Quantitative analysis of tourist satisfaction on the Romanian Black Sea coastline: perceptions and expectations

This study aims to analyze the factors influencing tourist satisfaction along the Romanian Black Sea seaside. 715 respondents completed a questionnaire with 34 questions to gather data on demo-economic and behavioral variables: 17 questions containing non-parametric data analyzed by ?²-Test and 17 with items to which tourists gave scores from 1 to 5, reflecting their perceptions and expectations. The scores were analyzed by geographically distributing the resorts according to Krugman's Core-Periphery Model, according to which and public statistical data, the Cores (Constan?a-Mamaia and Mangalia-Olimp, Neptun, Jupiter, Cap Aurora, Venus, Saturn) are more prolific. And the North-South dualism, confirmed by official data that northern localities are more prosperous, is reinforced by the lower scores given to southern resorts. The geographical division consisted of: Northern Zone (Vadu, Corbu, Navodari, Northern Core, Agigea, Techirghiol, Eforie Nord, Eforie Sud) and Southern Zone (Costine?ti, Southern Core, 2 Mai, Vama Veche). The respondents' opinions complement the evaluation through official data, facilitating the optimal management of funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan in improving infrastructure, relocating tourism activities to the peripheries and creating a profitable tourism market. It also leaves room for empirical research at the end of the implementation of the aforementioned plan.