Current state and prospects of development of Iasi in the context of practicing urban tourism

Abstract

In the last period the major cities are looking to find themselves a new identity, to gain international recognition, to assert through originality and an effective way to achieve this wish is the opening for international tourism. Cities face a double challenge. On the one hand must be able to meet the expectations and needs of a growing number of tourists attracted by the richness and variety of cultural, sports, business, etc.. having to continually renew and improve such facilities, so that they may maintain the tourist demand. On the other hand, they must ensure that tourism is developed and managed in such a manner that will benefit the resident population and does not contribute to the deterioration of the urban environment. The article proposes to analyse the current state of development of tourism in the city of Iasi, in the context where there is a request to build a strong image of tourist destination, aspiring to the title of European Cultural Capital. Iasi was always perceived as a city of culture, visual identity generated by the presence of historical, architectural and cultural heritage, which gives the title of Cultural Capital of Romania. By obtaining the title of European City of Sport in 2012, Iasi has been placed on the map of major European cities, on the same level as large urban centres in France, Italy, United Kingdom and Belgium.