(COASTAL) URBAN TOURISM AND QUALITY OF LIFE: RESIDENTS’ PERCEPTION

Purpose – Urban tourism has not been adequately studied and many destinations that have conditions to develop urban tourism are still focused on other, more “traditional” types of attractions, especially coastal destinations with predominately sea and sun tourism. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the perceptions of local residents in terms of their quality of life and their opinions on the potential shift from predominately coastal tourism to an urban tourism offering. Methodology – The research was conducted within the territory of the city of Opatija using a structured survey questionnaire. Univariate and bivariate statistical methods were used for statistical analysis. Research questions were tested using SPSS. Findings – Findings indicate that the residents of Opatija are not particularly satisfied with elements related to city quality of life. They are the most satisfied with air quality and green spaces, and the least, with public transport and health care. Those residents who are rather dissatisfied with the tourism development of Opatija have a significantly lower level of satisfaction with certain elements of quality of life. Further, residents show interest and support for the development of urban tourism and strongly support the shift from a seasonal distribution towards a more balanced year-round distribution of tourist flows. Contribution – This paper contributes to the body of knowledge on urban tourism and residents' support for urban tourism development. Results can be useful to local decision makers and tourism authorities in creating policies focused on future tourism development, but also in informing and involving local residents, regardless of their connection to tourism, in tourism planning and in understanding its benefits.