Characterizing the location of tourist images in cities. Differences in user-generated images (Instagram), official tourist brochures and travel guides

Abstract

This study analyses the extent to which there is an overlap in the territorial distribution and attractiveness of tourism images distributed via three different media: official tourist brochures, travel guides and user-generated content (Instagram). We applied a mixed-method approach, which included spatial analyses and cartography, to study the promotion of tourism in Montevideo (Uruguay). The results indicated a partial overlap between the locations captured in user-generated images and those promoted by official tourist brochures and travel guides. The findings suggest a territorial distribution of tourism images that is clearly differentiated according to the source(s). This provides useful insights for applications of social media into future geographical and image management research.