RIT Croatia Digital Repository
Not a member yet
231 research outputs found
Sort by
Destination Management Organization in Dubrovnik Manage or be managed!
The research investigated the potential application of destination management organization (also known as
DMO) in Dubrovnik, and it evaluated the perceptions of the local community on the current destination
management practices. Findings revealed that locals perceive existing policies as ineffective, highlighting
the need for change. The study suggested that by introducing destination management organization in
Dubrovnik, some of the issues could be addressed. The organization should be led by proficient experts
that would create and manage long-term strategy for the future of the city. Through qualitative analysis of
survey and focus group discussion, the research showed the importance of well-defined strategic leadership
and stakeholder cooperation in the creation of DMO. The research identified key areas in which DMO could
enhance the destination sustainability, engage the entire community, and improve overall visitor experience.
Ultimately, the results advocated for a tailored approach to destination management organization
implementation in Dubrovnik, by putting the emphasis on expertise and local input in shaping effective
strategic management plans
Exploring the Relationship of Co-worker Support, Organizational Commitment and Work Engagement in Montenegrin Hospitality
This study aimed to explore the relationships among co-worker support, organizational
commitment, and work engagement in Montenegro's hospitality industry. Recognizing the
significance of these variables for employee well-being and organizational success, the research
sought to fill a gap in understanding within this specific context. Data were gathered through a
structured questionnaire distributed to hospitality workers in Montenegro, with a focus on
inclusivity and representation. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships
between co-worker support and perceived work engagement, affective commitment, continuance
commitment, and normative commitment. These findings underscore the importance of fostering
supportive interpersonal relationships among co-workers to enhance employee commitment and
engagement in Montenegro's hospitality sector
INSIGHTS INTO DUBROVNIK’S MICE INDUSTRY: HOTEL CAPACITIES AND MICE TRENDS
Global business dynamics heavily rely on the meeting, incentives, congresses, conventions,
events, and exhibits (MICE) market (Boncato, 2022). The industry’s evolution, moved by
elements such as technology and sustainability, has expanded customer options (Dmc, 2023).
Known for its cutting – edge amenities and rich historical legacy (UNESCO World Heritage
Centre, 2022), Dubrovnik has become a top MICE destination with a variety of lodging
choices in a prime location (Dubrovnik Airport, n.d.). To get complete data on the needs,
capabilities, and patterns of the regional MICE sector, interviews were conducted with four
managers from Dubrovnik’s MICE agencies and two hotel chains. The 30 to 45 minute
interviews were done in – person or by Zoom, and with the participants’ permission, they
were audio recorded. Inquiries centered around hotel capacity, event demands, catering
difficulties, MICE trends, and particular client requirements in Dubrovnik. According to the
research, there is a significant demand for MICE events in the hotels of Dubrovnik, which
emphasizes the necessity of ongoing innovation to satisfy client demands. With sustainability
growing as a dominating and client preferences for eco – friendly practices in event planning,
cooperation between hotel and MICE agencies is essential for effective event
implementation. In response to changing customer needs, Dubrovnik has adopted sustainable
practices proactively as a result of its distinctive experiences and rich local culture, which
further increase its attractiveness as a top MICE destination
Leading Across Generations: Leveraging the VABES Model for Effective Leadership
This research explores the differences in behavior among three generations in the workplace:
Generation X, Generation Y and Generation Z. The research goes beyond observing visible
behavior in the workplace. It explores unique values, assumptions, beliefs and expectations that
are developed during the upbringing and in the environment these generations were born in. This
approach allows more comprehensive insight of how generational differences manifest in the
workplace, and provides valuable information to supervisors, managers and HR professionals to
understand each individual and create a healthier working environment
ROLE OF AUGMENTED REALITY IN CULTURAL TOURISM Customer reviews
Augmented reality (AR) is an immersive technology that merges virtual data with real-world environments using smart devices. The use of AR in tourism has expanded possibilities for more engaging, informative, and accessible travel experiences. Recent advancements in AR are followed by considerable growth in scientific research, especially in cultural heritage tourism. For primary research, 22 international cultural heritage sites that use some form of AR in their tourist offer, were selected from the TripAdvisor website, which is used as a data source. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed to determine users' satisfaction with the AR experience. Overall, this study's findings correspond to previous research by Shin et al. (2021), González Vargas et al. (2020), T. Dieck et al. (2017), highlighting the significant positive impact of augmented reality (AR) on cultural heritage tourism. Users enjoy the interactive aspects of AR when exploring historical sites and cities and find it useful
