ANALYSIS OF TOURIST ATTRACTIVENESS OF POLIANSKA TERRITORIAL COMMUNITY OF THE TRANSCARPATHIAN REGION

Abstract

Administrative-territorial reform in Ukraine and the development of united territorial communities (UTCs) are important for the promotion of tourism. This is especially true for rural areas, where tourism can become a key development factor. The tourism industry contributes to the creation of new jobs, improve the living standards of local residents and enhance rural development. Currently, UTCs can take advantage of new opportunities, receive additional financial resources and powers, and improve management. At the present stage an important task for the Polianska United Territorial Community of the Transcarpathian region is the implementation of natural, historical and cultural potential, which is a key area of work of the department on foreign economic activity in the context of European integration of the Carpathian region. The purpose of the study is to analyze and substantiate the main aspects of the formation of the tourist attractiveness of Polianska UTC and the possibilities of their practical use. Local communities play a key role in creating a stable and growing socio-economic environment, which contributes to improving the quality of life of residents and the development of territories as a whole. According to the Regional Development Strategy of the Transcarpathian Region for 2021-2027, one of the priority areas is the development of tourism and resort and recreational infrastructure, as well as ensuring spatial harmony and environmental protection. Polianska UTC is noted as one of the five most developed united territorial communities due to the development of medical and health tourism. Sanatoriums such as «Poliana», «Sunny Transcarpathia», «Crystal Spring», «Flower of the Mountain Valley(Kvitka Polonyny)», Transcarpathian health complex «Sunny (Soniachnyi)» and others that use mineral springs such as «Borjomi» operate successfully on its territory. In addition to medical and health tourism, our research also shows the prospects for the development of sports tourism in this region. In order to maximize the potential in this area, recommendations should include: 1) development of infrastructure for ski tourism; 2) development of cycling tourism; 3) active marketing and promotional activities; 4) attracting international partners. It is also necessary to focus on the environmental approach, in particular, on the implementation of the principles of sustainable development, which will help preserve natural resources and the ecological balance.It is important to organize campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection among tourists and local residents. In this context, the role of united territorial communities in ensuring the interests of citizens in all aspects of life, including tourism, should be decisive.