SNOW RAFTING AS A NEW CONCEPT IN TOURISM DESTINATION: A RESEARCH IN ABALI SKI CENTER FROM VAN PROVINCE

Abstract

Main objective of this research is to contribute to the determination of tourism potential of snow rafting, which can be considered as a new sport activity. Another issue that is aimed within this study is to set Van a significant tourist destination center nationally and internationally and to mention shortages and measurements towards them by popularizing and developing snow rafting, which can be driving force for the sake of development and diversification of tourism. Area of investigation for this study is Van Abalı ski center. Qualitative research method has been used in this study. Data have been collected through interview and observation. Ski center, primary subject of the research, has been analyzed on site. Findings related to current and possible prospective position of snow rafting as a tourism product have been revealed through interview and observation carried out. According to the findings obtained, it can be expressed that Abalı ski center is far below the level of its potential and in worse position than where its added value is expected to be in terms of tourism.