Satisfaction of Generations X and Baby Boomers with tourist services in resorts from the Subcarpathians of Oltenia, in line with sustainable tourism destination development

Abstract

Introduction. In the context of sustainable tourism development, tourist satisfaction looked at from the perspective of the experience lived in the destination and the quality of services rendered by service providers is one of the directions in which researchers point their attention. In this context, the purpose of this study is to measure the satisfaction of Generations X (GX) and Baby Boomers (GBB) with tourist services in balneal resorts, seen through the perspective of the sustainable development of tourism destinations. Material and method. Methodology consisted in the survey method, by applying the semi-structured questionnaire tool on a sample of tourists visiting the balneal resorts in the Subcarpathians of Oltenia between July and October 2019. Results and discussions. The results show that satisfaction with the access to and inside the destination is good, but the infrastructure requires modernization. Satisfaction with tourist services is good, but it requires the improvement of recreational facilities and treatment services, especially for the members of Generation X. As far as accommodation services are concerned, even though they received the most positive feedback, the vast majority of facilities have medium level classification. Direct or indirect interaction with locals, hotel staff, and local authorities is valued as good towards very good. On the whole, it is necessary to increase satisfaction for GX and GBB tourists, as this will bring greater benefits for all interested parties: hotel owners and staff, tourists, local authorities, and even the local community, who can become more actively involved in the tourist market. Conclusions. This study is useful for local authorities in order to develop sustainable tourism, and for economic agents in obtaining the projected benefits. Key words: tourist satisfaction, generational cohorts, Subcarpathians of Oltenia, sustainable tourism, balneal services.,