TravelX2026, a conference focused on the transformation of the tourism sector, sustainable practices, and emerging models of travel and accommodation, will take place on February 13.
The event will bring together tourism experts, investors, and entrepreneurs involved in the development of alternative tourism in Bulgaria. Fakti is a media partner of the conference.
Among the speakers is Nikolay Nekov, an entrepreneur specializing in alternative accommodation models with a focus on camping tourism, caravans, and nature-based stays.
In an interview with Fakti, Nekov discussed recent changes in travel behavior, investment patterns in alternative accommodation, and the operational challenges facing entrepreneurs in this segment.
According to Nekov, travel preferences have shifted noticeably in recent years, particularly around and following the Covid-19 pandemic. Travelers are increasingly seeking proximity to nature, quieter environments, and a greater sense of space, a trend he described as global and long-term.
Location and views are often prioritized over traditional amenities, while demand is also growing for destinations that offer access to activities, routes, beaches, and local culture. At the same time, interest is rising in secluded locations that are not tied to major tourist landmarks.
As Bulgarian travelers gain more exposure to international examples, expectations around design, comfort, and experience have increased. This has expanded opportunities for campsites, caravans, bungalows, and small houses that combine comfort with outdoor settings.
According to Akmu, Nekov noted that while some coastal areas are beginning to show signs of saturation, inland regions remain underdeveloped and may play a more significant role in future tourism growth.
Investment activity in caravans, campers, and rental bungalows has increased in recent years. Many new entrants have opted to begin with individual units in established campsites, particularly along the Black Sea coast, as this approach typically involves lower initial risk and faster market entry.
“With us, it all started 7-8 years ago with a caravan for personal use and rental. The very next year, we invested in two more, but relatively quickly realized that the greater value was not in the number of sites, but in the overall model and management. Thus, we focused our efforts on building a digital platform and ecosystem around this type of accommodation.”
While individual investments remain common, the sector is also attracting larger-scale projects, including higher-end developments in areas such as Chernomorets and Lozenets. Nekov emphasized that successful implementation requires long-term planning, operational expertise, and professional management.
He pointed to three recurring challenges: the absence of a clearly defined concept and financial model, the difficulty of delivering a consistent guest experience beyond accommodation alone, and ongoing shortages of trained personnel.
Internationally, the United States and Western Europe continue to lead in alternative accommodation models. Nekov cited the acquisition of a major nature-based bungalow operator by Marriott as an example of growing institutional interest.
In Europe, established models can be found in France, the Netherlands, England, Austria, and Croatia. These projects often form part of broader regional development strategies involving municipalities, investors, and local communities.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality, caravan, and glamping sectors, Nekov’s observations highlight the importance of integrated planning, partnerships, and scalable management systems.
As Bulgaria continues to rely heavily on traditional hotel infrastructure, alternative accommodation models may offer a way to diversify tourism offerings and attract new international markets, provided that projects are supported by clear concepts, sustainable operations, and coordinated regional development.