34 TOURISM LAW IN EUROPE c) Thematic tourism: this category includes a number of specific forms of tourism, such as agro-tourism, event and business tourism, cultural tourism (heritage, history, religion, etc.), enogastronomic tourism and health tourism (thermal, welfare and medical)37. Although not the main purpose of the visit in Albania, archaeology, heritage and culture are identified as Albania’s strengths in various studies conducted with visitors and the travel industry from foreign markets38. In terms of business tourism, developments in this regard are focused at a national level and the lack of a consolidated cooperation network among stakeholders, coupled with the lack of new conference and convention centers, business centers near economic development poles, accommodation facilities of internationally renowned brands in the organisation of conferences and congresses, has limited the prospect of developing MICE tourism at an international level39; and d) Rural tourism: the definition of rural tourism provided by the law on tourism, as a tourism activity performed in a rural environment and is oriented towards the use of local tourism resources, which is in line with UNWTO definitions. Rural tourism is viewed as the most important element of diversification of rural economy contributing to a general socioeconomic development of rural areas40. It is also a new component of the Albanian supply of tourism, providing opportunities for villages and rural regions of the country. The main focus of rural tourism development in Albania is directed towards the promotion of rural areas’ natural and cultural values for tourism purposes41. Although Albania has a basic legal framework in compliance with EU regulations, and many policy documents, it faces challenges associated with lack of coordination, planning and undisciplined development of the rural tourism. In this context it is important to develop a dialogue between stakeholders in different ministries, departments, agencies, academic institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, and the donor community42. Furthermore, the 100 Villages Programme lacks a detailed planning in terms of investments activities and funding for these selected villages. While municipalities are 37 Idem. 38 Idem. 39 Idem. 40 Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group in South Eastern Europe, National Report Albania, October 2019, accessed on 15.08.2021. 41 Idem. 42 Idem.
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