Searching for a locally oriented, responsible alternative to conventional tourism within this unique cultural heritage has presumably never had such crucial, predefined conditions as in Bale. Long-lasting, sustainable development of the town and its surroundings was a carefully curated agenda of the local municipality. During the period of intense, short-sighted devastation of the Adriatic coast, they opted for an alternative – a ten-year strategy Bale Shoreline – Spatial Planning Development Study smartly formulated by the Croatian architecture studio 3LHD. It addition to setting the course, it forged new, innovative forms of the local economy, where local residents became sort of shareholders of a company providing touristic accommodation. This economic model furthermore generated grounds for everyday needs of its population, such as a kindergarten and similar facilities. All these interlinked processes prove to be unavoidable for any relevant development of the countryside or tourism. Outstanding responses to the students’ presentation at the final jury induced several new students and teachers to start proactive initiatives within their immediate surroundings. It is a pleasure to see nanotourism continually advance.
Introduction
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