SEASONALITY OF TOURISM DEMAND IN WESTERN BALKAN COUNTRIES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Martin Dzambaski

doi:10.52370/TISC26481MD

Martin Dzambaski Goce Delcev University – Stip, Faculty of Tourism and Business Logistics, Stip, North Macedonia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.52370/TISC26481MD

Keywords: Seasonality, tourism demand, tourist arrivals, overnight stays, Western Balkans, tourism development

Abstract

Seasonality of tourism demand represents a significant phenomenon that influences the development and sustainability of tourist destinations. The aim of this paper is to analyze the seasonality of tourism demand in the Western Balkan countries through a comparative analysis of tourist arrivals and overnight stays. The research is based on monthly statistical data for six countries: Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and Serbia. The analysis applies descriptive statistics, seasonal index, analysis of variance (ANOVA), correlation analysis, and linear regression. The results indicate a pronounced seasonal concentration of tourism demand, with the highest level of activity occurring during the summer months. Furthermore, the findings reveal a statistically significant positive relationship between tourist arrivals and overnight stays. The study highlights the need for diversification of the tourism offer in order to reduce seasonal fluctuations and achieve more sustainable tourism development in the region.

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