Is rural tourism a lever for economic and social development

The development of tourist activities in rural areas has accelerated in recent years, and there is nothing to suggest it will not continue. This expectation of growth is underpinned by a number of factors that can scarcely be concerted. But the problem is now to make rural tourism a possible engine for development, for many reasons. As with any export activity, tourism is a source of income and employment. Because it requires upstream goods and services, tourism serves as a lever for a whole series of activities. The vital question is then how can the services rendered and the products offered be made as varied as possible, so as to be able to attract an increasing number of tourists and maximise the amount they spend locally. Some rural tourism policies must then be implemented: protecting and providing amenities for potential areas of attraction; aiding the renovation and extension of supply; ensuring solvable demand; training people in rural development