2.2 TYPES OF AGRO-TOURISM

Agro-tourism is a way of sustainable tourist development and multi-activity in rural areas through which the visitor has the opportunity to get aware with agricultural areas, agricultural occupations, local products, traditional food and the daily life of the rural people, as well as the cultural elements and traditions. Moreover, this activity brings visitors closer to nature and rural activities in which they can participate, be entertained and feel the pleasure of touring.

2.2 TYPES OF AGRO-TOURISM

The scope of Agro-tourism varies drastically depending on the type of farm, available land and how much of the business is aimed at the Agro-Tourism market. However, the varying forms can be broken down into three basic groups.

1. Direct market Agro-tourism : if you have ever seen a road side produce stan, you have seen direct market Agro-Tourism in action. Farmers sell goods like produce, canned items and other organic products directly to consumers either at markets and fairs or on the farm itself, often along side other Agro-Tourism offerings.

Farmers may be selling an organic product similar to what consumer could find at a grocery store, but their product has the added appeal of coming directly from a local farm. To appeal to some consumers, the goods may be marketed as organic , all natural , or the product of “old fashioned” methods.

2. Education and experience Agro-tourism: this form of Agro-Tourism includes pick yours own apple grove, farm tours, bed and breakfasts and packages aimed at giving guests a hands on education in farm life. The farm itself is marketed as a tourist destination. whether Agro tourists pay to pick their own produce, attend wine tastings at a vineyard or simply enjoy the farm atmosphere, the draw is first hand experience. Once visitors are acquainted with the farm more closely, they may also be more inclined to buy its agricultural products.

3. Recreation and event Agro-tourism: while still considered Agro-Tourism, these offerings tend to involve using farm land for other marketable uses. Harvest festivals, corn mazes, haunted hay rides and country wedding held on farm land may draw heavily on the farm’s atmosphere. Other activities like camping , archery and horseback riding are often less dependent on the farm itself . however, such forms of Agro-Tourism still draw in guests who may be tempted to buy goods.

• Different forms of alternative tourism

Rural - tourism Agro - tourism Eco - tourism All forms of tourism that take place in rural areas or rural communities

Tourism activities directly related to agriculture Nature based form of tourism, the main motivation of the tourists being the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas

Practiced in small family owned establishments

Practiced in a farm or household as a secondary source of income Service providers tend to be small, locally owned businesses

Highlights natural areas, local practices, culture and gastronomy

Educational activities are undertaken, aiming at highlighting and explaining aspects of agricultural lifestyle Has educational and interpretation features, increasing awareness towards the conservation of natural and cultural assets

Often referred to as “Agro-Tourism“, “nature based tourism”, “farm based tourism” village tourism” Independent activity integrated in the tertiary sector of the economy alternative/ complementary form of mass-toruism

Often referred to as “farm based tourism”, “rural tourism “ and “village tourism”

Entirely integrate within rural tourism Perfectly described as “niche tourism” differs form rural tourism by the closeness to nature and the more rational exploitation of tourism resource.

Potential customers are nature-lovers

Potential customers are interested in farming, crafting folklore, natural agricultural products and gastronomy Potential customers are interested in meaningful community participation, slow travel, high-quality experiences, nature-made elements, gastronomy, traditions and routes that allow them to feel as if they were locals

Often referred to as “sustainable tourism“, “responsible tourism” and “green tourism”