Tourism Growth Research Articles

Sustainability in tourism and hospitality: Artificial intelligence role in eco-friendly practices in Indian hotels

This study explores the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the growth and competitiveness of regional tourism and hospitality destinations. AI's application has both positive and negative effects on sustainable tourism. On the positive side, AI enhances accessibility to tourist sites, provides detailed information about attractions, simplifies understanding of costs and amenities, boosts local economies, and increases federal income. A notable downside is the replacement of human workers by machine learning technologies, which may necessitate remedial measures such as training. This review examines AI's foundational IT principles, current applications, and systems in the industry, focusing on the hotel sector. It concludes with an overview of AI’s challenges in this field, proposes a research agenda, and suggests future directions for AI development in tourism and hospitality.

Potential Contributions of IMO Area-Based Shipping Management and Port State Jurisdiction to the Regulation of Ship-Borne Tourism in Antarctica

Given the rapid growth of ship-borne tourism in Antarctica, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) area-based management tools (ABMTs) could be a timely and effective contribution to mitigate some of the associated risks. Utilization of IMO ABMTs in Antarctic waters, which constitute high seas, raises several legal and practical issues. The central challenge is how to ensure compliance with IMO measures on the high seas, given the lack of generally accepted coastal state jurisdiction in Antarctica and shortcomings in flag state control. This article addresses these questions and analyzes port state jurisdiction as a potential mechanism to enforce IMO ABMTs in the Antarctic. The article concludes that Antarctic port states have sufficient legal arguments to justify the exercise of jurisdiction in relation to IMO ABMTs, and that significant constraints lie in the economic and political dimensions of regulation rather than in regulation itself.

Managing technology-critical elements from electronic waste in Small Developing Island States: a burden or an opportunity?

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face profound challenges from pollution, exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and resource limitations. This paper examines the longstanding pollution issues plaguing SIDS, highlighting their vulnerability to environmental degradation due to underdeveloped waste management systems and unique oceanographic conditions. The case study of Eleuthera Island in The Bahamas illustrates these challenges vividly, showcasing the island’s struggle with e-waste management. This example reinforces the urgency of integrated strategies to enhance environmental resilience and sustainable development in SIDS. Emerging concerns include the proliferation of technology-critical elements (TCEs) in e-waste, driven by rapid urbanization and tourism growth. Despite their crucial role in technological advancement, TCEs pose significant recycling and management difficulties, particularly in the context of limited waste infrastructure. The paper also highlights the imperative for comprehensive regulatory frameworks and sustainable practices to mitigate pollution impacts and safeguard ocean and human health, particularly by shedding light on legislative gaps and opportunities for enhancing pollution control measures in The Bahamas.

Development Strategy of Batu Lawang Tourist Attraction as a Leading Tourism Destination in Cirebon Regency

Purpose : This study aims to explore the importance of tourist attractions in strengthening the tourism sector and its impact on sustainable development in various destinations, with a special focus on Batu Lawang nature tourism in Cirebon. Method: The study used a qualitative approach with descriptive methods, involving in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation studies. Results: The study shows that Batu Lawang has uniqueness and great potential in attracting tourists through its natural beauty and various interesting activities, although it still faces obstacles such as infrastructure that needs to be improved and promotion that has not been maximized. The proposed strategies include setting visitor quotas to overcome over-tourism, managing traffic and mobility, maintaining tourist facilities, and developing attractions. Contribution: This study is useful for tourism managers, government, and local communities in efforts to develop and promote Batu Lawang, and provides a basis for further research to support the growth of sustainable tourism in the area.

Increasing Security Levels in the Tourism and Air-Transport Industries Could Enhance African People’s Quality of Life and Tourism Demand

The aims of this study are to analyze the tourism and air-transport industries in Africa and determine how African governments could improve the safety of tourists and local communities in this region to improve resident quality of life and tourism demand. Indeed, this study tries to improve African people’s lives through the tourism and travel sectors so that they can thrive in terms of their quality of life and happiness. The findings of the current study reveal that Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, and Tunisia are the most visited countries by international tourists; in fact, these four countries are the ones that generated the most income from international tourism in the period analyzed. Moreover, the results suggest that the tourism and air-transport industries in Africa could improve national economies, infrastructure, and resident quality of life thanks to international tourism receipts and increasing security levels around travel and tourism activities. Obviously, the tourism industry cannot be developed when there is constant insecurity, terrorism, and perpetual armed conflicts, as is the case in Nigeria, Somalia, DR Congo, Libya, Mali, and Cameroon, among many others. Security is the most important factor for a tourist destination because the safety and security of residents and tourists are the primary factors affecting tourism growth. The novelty of this research resides in its willingness to improve African people’s quality of life through air-transport and tourism activities, providing security guarantees for tourist and resident safety. This manuscript also contributes to enhancing and bootstrapping the literature on security in the travel and tourism sectors industry, particularly in Africa, where security is a priority more than a necessity.

