. Thus, we can conclude that the pandemic has caused disruptions to the economy and entrepreneurship, raising many challenges for current and future businesses. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: COVID-19; young people; entrepreneurship; economy; business Classification-JEL: L20, L26, L29 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Badea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Puiu Nistoreanu Author-Name-First: Puiu Author-Name-Last: Nistoreanu Author-Email: puiu.nistoreanu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mihail – Ovidiu Tănase Author-Name-First: Mihail – Ovidiu Author-Name-Last: Tănase Author-Email: mihail.tanase@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: A Retrospective Look at the Evolution of Romanian Tourism, at the Border Between the Millennia (1989-2019) Abstract: During the last 30 years we have witnessed major changes in tourism worldwide due to a lot of factors. Changes in political situation in Eastern Europe open a lot of countries to international tourism. Changes in air transport made more accessible some overseas or island destination. The increase of general welfare boosted the demand for tourism and the stability of the socio-political environment sustains a steady upward trend in international tourism arrivals. Looking back at Romania’s tourism we see a period with major structural changes and some major turning points. A brief evolution of the sector is presented with an emphasis on the most important years. The most important regulations are presented in this paper together with their impact on Romania’s tourism sector. To show a more accurate image we include main statistical information about this topic demonstrating that tourism is an important part of Romanian economy. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 Keywords: Romania; tourism; change; industry evolution Classification-JEL: E66, G38, Z32, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Industry_Viewpoint.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Viorel Mionel Author-Name-First: Viorel Author-Name-Last: Mionel Author-Email: viorel.mionel@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Power of Travel to Expand Time by Enhancing Positive Emotions and Memories Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 23 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_1/Mionel.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nicolae Lupu Author-Name-First: Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Lupu Author-Email: nicolae.lupu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND TOURISM – 70 Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Lupu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marius-Cristian Neacșu Author-Name-First: Marius-Cristian Author-Name-Last: Neacșu Author-Email: marius.neacsu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Toward Conceptualization Of An Emergent Form: Exotourism Abstract: This study represents an exploratory research, which aims to create an incipient theoretical framework for conceptualizing a new notion, namely that of exotourism. The new cosmic competition, which is different from the one during the Cold War, through its commercial and private character, generated a phenomenology associated with a new form of tourism, respectively trips for recreational purposes in the space, with private character, for which we propose the term ‘exotourism’. Thus, as objectives of this exploratory research we mention: testing a working definition, critical analysis of terminology and identifying the essential characteristics of exotourism, which would give scientific legitimacy to exotourism, as well as the emerging concept. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Exotourism; exotourist; astrotourism; space tourism; New Space Race Classification-JEL: L83, M13, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Neacsu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-19 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Florentina-Cristina Merciu Author-Name-First: Florentina-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Merciu Author-Email: cristina.merciu@geo.unibuc.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bucharest, Faculty of Geography, Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Research on Territorial Dynamics, Romania Author-Name: Ana Valeria Stoican Author-Name-First: Ana Valeria Author-Name-Last: Stoican Author-Email: vstoicanana@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bucharest, Faculty of Geography, Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Research on Territorial Dynamics, Romania Author-Name: Alexandru-Ionuţ Petrişor Author-Name-First: Alexandru-Ionuţ Author-Name-Last: Petrişor Author-Email: alexandru_petrisor@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ana-Maria Vasiloiu Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Vasiloiu Author-Email: ana.vasiloiu@s.unibuc.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bucharest, Faculty of Geography, Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Research on Territorial Dynamics, Romania Title: The Perception of Romanian Tourists on the Attractiveness of the Industrial Heritage. Case Study: Municipality Of Cluj-Napoca Abstract: The radical changes generated by the process of industrial restructuring and accelerated urban development have brought to the center of attention the industrial heritage as a valuable cultural resource, but at the same time vulnerable. Regeneration projects focused on the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage elements take many forms, from economic, residential to cultural conversions, the latter being correlated with the use of industrial buildings as tourist attractions. The purpose of this study is to identify the interest of Romanian tourists to practice industrial tourism, based on assessing the degree of knowledge and their desire to visit industrial monuments. For this purpose, an online questionnaire was applied, the results of which were statistically interpreted using the Covariance Analysis (ANACOVA). The main results of the study reflect the fact that there is a low share of Romanian tourists who know the significance of the concept of industrial heritage and who consider it attractive. Selecting 5 representative industrial buildings for the Municipality of Cluj-Napoca selected as a case study, only a third of the respondents stated that they know them. However, there is a relatively high interest of respondents to visit industrial monuments, mentioning as main motivations: the age of the buildings, the specific architecture, and curiosity or even form of reuse of industrial monuments. Almost half of the respondents stated that they would introduce industrial buildings in their travel itineraries if they were better promoted. The main conclusion of the study is that industrial tourism is not sufficiently promoted at national level. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Industrial tourism; architectural value; urban regeneration; cultural conversion; Romania Classification-JEL: L83, O18, Z 32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Merciu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marioara Musteață-Pavel Author-Name-First: Marioara Author-Name-Last: Musteață-Pavel Author-Email: pmioara@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute of Research and Development in Tourism, Romania Author-Name: Camelia Surugiu Author-Name-First: Camelia Author-Name-Last: Surugiu Author-Email: camelia.surugiu@faa.unibuc.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bucharest, Faculty of Business and Administration, Business Administration Department, Romania Author-Name: Cristina Lixăndroiu Author-Name-First: Cristina Author-Name-Last: Lixăndroiu Author-Email: curea@incdt.ro Author-Workplace-Name: The National Institute of Research and Development in Tourism, Romania Title: Are Romanian Tourism Companies Prepared For Digital Transformation? A Research Study In Timis County Abstract: Information and Communication Technology — ICT (i.e., computers and laptops, tablets, mobile phones, smartphones, software, audio-visual systems, wireless, VOIP, GIS, GPS, mobile app, analytical tools, augmented reality systems, holograms, virtual reality technologies) and ˗ mainly ˗ online information sources (multiplatform web pages, search engines, social media platforms) have changed how distribution, selling and consumption processes work. This also involved a revolution in how travel-related information is searched. Digital technologies have brought significant transformations to the tourism industry, significantly changing tourism business, products and destinations. The increase of digital platforms stimulated the variety and volume of tourism products, services and experiences. Nowadays, digital technologies are used as marketing tools by tourism companies, in order to boost efficiency and increase communication and awareness among visitors. The expansion of the Internet has supported the productivity of tourism-related applications and generated an opportunity for businesses to expand and attract more customers. Digitalization has changed the way tourist services are provided because customer expectations converge towards more digital solutions and tools. The present paper aims to investigate the online communication channels used by tourism organizations to promote businesses, products and services. The research was conducted in Timiș County, Romania, as a pilot study. The findings of the present paper provide valuable information regarding the limitation of digital marketing tools used by tourism companies and how to capitalize them as a strategic tool. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Digital marketing; tourism; communication; business promotion; ICT Classification-JEL: D83, Z33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Pavel_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Luciana-Floriana Holostencu Author-Name-First: Luciana-Floriana Author-Name-Last: Holostencu Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Maria-Cristina Iorgulescu Author-Name-First: Maria-Cristina Author-Name-Last: Iorgulescu Author-Email: cristina.iorgulescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Lavinia Ţală Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Ţală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Ionela Iordache Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Ionela Author-Name-Last: Iordache Author-Email: iordache.madalina55@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Ileana Vălimăreanu (Mircioi) Author-Name-First: Ileana Author-Name-Last: Vălimăreanu (Mircioi) Author-Email: ileana.mircioi@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Poida Georgiana Crina Author-Name-First: Poida Georgiana Author-Name-Last: Crina Author-Email: poidageorgiana20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Online Economics Higher Education During Covid-19, A Case Study Approach: The Bucharest University Of Economic Studies, The Faculty Of Business And Tourism Abstract: From what in March 2020 seemed as a simple health issue, the Covid-19 pandemic has led to a global crisis with a huge social, economic and educational impact. As a result, many countries that were not prepared for such a situation, in terms of infrastructure, had to abruptly adapt with the resources they had to their disposal at that time. For example, in Romania, most schools and universities moved their classes online via different online platforms, but students from rural areas were not able to attend school at all. The present study aims to evaluate students’ perceptions and difficulties regarding online (blended) learning compared to traditional classroom attendance with a main focus on the difficulties encountered in the process of learning economic subjects. We performed a quantitative research by implementing an online questionnaire which was sent out by the end of the second semester of 2020 – 2021 school year. The respondents were freshmen from The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, The Faculty of Business and Tourism, enrolled in October 2020. Being aware that the quality of their learning might be affected via blended learning, all these respondents agreed to take part into various optional activities provided by the means of the Secondary Education Project – ROSE BT. Therefore, the current study might offer an useful insight into difficulties encountered by these students and solutions provided by both teachers and the university as an institution interested into facilitating the online education process. Moreover, the results will show possible factors that may determine difficulties into understanding various economic subjects and students’ own motion for improving their situation. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Higher education; online learning; learning difficulties; coronavirus pandemic; educational technology Classification-JEL: A29, I21 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Holostencu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Laura-Eugenia-Lavinia Barna Author-Name-First: Laura-Eugenia-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Barna Author-Email: barnalaura15@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Accounting, Romania Title: The Impact Of Digitalization And ERP Systems On The Sustainable Development Of The Organization Abstract: There is a very strong relationship between the concept of digitalization and the concept of sustainable development, because the more automated the processes within the organization, the lower inefficient consumption of resources and the negative impact on the environment are. Given the characteristics of accounting information systems, organizations have come to the conclusion that ERP systems are the most appropriate system to ensure the digitization of processes and sustainable development of the organization. Under such perspectives, the paper employs an empirical direction comprising a questionnaire, analyzed with the aid of Microsoft Excel where the sensitivity model was developed. The results show that ERP systems have a favorable impact on the sustainable development of the organization, given the large volume of data that can be processed with these information systems and through which resource consumption is significantly lower. Thus, based on the processed information, managers make very important decisions for the continuity of the organization's activity. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Sustainability; decision; ERP systems; digitalization; impact Classification-JEL: M10, M15, M41 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Barna.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Laetitia Casangiu Siea Author-Name-First: Laetitia Author-Name-Last: Casangiu Siea Author-Email: laetitia.casangiu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Guidelines For The Gastronomy Of Dobrogea, Foundation For The Development Of The Local Gastronomic Tourism Abstract: In the present study we analyse aspects related to the culinary side of the region of Dobrogea (Romania). The main research methods for the present article were the comparative study of specialized literature, with coverage of the main publications dedicated to the chosen topic, and the survey done through a questionnaire, launched with the purpose of checking the level of knowledge of the gastronomy of Dobrogea among the consumers and to identify its characteristic elements in order to consider it as vector for the local gastronomic tourism. The results of our research have highlighted the fact that customers give a high importance to the culinary aspect when choosing a holiday destination, and that the local Dobrogean dishes, wines, desserts and the quality products which have received recognition at a European level are not sufficiently known by the general public. This fact is due, on one side, to the insufficient information given about the geographical origin of the products during the marketing and sale phase and, on the other side, to a general lack in promotion for Dobrogean products, especially in other regions of Romania and abroad. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Culinary tourism; Dobrogea; food; gastronomic tourism; local food Classification-JEL: A13, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Siea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adina Andra Triandafil Author-Name-First: Adina Andra Author-Name-Last: Triandafil Author-Email: adina.andra@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Marketing, Romania Author-Name: Alexandra Cristina Dinu Author-Name-First: Alexandra Cristina Author-Name-Last: Dinu Author-Email: alexandracristina.dinu@mk.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Marketing, Romania Author-Name: Florina Puie (Răzvanță) Author-Name-First: Florina Author-Name-Last: Puie (Răzvanță) Author-Email: florina.puie@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Business Administration, Romania Author-Name: Ana Șerbănescu Author-Name-First: Ana Author-Name-Last: Șerbănescu Author-Email: ana_serbanescu@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Business Administration, Romania Title: Destination Management Organizations: A Systematization Of Recent Literature With A Focus On New Research Trends Abstract: Although the notion of destination management organization remains a particularly prolific and attractive concept, being extensively addressed in the last 20 years, there is no consensus at an academic level on how it can be operationalized. Much less empirically, little attempts have been developed in order to attain comprehensive ways of optimizing the activity of such organizations. The tendency for this concept to be associated with destination brand management is not necessarily representative, and by no means exhaustive. The present paper aims to highlight a series of definitions in this regard in the first part, following that in practice, to carry out a meta-analysis of recent literature, in order to identify the areas where Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) can be developed. Thus, we consider the exploration of different DMOs' analyses, within the Scopus (Elsevier) and Springer international databases which have published research in this regard in the past 2 years (2020-2021). Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Destination management organizations; tourism brand management; DMOs meta-analysis Classification-JEL: Z32, C18, D20 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Triandafil_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diaconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Daniela-Elena Popescu Author-Name-First: Daniela-Elena Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: popescudaniela17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Digital Certificate - Opportunity Or Barrier In The Restaurant Activity? Young People's Opinion On The Feeling Of Health Safety In Public Eating Places Abstract: Following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, several measures have been taken, in the hope of protecting human health and maintaining the economy and various industries at a functional level. One such measure was the introduction of the Covid-19 digital certificate for access to restaurants. This study aims to find out the opinion of young people about the feeling of health safety in public food establishments, as well as the opinion about the opportunity or barrier that arises from the use of the Covid-19 certificate. For this purpose, an online survey was conducted between October 14 and 20, 2021. For this study, university students and high school students were surveyed, the data being collected from 102 respondents, through a self-administered online questionnaire. The main objectives were to find out the level of knowledge of the Covid-19 digital certificate concept among young people, the feeling of health safety that the certificate generates among young people and the opinion about the opportunity or barrier that comes with its implementation. The results showed that all young people know the concept, but mainly tend to consider that the usage of the certificate doesn`t generate an environment with an increased health safety in the restaurant or do not have an idea yet formed on this subject. More than two-thirds of the young people surveyed consider the certificate to be more of a barrier than an opportunity for the restaurant activity. At the same time, it turned out that girls are more skeptical than boys about the impact on health safety generated by the implementation of the certificate. The main limitation of this study is that the sample was small and unrepresentative, but nevertheless some interesting results were obtained. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Covid-19 digital certificate; restaurants; opportunity; barrier; health security Classification-JEL: H12, I18, M10, Z38, Z39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Diaconescu_Popescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Rozalia Isidor Author-Name-First: Rozalia Author-Name-Last: Isidor Author-Email: isidorrozalia16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Elza Kren Author-Name-First: Elza Author-Name-Last: Kren Author-Email: krenhenriette16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Competitive Advantage of SPA Services in Romania Abstract: This paper aims at studying Spa services in Romania, how they differ from other relaxation services offered on the market and how they can gain advantage over the competition. Is focusing on a segment of active, wellness conscious clients who follow a healthy diet, take care of both their physical and mental health and are aware of the benefits of a visit to a Spa. Attracting such educated and demanding clients who have above-average incomes and actively promoting quality Spa services would maintain the competitive advantage of Spas over other forms of relaxation on the market. The methodology used for this analysis is the quantitative research method and the research technique is the survey. The results indicate that 86% of the people who responded to the questionnaire noted that they felt better overall after their visit to a Spa. The results obtained are in line with the issues analysed in the specialized literature. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2021 Creation-Date: 2021 Volume: 24 Issue: 1 Keywords: Spa; relaxation; wellness; differentiation; concentration Classification-JEL: Q26, Z31, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_3_2/Isidor_Kren.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2021-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diaconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The European Year of Youth and Cultural Tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/I_Diaconescu_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Remus-Ion Hornoiu Author-Name-First: Remus-Ion Author-Name-Last: Hornoiu Author-Email: remus.hornoiu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ionuț-Andrei Militaru Author-Name-First: Ionuț-Andrei Author-Name-Last: Militaru Author-Email: militaruionut21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Silvia-Florina Raducanu Author-Name-First: Silvia-Florina Author-Name-Last: Raducanu Author-Email: raducanusilvia11@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Ecotourism, a Resilient Solution in the Context of the COVID19 Pandemic? Abstract: This research examined the intention of Romanian tourists to travel nationwide in natural areas based on an extended TPB (Theory Perceived Behavior) model, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, the premise was that people would prefer less risky experiences and would see ecotourism in protected areas as a form of resilient tourism that reduces the threat of infection with the SARS-COV-2 virus or its mutations. This study tested a conceptual model that showed that this intention was influenced by the three variables of the TPB model - attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, complemented by other variables such as the feeling of security offered to tourists by natural areas in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, the motivations of tourists that involve ecotourism in nature and cultural activities in Romanian natural areas, personal values in travel in Romanian natural areas, civic attitude to support national tourism. The proposed research model incorporated the construct of the feeling of security offered to tourists by Romanian natural areas as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, as a mediator between the attitude of traveling at national level and the motivations of tourists involved in ecotourism in nature and cultural in the Romanian natural areas. In this context, the proposed model explains a substantial proportion of the total variance of the intent-dependent variable in this study. In the long run, the promotion of ecotourism, as a resilient form of tourism, in a pandemic context, could reduce the risk of spreading the virus and contribute to supporting Romanian Eco destination so that national tourism recovers from the economic crisis caused by the COVID pandemic 19. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: ecotourism; protected areas; tourism after COV19; civic attitude; motivations Classification-JEL: L15, L83, Q20, Q50 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/II_1_Hornoiu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marta-Christina Suciu Author-Name-First: Marta-Christina Author-Name-Last: Suciu Author-Email: christina.suciu@economie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Marco Savastano Author-Name-First: Marco Author-Name-Last: Savastano Author-Email: christina.suciu@economie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Sapienza University of Rome, Italy Author-Name: Gheorghe-Alexandru Stativă Author-Name-First: Gheorghe-Alexandru Author-Name-Last: Stativă Author-Email: christina.suciu@economie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Irina Gorelova Author-Name-First: Irina Author-Name-Last: Gorelova Author-Email: christina.suciu@economie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Sapienza University of Rome, Italy Title: Educational Tourism and Local Development Abstract: Educational tourism is a new branch of tourism, which has experienced a significant increase in recent times, due to the important benefits it brings to the local communities. Universities and other educational specialized institutions may highly contribute, support and encourage local development through educational tourism. Students who benefit from studying abroad can be considered as symbolic educational tourists, and their stay is considered to have a high potential to generate benefits. The host university may facilitate the development of better relationships between tourists and local communities in order to contribute to the development of the local economy in a sustainable and resilient way. Education tourism has to be taken into account by all educational institutions due to the different learning opportunities that might be better exploited. This paper focuses on some indicators considered to be relevant for educational tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: educational tourism; local development; student mobility Classification-JEL: Z30, Z31, A23 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/II_2_Suciu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iulia Ruxandra Țicău Author-Name-First: Iulia Ruxandra Author-Name-Last: Țicău Author-Email: iulia.ticau@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Hadad Shahrazad Author-Name-First: Hadad Author-Name-Last: Shahrazad Author-Email: shahrazad.hadad@fabiz.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Changes in Post-Pandemic Travelling Behaviour. What Are the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Students' Travelling Interests? Abstract: The novel Coronavirus has led to devastating tragedies, creating a worldwide crisis upon economy and society. Starting from people suffering from illness, deaths, unemployment up until poverty, the COVID-19 pandemic can be considered one of the darkest periods of the world’s history. More broadly, the virus has transformed our everyday lifestyles, inter-human interactions, dynamics of life and last but not least, perceptions upon travelling. The tourism sector has been tremendously affected by the expansion of the virus, with hundreds of countries closing borders, introduction of numerous travel restrictions and suspended flights. Restrictions, regulations and the fear of not getting infected with the new virus have created chaos and considerably changed the way individuals currently perceive travelling. Our study takes a demand-side perspective in order to determine changes in travelling behaviours of individuals, by focusing on students, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study acts as a pilot test and aims at offering guidance for the tourism sector in elaborating and adapting to changing demands on the market. For this purpose, we have collected primary data by distributing a survey among students studying at Universities in Romania. Results have been analysed and compared with relevant literature research. Findings reveal the importance of rate of infection, possible occurring restrictions and costs as being critical when choosing travel destinations during pandemic. Conclusions demonstrate that there is a high need for strong collaboration and cooperation between governments and tourism agencies and businesses. We propose tourism organisations to direct their promotions upon relaxing and safe destinations, at a domestic level in a first phase, followed by international alternatives. We consider that competition can take a backseat during these tough periods and make room for collaborative behaviours and partnerships for the industry to survive. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: COVID-19; pandemic; tourism; transportation; travel behaviour Classification-JEL: M10, M30, O10, R41. File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/II_3_Ticau_Hadad.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cristina Balint Author-Name-First: Cristina Author-Name-Last: Balint Author-Email: cristina.balint@ubbcluj.ro Author-Workplace-Name: “Babes-Bolyai” University, Romania Author-Name: Mihai-Lucian Lazanu Author-Name-First: Mihai-Lucian Author-Name-Last: Lazanu Author-Email: lazanu.gm@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: “Babes-Bolyai” University, Romania Title: The Effects of The COVID-19 Pandemic Over the Tourism Sector: A Review Abstract: Tourism is considered as one of the most relevant economic sectors at international level due to the multiple roles it holds, namely: economic, social role, cultural, educational and political. The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant damage globally and has expanded very quickly across the world by affecting almost all the industries due to the restrictions, lockdowns and quarantines. As a result of the pandemic crisis, the tourism sector was severely affected. Therefore, this paper aim is to reflect the negative and positive effects of the pandemic with SARS-COV-2 virus on tourism, and also to highlight the relevance and sensitivity of this sector during crisis events. The study focuses on the negative effects suffered by this sector during the pandemic, but also represents an effective opportunity to reconsider how that tourism interacts with our societies, thus, certain positive effects and strategies that were identified both on short and long- term, in order to try to minimize the shocks created by the pandemic. The economic crisis caused by the SARS-COV-2 virus has also encouraged inclining tourism towards upskilling, increasing the process of digitization of the ecosystem and protecting the environment. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: Covid-19; international tourism; pandemic Classification-JEL: Z30, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/II_4_Balint_Lazanu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cosmin Nicolae Mirea Author-Name-First: Cosmin Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Mirea Author-Email: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Statistical Trends of the Tourism Industry in Calarasi County, Romania Abstract: Tourist establishments are indispensable elements of touristic activity, in the sense that the tourism potential of a destination cannot be capitalized without the existence of accommodation, food, transport and leisure establishments, but also of travel agencies. Calarasi County has all the tourism establishments mentioned above, and their dynamics are different, presenting different growth rates. The purpose of this work is to carry out a statistical analysis of the aforementioned tourist establishments in order to find out whether they tend to increase or decrease their number in the future. In the case of Calarasi County, besides the transport establishments, the other tourism establishments analyzed show a tendency to increase from a numerical point of view, a fact demonstrated by the adjustment of the data series. For the processing of the data, average indicators, indicators of the central trend were used, and for the adjustment of the data, the method of the average increase was used. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: Tourism industry; statistical trends; Calarasi County Classification-JEL: Z30, Z31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/II_5_Mirea.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Radu-George Baciu Author-Name-First: Radu-George Author-Name-Last: Baciu Author-Email: baciuradu20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Space Tourism. A Future Sustainable Business or Not? Abstract: Space tourism, which has recently come to the attention of society, has sparked controversy over the environmental consequences of recreational space travel, which has become a lucrative business done by and for the super-rich. This scientific paper investigates, through qualitative and quantitative research, the potential for the success and sustainability of this industry. The interviewed tourism and aviation experts believe that space tourism deserves to be developed in order to colonise other planets and make society responsible for the environmental issues, despite the huge costs, which will be reduced, similar to the aviation trend, by technological advances. Also, the results of the survey in which students participated, as future specialists in business and tourism, indicate an increased share of those aware of the effects of carbon pollution and a percentage of over 30% of those who believe in the development of space tourism, supported by economic benefits of offsetting environmental costs. The overall conclusion of the study highlights technological progress as a mobilising factor in reducing carbon dioxide emissions from spacecraft and in achieving the dream of sustainability of space travel, revealing space tourism as a resource that would benefit society as a whole, scientifically and economically. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: Space tourism; sustainable business; carbon emissions; spacecraft; colonisation Classification-JEL: L83, O13, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/III_6_Baciu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anastasia-Cristiana Dumitru Author-Name-First: Anastasia-Cristiana Author-Name-Last: Dumitru Author-Email: dumitruanastasia16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Behavioural Impact of The COVID-19 Pandemic on Romanian Tourists? Abstract: The tourism industry has been seriously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, both from a social and from an economic perspective. Despite showing signs of resilience, the negative repercussions on tourism-related activities have been serious, the hospitality industry proving to be the most sensitive in the face of the sanitary and economic crises which started more than a year ago. Even though the full (and cumulative) impact of the events which shaped the current global situation cannot be quantified without a high degree of uncertainty, the negative effects are visible in the economies of many countries, around the world, at microeconomic, macroeconomic and behavioural levels (for businesses and individuals). Usually, such economic, social, sanitary crises or other extreme circumstances (terrorism, natural disasters) trigger a change in the behaviour of tourists, the differences being dependent on region, country, etc. Thus, given the current economic and social context, this paper focuses on the behavioural change of the Romanian tourists. The practical purpose of this research is to show the agents working in the tourism industry on which aspects to focus more and how to diversify their offer based on the change in demand specific to the "new normal". The most recent research conducted by experts has shown that the pandemic has negative effects on travel intention for multiple reasons, among them being the selectivity in choosing the destination based on criteria such as the increased need for hygiene and healthcare conditions, for travel insurance, etc. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: tourist consumer’s behavior; tourist’s attitude; covid-19 pandemic; quantitative analysis; managerial implications Classification-JEL: M2, J63 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/III_7_Dumitru.