Changes in Tourists’ Perceptions of Community-Based Ecotourism (CBET) After COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study on the Country of Origin and Economic Development Level

(1) Background: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourists’ perceptions of community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Romania and Spain, taking into account country of origin and economic development. In order to provide insights for sustainable tourism development and policymaking, this study aims to investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced tourists’ perceptions of community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Romania and Spain, taking into account differences in country of origin and economic development. (2) Methods: An online questionnaire was administered to 703 ecotourists (353 Romanian, 350 Spanish). (3) Results: The results show statistically significant differences between the two countries regarding the perception of ecotourism principles, information sources and preferred activities. For example, Romanians showed stronger agreement with ecotourism’s positive contribution to local communities and minimal environmental impact than Spaniards (p < 0.01 for EP3, EP4 and EP6). Significant correlations were found between specific ecotourism elements and preferred activities within each country, highlighting different preferences. Multilinear regression analysis showed that gender and region of origin significantly predicted perceptions of the role of ecotourism in biodiversity conservation for Spain. (4) Conclusions: Policy recommendations include targeted awareness campaigns, increased community involvement and cross-cultural collaboration to promote sustainable CBET development. This comparative study fills a gap in CBET research by contrasting perceptions in Eastern and Western European countries with different levels of economic development.