Representatives of the Economics of Tourism Department Discussed the Therme-Rose Energy Destination Initiative with the Minister of Tourism

Prof. Dr. Mariana Yaneva, Head of the UNWE Economics of Tourism Department, and Prof. Dr. Elenita Velikova, lecturer at the same Department and UNWE Chief Secretary for Research, met with the Minister of Tourism Dr. Ilin Dimitrov. They presented the Department’s concept Therme-Rose Energy Destination - a national initiative aimed at creating an innovative four-season tourism product that would position Bulgaria as a year-round destination for health, wellness and vitality tourism.

Prof. Dr. Elenita Velikova, Minister Dr. Ilin Dimitirov and Prof. Dr. Mariana Yaneva

During the meeting, the possibility of a partnership with the Ministry of Tourism in developing the initiative was discussed. Minister Dimitrov expressed interest in the proposal and emphasized that the Bulgarian tourists increasingly seek experiences related to health, wellness and vitality destinations. He also highlighted Bulgaria's rich heritage in balneology, mineral springs and healing traditions, which provides a strong foundation for the development of such a tourism product.

The concept envisages a series of annual festivals and professional forums held throughout the year, bringing together the academia, business, local communities and the tourism sector around the common goal of establishing Bulgaria as a recognizable European destination for health, recovery, wellness and hospitality.

The Economics of Tourism Department would like to express thankfulness to Minister Dimitrov for his interest and the constructive dialogue. We believe that through the cooperation between the academic community, government institutions and the tourism industry, we could create a new, sustainable model for the development of Bulgarian tourism and for extending the tourist season.