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Oana-Diana Crîșmariu Author-Name-First: Oana-Diana Author-Name-Last: Crîșmariu Author-Email: oanadianacrismariu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Mihail-Ovidiu Tănase Author-Name-First: Mihail-Ovidiu Author-Name-Last: Tănase Author-Email: mihail.tanase@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Iulian Tenie Author-Name-First: Iulian Author-Name-Last: Tenie Author-Email: iulian_tenie@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Awatef Abdallah Author-Name-First: Awatef Author-Name-Last: Abdallah Author-Email: awatef_abdallah@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: The Response of the Romanian Hospitality Industry to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Focus on the Restaurant Industry Abstract: The pandemic situation that began in 2019 directly affected all industries. The most affected industries are: airlines, cruises, HORECA, entertainment, etc. The restaurant industry, which is part of the HORECA industry, was severely affected throughout the world. The industry faced many restrictions in 2020 and 2021. Among most common, we can mention: temporary suspension of the activity, limited operating hours and available seats, access restrictions (like EU Green Certificate, for indoor activities), etc. As a response to legal regulations in order to avoid the spread of the virus, but also to prevent a further economic downturn, each industry had to take various measures.This article contains a theoretical overview of the evolution of the restaurant industry during the pandemic, from March 2020 to the present day. An analysis, based on qualitative research, of representative restaurants, in their category, for Romania shows how different actions were taken to adapt to the new normal. Furthermore, the research presents an important view of the future of the industry. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the changes produced and the adaptability of the restaurant industry to the current and ever-changing situation. The results revealed many interesting measures that similar companies and hope for better times. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Keywords: Restaurant industry response; COVID-19; Romania Classification-JEL: L83, M19, Z31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_1/IV_8_Crismariu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Crises - new opportunities for the tourism and travel industry Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/I_Tuclea_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daria-Roxana Theodoru Author-Name-First: Daria-Roxana Author-Name-Last: Theodoru Author-Email: dariatheodoru@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Andreea Fortuna Șchiopu Author-Name-First: Andreea Fortuna Author-Name-Last: Șchiopu Author-Email: andreea.schiopu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Customer perceptions about the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 Pandemic Abstract: How did hospitality customers perceive the experience of going out during the global COVID-19 pandemic? What concerns did they have about hospitality providers? The purpose of this paper was to clarify how consumers perceived the pandemic and whether or not people feared infection when dining out. The firs purpose was to determine how many people went out during the pandemic, and the second aim was to determine how they perceived the performance of the hospitality industry. To measure their perceptions, we proposed several variables: psychological well-being, expected positive emotions, expected negative emotions, desire to avoid, and customer satisfaction. The main objective was to investigate the correlation between the selected variables. For the study, a questionnaire was distributed to different target groups: Adolescents, adults, and middle-aged people. It was found that the population of Bucharest felt a need to socialize and go out during the pandemic rather than a reluctance to do so. This study highlights the importance of anticipated perceptions and how they influence consumers' final perceptions. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: anticipated positive and negative emotions; mental comfort; desire for avoidance; customer satisfaction; hospitality Classification-JEL: L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/II_1_Theodoru_Schiopu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Shahriar Jeddy Author-Name-First: Shahriar Author-Name-Last: Jeddy Author-Email: jeddy.shahriar@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Payame Noor University, Teheran, Iran Author-Name: Mohammad Reza Mashayekh Author-Name-First: Mohammad Reza Author-Name-Last: Mashayekh Author-Workplace-Name: Payame Noor University, Teheran, Iran Author-Name: Ali Rostami Author-Name-First: Ali Author-Name-Last: Rostami Author-Workplace-Name: Payame Noor University, Teheran, Iran Title: The purchase of online products: a review of barrier effects on trust intentions Abstract: In Iran, there has been a quantitative and qualitative increase in online businesses in recent years. However, despite the daily growth of virtual business networks, Iranian consumers regrettably do not have the confidence in such businesses that should be expected, but are still willing to buy products in person through traditional channels; financial transaction values, as well as the number of Internet users, were reported to be very low compared to developed countries. Therefore, the objective of the study was to investigate and verify what factors affect trust in buying online products. Considering the objective, the study was an applied descriptive research method with an analytical approach. The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model was used to analyse the data using Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The sample size for the study was71 individuals who were screened through an online survey of PNU (Payame Noor University) students. The reliability of the questionnaire was examined using Cronbach's alpha. The results showed that there was a statistically positive significance between lack of integrity, lack of benevolence, lack of competence, and intention to trust. Meanwhile, the intention to trust was statistically significant with purchase intention. Consequently, it was suggested that e-tailers should try to improve the dimensions of their trustworthiness for e-customers. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: lack of integrity; lack of benevolence; lack of competency; intention to trust; intention to purchase Classification-JEL: M30, M3 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/II_2_Jeddy_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Antonio Valentin Tache Author-Name-First: Antonio Valentin Author-Name-Last: Tache Author-Email: tonytache62@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Constructions, Urbanism and Sustainable SpatialDevelopment URBAN-INCERC, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Alexandru-Ionuţ Petrişor Author-Name-First: Alexandru-Ionuţ Author-Name-Last: Petrişor Author-Email: alexandru_petrisor@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urbanism, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ovidiu-Eugen Ciogescu Author-Name-First: Ovidiu-Eugen Author-Name-Last: Ciogescu Author-Email: ciogescu@electrovalcea.ro Author-Workplace-Name: S.C. Electrovâlcea S.R.L., Râmnicu Vâlcea,, Romania Author-Name: Maria-Monica Tache Author-Name-First: Maria-Monica Author-Name-Last: Tache Author-Email: marianitu12@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, Bucharest, Romania Title: Intermodal GIS analysis model for assessing the travel cost to tourist resorts in Romania Abstract: Tourists, like any other users of transport systems, seek to travel safely from origin to destination, choosing the appropriate route in relation to the speed, comfort, and cost of trip. Therefore, the goal is, from a tourism transport planning perspective, to minimize connections and, wherever necessary, make them as efficient as possible. Multimodal solutions allow passengers to adopt less polluting modes of transport whenever possible, encouraging a more sustainable journey. Digital solutions and integrated planning services offer the potential for sustainable, easy-to-use and efficient multimodal travel. The purpose of this article is to present a novel GIS-type IT solution for assessing the cost of multimodal transport to tourist resorts in Romania. The IT platform considers the movement of tourists to tourist resorts through two networks in the intermodal system, railways and national roads, connected through nodes represented by the railway stations. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: accessibility; web application; multimodal transport; Romania Classification-JEL: R41, Z30, C23 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/II_3_Tache_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cristian Negruțiu Author-Name-First: Cristian Author-Name-Last: Negruțiu Author-Email: cristian_negrutiu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Challenges and benefits of blockchain implementation in supply chain Abstract: This article presents the challenges and benefits of blockchain implementation in the supply chain. In a broader context, the article addresses how technology facilitates digitalization in a traditional industry, with no shortage of ideas and controversies. The findings are drawn from a case study of a Romanian tech startup. The empirical investigation uses interview and direct observation methods to show how the startup under study implements Industry 4.0 solutions based on blockchain technology. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of the technologies, the benefits for customers, and the challenges associated with them. So, it can be said that tech startups are real ambassadors of innovation and are able to change the status quo faster and easier. Their solutions and products have the potential to disrupt the industry and evolve into integrated platforms for artificial intelligence. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: blockchain; Industry 4.0; supply chain; tech start-ups Classification-JEL: L23, L26, M13, O33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/II_4_Negrutiu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Emilia Bățroș Author-Name-First: Emilia Author-Name-Last: Bățroș Author-Email: batrosemilia20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Entrepreneurship: a full time or a part time job? Abstract: The decision to start a business can be influenced by a wide range of factors. Several studies show the characteristics of full-time and part-time entrepreneurship, but few show the actual comparison of the two concepts. The aim of this research is to analyze the differences between the two forms of entrepreneurship from two perspectives: the current entrepreneurs' perspective and the students' perspective, in order to help people decide which form of entrepreneurship is the best. Based on qualitative and quantitative research, the results showed that the most important factors that influence the final decision to start a business are work experience, education, financial factor, work and time flexibility, and lifestyle. The SPSS results and t-tests on the students' character traits show that there are no significant differences among four of them, except for the trait "autonomy". Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: entrepreneurship; full-time; part-time; experience; education Classification-JEL: J22, J23, J28, L26, M13 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/III_5_Batros.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Denisa-Natalia Hampu Author-Name-First: Denisa-Natalia Author-Name-Last: Hampu Author-Email: denisa.hampu@stud.ubbcluj.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania Author-Name: Monica-Maria Coroș Author-Name-First: Monica-Maria Author-Name-Last: Coroș Author-Email: monica.coros@ubbcluj.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania Title: Cultural, religious and spiritual tourism attractiveness among youngsters Abstract: Being one of the first forms of tourism, cultural tourism has experienced several expansion and contraction phases over the years. In recent years, other subcategories of cultural tourism have increased greatly, such as spiritual tourism. If there is a trend, there are young people interested in 'newness', but to become a profitable trend, it must be promoted accordingly to the target market. In determining their desires and expectations, it turns out that young people between the ages of 18 and 35 are not only interested in spiritual tourism, but also in religious destinations when they are also busy with other activities. They associate religious tourism primarily with prayer or holy places, which some young people do not practice at all, but associate spiritual tourism with meditation or self-knowledge. While young people indicated that religious tourism could also be an attraction when combined with a good marketing strategy, most of them cannot recall seeing any marketing efforts in this regard. A good marketing strategy put in place after properly identifying the key objectives, desires, and expectations of the target market could open up great opportunities for businesses in this area. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2022 Creation-Date: 2022 Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Keywords: youngsters; religion; spirituality; pilgrimage; tourism development Classification-JEL: L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_4_2/IV_6_Hampu_Coros.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2022-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Nicolae Lupu Author-Name-First: Nicolae Author-Name-Last: Lupu Author-Email: nicolae.lupu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: Bucharest University of Economic Studies - The first 110 years Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/I_Lupu_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Remus-Ion Hornoiu Author-Name-First: Remus-Ion Author-Name-Last: Hornoiu Author-Email: remus.hornoiu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ionut-Andrei Militaru Author-Name-First: Ionut-Andrei Author-Name-Last: Militaru Author-Email: militaruionut21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Exploring war tourism through the use of virtual reality in the context of conflict situations Abstract: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has had a significant impact on the country's tourism industry, with many regions becoming inaccessible or unattractive due to safety concerns. VR tourism in war zones, a form of tourism that involves visiting areas affected by conflict, disaster, or civil unrest, has become a topic of interest in the context of the war in Ukraine. To investigate the intention to use VR tourism in the war zone, an integrated framework was proposed by combining key elements such as interest in VR tourism in the war zone and the technology acceptance model (TAM). A sample of 121 respondents was collected in January 2021, and hypotheses were tested using a PLS-SEM model. This research tested a conceptual model that showed that the intention to use VR tourism in the war zone was influenced by perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and attitude toward the use of VR tourism in the war zone, all partially or fully mediated by people's interest in VR tourism in the war zone. This paper has theoretical and managerial implications. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: War tourism; Virtual reality (VR); travel interests; attitude to use technology; Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) Classification-JEL: L15, L83, Q20, Q50 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/II_1.Hornoiu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andreea Fortuna Șchiopu Author-Name-First: Andreea Fortuna Author-Name-Last: Șchiopu Author-Email: andreea.schiopu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ana-Maria Nica Author-Name-First: Ana-Maria Author-Name-Last: Nica Author-Email: ana.nica@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ana Mihaela Pădurean Author-Name-First: Ana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Pădurean Author-Email: mihaela.padurean@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Lavinia Ţală Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Ţală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Generation Z vs. Generation Y: different from or similar? A comparison of centennials and millennials regarding the use of social media for travel purposes Abstract: The tourists’ decision-making process and sharing behaviors while travelling and social media are intertwined, especially for the young tech-savvy generations. Nevertheless, papers comparing generation Y and Z in this respect are scarce. By surveying two samples, this paper aims to investigate if generations Y and Z are different in terms of social media use for travelling purposes. The results indicate Centennials get more information about journeys from social networks. Moreover, they give more value to online photos during the travel decision-making than generation Y. During the actual journey, Centennials depend less on Facebook and more on Instagram than Millennials. The two samples are significantly different in terms of sharing behavior of their travel experiences. Last but not least, the number of hours spent daily on social media influences the usage of social media while travelling for both generations. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: Generation Y and Generation Z; travel; online sharing; decision-making Classification-JEL: L83, M31, M37 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/II_2.Schiopu_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Dananjaya Duleepa Author-Name-First: Dananjaya Author-Name-Last: Duleepa Author-Email: duleepa96@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Department of Tourism Studies, Sri Lanka Author-Name: Jayawardena Hasini Author-Name-First: Jayawardena Author-Name-Last: Hasini Author-Email: jayawahasini@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Department of Tourism Studies, Sri Lanka Author-Name: Ranasinghe Ruwan Author-Name-First: Ranasinghe Author-Name-Last: Ruwan Author-Email: ruwan@uwu.ac.lk Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Department of Tourism Studies, Sri Lanka Title: Potentials of developing Artificial Intelligence technology in the Sri Lankan hotel industry with special reference to Colombo district Abstract: The intense competition and unpredictable challenges in hotel operations in Sri Lanka have led to the need to adopt new technologies to provide better services to guests and maximise efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, the main objectives of this study were to examine various Artificial Intelligence tools used in hotels in Sri Lanka, explore managers' perceptions of Artificial Intelligence, and identify barriers to the implementation of Artificial Intelligence in hotels in Sri Lanka. Using a purposive sampling, 15 managers of star category hotels in the Colombo district were selected and interviewed using a structured interview method to explore the objectives. The findings derived from the thematic analysis showed that hotels in Sri Lanka have limited knowledge of AI applications and that the respondents' perception of AI technology is still at an early stage where they doubt and question its effectiveness compared to human resource services. The study found that the use of AI technology has significant potential, especially in new and emerging hotels, as these new hotels tend to engage with tech-savvy guests compared to existing hotels in Sri Lanka. Moreover, technological advancements in artificial intelligence will undoubtedly lead to an unimaginable hotel experience that will increase guest satisfaction in Sri Lanka's hotel industry. