“Authentic Bulgaria” independent trademark for tourist quality

BNR, Sylvia Nikolova and Margarita Dikanarova

Authentic Bulgaria is the name of an independent trademark for quality in tourism, awarded to small hotels, private lodgings and catering outlets, complying with set regulations for authenticity and original tourist product.
The VEGA Consortium (Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance), financed by USAID (US Agency for International Development) is in charge of the project which covers development and implementation of an independent trademark for tourist quality and a private system of certification. Kamelia Kaloyaqnova, head of the project, says:
“The quality trademark is a system used in many countries across the world and we utilize the best of foreign experience. The programme is designed to give aid to small and medium tourist business and marketing high-quality tourism in Bulgaria. The term “authentic” means everything that is different, has its original character and is unique in being originally Bulgarian. In actual fact the quality trademark is an independent system, complementing the system of government categorization. It is a licensing committee that awards the quality trademark. Another good point is that the tourist objects are given a list of recommendations on doing a prosperous business.”
The main target is boosting tourist entrepreneurship. Special attention is given to private lodgings and small hotels, offering comfort and typical Bulgarian hospitality.
“There are seven areas under review. Further to accommodation facilities they include mostly what cannot be” touched”, but can be felt and appreciated. Here belong hospitality, standard of service, a variety of services and entertainment on offer, food, local trades and crafts, opportunities to communicate with locals. We regard all this as authentic. The sign of “ Authentic Bulgaria” is a Bulgarian rose, inscribed in an ancient Roman coin, symbolizing Bulgarian history and culture down the ages. The quality trademark has three grades- bronze, silver and golden”, specifies Kamelia Kaloyanova.
VEGA Consortium published a relevant guidebook, entitled “Authentic Bulgaria”. Entries have a rather special characteristic in at least one of the four areas- hospitality, cuisine, atmosphere and entertainment.
“The guide is a part of the marketing programme. 50 wonderful sites around the country, awarded the quality trademark, are included in the guidebook, translated in English and German. It will basically target major Bulgarian tourist markets. Our marketing programme envisages also promotions of the tourist product at international tourism fairs and major tourist bourses in Bulgaria”, said in conclusion Kamelia Kaloyanova, head of the “ Authentic Bulgaria” independent quality trademark in tourism project in Bulgaria.