Background and Objective: East Azerbaijan is one of Iran's prominent and important provinces in terms of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. With over four thousand historical, cultural, and archaeological sites, monuments, and areas under its possession, this province plays a significant role in introducing the ancient heritage of this land. This research has been conducted with the aim of investigating the factors influencing the enhancement of accommodation experiences from the perspective of managers of eco-lodges in East Azerbaijan Province.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and quantitative in terms of method. To collect the required data and information, a library method and a questionnaire were used. The participating population consisted of the managers of eco-lodges in East Azerbaijan Province. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula (5% error and 95% confidence), and the data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire (for managers) via field and online methods. The managers' questionnaire focused on operational management, environmental sustainability, digital marketing, and challenges. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Excel software, and the required maps were prepared with ArcGIS.
Results and Findings: The development of eco-lodges in the province has been largely based on individual and local investments and faces significant constraints in terms of executive and financial capacity. Furthermore, the results indicated that the updating of facilities and equipment is at a relatively acceptable level, but staff training and the existence of a guest feedback system have not yet been fully and integrally institutionalized. Therefore, although some quality requirements are met in these lodgings, enhancing tourists' accommodation experience requires the continuous strengthening of human skills and the improvement of management systems.