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Artificial Intelligence Tools; Barriers; Managerial Perceptions; Technological Advancements Classification-JEL: O33, Z32, C80 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/II_3.Duleepa_et_al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alexandra Bianca Tîrnăcop Author-Name-First: Alexandra Bianca Author-Name-Last: Tîrnăcop Author-Email: tirnacopalexandra21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Leadership in the Digital Era: Exploring the AI-EI Nexus Abstract: The main focus of this study is how the use of AI technology can improve leaders' emotional intelligence (EI),such as empathy, self-awareness, and social skills. The study employs a research methodology that involves the use of a questionnaire and game-based techniques to examine the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and emotional intelligence (EI) in leadership. The main objective is to determine how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to improve leaders' emotional intelligence. The findings highlight the importance of aligning artificial intelligence (AI) technology and emotional intelligence (EI) capabilities to achieve optimal leadership outcomes. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Artificial Intelligence Tools; Barriers; Managerial Perceptions; Technological Advancements Classification-JEL: M12, M14, O35 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/II_4.Tirnacop.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andrei Daniel Niculae Author-Name-First: Andrei Daniel Author-Name-Last: Niculae Author-Email: andreiniculae30@yahoo.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Business use: is AI surpassing human creativity? Abstract: This study aims to assess people’s perceptions regarding AI-generated images compared to those made by humans. This study used quantitative research in the form of a survey to find out how much respondents prefer AI-generated images. The findings indicated that most respondents favoured artificial intelligence (AI)-generated visuals. Age and time spent online were key determinants of this choice. These discoveries have important implications for organisations and people who produce and consume visual content in their jobs. It implies that as people become familiar to them and as technology advances, AI-generated images are likely to gain popularity in the future. It also emphasises how critical it is to be aware of audience preferences and adjust to the evolving state of technology and visual media. In conclusion, this study offers insightful information about the prospective effects of AI-generated images on the creative sectors and the larger society. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Artificial Intelligence Tools; AI-generated images; Human perception; Images Classification-JEL: D80, C80 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/II_5.Niculae.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Radu-George Baciu Author-Name-First: Radu-George Author-Name-Last: Baciu Author-Email: baciuradu20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Acting used as a tool for training managers Abstract: In business schools in Western countries, acting is used as a tool for training managers. However, in the Eastern countries, including Romania, the concept is underdeveloped. In this scientific research, the opinion of both business professionals, i.e., managers with experience in this field, and students from the Faculty of Business and Tourism within The Bucharest University of Economic Studies on the usefulness of introducing acting courses to support the training of managers is investigated. The professionals interviewed believe that acting benefits a manager through the leadership and communication lessons it provides, helping them to manage situations by appealing to emotional memory, relating to their team members by using emotional intelligence, and sharing their vision by developing the qualities necessary for a leader. The students' perspective underscores the ideas expressed by practicing managers and demonstrates that management contains an artistic component to a significant degree and that acting as an art form is intertwined with management in beneficial ways. The overall conclusion of the study highlights students' confidence in the impact of acting on a manager's professional development. The percentage of students who would take acting courses if they were introduced in Romanian business schools is over 90% of all respondents. Thus, it can be stated that acting is a real tool for the development of a manager, which should be adopted and used by all Romanian business schools. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: Manager training; acting courses; Business schools; leadership; acting benefits Classification-JEL: I23, M12, M53, Z11 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/III_6.Baciu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Călin Ile Author-Name-First: Călin Author-Name-Last: Ile Author-Email: calin@premierhospitality.ro Author-Workplace-Name: omanian Federation of Hotel Industry, Premier Hospitality Consultancy Company, Bucharest, Romania Title: Hotel of the future Abstract: We live in a world of change, and the pace of change has never been faster. The consequences are very far-reaching, and adaptability has become the most important success factor for people, for different industries, for countries, and indeed for everyone. The impact is enormous and comes from so many sources that the hospitality sector, of course, cannot be excluded. There are changes in the way we live, in the way we interact, changes in demographics or politics, new resources appear in our lives and others simply disappear, and climate change and sustainability are now hot topics for everyone. This paper aims to explore how these changes will affect the future of the hotel industry and how a hotel may look in the near future considering the influences and pressures of so many changes. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Keywords: hotel business; changes; evolution; tourism; digitization and sustainability Classification-JEL: L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/Pdf/vol_5_1/IV_7.Ile_Industry.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania Title: In Memoriam – Professor Gabriela-Cecilia Stănciulescu Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art2_I-Tuclea-et.-al_Editorial_2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Lucian Breabăn Author-Name-First: Lucian Author-Name-Last: Breabăn Author-Email: breabanmarius22@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Remus-Ion Hornoiu Author-Name-First: Remus-Ion Author-Name-Last: Hornoiu Author-Email: remus.hornoiu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ionuț-Andrei Militaru Author-Name-First: Ionuț-Andrei Author-Name-Last: Militaru Author-Email: militaruionut21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: An extended application of the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) model in predicting tourist loyalty: the mediating role of desire in health & spa tourism Abstract: This research sought to examine the predictive power of an extended version of the Theory of Reasoned Action(TRA) model that incorporates desire to understand tourists' loyalty intentions towards a health & spa center. The findings substantiate the model's high explanatory capacity and underline its relevance in the context of health tourism. It was found that positive attitudes towards health tourism services and the influence of subjective norms, which embody the opinions of tourists' social contacts, significantly influence loyalty intentions. Importantly, desire, which was included as an extension of the traditional TRA model, emerged as a crucial factor in this relationship, serving as a significant mediator between both attitudes and subjective norms and loyalty intentions. Our study highlights the central importance of understanding and considering desires when designing management strategies and recommends the implementation of targeted marketing campaigns, personalized offers and the continuous collection of customer feedback based on desire-based segmentation. This study contributes to the existing literature by extending the application of the TRA model to the health and wellness tourism sector and emphasizing the crucial role of desire as a mediator in promoting customer loyalty. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: Health tourism; loyalty; desire Classification-JEL: L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art3_II-1.-Breaban-et-al._2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Wang Li Author-Name-First: Wang Author-Name-Last: Li Author-Email: ec19f006@muls.edu.mn Author-Workplace-Name: Chongqing Metropolitan College of Science and Technology, Chongqing, China; Mongolian University of LifeSciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Author-Name: D. Myagmarsuren Author-Name-First: D. Author-Name-Last: Myagmarsuren Author-Email: myagmarsuren.d@muls.edu.mn Author-Workplace-Name: Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Author-Name: Qin Yuanhao Author-Name-First: Qin Author-Name-Last: Yuanhao Author-Email: 510675931@qq.com Author-Workplace-Name: Chongqing Southwest University, Chongqing, China Author-Name: Z. Yadmaa Author-Name-First: Z. Author-Name-Last: Yadmaa Author-Email: admaa.z@muls.edu.mn Author-Workplace-Name: Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Title: Wellness Tourism Services Innovation: A Bibliometric Review and Future Research Agenda Abstract: This research analyzes 657 studies in the Web of Science (WOS) and 288 studies in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database from 2010 to 2023. This research employs the scientific quantitative knowledge graph method to analyze literature characteristics, core author, institution network, hotspots, and trends. The CiteSpace software analysis results show that the number of published papers is rising but fluctuates slightly. A core group of authors has not yet formed in this field, and the cooperation density between authors and institutions is low. Their distribution spreads in space with significant regional differences, mainly in European and Asian countries. The causes, impacts, and solutions of multi-actor engagement in service innovation are the focus of WOS and CNKI literature. However, scholars discuss the enterprise supply side, customer demand side, and government policy side in WOS, while scholars mainly discuss the interaction between variables in CNKI. A lack of an evaluation system for service innovation in wellness tourism restricts further research on service innovation. There is an essential potential for topics such as multi-actor engagement in the wellness tourism service innovation, digital technology, knowledge management, service innovation ecosystem performances, and wellness tourism development in developing countries. This study promotes an overview and reference for future scholars' research of service innovation in the wellness tourism industry. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: service innovation; wellness tourism; scientific quantitative knowledge graph method; research evolution Classification-JEL: M10 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art4_II-2.-Wang-Li-et-al._2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: W.G.V.D Kumari Author-Name-First: W.G.V.D Author-Name-Last: Kumari Author-Email: vishakadhananjani@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Badullla, Sri Lanka Author-Name: A.C.I.D Karunarathne Author-Name-First: A.C.I.D Author-Name-Last: Karunarathne Author-Email: chandi@uwu.ac.lk Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Badullla, Sri Lanka Author-Name: G.H.V Harshani Author-Name-First: G.H.V Author-Name-Last: Harshani Author-Email: vindyahewage23@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Uva Wellassa University, Badullla, Sri Lanka Title: Unveiling the potential: exploring prospects and challenges for a high-yielding tea tourism segment Abstract: Tea tourism is a striking segment around the world due to the widespread tea lovers. Even though there is a huge potential to attract tourists for tea tourism while generating economic benefits for the host community, it has not developed properly as a product in Sri Lanka. Hence, the main purpose of this study was to identify the prospects and challenges of Sri Lankan tea tourism industry to make it a high-yielding tourism product. The mixed methodology was adopted as the research design and conveniently selected a sample of 350 (of local and foreign tourists) and 10 service providers involved in tourism businesses to collect primary data. Descriptive statistics, regression analysis and content analysis were used to meet the study objectives. The findings highlighted that push motive factors are more influencing for tourists to visit tea tourism establishments than pull motive factors. Moreover, tea tourists’ overall perception has a significant positive impact on their perceived experience about tea tourism. This author further stated that perceptions might be of two different kinds: external stimuli (resulting from the evaluation of destination qualities) and internal (personal) stimuli (depending on how the person wishes to perceive that destination). Further the researcher has identified attractions towards tea industry, demand to Ceylon tea, available activities and resources and future plans of the service providers as prospects in tea tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Moreover, the researcher has identified challenges in tea tourism industry under political, economic, environmental, operational and technological challenges. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: External Stimuli; Internal Stimuli; Motivations; Perception; Tea Tourism Classification-JEL: Q56, R11, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art5_II-3.-Kumari-et-al._2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Adrian Lucian Kanovici Author-Name-First: Adrian Lucian Author-Name-Last: Kanovici Author-Email: adrian.kanovici@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Viorel Mionel Author-Name-First: Viorel Author-Name-Last: Mionel Author-Email: viorel.mionel@rei.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Oana Mionel Author-Name-First: Oana Author-Name-Last: Mionel Author-Email: oana.mionel@upb.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania Title: Belgrade and Sarajevo. Analysis of dark tourism spectrum and supply in post-conflict societies of the Western Balkans Abstract: In the early 1990s, the Balkans faced some of the most violent military confrontations since the end of the Second World War. As a result of the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the borders have been redesigned on the map of Europe and new states have emerged. Some of these countries have succeeded in becoming members of Euro-Atlantic structures. While Montenegro and North Macedonia became NATO members, and Slovenia and Croatia have integrated into both NATO and the European Union, Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to be affected by frozen conflicts and interethnic tensions. The research aims to analyze the evolution of tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, focusing on the tourist potential of the capitals of these states, Sarajevo and Belgrade, respectively. The novelty of the research is to identify and analyze the potential of dark tourism in Sarajevo and Belgrade. The methodology used implied field research in both countries, in order to identify the tourism potential- with emphasis on dark tourism heritage on both countries. Also, the touristic offer in the two cities was analyzed, focusing on the dark tourism spectrum proposed by Philip R. Stone in 2006. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: Dark tourism spectrum; Touristic supply; Sarajevo; Belgrade; Post-conflict societies; Western Balkans Classification-JEL: D74, L8, Z30, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art6_II-4.-Kanovici_2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iulia Ruxandra Ticau Author-Name-First: Iulia Ruxandra Author-Name-Last: Ticau Author-Email: iulia.ticau@fabiz.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Implications of virtual reality in developing tourism – the case of Transylvania, Romania Abstract: Technological advancements are constantly changing developing industries and impacting all players in the field. Among the most well-known revolutionary technologies is virtual reality (VR), a three-dimensional concept that offers its users the possibility to simulate new environments by visualizing the real world from their own location. This research article raises the question of the extent to which such technologies can influence the tourism potential of a much-discussed region in Romania, namely Transylvania. As a result, case study research with qualitative data was conducted, leading to an extended analysis of the current topic. By adopting a three-fold division of VR’ potential destination: marketing tool, planning and managerial and entertainment tool, the study aimed at providing relevant insights upon the importance of VR for both service providers in the field, but also potential beneficiaries of touristic services. The results show that VR is of great benefit to the development of the tourism industry, but that factors such as costly implementation costs and "resistance" to innovation can occur. The research findings have implications for researchers in the field, but also for stakeholders in the tourism and technology sectors. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: Virtual Reality; tourism; innovation; Transylvania; Romania Classification-JEL: M10, M31, O31, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art7_III-1.Ticau_2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria Alexandra Sandu Author-Name-First: Maria Alexandra Author-Name-Last: Sandu Author-Email: sandu4alexandra19@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Dark Tourism in Romania: The Bellu Cemetery Abstract: This article focuses on the most important aspects of dark tourism and deals with the Romanian population's perception of the Bellu Cemetery of Bucharest, a must-see dark tourism attraction. The main purpose of this research was to collect and analyze the opinions of Romanians regarding dark tourism, especially their opinion about the practice of tourism in this cemetery. The objectives to be achieved were (1) to determine the main motives for visiting the cemetery, (2) to determine the most popular gravestones, (3) to determine if and why people believe the cemetery is haunted, and (4) to determine the ethical concerns of being a tourist there. Accordingly, a survey was conducted for the defined scope. It was found that Romanians of all ages are positive about the concept of dark tourism and are willing to practice it. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: Dark tourism; tombstone tourism; Bellu Cemetery Classification-JEL: L82, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art8_III-2.