A simple test for the presence of seasonality in tourism in Macedonia

Tourism development is often interrupted by seasonality, which is noted as one of the most influencing factor for limiting continuous enlargement. Therefore, many tourism-oriented countries try to overcome seasonality in the line of prolonging tourist season as a precondition for creating sustainable and competitive tourism development. In this respect, the paper makes an attempt to introduce a simple test for examining the presence of seasonality in tourism in Macedonia. In order to meet the main aim, the research is fully covered by quantitative approach by employing the Gini coefficient, as one of the most applied indicators for measuring tourism seasonality. The data set covers a sample dealing with the number of tourist arrivals for the period 2005-2012. The research results point to low-level seasonality patterns and indicate importance of its follow-up. The findings confirm that tourism flow distribution or concentration is not significant to tourism development in Macedonia. So, the high peaks in July and August have not sufficient capacity and strength for serious influence with an in-depth manner. Generally, both, the academics and the practitioners s well, may find the results of the research useful since it disentangles the belief of having strong and notable high season during summer months. Additionally, this study may serve as a starting point for urging measures for enhancing the up-to-date modest tourism development in Macedonia.