The Tourism Investment Masterplan has been updated because, in recent years, many investments have focused on construction projects without being matched by investment in the actual tourist experience, and the on-the-ground reality has changed, the Minister of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, Irineu Darau, has announced.
'In recent years, many investments in tourism have focused on construction, without being matched by investment in the actual tourist experience: trails, activities, showcasing nature and solutions to help local communities attract visitors outside the peak season. That is why we have updated the Tourism Investment Masterplan, because the reality on the ground has changed and the old rules no longer meet all needs,' the minister wrote on his Facebook page on Tuesday evening.
According to him, the changes include introducing ecotourism as a clear funding priority, meaning properly developed tourist trails, wildlife observation hides, visitor centres and light infrastructure for walking and cycling, designed with care for nature and local identity.
Support will also be provided for leisure infrastructure that extends the tourist season, such as theme parks, water parks, ice rinks, marinas and lakeside developments, where these can bring genuine economic activity to communities, 'not projects with no real utility'.
The minister stressed that spa tourism remains a priority and that investments in treatment facilities, spa complexes, medical equipment and promenade areas will continue, as Romania has natural resources capable of sustaining health tourism in the long term.
'What does this mean in practical terms? In a mountain area, investment is no longer just about a new building; the difference is made by a well-organised system: trails, information points and activities that give purpose to the visit and extend visitors' stays. And when tourists stay longer, the local economy benefits in the long term. (...) Sustainable tourism is built on clear and sound rules and on the involvement of those who know these places best,' Irineu Darau underlined.
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