-Sandu_2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Laurent Picheral Author-Name-First: Laurent Author-Name-Last: Picheral Author-Email: lpicheral@topdayconseils.fr Author-Workplace-Name: TOPDAYCONSEILS.SAS, Lyon, France Title: HoReCa: an economical sector which reinvents itself Abstract: This paper provides an overview of current trends and challenges within the Hospitality, Restaurant, and Catering(HoReCa) industry. It examines how the industry is responding to these new paradigms, particularly focusing on the evolution of Food and Beverage (F&B) activities to offer guests a distinctive and immersive experience, fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, it explores how Hospitality and F&B sectors are addressing guest expectations aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, emphasizing minimalist approaches and proposing solidarity and eco-friendly initiatives. Furthermore, the paper discusses the evolving criteria influencing talent acquisition and retention in the HoReCa sector, particularly emphasizing the adaptability demanded by Generation Z, reflecting ongoing changes in the industry. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2023 Creation-Date: 2023 Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Keywords: HoReCa industry; Food and Beverage activities; ESG principles; circular economy; Generation Z Classification-JEL: L82, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol5_no2_2023_art9_IV-1.-Picheral_2023_5_2.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2023-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Is technology boosting or undermining travel agencies' competitive advantage? Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art2_I-Tuclea_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diaconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Navigating corporate culture: perspectives from Generation Z business students Abstract: This research is a qualitative study based on the focus group technique and examines the opinion of business students, as a niche of Generation Z, in relation to organizational culture and its role in choosing and keeping a job. For this purpose, 3 focus groups were conducted with students from the Faculty of Business and Tourism of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies. The first focus group had only 3 participants and served more to test the discussion guide. The next two focus groups had 10 and 12 participants respectively, boys and girls, with the difference that the second group consisted of undergraduate students and the third of students in a master's program. A surprising finding was that none of the 25 student participants in the 3 focus groups were familiar with the concept of organizational culture. However, after some brief explanations, they understood what the concept referred to and were able to participate in in-depth discussions. The key findings made it clear that Gen Z students are looking for companies with a positive culture and a workplace that allows them to have a good work- life balance. These aspects become even more important than a higher salary if it is to be achieved in a company with a toxic culture. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: Generation Z; organizational culture; workplace expectations; focus group Classification-JEL: M14, Z13 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art3_II.1-Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Remus-Ion Hornoiu Author-Name-First: Remus-Ion Author-Name-Last: Hornoiu Author-Email: remus.hornoiu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ionuţ-Andrei Militaru Author-Name-First: Ionuţ-Andrei Author-Name-Last: Militaru Author-Email: militaruionut21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Angelina De Pascale Author-Name-First: Angelina Author-Name-Last: De Pascale Author-Email: angela.depascale@unime.it Author-Workplace-Name: University of Messina, Messina, Italy Author-Name: Luciana-Floriana Poenaru Author-Name-First: Luciana-Floriana Author-Name-Last: Poenaru Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Marius Lucian Breabăn Author-Name-First: Marius Lucian Author-Name-Last: Breabăn Author-Email: breabanmarius22@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Beyond the screen: how virtual reality shapes sustainable behaviours in ecotourism through uses and gratifications theory Abstract: This study examines the relationships between ascribed responsibility, uses and gratifications, behavioural involvement, and visit intentions among Sicilian tourists using virtual reality (VR) to explore Romanian rural ecotourism destinations. Utilizing the Uses and Gratifications theory, it investigates how VR content's informativeness, playfulness, and social interactivity impact user engagement and behavioural intentions. Findings reveal that higher ascribed responsibility enhances gratifications from VR experiences, which increases behavioural involvement, essential for ecotourism. However, ascribed responsibility alone does not directly influence visit intentions, indicating the role of additional factors. A significant contribution of this research is the identification of a serial mediation model where uses and gratifications and behavioural involvement totally mediate the ascribed responsibility-visit intention relationship. This model highlights the complex interplay between cognitive, affective, and behavioural responses, demonstrating that ascribed responsibility enhances uses and gratifications, leading to increased behavioural involvement and, ultimately, visit intentions. The study extends the Uses and Gratifications theory into VR and ecotourism, emphasizing environmental responsibility in media engagement. Practical implications include strategies for tourism marketers to foster environmental responsibility and for VR developers to create engaging, informative, and interactive experiences. Policymaker scan use these insights to promote sustainable tourism through supportive VR content development. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: Virtual reality; ecotourism; ascribed responsibility; uses and gratifications; behavioural involvement; serial mediation; tourist behaviour Classification-JEL: L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art4_II.2-Hornoiu-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anton-Liviu Petrica Author-Name-First: Anton-Liviu Author-Name-Last: Petrica Author-Email: petricaanton20@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Navigating the metaverse: unraveling its impact on tourism Abstract: This study aims to explore the influence of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social norms and attitudes towards the use of metaverse on the behavioural intention to use Metaverse in tourism, providing valuable insights into the potential impact of metaverse on the future of the tourism industry. To assess the influence of the variables, a questionnaire was administered to 50 participants from generations X, Y and Z with a gender distribution of54% male and 46% female participants. The survey demonstrated good internal reliability and validity. The results indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitude have an impact on participants' behavioural intentions. However, the influence of social norms on behavioural intention was not found to be significant in this study. These results provide valuable insights into understanding the factors that influence people's behavioural intentions when using metaverses in tourism. Further studies with more refined questions and larger samples need to be conducted. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: metaverse; tourism; immersive reality; digital experiences Classification-JEL: O33, O31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art5_II.3-Petrica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maria-Alexandra Sandu Author-Name-First: Maria-Alexandra Author-Name-Last: Sandu Author-Email: sandu4alexandra19@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Elena-Mihaela Purecel Author-Name-First: Elena-Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Purecel Author-Email: purecelelena19@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The competitive advantage of Airbnb in perception of tourists Abstract: Airbnb has experienced rapid growth, with millions of tourists using its service. This study seeks to identify the main reasons why tourists choose to use the Airbnb platform and its competitive advantages. To this end, online research was conducted with a sample of 49 respondents who have already used this type of service. The main results of the study show that price (53.1%), followed by the flat's facilities (22.4%) and location (20.4%) are the main motives for choosing Airbnb accommodation. When rating the importance of the main features that characterise Airbnb, 67.35% of respondents considered price to be very important and 65.31% rated location the same. In terms of satisfaction, the majority of respondents (59.2%) said they had a very satisfactory experience. Had Airbnb not existed, 53.1% of respondents would have opted for a hotel room. Hotels are therefore a major competitor for Airbnb and the advantages and independence of the services should be maintained or even improved. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: Airbnb; advantage; authenticity; tourists; hotels Classification-JEL: L83, M10, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art6_II.4-Sandu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ioana-Ruxandra Cazan Author-Name-First: Ioana-Ruxandra Author-Name-Last: Cazan Author-Email: cazanioana20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Generation Z and their personal relationships Abstract: In the ever-changing 21st century, a new generation has emerged that is ready to change the way we see and interact with others. The aim of this article is to observe the intricacies and complexities of Generation Z's personal relationships. To study this particular generation in more detail, we conducted a quantitative study, a survey to be precise, and the results were interesting. We were able to observe how much value these people place on their personal relationships, how they maintain them, how they engage with each other and how important these relationships are to them personally. Personal connections were highly valued by the majority of participants and had a major impact on their lives. Most of them enjoy meaningful relationships and are satisfied with their circumstances. Despite the fact that this generation is chronically online, it seems to be much easier for most of them to build relationships offline, face-to-face. The ability to express ourselves better in person, the fact that we are social creatures, and the fact that real friendships can form and last much longer are just some of the reasons why some people find it easier to build relationships offline. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: Gen Z; personal relationships; quantitative research; survey; offline and online interactions; social dynamics Classification-JEL: J11, I31 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art7_III-Cazan.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Boitumelo Caroline Rasethuntsa Author-Name-First: Boitumelo Caroline Author-Name-Last: Rasethuntsa Author-Email: tumelengcb@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Lerotholi Polytechnic, School of Enterprise and Management, Maseru, Lesotho Title: The negative spillover effects of tourism on society Abstract: It is well known that tourism plays a prominent role in increasing global economic growth. As much as tourism can be used as a tool to accelerate economic growth, research has shown that tourism is a double-edged sword that can also produce undesirable and harmful outcomes for host societies. With this in mind, this study seeks to understand how host communities are negatively impacted by tourism activities. The study utilises a literature review approach as a data collection tool to identify the negative impacts of tourism activities on societies. The results of the study show that the dimensions of these negative impacts are based on issues such as the destruction of local cultural values, tourists' expectations, physical damage, the commercialisation of social culture, the production of inauthentic products, social instability, and crime. The study also identifies some future areas of research that can be explored by future researchers on this topic. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Keywords: host community; social-sustainability; tourism; spillover effects Classification-JEL: L83, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no1_2024_art8_IV-Rasethuntsa.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Adaptation or replacement? How artificial intelligence is recalibrating roles in tourism Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art2_I-Tuclea_Editorial_62_2024.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Bianca-Raluca Cibu Author-Name-First: Bianca-Raluca Author-Name-Last: Cibu Author-Email: cibubianca18@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Camelia Delcea Author-Name-First: Camelia Author-Name-Last: Delcea Author-Email: camelia.delcea@csie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Adrian Domenteanu Author-Name-First: Adrian Author-Name-Last: Domenteanu Author-Email: domenteanuadrian18@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Determinants in modelling early school dropout Abstract: Recognizing the importance of continuity in education, it was deemed necessary to carry out a study whose main objective is to identify the factors that lead to the intention to drop out in order to formulate effective strategies to combat this phenomenon. Early school dropout has negative consequences both for individual development and for social and economic progress. Therefore, this paper aims to contribute to the understanding and prevention of this phenomenon through a rigorous analysis of its determinants. In this context, eight relevant dependent variables have been identified in the literature that are believed to play a significant role in the intention to drop out of school. These variables include factors such as school absenteeism, alcohol or substance abuse, attitude, awareness, family, family supervision, school environment and school rules. The analysis used in the study examines these significant variables through structural equation modeling (SEM). Smart PLS software was used to conduct this analysis, which allows the use of Partial Least Squares SEM (PLS-SEM) and Bootstrapping modeling techniques. The data used for this research was collected using a well-structured questionnaire consisting of 28 questions aimed at capturing students' perceptions and experiences of school and the factors that might contribute to their intention to drop out of school. A total of 669 respondents completed the questionnaire, providing a solid database for analysis. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: PLS-SEM; Bootstrapping; Romania; education; EU periphery Classification-JEL: H75, I21, I25, P36 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art3_II.1-Cibu-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Are there 'hygiene-motivation' factors in the choice of India as a tourist destination? A structural equation modelling approach Abstract: This study examines the role of motivational factors in the selection of India as a travel destination, using Herzberg’s two-factor theory of motivation (Hygiene-Motivation model) as a theoretical foundation. By examining how stereotypes about India influence tourists' decision making, this study categorises motivational factors into hygiene and motivation categories and examines their influence on destination choice. A survey conducted at the Romanian Tourism Fair in February 2019 with 729 participants forms the basis for this analysis. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was applied to assess the relationships between these factors. The study reveals two main types of factors that influence tourists: Hygiene factors (e.g. accessibility, comfort, food and overall quality of services) and motivational factors (e.g. cultural richness, scenic beauty and local traditions).The study shows that stereotypes about India play a crucial role in shaping tourists’ priorities — those who have negative stereotypes are more likely to focus on hygiene factors, such as ensuring that basic service expectations are met. In addition, while motivational factors still play an important role, elements such as natural beauty and cultural experiences take center stage in the travel decision. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: stereotypes in tourism; Hygiene-motivation theory; destination choice; India; Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) Classification-JEL: Z30, C10, D91 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art4_II.2-Diaconescu.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iuliana Tudose (Pop) Author-Name-First: Iuliana Author-Name-Last: Tudose (Pop) Author-Email: ipop2008@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Iasi, Romania Author-Name: Daniel Bulin Author-Name-First: Daniel Author-Name-Last: Bulin Author-Email: daniel.bulin@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Luciana-Floriana Poenaru Author-Name-First: Luciana-Floriana Author-Name-Last: Poenaru Author-Email: luciana.holostencu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Antonela Toma Author-Name-First: Antonela Author-Name-Last: Toma Author-Email: antonela.toma@upb.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Elena-Corina Cipu Author-Name-First: Elena-Corina Author-Name-Last: Cipu Author-Email: corina.cipu@upb.ro Author-Workplace-Name: University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Delia Popescu Author-Name-First: Delia Author-Name-Last: Popescu Author-Email: delia.popescu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Comparative assessment of crises and recovery in the Romanian tourism market Abstract: The Romanian tourism industry has yet to prove that it is a resilient economic sector that can adapt to global crises. This study provides a contextual analysis of the sector's performance during two international crises – the global financial crisis (GFC) and the COVID-19 pandemic (C19). The main question is: How do tourism demand and accommodation supply in the Romanian tourism sector respond to global shocks, and what patterns of resilience or vulnerability do these crises reveal? Previous studies have focused on tourist satisfaction and the differential impact of tourism activities after EU integration, but have rarely examined the resilience of the sector in the midst of two different global crises. The need for this research stems from its comparative nature —assessing the pre- and post-crisis periods of the GFC and C19 — thus contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the sector's dynamics. This work fills a gap in the existing literature and applies a longitudinal approach to assess Romanian tourism resilience, market confidence and response to economic and health-related shocks. The study applies a quantitative methodological framework and uses time series data from 2002-2022,with descriptive statistics, comparisons and trend analyses serving as the main pillars for interpreting the evolution of tourism demand, accommodation supply and occupancy rates. The analysis shows that the Romanian tourism sector has proven to be resilient, as operational capacity exceeded pre-crisis levels after the COVID-19crisis, although demand fell sharply and has not fully recovered to date. Occupancy rates fell significantly during both crises and have only partially recovered. