Abstract This study investigates the acceptance of autonomous vehicles in a tourism context, focusing on Generation Z. Building on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the research integrates the context-specific construct Openness for Touristic Use to analyse key factors influencing technology acceptance. With this construct as hypothesised antecedent, the model examines the influence of the constructs Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use on the construct Intention of U se. Data were collected through an online survey (n = 134) and analysed using structural equation modelling. The results confirm a strong effect of the Perceived Ease of Use on both the Perceived Usefulness and the Intention to Use . Moreover, a significant relationship between the Openness for Touristic and Perceived Ease of Use is verified. However, the Perceived Usefulness did not significantly influence the Intention to Use , nor did the Openness for Touristic Use affect the Perceived Usefulness . These findings suggest that in tourism contexts, usability and attitudinal openness may be more relevant than functional utility in shaping behavioural intention. The model demonstrates strong explanatory power, particularly for the Intention to Use (R² = 84.5 %). Theoretically, the study extends TAM by highlighting the importance of context-specific constructs and questioning the primacy of usefulness in hedonic or novel settings. Practically, it suggests that designing intuitive and accessible AV services may enhance adoption among younger, tech-savvy tourists. The findings provide guidance for tourism stakeholders and urban planners as autonomous vehicle technologies begin to shape future mobility experiences.

Abstract Destination management organisations (DMO) increasingly face the challenge of managing visitor flows due to overtourism problems, critical attitudes of local residents and stakeholders towards tourism but also aspirations for more sustainability in tourism. Effective, applicable evidence-based visitor management requires data from visitor monitoring, which in Germany is currently mostly limited to large-scale protected areas with some destinations setting up first approaches. Therefore, we demonstrate how established monitoring approaches from protected areas can be successfully transferred to less strictly protected settings including the spheres of DMOs. We advocate for a cooperative joint approach between DMOs and protected area actors to enable evidence-based visitor governance. As a showcase, we use Lake Schrecksee in the Nature Conservation Area Allgäuer Hochalpen, Germany, a site notorious for overtourism complaints during the Covid-19-pandemic. Based on four years of automated visitor counting and two standardized online visitor surveys (n=232 each), a low threshold yet robust monitoring approach is introduced. Results reveal pronounced seasonal and weather-related peaks in visitation (culminating at almost 25,000 visits in 2021), with 62.3 % of daily fluctuations explained by key variables in time-series regression modelling. The survey results illustrate information about visitor structure, motivation, satisfaction, crowding perception, knowledge about and affinity for protected areas. Based on the literature, our results and experiences at the Schrecksee we derive a list of practical recommendations for DMO managers and actors responsible for protected areas to set up visitor monitoring approaches beyond large-scale and strictly protected areas.

Abstract This discussion paper examines the impact of political crises on international tourism, using Turkey as a case study. As one of the world’s most visited destinations, Turkey has faced recurring political tensions, including terrorism and a failed coup in 2015–16. Recent findings by Alpaslan and Firgo (2025) show significant long-term declines on tourism demand following this period. In 2025, new unrest linked to the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor has again raised concerns. Early monthly data indicate that most of the deviations in March and April may be the result of calendar effects rather than political developments. This paper reviews results from the literature on previous security events in Turkey and discusses possible implications for current events. It highlights the need for crisis management and further research to enhance sector resilience.

Abstract This research evaluates the accuracy of the EU’s standardized innovation measurement tool, the Community Innovation Survey (CIS), in capturing innovation in hospitality. It identifies the limitations of the current measure and provides suggestions for adapting both input and outcome measures to better fit the unique characteristics of innovations in the hospitality sector. The proposed adaptations aim to enhance the relevance and applicability of the CIS by integrating hospitality-specific input dimensions to innovations, such as employee engagement, collaborations and networks, while focusing less on patents and R&D investments. Further, this research recommends the inclusion of additional innovation outcomes, specifically incorporating experience design and delivery innovations, as well as expanding on eco-innovations in the survey. By aligning the CIS with hospitality innovations, the study ensures that innovation measurement is both industry-specific and comparable across different sectors. This research bridges theoretical frameworks with practical industry realities, offering a foundation for future innovation studies and practical applications.

Abstract This article examines the perspectives of Western female retirees in Hua Hin, Thailand, addressing the underrepresented experiences of women in international retirement migration literature. Focusing on everyday life, social relationships, and the challenges of aging abroad, it explores the intersections of gendered migration, intercultural relationships, and female support systems. The central research question investigates how these women experience retired life, with sub-questions concerning the specific challenges faced by single women, their social interactions, and their views on relationships between Western men and Thai women. The literature review highlights the dominance of male-centric perspectives in retirement migration studies, mirroring broader trends in tourism research, and – drawing on Urry’s concept of the tourist gaze – establishes a Western female gaze that addresses this gap. The study adopts an exploratory qualitative design based on semi-structured interviews with nine German-speaking Western female retirees, analysed using the documentary method of interpretation. The findings reveal that participants navigate their identities between a sense of belonging and foreignness, often relying on strong female support networks to manage emotional insecurities and social challenges. Their Western female gaze, shaped by continual comparison with familiar cultural norms, produces an ambivalent sense of connection and alienation in the host society.

Abstract Tourism organisations are particularly exposed to crises and disasters. Effective crisis management requires collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including local businesses, public authorities, emergency units, and actors in source markets such as tour operators and government agencies. However, communication barriers and fragmented responsibilities hinder cooperation. This study investigates stakeholder collaboration in destination tourism crisis management by identifying key actors, analysing their interactions, and exploring ways to enhance collaboration using stakeholder theory. Findings highlight the need for cross-border collaboration, emphasising the role of tourism associations as coordinating entities. The study suggests that proactive inter-agency cooperation, trust-building, and structured crisis planning improve resilience. Theoretical and practical implications underscore the necessity for clear leadership and structured communication networks to strengthen crisis response in tourism destinations.

Zusammenfassung Dieser Beitrag plädiert für eine grundlegende Neugestaltung des sozialen Dialogs im Tourismussektor, um den Realitäten der Arbeitswelt im 21. Jahrhundert gerecht zu werden. Angesichts der wachsenden Bedeutung plattformbasierter Arbeit und algorithmischer Steuerung geraten traditionelle Strukturen der Kollektivverhandlungen zunehmend an ihre Grenzen und schließen vor allem prekär Beschäftigte systematisch aus. Aufbauend auf interdisziplinären und vergleichenden Perspektiven fordert der Text inklusivere und anpassungsfähigere Modelle des sozialen Dialogs, die digitale Steuerungsmechanismen, intersektionale Ungleichheiten und fragmentierte Beschäftigungsformen einbeziehen. Die Tourismusforschung wird als zentral für diesen Wandel positioniert und zur aktiven Mitgestaltung neuer Formen von Mitbestimmung, Repräsentation und Regulierung aufgefordert.

Abstract Securing, retaining and attracting demand in winter sports tourism requires consideration of participants and non-participants in marketing efforts and product development. This study examined perceived constraints to winter sports among non-participants in the German winter sports source market. Constraints were assessed in a representative sample (n=704) using 15 pre-determined items on a five-point Likert scale. Four constraining factors were identified using principal component analysis (context, physical condition, cost, attitude). Five clusters were identified using segmentation analysis (most constrained, self- and context constrained, least constrained, cost-sensitive, disinterested). Significant differences in socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics were found between clusters. The findings suggested the least constrained and cost-sensitive segments to have the greatest potential for future participation.