The role of tourism in rural development: Sürmeli Village case

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of rural tourism on rural development in the case of Sürmeli village which is located in Bafra District of Samsun. The qualitative research method was used to obtain data from field observations and unstructured interviews. The interviews are conducted with villagers and women manufacturers whom live nearby. The research data were evaluated in the context of economic, social and cultural effects of village activities. The organic market, which was established in connexion with the organic agricultural production in the village, increased the income level of the villagers and changed their point of view to tourism and tourists. As a result, Sürmeli Village wants to expand its rural development model based on women’s employment by including rural tourism. The success of this model will set an example for many nearby villages that share the same fate