This study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on customer perceptions and behavior in restaurants, airline companies, and hotel sectors within the hospitality industry of Iran. The primary objective is to analyze how AI affects customer trust, brand engagement, electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM), and tourists’ readiness to use AI technologies. Using a comparative analysis approach and surveys, this research tests hypotheses about the effects of artificial intelligence on various dimensions of customer interaction. The findings highlight significant relationships between the quality of artificial intelligence and customer engagement metrics, such as trust and brand loyalty, which are crucial for understanding and predicting customer behavior in response to technological advancements. This study lays the groundwork for theoretical assumptions about sustainability in these sectors in developing countries, providing a basis for future empirical research that could validate these assumptions and explore broader implications of AI integration in enhancing sustainable practices within the hospitality industry.

Rural tourism in Serbia had its chance to shine with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to determine to what extent the quality of rural service can contribute to improving rural tourism, and predictions for the continuation of the trend in terms of increasing the number of overnight stays in rural households. The obtained results show a small number of services in the sector could be improved, but that all elements except price value can influence the future development of rural tourism and that the number of overnight stays is expected to continue to grow. The importance and innovativeness of the research is reflected in the specific methodology that was applied, and the results complement those of previous research. It has been shown that villages in Serbia can create a barrier against COVID-19 through tourism.

The aim of this paper is to investigate the motives of tourists for participating in wine tourism in Serbia. The research was conducted using the survey method. From the total number of sent questionnaires, there was received 160 fully completed ones. Results of the research show that the most important motives for the inclusion of tourists to the wine tourism are: wine tasting, trying different sorts of wines, visiting wineries, getting information about wine and its production and organization of the trip. Wine tourists showed a high degree of readiness to visit wineries that produce their favorite wine. Secondary motives of wine tourists are: participating in the production of wine, visiting shops that sell local products and meeting people with similar interests. Motivation of tourists is the driving force that affects their intention to visit a wine destination and take part in wine tourism. On the other hand, barriers such as free time, distance of wine regions and financial expenditure do not significantly affect the motivation and future behavior of wine tourists.

The promotion of authentic food and beverages in Vojvodina is most commonly carried out in gastronomic events. Vojvodina is rich in gastronomic products coming from the households of different nations that inhabit its territory. Gastronomic events with their authenticity can contribute to the creation of the destination brand. The aim of the present study is to explore the authenticity of gastronomic events, which could contribute to a better promotion of Vojvodina and the creation of a recognizable brand of this tourist destination. The research was conducted through the method of survey, using a questionnaire on a sample of 150 respondents. Using statistical methods of binary logistic regression, Chi - square and Fisher's test, the analysis was performed and the results were presented. The findings of the research indicate that the authenticity of gastronomic events is recognized by the tourists; however, this should be better utilized in destination branding, as this feature could be the key in attracting tourists.

Competition among tourist destinations is becoming more prevalent as many destinations offer the same or similar attractions, which is why destination branding is becoming one of the primary goals of destination management and marketing. A brand has also become an important factor because it gives added value and commits to providing potential tourists with experience of something special in a specific destination. Therefore, it is important to create a perception of distinctiveness of a destination in the minds of tourists. Branding allows a tourist destination to achieve numerous economic effects, primarily reflected in the increase in the number of tourists, development of business, as well as in attracting new investments. Previous research conducted in our country has not sufficiently addressed tourist destination branding, which directed this research paper toward the challenges of branding tourist destinations in Serbia, with special reference to Prolom Banja - one of the destinations specializing in health tourism. This research aims to determine tourist perception of Prolom Banja, as well as to identify key elements that can influence the branding of Prolom Banja as a destination specializing in health tourism. The study was conducted in February 2019 using the survey method - questionnaire technique. The study sample consisted of 195 respondents. Using optimal statistical methods, the collected data were analyzed and the results of the research were presented. The findings show that tourists have a positive perception of Prolom Banja, while the healing Prolom water, employees, undisturbed natural beauty, wellness, and treatment center offer have been identified as significant elements that can influence the branding of Prolom Banja. Implications, research limitations and suggestions for future research were also presented.

Rural tourism and diversification of economic activities are now an integral part of sustainable development of rural areas and regions of Šumadija and Pomoravlje. Development of rural tourism improves the economic position and social activity of the population of rural areas. Šumadija and Pomoravlje region has significant natural and human resources for the development of rural tourism, which have not been adequately utilized. The preservation of authentic values of climate, especially of traditional crafts and gastronomy, can contribute to the development and recognition of the region as a new destination for rural tourism in Serbia. Traditional products due to their features, quality and heritage, can become a regional brand, and also promote the region as a unique destination of rural tourism. The aim of the paper is to explore the representation of traditional crafts, production of handicrafts and traditional cuisine in the region of Šumadija and Pomoravlje. The results of the research conducted point to a significant and under-utilized potential of traditional values in the development and promotion of the region as a rural tourism destination.