Journal de recherche touristique et d'hôtellerie

Assessing Rural Tourism Experiences: The Case of the Azores Region

Maria da Graça Batista

This research paper focused on tourist’s experiences after engaging in a rural tourism experience, the activities developed during that period and what relevant factor were considered on planning the holidays. We collected data in the Azores, a region prone for rural tourism implementation. We were able to recognize that the landscape, adventure related activities and local gastronomy were some of the reasons tourists choose the Azores as a destination. The rural living experience and the local population welcoming traits were mentioned as factors that make tourists want to return to the Azores on holidays.