1. Image-based analysis of tourist destination perceptions : a deep learning and spatial–temporal study in SloveniaDejan Paliska, Aleksandra Brezovec, Gorazd Sedmak, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: In the context of fierce competition among tourist destinations and increasing difficulty of differentiation, developing a strong destination image is particularly important. A comprehensive understanding of how tourists perceive destinations through user-generated images can help destination management organizations (DMOs) design more effective marketing strategies. This is especially relevant for destinations with spatially and temporally dispersed tourism resources and strong seasonal dynamics. This paper analyses inbound tourist photographs by combining deep learning techniques with spatial analysis to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of photo scenes and shifts in scene preferences among tourists. The study focuses on three distinct types of destinations in Slovenia—urban (Ljubljana), nature-based/alpine (Bled), and coastal (Piran, Izola, Koper)—providing insights into how image-based spatial scene analysis can inform destination marketing strategies. The results reveal significant spatial and temporal heterogeneity of scenes across micro destinations. Nature-based destinations exhibit lower topic entropy and fewer topic changes per user, whereas urban destinations show higher variability, with users changing topics on average five times per day. Seasonal effects are moderate: nature-based destinations display lower topic entropy in winter and higher in autumn and spring, coastal destinations show less pronounced seasonal variation, and urban destinations show almost none. These findings provide valuable insights into the spatial and temporal distribution of tourist interests and offer practical guidance for DMOs in strategic marketing planning.
Keywords: tourist destination image, user-generated content, deep learning, spatial-temporal analysis, destination marketing strategy
Published in RUP: 18.02.2026; Views: 26; Downloads: 2
 Full text (2,93 MB)
This document has more files! More... |
2. Which resources should be developed into tourist attractions? : The viewpoint of key stakeholders on the Slovenian coastGorazd Sedmak, Ksenija Vodeb, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: Motivation: Tourist attractions are key to the development of tourism, yet the process of tourism valorization—transforming resources like natural and cultural heritage or historical discoveries into attractions— remains relatively under-researched. In the phase of assessing the suitability and potential of these resources for tourism valorization, usually only experts and the tourism industry are involved, neglecting the views of key stakeholders: tourists and locals. Purpose: The main purpose of the research is to identify the indicators that determine the potential/suitability of resources to become tourist attractions and to assess the weight that each indicator has in the eyes of tourists and locals. Furthermore, we examine whether there are significant differences between tourists and locals in this respect that deserve special attention. Approach and methods: A set of indicators was compiled to assess the suitability of resources from previous research on tourism valorization. Surveys were carried out among tourists and locals in Piran, the most popular Slovenian tourist municipality, and the weights assigned to the indicators were compared between the two groups. Findings: Authenticity, accessibility, uniqueness, and preservation were identified as the most important indicators for assessing the potential/suitability of resources to be developed into attractions. The “Relevance to the community” indicator was identified as the most problematic, as tourists and locals attribute quite different importance to it, which can lead to conflicts in tourism development. In addition to the differences between stakeholders, some distinctions were also identified between the subsamples of each group. Policy implications: Policy-makers should devote more time and energy to involving and empowering the local population in the process of resource valorization. Inclusive destination management can contribute significantly to the quality of the tourism experience and thus to the competitiveness of the destination, as well as to a positive attitude of the local population towards tourism. The importance of authenticity suggests that the destination should be more inclusive of the hinterland, which has retained a high degree of authenticity. This would also alleviate current congestion in the overcrowded areas of the destination and diversify the offer.
Published in RUP: 04.02.2026; Views: 110; Downloads: 2
Full text (439,51 KB)
This document has more files! More... |
3. Tourist accommodation choices in nature-based destinations : the case of geotourism destination Kras/CarsoDejan Paliska, Gorazd Sedmak, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: This paper explores the relationship between accommodation choices and visitor interests, and characteristics in the emerging cross-border Karst Geopark, a geologically rich nature-based destination. It examines how demographics, interests, and activity prefer- ences influence lodging decisions. Findings indicate that older visitors, women, and repeat tourists favor agritourism, whereas first-time and cross-border travelers prefer private rooms for greater flexibility. Additionally, interests in geotourism and cycling significantly shape accommodation preferences. The study highlights the need for destination man- agers and accommodation providers to tailor offerings to visitor expectations, enhancing tourism benefits. Methodological limitations, including sample imbalance and overlooked external factors, are discussed, with recommendations for future research to refine pre- dictive models and incorporate supply-side attributes. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and tourism stakeholders in developing targeted, sustainable accommodation strategies.
Published in RUP: 02.02.2026; Views: 155; Downloads: 3
Full text (1,14 MB)
This document has more files! More... |
4. |
5. |
6. |
7. |
8. |
9. |
10. |
