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This study analyzes the impact of rural tourism on the quality of life in Western Serbia, focusing on four tourist villages: Koštunići, Vraneša, Sunčana reka, and Sirogojno. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach with 469 respondents, we assessed local perceptions of economic, social, and environmental influences resulting from tourism development. The Likert scale revealed positive economic effects, significant shifts in social conditions and thinking, and concerns about environmental degradation. The study underscores rural tourism’s multifaceted nature, emphasizing positive economic impacts, socio-cultural improvements, and environmental considerations. The conclusions highlight the need for responsible, sustainable practices to optimize benefits while mitigating negative consequences. Recommendations include addressing gender disparities and prioritizing environmental concerns in future rural tourism development. This research contributes to understanding rural tourism’s implications, offering insights for policymakers, local communities, and practitioners striving for balanced, prosperous, and sustainable rural development in Western Serbia and beyond.

Purpose – This paper explores the economic indicators of rural destination development focused on tourism management, with a specific emphasis on four ethno villages in Western Serbia. Our study, conducted from May 2022 to May 2023, gauges the local community’s perceptions of tourism’s economic impacts, particularly on women’s roles and overall quality of life. Methodology – Utilizing Chi-Square Tests, we assessed key economic dimensions such as employment, arts, agriculture, tourism, and investments. This methodological approach allows for a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted economic aspects relevant to rural destination development. Findings – The results of our study reveal positive influences on various economic dimensions, underscoring the transformative effects of rural tourism. Notably, observed economic aspects exhibit encouraging trends, emphasizing the potential for rural tourism to contribute positively to the economic landscape. Implications – Despite the positive outcomes, persistent gender imbalances underscore the need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing women's participation in the local economy’s development. This study contributes valuable insights into the nuanced relationship between rural tourism and economic advancement, emphasizing the imperative for inclusive strategies in tourism management and addressing gender disparities for comprehensive rural development.

Purpose: This paper focuses on physical activity and body care as indicators of wellness offerings in health-rehabilitation institutions in Serbia. The goal is to determine if these institutions can become leaders in the tourism market by providing wellness services. Methodology: A measuring instrument was developed for research purposes. This tool aimed to gather data regarding services associated with physical activity and body care, serving as a crucial indicator of the wellness offerings. Its purpose was to enable the comprehensive evaluation of each center based on the investigated indicator. Findings: After analyzing 20 institutions, Banja Junaković, Ivanjica, and Čigota achieved the highest average score of 0.83, reflecting their comprehensive services and resulting in a final score of 5. Two institutions scored 0.79, coming close to an overall rating of five. All institutions provide programs for assessing the current state of the body. Implications: The study enhances understanding of physical activity and bodily well-being’s significance in advancing health and rehabilitation facilities, aligning with current wellness tourism trends. Results can aid hotel and wellness center managers in the health and wellness tourism industry in refining their business strategies.