site.btaTourism Minister Borshosh: Bulgarian Tourism Focuses on Accessibility, Safety and Experience

Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh said on Saturday that accessibility, safety and experience are the three main focuses offered by Bulgarian tourism. In a congratulatory address for World Tourism Day from BTA's National Press Club in Sofia, he added that these priorities underscore what the country seeks to deliver to visitors.

Borshosh extended congratulations to everyone working in the Bulgarian tourism sector and thanked them for their dedication and for everything they do for the country.

He noted that tourism is a unique type of economy that, besides generating revenue and developing as an economic sector, also shapes Bulgaria’s image abroad and influences how people perceive the country. He pointed out that tourism plays an essential role not only in generating income, but also in forming the collective perception of Bulgaria.

Borshosh announced that on World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism will present data from a survey conducted by Trend Research Center. The study analyzes Bulgarians’ tourism preferences, travel behaviors, criteria for selecting destinations, perceptions of Bulgaria, favored travel locations, and motivational factors.

Borshosh noted that presenting the survey on World Tourism Day was appropriate.

He also referenced recent Eurostat data showing that Bulgaria ranks among the top countries for growth in the number of foreign tourists. According to Borshosh, Bulgaria surpassed traditional destinations such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece, which he views as a positive sign for the current state of Bulgarian tourism.

According to Borshosh, the Trend survey shows that Bulgarians consistently view their own country positively as a domestic tourism destination. Domestic tourism remains robust, with Bulgarians frequently choosing to travel within Bulgaria, often taking multiple trips, and more than 80% planning holidays or trips domestically over the next six months or longer. Borshosh made these remarks regarding Bulgaria’s accession to Schengen and concerns that this could reduce domestic tourism. However, the data indicate that Bulgarians continue to favor travel within their own country.

He explained that the availability and appeal of the tourism product are crucial, and noted that these factors are often lacking in other countries. Borshosh attributed the positive trend to collaboration with regional mayors and targeted marketing campaigns promoting Bulgaria’s varied cultural, historical, and wine tourism experiences, which attract Bulgarian families. He said that destinations along the Bulgarian Black Sea and in mountain regions continue to perform well, and that demand for spa services is increasing. He noted that Bulgarians appreciate the country’s mountain areas, as reflected in survey results.

Borshosh noted that Bulgaria's tourism offerings are currently competitive and appealing to Bulgarian travelers compared to international options.

He noted that Bulgaria is the top choice for Bulgarian travelers, mainly because of its accessibility, safety, and the sense of security it offers: factors that play a crucial role in domestic tourism decisions. He also pointed out that foreign visitors share similar positive views. Additionally, the comprehensive experience offered by Bulgaria, including its culture, history, festivals, and events, significantly motivates tourists to choose the country. Borshosh welcomed the survey result showing that 80% of Bulgarians plan to spend their holidays domestically.

He also emphasized the importance of quality in tourism services, noting that 60% of respondents surveyed by Trend have observed improvements in this area.