The Identification and importance of local and traditional food offered by tourist businesses in Shkodra lake area

Dulja Xhevaire, Boshnjaku Elida, Satka Ermelinda, Tërpollari Arben, Hoxha Enkela and Domi Shpresim
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Dulja Xhevaire: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania
Boshnjaku Elida: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania
Satka Ermelinda: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania
Tërpollari Arben: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania
Hoxha Enkela: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania
Domi Shpresim: Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania

European Journal of Economics, Law and Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 9, issue 1, 46-61

Abstract: The Shkodra Lake area and the region of Malësia e Madhe are known for their breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions. Both regions provide visitors with a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, making them ideal destinations for those seeking an authentic and immersive experience in northern Albania. The focus on sustainable tourism in recent years has also led to increased efforts to promote and protect local traditions, making Shkodra Lake and Malësia e Madhe an exceptional showcase of Albania’s natural and cultural treasures. This study purpose is to identify and describe the territory products in Shkodra and Malësi e Madhe municipalities as well as to explore local and traditional food products offered by tourism businesses in Shkodra lake area of Albania. Through 40 surveys with local tourism businesses, 5 focus groups with (farmers, fishermen, scientific community and employee of an international project for local development) and semi-structured interviews with local key-actors, a variety of traditional dishes and locally sourced ingredients were identified, including Mishavinë cheese, native breed meats, traditional fish-dishes, fruit and vegetable varieties as well as herbal teas from indigenous wild plants. These offerings reflect the area’s rich culinary heritage and provide a unique, authentic experience for tourists. Findings reveal that traditional food is among the top factors influencing customer satisfaction, alongside the natural landscape. This underscores the importance of local gastronomy in attracting visitors and supporting sustainable tourism as well rural development. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for increased promotion from the tourist businesses, improved infrastructure, and community training to help in the showcase the traditional products effectively in both domestic and international markets. By focusing on local food, the Shkodra Lake area can strengthen its identity as a cultural and gastronomic tourism destination, benefiting both the economy and community heritage.

Keywords: Tourist businesses; local food; origin territory products; Shkodra lake; Albania (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:vrs:ejelss:v:9:y:2025:i:1:p:46-61:n:1004

DOI: 10.2478/ejels-2025-0004

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