Geographical perspectives on Polish tourism

Like other sectors of the Polish economy, the tourist industry is going through a radical restructuring process which began at the start of the 1990s and reached a new stage with the 1998 Tourist Services Act. The business is now firmly market-oriented and standards are being set in line with EU norms. Tourism is of great importance for Poland because, through the promotion of attractive natural and cultural landscapes of international importance, it plays a central role in the search for a more sustainable economy and it also enhances the potential for development in many of the country's poorer regions. Employment in the industry is increasing both relatively and absolutely. This paper examines the opportunities with particular reference to Lower Silesia where the tourism potential offers an important approach to the solution of the region's economic and social problems. Particular reference is made to the refurbishment of historic buildings for tourist use and the significance of the restoration of Krobielowice Palace near Wroclaw is fully evaluated. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.