1 Department of Geography, Ștefan cel Mare University of Suceava, Romania
2 Secondary School Episcop Doctor Partenie Ciopron, Păltiniș, Botoșani
Pages:
102 - 115
Publishing date:
22 December 2020
Abstract:
The paper captures some of the spatial differences and
similarities, as well as the temporal peculiarities of the bioclimate of the Băile
Felix, Moneasa, Geoagiu and Băile Herculane thermal water resorts, which
were monitored during field observations between November 2015 and July
2017, within the project PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-2900. To outline the temporal
succession of different bioclimatic conditions in the studied resorts, we were
able to calculate the thermohygrometric index (THI) and the DI Arakawa
Discomfort Index (DIA) based on temperature and humidity data measured
with field iButton sensors. The collected field data allowed us to calculate
only these two bioclimatic indices, since they can be obtained using only the
air temperature and humidity measured values. In this study, we preferred to
use at least two bioclimatic indices, which would allow for a comparison
between their bioclimatic values and ratings, rather than to employ a single
index without having benchmark data for assessing its values. The values and
temporal variability of the indices showed contradictory results for the four
thermal water resorts. The annual and diurnal intervals of bioclimatic
comfort and discomfort indicated by the two indices are not identical in
terms of timing and duration. Taking into account both these findings and the
results obtained in a series of previous studies, we consider the THI values
more reliable compared to DIA, which visibly contradicts the bioclimatic
conditions of the four Romanian tourist resorts. Therefore, based on the data
provided by THI only, we highlighted the favorability of these locations for
general and health tourism and the high degree to which the bioclimate with
sedative characteristics complements and supports the balneary cure and
treatment provided in the specialized treatment centers of the respective
resorts.