The Curative Tourism in Elbasan ( Albania), Challenges for the Future

Abstract

Elbasan is one of the most important cities of Albania. With a favorable geographical position and significant tourism potentials it is distinguished for the development of different types of tourism. Of these types we mention: cultural tourism, mountain tourism, ecotourism, transit tourism, etc. Of interest is the development of curative tourism in the Llixha (spa) of Elbasan. Curative tourism potentials have favored its development. The spas of Elbasan are recognized for curative values, attracting not only local population but also foreign visitors. The story of their exploitation starts from ancient Rome and continues until today. During periods of history, political, social and economic changes are also reflected in the development of curative tourism. Field observations, national literature research, interviews and surveys have highlighted current developments of curative tourism in Elbasan. Thank to this are pointed out the advantages and disadvantages of curative tourism developments. It is developed mainly the traditional curative tourism. Despite strategic interventions, appears significantly the uncontrolled development of curative tourism. In front of these developments, there is a need of further interventions not only locally but also at the central level to pull out from the chaotic situation the traditional curative tourism and to enable qualitative development in the future.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013.v4n10p450