Achieving Sustainable Upper-scale Gastronomy using Hyper-local Concept
This research was focused at Dubrovnik's potential for sustainable gastronomy tourism, with an
emphasis on using organic and locally sourced foods in high-end restaurants. The study topic
investigated how managers and owners of restaurants in Dubrovnik's upscale dining industry see
and apply sustainable practices. The owners and managers of upscale restaurants innDubrovnik
were interviewed in-person for the study. Based on price range and internet reviews, eight
restaurant managers and owners were chosen to participate. The study discovered that although
visitors are becoming more conscious of sustainable cuisine, there are still obstacles in the way of
completely incorporating sustainable practices4like hyper-local sourcing4into the operations of
upscale restaurants in Dubrovnik. Beyond the positive effects on the environment, sustainable
cuisine and hyper-local operations would have positive effects on the local economy, dining
experiences and development of rural areas therefore taking the pressure of the city of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Residents’ Perceptions & Attitudes on Cruise Tourism & Public Policy
Dubrovnik is one of most visited cruise ports in the Eastern Mediterranean. Development of
cruise tourism in a destination brings positive and negative effects. Local authorities in
Dubrovnik implemented a set of regulations and limitations directed at cruise tourism activities in
order to establish sustainable and responsible destination management practices. This research
investigated the residents’ perceptions on Dubrovnik Cruise Tourism and Public Policy in an
online survey. The results indicated that the residents perceive cruise tourism positively in terms
of destination promotion and economic contributions, but negatively in terms of traffic, overcrowding and water quality in the City. Despite acknowledging both positive and negative effects
of cruise tourism, the residents are not aware of public policy that restricts cruise tourism
activities. Some of the results also showed that residents remain neutral when asked about cruise
tourism and public policy because the regulations are not clearly communicated. The
effectiveness of the public policy was shown dissatisfactory and the results suggest that the
public policy is not prioritized in daily practices
KOTOR’S JOURNEY FROM MASS TO LUXURY
Kotor, Montenegro, aspires to transition from mass to luxury tourism to ensure sustainable
economic and environmental futures while contending with the challenges of rising cruise
tourism. This study investigates the strategies employed by local restaurant and apartment
owners as they navigate these aspirations. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the research
surveyed 23 business owners to understand their competitive strategies amidst ongoing shifts in
tourism demand. Results reveal a diverse application of differentiation and cost strategies,
reflecting the complexity of adapting to a luxury tourism model while maintaining economic
viability. This study found that accommodation and restaurant entrepreneurs are not
predominately embracing differentiation strategies, which halts Kotor’s transition to a luxury
destination.
Keywords: Luxury Tourism, Cruise Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, Porter's Competitive
Strategies, Tourism Development, Kotor, Montenegr
Exploring Student Career Choices: Investigating Why Students Choose Paths Beyond the Hospitality Industry
The hospitality industry encountered persistent challenges in attracting and retaining
talent, as many graduates opted for careers outside the field due to its perceived lack of
attractiveness. This research study investigated the underlying factors influencing
students' career choices beyond hospitality. A proposed model examined the impact of
industry attractors and detractors, work-family conflict, work-life balance, and work
schedule preferences on students' decisions. Utilizing a questionnaire method, data were
collected from students across diverse backgrounds and regions. The findings aimed to
shed light on the complex dynamics shaping career decisions and provided insights for
industry stakeholders seeking to enhance the appeal of hospitality careers to young
individuals
QUANTITY OR QUALITY? Effects of Overtourism on Restaurant Service Quality in Dubrovnik
This study examines the qualifications of restaurant employees in Dubrovnik,
Croatia, amid challenges of overtourism and high customer expectations. Data
from a survey of 51 employees in 20 upscale restaurants reveal that older, more
experienced, and formally trained workers demonstrate higher qualifications.
However, the majority of employees lack formal training and education, which
may affect service quality. The findings underscore the need for investment in
employee education and training to address the impacts of overtourism on service
standards and employee qualifications in Dubrovnik's restaurant industry