Bulgarian villages are becoming an increasingly popular destination for local tourists amidst the coronavirus pandemic, broadcasted the Bulgarian National Radio. In the search of a refuge from COVID, groups of 2-3 families often prefer opting for village houses in isolated regions of the country.
The demand for such vacations is expected to increase by about 30%, said Borislav Borissov, member of the Association of the Bulgarian Villages. The tourist niche has seen a surge in demand over the past years of up to 20%, but this year the situation with COVID is expected to lead to even further increase in demand.
Borissov said that prices remain stable for the moment despite the increase in demand and added that they are expected to increase by no more than 5% by the end of the economic recovery.
Tourists are especially attracted to locations offering additional traditional activities like scene photography, handcrafting, active living, farming, and mounting hikes. Despite many people still seeking creature comforts like swimming pools and luxury living, a lot are willing to put up with just the basics like proper hygiene and a functional kitchen.
Enjoying a deeper connection with nature is another key selling point and a reason for many tourists to spend more than one night in a village far from the city concrete.
Local village tourism, however, needs more international exposure and better marketing, said Borissov. He believes that this is the reason why only 2% of the village tourists are foreigners.
The Association of the Bulgarian Villages expects the tourist season to get extended from mid-September to mid-October. Given the complicated epidemiological situation, however, predictions remain hard to make.