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: global financial crisis; Covid-19 pandemic; crisis; resilience; recovery; tourism Classification-JEL: Z32, L83, G01, I15 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art5_II.3-Bulin.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anastasia-Cristiana Dumitru Author-Name-First: Anastasia-Cristiana Author-Name-Last: Dumitru Author-Email: dumitruanastasia16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ionel Bran Author-Name-First: Ionel Author-Name-Last: Bran Author-Email: branionel18@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Work climate and economic performance in sustainable companies Abstract: This research aimed to investigate the relationship between work climate, sustainability practices and perceived economic performance in sustainable companies, focusing on the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. The main objective is to assess how workplace climate influence economic performance and how sustainability practices contribute to employee satisfaction. The study uses a quantitative methodology based on a questionnaire consisting of 15 questions distributed to employees of sustainable companies. The collected data were statistically analysed using SPSS software, with correlation and linear regression tests to validate the hypotheses. Three main hypotheses were tested in the study: (H1) the positive relationship between a favourable work climate and economic performance, (H2) the contribution of sustainability practices to improving work climate, and (H3) the correlation between involvement in ESG initiatives and employee satisfaction. The results indicate a significant correlation between a positive work climate and perceived economic performance as well as a correlation between the implementation of ESG initiatives and employee satisfaction. This research contributes to the understanding of how sustainability practises can influence both employee satisfaction and overall business performance and provides guidance for improving organisational strategies in sustainable companies. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: sustainability; work climate; economic performance; ESG; employee satisfaction Classification-JEL: M14, L25, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art6_II.4-Dumitru-Bran.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ancuța Agheniței Author-Name-First: Ancuța Author-Name-Last: Agheniței Author-Email: ancuta.lucaci@usm.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Ștefan cel Mare University, Suceava, Romania Author-Name: Carmen Nastase Author-Name-First: Carmen Author-Name-Last: Nastase Author-Email: carmen.nastase@usm.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Ștefan cel Mare University, Suceava, Romania Author-Name: Carmen Chașovschi Author-Name-First: Carmen Author-Name-Last: Chașovschi Author-Email: carmen.chasovschi@usm.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Ștefan cel Mare University, Suceava, Romania Title: Ecosystem collaboration for climate action: a case study of the ILCA Project Abstract: In recent years, the number of initiatives dealing with climate change has increased significantly as human activity releases more and more greenhouse gases into the environment. There is no doubt that the effects of these emissions are numerous and increasingly alarming. Against this background, this paper assumes that climate change requires the engagement of various groups of stakeholders. This engagement is referred to in this papers ecosystem cooperation for climate action. A feature of ecosystem cooperation is the potential to create a multi-stakeholder network of new partnerships that can generate innovative solutions to climate change problems. This paper argues that ecosystem collaboration is particularly important for both preventing and responding to climate change. Following a theoretical explanation of the concept of ecosystem collaboration, a case study on climate change and sustainability is presented. This case study highlights best practice examples within a European project entitled “Innovation Laboratories for Climate Actions” (ILCA). Through a consortium of six universities and three research institutes from different European countries, the ILCA project aimed to engage multiple stakeholders in national, regional and local ecosystems to develop innovative solutions to tackle climate change. The project brought together businesses, public administrations, civil society and academia from each country. The findings of this paper emphasise the importance of the ILCA project in tackling climate change through ecosystem collaboration and the establishment of a ‘Climate Innovation Lab’ at the Stefan cel Mare” University in Suceava. Such a lab brings together experts from different fields such as economics, engineering and medicine to find innovative solutions to climate problems. We also emphasise the active role of innovation in helping tourism businesses to adapt to climate change. Innovation and collaboration are crucial to fostering a cooperative environment in relation to climate change mitigation. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: ecosystem collaboration; climate change; European project; climate innovation laboratory; tourism business Classification-JEL: D70, O32, Q54, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art7_II.5-Aghenitei-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Catherine Fuseini Author-Name-First: Catherine Author-Name-Last: Fuseini Author-Email: catherinefuseini@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bongo Senior High School, Bongo, Ghana Author-Name: Ellen Olu Fagbemi Author-Name-First: Ellen Author-Name-Last: Olu Fagbemi Author-Email: ellenolu@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Kumasi, Ghana Author-Name: Joshua Awuni Author-Name-First: Joshua Author-Name-Last: Awuni Author-Email: 9231610010@st.uew.edu.gh Author-Workplace-Name: Bongo Senior High School, Bolgatanga, Ghana Title: Influence on turnover in the housekeeping department: a case of some selected hotels in Bolgatanga Municipality Abstract: In the competitive business world, employee turnover has been a pressing issue facing organisations around the world. The study sought to investigate the influence on turnover in the housekeeping department of some selected hotels in Bolgatanga municipality. A descriptive survey design was used. The population of the study comprised200 employees from the housekeeping department of five hotels in Bolgatanga Municipality. The study used purposive and simple random sampling to select 100 housekeeping employees and 40 hotel management employees. The main instrument used in this study was the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were used to summarise the data. The study revealed high employee turnover in the housekeeping department of hotels in Bolgatanga municipality. It was revealed that 3-4 employees leave the housekeeping department of the sampled hotels in Bolgatanga Municipality every year. The results show that employees' expectations are a major determinant of turnover in the housekeeping department of hotels in Bolgatanga municipality. The study revealed that employee expectations have a significant influence on employee turnover in the housekeeping department (p<0.01). It was concluded that improving the employee benefit package, paying employees more and providing more flexible working hours would solve the problem of employee turnover in the housekeeping department of the hotels. It was recommended that hotel industry management should endeavor to use the interview as a tool during the hiring process to understand the job expectations of employees and that the qualified candidates whose job expectations can be met by the hotel should be hired. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: housekeeping department; turnover; employee; hotels; Bolgatanga Classification-JEL: L83, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art8_II.6-Fuseini-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Aurel Costel Chele Author-Name-First: Aurel Costel Author-Name-Last: Chele Author-Email: aurel.costel.chele@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania Author-Name: Gheorghe Podaru Author-Name-First: Gheorghe Author-Name-Last: Podaru Author-Email: podaru.gheorghe@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania Author-Name: Violeta Strătilă (Chele) Author-Name-First: Violeta Author-Name-Last: Strătilă (Chele) Author-Email: violeta.chele@yahoo.com Author-Workplace-Name: Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania Title: The role of special events in tourism Abstract: Event tourism is a particular form of tourism which, in order to attract visitors, requires the holding of special events. It is considered a subcategory of general tourism and differs from it by its characteristics, having a component of uniqueness (exclusivity), a component of fixed duration (depending on the duration of the event), a component of geographical concentration (the specific location of the event), but also a permanent and temporary economic impact (large influx of visitors). In this paper, the impact of three special events is analysed, each event in a different location, more precisely we analysed a mountain location (Băile Tușnad, Harghita County), a seaside location (Costinești, Constanta County) and an urban metropolis (Cluj-Napoca), all in Romania, in parallel we analysed an event outside the country (music festival in Belgium). The presentation and analysis of the figures from these four different locations leads us to conclusions and comparative interpretations. The study ends with the presentation of the conclusions and some suggestions in this direction of tourism, in our opinion to paint a real picture of this phenomenon, a successful tourism that requires a concentrated effort of all the actors involved, more precisely, the decision makers, entrepreneurs and tourists. The impact of special events on a local community is captured by figures that answer the two research questions: "Is there a relationship between a special event and the number of tourists?"; "Does a special event perceived as an economic accelerator also have negative aspects?" Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2024 Creation-Date: 2024 Volume: 30 Issue: 1 Keywords: event tourism; special events; sustainable tourism; sustainable development; innovation in tourism Classification-JEL: L83, O12, Z31, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol6_no2_2024_art9_III-Chele-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2024-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Anniversary editorial: 15 years of CACTUS - The Tourism Journal for Research, Education, Culture and Soul Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art2_I-Tuclea_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-1 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iuliana Tudose-Pop Author-Name-First: Iuliana Author-Name-Last: Tudose-Pop Author-Email: ipop2008@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: University Alexandru Ioan Cuza of Iasi, Iasi, Romania Title: Exploring research methods for tourism resilience Abstract: This paper examines various research methods used in the study of resilience in tourism across European Union(EU) Member States. To this end, several relevant literature articles were reviewed. In the theoretical research process, particular attention was paid to the research methods employed by researchers to analyze resilience in tourism, the indicators used, and the results obtained. The article aims to present a concise overview of the most commonly used research methods for analyzing tourism resilience in EU Member States, focusing on two major crises that severely impacted these economies: the financial and economic crisis (2008–2010) and the crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022). The research proposes a set of indicators, constructible from Eurostat data, for future analyses using multiple linear regression techniques and offers a modest methodological proposal for further studies to explore the role of key factors contributing to tourism resilience within EU countries. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: resilience; research methods; tourism; European Union; risk Classification-JEL: L83, Q54, Z30, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art11_IV-Tudose-Pop.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-10 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Wijaya I Nyoman Cahyadi Author-Name-First: Wijaya I Nyoman Author-Name-Last: Cahyadi Author-Email: cahyadiwijaya@undiknas.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Universitas Pendidikan Nasional, Denpasar, Indonesia Author-Name: Ahmadi Lukman Author-Name-First: Ahmadi Author-Name-Last: Lukman Author-Email: lukman.ahmadi@ppl.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Politeknik Pariwisata Lombok, Praya, Indonesia Author-Name: Sena I Made Aswin Ananta Author-Name-First: Sena I Made Aswin Author-Name-Last: Ananta Author-Email: aswinananta@undiknas.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Universitas Pendidikan Nasional, Denpasar, Indonesia Title: Optimizing green food on MICE industry: determining performance strategy Abstract: The increasing emphasis on sustainability in global business ecosystems has transformed environmental responsibility from an ethical obligation to a strategic imperative. In the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry, eco-friendly food is crucial in reducing environmental impact and improving long-term competitiveness. However, the Indonesian MICE sector faces major challenges in implementing structured sustainability strategies, especially in food procurement and waste management. The lack of a standardized decision-making framework limits the industry's ability to optimize its sustainability efforts and creates a research gap in identifying the most impactful green food initiatives. Data was collected from 50 individual members of the Indonesian Event Association (IVENDO) representing event consulting, event management, hospitality and exhibition organization, as well as from three medium-sized companies affiliated with IVENDO and operating in the MICE sector. The results show that local and organic sourcing (LOS) is the highest priority (0.206), followed by storage optimization (SO) (0.138), sustainable packaging (SP) (0.129) and energy-efficient operations (EEO) (0.100). These results highlight the industry's preference for local partnerships, efficient food storage management and environmentally friendly operational concepts. While the study provides a structured approach to green food optimization, the focus on Indonesia and the limited sample size limit its applicability on a broader scale. However, the findings serve as a foundation for future research to expand datasets and explore blockchain-enabled supply chain transparency to ultimately improve sustainability and operational efficiency in the Indonesian MICE industry while strengthening its global impact. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: MICE industry; green food strategies; Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP); sustainable event management; decision-making framework Classification-JEL: L83, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art3_II.1-Cahyadi-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-2 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alina-Maria Vieriu Author-Name-First: Alina-Maria Author-Name-Last: Vieriu Author-Email: vieriualina16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Iulia Daus (Ogoreanu) Author-Name-First: Iulia Author-Name-Last: Daus (Ogoreanu) Author-Email: dausiulia17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Andreea Fortuna Șchiopu Author-Name-First: Andreea Fortuna Author-Name-Last: Șchiopu Author-Email: andreea.schiopu@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Ana Mihaela Pădurean Author-Name-First: Ana Mihaela Author-Name-Last: Pădurean Author-Email: mihaela.padurean@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The Impact of Socio-Demographic Factors on Tourism Experience: The Role of Sense of Place, Memorability, and Authenticity Abstract: Tourists’ satisfaction and post-travel experiences are impacted by sense of place, memorability and authenticity. These concepts have been thoroughly studied, but not from a socio-demographic perspective. The present study contributes to the growing literature regarding sense of place, memorability, authenticity and destination satisfaction in the context of socio-demographics (age, income, and gender). This paper employed a survey using a sample of 648 respondents. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney and Linear Regression were applied. Findings show that sense of place varies according to age, with younger people more prone to develop ties with visited place. Memorability differs according to income and gender, where women tend to have a more memorable tourism experience. Authenticity differs according to gender and income, with women and high-income groups reporting higher authenticity; lastly, destination satisfaction variations were present across gender and income groups. In addition, regression results showed that sense of place, memorability and authenticity have a positive influence on tourist destination satisfaction. These findings contribute to travel experiences studies by integrating a socio-demographic context into destination satisfaction. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: sense of place; memorability; authenticity; destination satisfaction; socio-demographics Classification-JEL: Z30, C10 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art4_II.2-Vieriu-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Maouahib Zerouati Author-Name-First: Maouahib Author-Name-Last: Zerouati Author-Email: maouahib.zerouati@univ-setif.dz Author-Workplace-Name: Setif 1 University-Ferhat ABBAS, Setif, Algeria Author-Name: Asma Boukhaoua Author-Name-First: Asma Author-Name-Last: Boukhaoua Author-Email: asma.boukhaoua@univ-setif.dz Author-Workplace-Name: Setif 1 University-Ferhat ABBAS, Setif, Algeria Title: Understanding how social media information intensity drives choices in tourism destinations: an exploratory study Abstract: Social media platforms have fundamentally changed the way tourists discover, evaluate and select destinations by amplifying electronic word of mouth. This study examines the role of information intensity, a critical dimension of electronic word of mouth, in influencing the successive decision stages of awareness, interest, evaluation, trial, and destination choice. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling was used to collect survey data from100 active social media users from Algeria who had recently planned or selected a travel destination. The results show that information intensity has a significant effect on awareness and directly influences destination choice, with intermediate constructs such as interest, evaluation and trial playing an important mediating role. These results underline the importance of high quality, engaging content in increasing awareness and acceptance of destinations. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: information intensity; tourism destination choice; social media; structural equation modelling (SEM) Classification-JEL: M31, L83, Z33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art5_II.3-Zerouati-Boukhaoua.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diaconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Gabriela Țigu Author-Name-First: Gabriela Author-Name-Last: Țigu Author-Email: gabriela.tigu@ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Cristina-Mirabela Malaia Author-Name-First: Cristina-Mirabela Author-Name-Last: Malaia Author-Email: malaiacristina10@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Exploring the cultural foundations of digital innovation in tourism: a conceptual framework Abstract: The digital transformation of the tourism industry presents both significant opportunities and complex challenges for companies seeking to enhance competitiveness. This study explores the role of organizational culture in shaping how tourism firms adopt and implement digital innovation. A conceptual framework is proposed, grounded in the Competing Values Framework (CVF), which categorizes organizational cultures into Clan, Adhocracy, Market, and Hierarchy types. The framework highlights how these cultural dimensions affect the integration of digital tools, market adaptability, and organizational performance. Drawing on a theoretical synthesis of the literature on culture and innovation in tourism, the study conducts an exploratory analysis of ten tourism companies. The findings suggest that organizational culture is a key enabler of digital transformation, although the small sample prevents statistical generalization. Companies with adhocracy-oriented cultures showed the highest digitalization scores, while hierarchical cultures lagged behind. Moreover, people-oriented leadership emerged as a positive moderator of digital innovation adoption, whereas task-oriented leadership had no significant influence. These preliminary results underscore the importance of aligning culture and leadership style with digital transformation goals. The paper offers both theoretical contributions and practical implications by linking cultural attributes with technology-driven strategic development. For tourism managers, understanding these dynamics can inform more effective digital strategies. The study also opens new avenues for future empirical research to validate and refine the proposed model across broader samples and diverse tourism contexts. Overall, it provides a foundation for further inquiry into how organizational culture and leadership styles can support digital modernization in tourism. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: organizational culture; digitalization; tourism industry; Competing Values Framework; organizational leadership Classification-JEL: M14, L83, O14 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art6_II.4-Diaconescu-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Noui Rabah Author-Name-First: Noui Author-Name-Last: Rabah Author-Email: rabah.noui@univ-bejaia.dz Author-Workplace-Name: University of Bejaia, Bejaia, Algeria Title: The role of social networks in enhancing domestic tourism in Algeria Abstract: This article attempts to analyze the impact of digital communication, particularly social networks and travel management platforms, on the promotion and revitalization of domestic tourism in Algeria. The methodology used is mainly, but not exclusively, based on a questionnaire survey of tour operators and regular tourists. The questionnaire was designed online using Google Forms and distributed on various online platforms specialized in tourism. 114 valid questionnaires were retrieved and statistically analyzed using SPSS. The main results clearly show the growing role that digital communication is playing in creating a new culture of domestic tourism. 78%of respondents stated that they were influenced by this digital strategy when choosing their destinations. The use of digital social networks, particularly Facebook and Instagram, together account for around 80-85% of responses. These results illustrate how social media and online platforms are reorganizing the tourism value chain on the one hand and changing the customer experience on the other, which is essential for understanding the new tourism expectations and behaviors, as it is a consumer-centric approach. The study suggests that tourism marketing strategies should focus more on partnerships with local influencers to boost domestic tourism and develop local tourism programs that focus on archeological, historical, cultural, religious and environmental values. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: domestic tourism; digital marketing; social networks; tourism value chain; customer experience Classification-JEL: M31, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art7_II.5-Rabah.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Daniela-Elena Mocanu Author-Name-First: Daniela-Elena Author-Name-Last: Mocanu Author-Email: daniela.elena.mocanu@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Diana-Maria Preda (Naum) Author-Name-First: Diana-Maria Preda Author-Name-Last: (Naum) Author-Email: daianapreda21@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Olimpia State Author-Name-First: Olimpia Author-Name-Last: State Author-Email: state.olimpia@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Mădălina-Lavinia Țală Author-Name-First: Mădălina-Lavinia Author-Name-Last: Țală Author-Email: madalina.tala@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Digital transformation and sustainability: mapping research gaps and thematic connections Abstract: The intersection of digital transformation and sustainability is increasingly recognized as a critical area of research, but the academic literature remains fragmented and lacks integrative frameworks. A review of previous studies shows that while digital technologies such as AI, IoT and big data offer significant opportunities to advance sustainability goals, research has mainly focused on a few sectors and regions, with persistent gaps unstandardized impact metrics, theoretical integration and attention to the environmental footprint of digital solutions. To address these limitations, this article applies Systematic Network Literature Analysis, combining systematic literature review with advanced bibliometric analysis using VOS viewer. Our process began with 357articles identified in the Web of Science database using the keywords “digital transformation” and “sustainability”; after applying category and document-type filters, 68 articles published between 2016 and 2025were selected for in-depth analysis. Our analysis empirically shows that, in addition to the central concepts of "digital transformation” and “sustainability,” the literature is grouped around subtopics from the fields of business and management: Technological Enablers (e.g., big data, industry 4.0), Innovation and Business Models(e.g., business model innovation), Performance and Impact (e.g., performance, challenges) and Sustainability Dimensions (e.g., environmental sustainability, circular economy). Co-occurrence and citation analyses not only confirm known sectoral and geographical imbalances but also provide new insights by quantifying the density and interconnections of key concepts and highlighting underexplored sectors such as healthcare, agriculture and education. This structured mapping advances the field by offering a visualized knowledge map and revealing actionable research gaps and emerging trends. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: digital transformation; sustainability; business; management; bibliometric analysis Classification-JEL: M1, M2, Q5, O33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art8_II.6-Mocanu-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-7 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Iuliana Mădalina Petrică (Papuc) Author-Name-First: Iuliana Mădalina Author-Name-Last: Petrică (Papuc) Author-Email: petricaiuliana16@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: The impact of ESG disclosure on firm value: evidence from the tourism industry Abstract: In light of recent challenges, including climate change initiatives, the need for natural resource preservation, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance(ESG) disclosure has reached new heights. The tourism industry, characterized by its reliance on natural resources and interaction with local communities, stands out as a sector where sustainability initiatives are essential not only to mitigate negative impacts but also to improve stakeholder relations. The data was collected from Thomson Reuters' Eikon platform and covers a sample of 117 tourism companies from 2020 to 2022. Using SPSS statistical software, regression modelling was applied to determine the extent to which ESG information is correlated with market value. This paper highlights the key findings, including a significant association between ESG disclosure and firm value in the tourism sector, with ESG values explaining 59.4% of the variation in market value. Positive impacts were observed in two industry subcategories- Hotels, Motels & Cruise Lines and Leisure& Recreation, while Restaurants & Bars showed no significant effect. The originality of this study consists of it examination of the impact of ESG not only within the tourism industry as a whole, but also across its three specific sub-categories, providing a comprehensive perspective on the topic. It contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable business practices and has implications for both companies and investors seeking to harmonise financial and sustainability objectives. Future research could benefit from qualitative approaches to better understand the nuanced relationship between ESG practices and corporate value. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: ESG; firm value; sustainable tourism; sustainability; market value Classification-JEL: L83, M14, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art9_II.7-Petrica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-8 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Andrada-Jawel Istanbouly Author-Name-First: Andrada-Jawel Author-Name-Last: Istanbouly Author-Email: istanboulyandrada21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Branding and brand equity in the hospitality industry in Romania Abstract: In the faced-paced world of the 21st century, with unique new inventions around every corner in the hospitality industry, something always must stand out, be different, be an eye-catcher. Words like branding and brand equity are important - what makes something the way it truly is, what draws customers to a particular place or product, especially after the pandemic that has changed the entire industry. To explore these concepts in depth, a quantitative study was conducted, a survey to be precise, and the results that emerged are quite captivating. With just one name in mind (the brand name), potential customers were able to visualize what a hotel looks like, what the atmosphere is like and how they would feel if they stayed at that particular hotel. Branding and brand equity are very important in the hospitality industry as they influence staff opinion, brand loyalty and willingness to pay more for a particular hotel brand, thus increasing sales and therefore profits. A strong brand can set a hotel apart from its competitors, encourage customer loyalty and create a sense of trust among customers. To gain a competitive advantage, hotels in the Romanian market need to use branding and brand equity to their advantage. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Keywords: branding; brand equity; Romania; hospitality; quantitative research Classification-JEL: M39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no1_2025_art10_III-Istanbouly.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-9 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Claudia-Elena Țuclea Author-Name-First: Claudia-Elena Author-Name-Last: Țuclea Author-Email: claudia.tuclea@com.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Tourism between knowledge and territory: the Sapanca lesson Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art2_I-Tuclea_Editorial.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-11 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Noémi Tordai (Pál) Author-Name-First: Noémi Tordai Author-Name-Last: (Pál) Author-Email: pal.noemi.24@stud.umfst.ro Author-Workplace-Name: George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș, Romania Author-Name: Beáta Tatár Author-Name-First: Beáta Author-Name-Last: Tatár Author-Email: tatar.beata.24@stud.umfst.ro Author-Workplace-Name: George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș, Romania Author-Name: Alexis-Monica Moga Author-Name-First: Alexis-Monica Author-Name-Last: Moga Author-Email: moga.alexis-monica.25@stud.umfst.ro Author-Workplace-Name: George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș, Romania Author-Name: Flavia Dana Oltean Author-Name-First: Flavia Dana Author-Name-Last: Oltean Author-Email: flavia.oltean@umfst.ro Author-Workplace-Name: George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș, Romania Title: From farm to fine dining: the impact of local sourcing on the competitiveness of Romanian luxury restaurants Abstract: Sustainability has become a defining axis of innovation and competitiveness in the global fine dining sector, yet its translation into operational and managerial practices remains uneven, particularly in emerging markets. This study examines how sustainable gastronomy practices are integrated within a high-end rural hospitality context, using Bethlen Estates Transylvania as a single embedded case study. The research adopts a convergent mixed-methods design, combining semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (executive chef, operations coordinator, garden manager, and a local supplier) and a complementary pilot survey (N = 140) assessing consumer awareness and willingness to pay for sustainability in fine dining. Qualitative data were analysed through thematic coding, while quantitative responses were processed descriptively, with internal consistency verified (Cronbach’s α > 0.70).Findings indicate that sustainable fine dining in a post-socialist, rural context requires not only ecological and ethical commitment, but also creative adaptation to infrastructural and perceptual constraints. In this case, sustainability functions both as a competitive strategy and as a narrative the restaurant constructs about itself – one that connects authenticity, locality, and value creation. The study contributes to the literature on sustainable gastronomy by offering a contextualised model of integration between environmental responsibility, luxury experience, and community-based sourcing. Limitations include the single-case design and non-probabilistic sampling. Future research should consider comparative multi-case analyses across the Central and Eastern European region. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: sustainable gastronomy; Michelin Green Star; proximate luxury; Romania; Bethlen Estates Transylvania Classification-JEL: L83, Q56 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art11_II.9-Pal-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-20 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alexandra Bianca Tîrnăcop Author-Name-First: Alexandra Bianca Author-Name-Last: Tîrnăcop Author-Email: tirnacopalexandra21@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Turbocharged: automating quality analysis in trust & safety Abstract: Trust and Safety (T&S) is a key framework for online platforms, aiming to protect users from harm such as misinformation, harassment, and exploitation, while also supporting free expression. Although policies, AI tools, and cross-platform collaboration (e.g., GIFCT, StopNCII.org) enhance moderation, significant challenges remain. This study uses a demo dataset of 15 social media posts, reviewed by 9 moderators and checked by a single analyst. Each ticket has been reviewed by three raters to ensure agreement. The model achieved a precision, recall, and F1 score of 70.37%, with an overall accuracy of 64.44%. Automation improves efficiency but requires bias moderation, transparency, and human intervention to address challenging content. However, outsourcing and underinvestment in moderators raise ethical concerns, as human reviewers face psychological risks without adequate support. To address these issues, this paper proposes a decision matrix for use in both machine learning training and moderator and quality analyst training. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: artificial intelligence; key performance indicators; machine learning Classification-JEL: M11, O22 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art12_III-Tirnacop.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-21 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Isabelle Frank Author-Name-First: Isabelle Author-Name-Last: Frank Author-Email: isabelle.frank@education.lu Author-Workplace-Name: École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme du Luxembourg, Diekirch, Luxembourg Title: Transforming tourism education: four years of innovation at the École d’Hôtellerie et de Tourisme du Luxembourg (EHTL) Abstract: For over twenty years, the École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme du Luxembourg (EHTL) has placed tourism at the heart of its institutional identity. In the wake of COVID-19, the tourism sector has experienced structural changes, with greater emphasis on artificial intelligence, local immersion, and social inclusion. In response, EHTL has redesigned its tourism programme to meet evolving market needs while maintaining educational quality and employability. The revised curriculum features historical and cultural literacy, integration of digital tools and AI, sustainability-focused storytelling, and a shift from passive observation to active local engagement. Excellence in hospitality remains a core component. A rigorous methodological framework guided curriculum development, including professional consultation, literature review, participation in industry events, and reflective pedagogical practice. Outcomes include a region-specific curriculum for EMHTR in Cotonou, Benin, aligned with global standards, and the planned launch of a new BTS in Tourism and Communication. This curriculum fosters immersive, digitally enhanced learning and incorporates communication strategies to support meaningful, inclusive tourism. EHTL thus distinguishes itself as a leader in tourism education innovation. