THE ROLE OF TOURISM DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM ACTIVITIES

The increasing competitiveness between local, regional, national and international tourism destinations has determined the parties involved in the tourism industry (local, central authorities, tourism service providers) to initiate a series of actions that would contribute to the diversification of tourism offers and obtaining economic advantages and not only. In this regard, destination management organizations have responded to the need of stakeholders by providing some opportunities for the development of the tourism destination. Among the activities performed by the destination management organizations the following can be mentioned: the elaboration of some plans for the sustainable development of tourism activities in a certain tourism area, the collaboration with the providers of tourism services, the identification of some competitive advantages, the promotion of the image of the tourism destination and the creation of a brand image, the provision of information to all stakeholders, the creation of some authentic tourism products, which would offer unique experiences to tourists, ensuring the well-being of the local community and offering strategic alternatives, which would ensure the sustainability of tourism activities. This paper aims to provide insight into the role of tourism destination management organizations.