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: curriculum; tourism; communication; resilience; think tank Classification-JEL: I21, L83, Z32, Z39 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art13_IV-Frank.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-22 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Alexandru Marian Petrisor Tanase Author-Name-First: Alexandru Marian Petrisor Author-Name-Last: Tanase Author-Email: alexandru.tanase@csie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Emilia Titan Author-Name-First: Emilia Author-Name-Last: Titan Author-Email: emilia.titan@csie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Iliana Caragea Author-Name-First: Iliana Author-Name-Last: Caragea Author-Email: iliana.caragea@csie.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Education, workforce integration, and social inclusion: how does Romania compare with the European Union? Abstract: Education and workforce integration are essential in the 21st century, particularly in discussions of sustainable economic growth and social cohesion. Furthermore, synergy between academic outcomes and labour market demands is crucial for fostering innovation, reducing unemployment, and maintaining competitiveness in the current economic landscape. Proper allocation of resources within the educational system not only enhances skill development but also improves the workforce’s ability to adapt rapidly to technological advancements. This paper examines the performance of European Union countries in a single year within this sector, using seven key variables related to education and the workforce. Principal Component Analysis was conducted to reduce dimensionality and identify three main components that summarise the variance observed in the data. The findings reveal considerable differences among EU countries regarding the coordination between education and workforce demands, largely due to inconsistent investment in education. Additionally, based on the three main components identified, cluster analysis was performed, revealing distinct groups of countries with similar outcomes, including high-performing countries with well-integrated education and employment systems, and low-performing countries where poor resource allocation has limited employment adaptability and economic engagement. Overall, the evidence highlights the importance of policies that reduce disparities, promote talent development, and strengthen the link between education and workforce demands, ensuring that future challenges are met with resilience and prosperity. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: tertiary education; school dropout; youth employment; social exclusion; workforce integration Classification-JEL: I21, I25, I26 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art3_II.1-Tanase-et-al.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-12 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Rita Puji Lestari Author-Name-First: Rita Puji Author-Name-Last: Lestari Author-Email: 190510513@student.mercubuana-yogya.ac.id Author-Workplace-Name: Mercu Buana University Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia Author-Name: Asep Rokhyadi Permana Saputra Author-Name-First: Asep Rokhyadi Permana Author-Name-Last: Saputra Author-Email: asep@mercubuana-yogya.ac.id2 Author-Workplace-Name: Mercu Buana University Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia Title: When leadership fails but CSR works: insights into sustainable business innovation in the hospitality industry Abstract: The rapid expansion of hotel construction in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, one of Indonesia’s leading tourist destinations, has contributed to environmental degradation, including declining air and water quality, depletion of natural resources, land-use change, and poor environmental management. These issues collectively increase disaster risks and threaten community well-being. Grounded in Resource-Based View theory, this study examines how strategic organisational resources influence sustainability outcomes. Specifically, it analyses the effects of Transformational Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility on Sustainable Business Innovation, with Green Human Resource Management as a moderating variable. Data were collected from 380 hotel employees using non-probability purposive sampling and quota sampling based on the Slovin formula from a population of 5,445. The data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling, Partial Least Squares to evaluate the measurement model (validity, reliability, Heterotrait-Monotrait Ratio) and structural model (fit and hypothesis testing). The results show that Transformational Leadership has no significant effect on Sustainable Business Innovation, while Corporate Social Responsibility has a positive and significant influence. Green Human Resource Management does not moderate the relationship between either Transformational Leadership or Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Business Innovation. Theoretically, the study strengthens Resource-Based View by emphasising the strategic value of human resources as valuable, rare, inimitable, and non-substitutable assets. Practically, it highlights the importance of talent retention, fair reward systems, and authentic employee engagement in sustainability programmes. Overall, this research enriches the limited empirical evidence linking Resource-Based View, leadership, Corporate Social Responsibility, and human resource management practices within sustainable hospitality management. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: corporate social responsibility; green human resource management; sustainable business innovation; transformational leadership Classification-JEL: J53, M54, L21 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art4_II.2-Asep-.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-13 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ümit Şengel Author-Name-First: Ümit Author-Name-Last: Şengel Author-Email: umitsengel@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Science, Sakarya, Türkiye Author-Name: Zeki Coşkun Author-Name-First: Zeki Author-Name-Last: Coşkun Author-Email: zeki.coskun@msgsu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Istanbul, Türkiye Author-Name: Sena Uz Author-Name-First: Sena Author-Name-Last: Uz Author-Email: didarsari@subu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Science, Sakarya, Türkiye Title: Understanding cultural tourism through the themes of history and identity in postmodern novels: the white castle Abstract: Cultural tourism emerges from various sources rooted in social life. Novels that explore social elements such as history, identity, and culture serve as important written sources of information, stimulating tourists’ interest in destinations. Although concepts like history and identity are abstract, they can become significant attractions when highlighted by authors’ descriptive abilities within the narrative, influencing readers and arousing their curiosity. In this context, the study aims to identify the roles of novels in cultural tourism by examining the themes of history and identity in postmodern novels. The study used the autoethnographic method and analysed Orhan Pamuk’s “The White Castle,” which compares East and West through cultural values such as history and identity, as it was considered suitable for the study’s purpose. The results indicate that the novel presents cultural differences through elements such as identity, history, religion, city, language, art, and gastronomy. The novel vividly conveys these cultural differences through the interplay of plot and description. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: postmodern novel; cultural tourism; history; identity Classification-JEL: Z1, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art5_II.3-Sengel.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-14 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Angelina Titeryakova Author-Name-First: Angelina Author-Name-Last: Titeryakova Author-Email: a_titeryakova@uft-plovdiv.bg Author-Workplace-Name: University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv, Bulgaria Title: Cinematic journeys: analysing the appeal of pop culture tourism through tourist perceptions Abstract: Pop culture tourism, particularly media-induced tourism, is an increasingly relevant phenomenon in which travel decisions are shaped by popular media such as films, TV series, literary works, and other forms of media. This paper explores the intersection of media consumption and tourist behaviour, focusing on how audiences engage with cinematic franchises through travel and how these experiences influence travellers’ decisions. Using quantitative data collected through a questionnaire with a sample size of 116 respondents, distributed during a pop culture event – London MegaCon 2024—the study investigates the impact of demographic variables such as age, gender, and country of residence on preferences for franchise-related destinations, guided tours, and trip duration. The data were analysed with IBM SPSS and show that gender and country of origin significantly impact travel motivations, while age has less influence. A strong interest in guided tours and visits to franchise-related locations was recorded, especially among frequent travellers. The data also revealed interest in multiple franchises, suggesting that tourism experiences can be multifaceted, encompassing various fan interests rather than being tailored to a single franchise. These findings have implications for destination marketers and tourism product developers. Strategies such as immersive storytelling, customisable tour packages, and product diversification can enhance the appeal of pop culture sites. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: media-induced travel; film pilgrims; visitor insights; destination management; cultural tourism Classification-JEL: Z31, Z32 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art6_II.4-Titeryakova.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-15 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Kuzu Sinem Author-Name-First: Kuzu Author-Name-Last: Sinem Author-Email: 22502005002@subu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Sakarya, Türkiye Author-Name: Sarı Çallı Didar Author-Name-First: Sarı Çallı Author-Name-Last: Didar Author-Email: didarsari@subu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Sakarya, Türkiye Title: The role of tourism in the sustainability of cultural heritage: qualitative research on Turkish bath culture Abstract: This research aims to examine Turkish bath culture in depth within the context of cultural heritage, assessing the contemporary continuity and transformation of traditional bathing practices, spatial and symbolic objects, and ritual-based practices using a holistic approach. A semi-structured interview technique was carefully selected for this study, based on a qualitative method. Interviews were conducted in 20 active baths in the Fatih district of Istanbul, which are considered spatially and functionally representative and possess a strong historical context. The data obtained were analysed in detail through a descriptive analysis process. The findings clearly demonstrate a high degree of continuity in traditional bathing practices and professional roles such as “tellaklık” and “natırlık”, while bath objects continue to be used largely in their authentic form. However, it has beenobserved that culturally meaningful ritual practices such as the bridal bath, the groom's bath, and the forty bath are becoming increasingly rare and, in some cases, have transformed into symbolic representations. This situation makes it urgently necessary to address Turkish bath culture comprehensively and to develop innovative strategies to ensure its sustainability. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Pages: 11-14 Keywords: tourism; cultural heritage; Turkish bath; Turkish bath culture Classification-JEL: Z1, Z32, L83 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art7_II.5-Sinem-Didar.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-16 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Cristina-Mirabela Malaia Author-Name-First: Cristina-Mirabela Author-Name-Last: Malaia Author-Email: malaiacristina10@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Vlad Diaconescu Author-Name-First: Vlad Author-Name-Last: Diaconescu Author-Email: diaconescuvlad17@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Author-Name: Daniela-Elena Mocanu Author-Name-First: Daniela-Elena Author-Name-Last: Mocanu Author-Email: mocanudaniela08@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Developing a value-responsive quality culture in Romanian hotel chains Abstract: The hospitality sector has been profoundly reshaped by technological innovation, societal change, and the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These forces have redefined guest expectations, shifting focus from traditional service indicators to ethical conduct, personalization, and emotionally resonant experiences. This study explores how Romanian hotel chains address these evolving demands by fostering a value-responsive quality culture(VRQC). Using a qualitative research design with semi-structured interviews and content analysis, the paper identifies three key trends: (1) rising expectations for ethical, sustainable, and inclusive practices; (2) increased demand for personalization enabled by digital integration; and (3) greater emphasis on authenticity and emotional connection in guest experiences. Based on these findings, the article presents a VRQC framework that integrates these trends into a strategic model for improving service quality, providing practical guidance for hospitality managers and contributing to the academic discussion on quality culture in turbulent and rapidly changing environments. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: hospitality management; quality culture; consumer expectations; sustainability; personalization; authenticity Classification-JEL: L83, M31, Q56, O33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art8_II.6-Malaia-et-all.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-17 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Tuğba Arıcı Author-Name-First: Tuğba Author-Name-Last: Arıcı Author-Email: 24502005002@subu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Sakarya, Türkiye Author-Name: Nuray Eker Author-Name-First: Nuray Author-Name-Last: Eker Author-Email: neker@subu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Sakarya University of Applied Sciences, Sakarya, Türkiye Title: The interaction of Generation Z with intangible cultural heritage through digital platforms and their participation intentions Abstract: Generation Z, born into the digital age, differs from previous generations in their perspectives on future generations, communication styles, and online consumption habits. They view technology as an essential part of daily life. Digital environments that transfer, preserve, and make cultural heritage values accessible encourage young people to engage with these values, enabling them to pass them on to future generations and reach a broader audience. Tourism is another factor that supports the sustainability of cultural heritage. Generation Z, whose consumer habits are shaped by digital technologies, has become a key segment in the tourism market. It is believed that transforming intangible cultural heritage elements into digital media could increase Generation Z's curiosity about and interest in cultural heritage tourism. As a result, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) values can be handed down to future generations, and conservation plans can be developed. This research conceptually explores the potential impact of Generation Z's interaction with digital intangible components on their intention to participate in cultural heritage tourism. The study's focus on Generation Z's digital engagement with intangible cultural heritage within the context of cultural heritage tourism makes it unique. Accordingly, it is recommended that the Theory of Planned Behavior model be used to examine how interactions with digital intangible cultural heritage influence Generation Z's intentions to engage in cultural heritage tourism. This study could serve as a foundation for further empirical research. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: intangible cultural heritage; generation Z; cultural heritage tourism; digitalization Classification-JEL: Z32, M31, Z1 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art9_II.7-AriciEker.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-18 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Anton-Liviu Petrica Author-Name-First: Anton-Liviu Author-Name-Last: Petrica Author-Email: petricaanton20@stud.ase.ro Author-Workplace-Name: Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania Title: Beyond borders: assessing the educational value of the metaverse in tourism Abstract: This pilot study explores the educational value of the metaverse in tourism through the lens of Constructivist Learning Theory. A survey-based methodology was used to examine the influence of four key constructs – Active Learning (AL), Knowledge Construction, Reflection and Adaptation (KC), Personalized Learning (PL), and Learning by Social Interaction (LSI)—on the learning efficiency of the metaverse in tourism. Thirty participants, 43.33% male and 56.67% female, from Generations X, Y, and Z, completed the questionnaire. The survey demonstrated good reliability and validity, providing insights into the metaverse's role in tourism education. The findings highlight the importance of knowledge construction, reflection and adaptation, and learning by social interaction in improving learning efficiency through collaborative and reflective processes. In contrast, active learning and personalized learning did not show statistically significant effects on learning efficiency, suggesting that factors such as instructional design, learner motivation, or digital literacy in the metaverse may mediate their effectiveness. This research enhances the understanding of the metaverse not merely as a platform for entertainment or simulation, but as a revolutionary medium for experiential learning and the development of knowledge about touristic destinations. Journal: CACTUS – Journal of Tourism Business, Management and Economics Year: 2025 Creation-Date: 2025 Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Keywords: metaverse; constructivism; learning; tourism; digital experiences Classification-JEL: I24, O33 File-URL: https://cactus-journal-of-tourism.ase.ro/wp-content/uploads/pdfs/vol7_no2_2025_art10_II.8-Petrica.pdf File-Format: Application/pdf Handle: RePEc:bum:cactus:cactus-2025-19