Tourism-led growth hypothesis (TLGH) in Africa: does institutional quality matter?

Purpose While the tourism–growth nexus is one of the better researched themes in both tourism and economics literature, there is limited evidence on how institutional quality affects this link, especially in the context of the developing world. To address this gap, this study aims to investigate the tourism-led growth hypothesis (TLGH) through the lens of institutional quality, drawing on evidence from African economies. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts a longitudinal design, involving panel data on 43 countries over an 18-year period, and the data were analyzed using the difference generalized method of moments model. Findings Results indicated that international tourism earnings contributed to economic growth in the selected economies. However, institutional quality negatively moderated the tourism–growth relationship on the continent, particularly in low-income economies, while reinforcing this link in middle-income countries. Originality/value This study provides new insights into how the TLGH varies across different levels of institutional quality and development.

Embracing the metaverse: cultivating sustainable tourism growth on a global scale

ABSTRACT The tourism sector must integrate sustainability to mitigate environmental impacts, ensure destination profitability, and promote responsible travel. Emerging technologies, particularly the metaverse, have the potential to revolutionise environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Although recent research on metaverse-based sustainable development has expanded, studies on its application within tourism remain limited. This paper addresses this gap by exploring the metaverse’s potential to advance sustainable practices in tourism, aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs).By integrating three behavioural theories – the Theory of Planned Behavior, Technology Acceptance Model, and Self-Determination Theory – this research provides a comprehensive framework to assess the impact of metaverse tourism on sustainability and identify the most relevant SDGs. Through a systematic meta-analysis, the study presents four key propositions: foundational technologies will redefine travel experiences through immersive engagements; metaverse tourists may develop more realistic expectations, altering travel dynamics; understanding the diverse identities of metaverse tourists is crucial; and metaverse tourism introduces an innovative business model aligned with the creative economy. This interdisciplinary approach offers insights into the transformative potential of metaverse tourism, bridging technology, tourism, and behavioural psychology. The research underscores the importance of exploring these intersections, contributing valuable insights to the evolving tourism landscape amidst changing consumer expectations and sustainability imperatives.

What brings you to our humble abode? Tourist motivation for visiting rural destinations: The case of Nqileni village, South Africa

Rural areas, especially in developing countries, have considered using rural tourism to advance economic and social development. Many authors have conducted academic research focusing on tourism to develop rural areas. However, more clarity is needed on what constitutes rural tourism. While several studies have investigated the reasons for rural tourism development, more is needed to understand what attracts visitors to rural areas. This research paper aims to enhance understanding of rural tourism by examining rural tourists' motivations for places such as Nqileni village, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The authors identified the motivational factors that push tourists to rural areas and the activities that tourists prefer at the destination. Finally, the research determined the tourists' overall satisfaction during their stay at the destination. Numerous research studies have been conducted to investigate the factors influencing the growth of rural tourism, but more is needed to determine what attracts tourists to rural destinations. The study adopted a quantitative research approach, using questionnaires to collect data. The results conclusively show that tourists were motivated to visit the area for relaxation, visit family and relatives, and enjoy a feeling of freedom in the countryside.

Dakshinkali: Emerging Rural Tourism Hub - Insights and Growth

Dakshinkali, situated in the southern part of the Kathmandu Valley, has evolved into a prominent rural tourism destination centered around a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. As an incarnation of Mother Parvati, the temple's significance surged during the reign of King Pratap Malla, fostering a rise in religious and rural tourism. The increased influx of visitors has stimulated local economic growth by selling their local products, resulting in heightened business activities, increased employment rates, and improved living standards. The growing popularity of Dakshinkali as a rural tourism destination motivates the community to preserve its culture, tradition, and indigenous knowledge. Tourist support motivates locals to safeguard their culture, contributing to the growth of tourism and income. Dakshinkali is popular because it is close to Kathmandu and has a peaceful rural atmosphere. It is considered a sought-after destination, following the global trend of rural tourism. This study explores Dakshinkali's role in rural tourism, using a qualitative research design and historical frameworks. The findings highlight Dakshinkali as the nearest and most significant rural tourism hub in the Kathmandu Valley, set for continued growth. Its increasing popularity, driven by a growing disinterest in modern city life, is evident in its rising appeal. With the world favoring rural destinations, Dakshinkali shows promise for the future of rural tourism in the region.

Implementation and challenges of sustainable tourism programs in Bali

The rapid growth of tourism in Bali has led to extensive development of accommodations, infrastructure, and facilities, positioning the island as a major tourist destination. However, this growth has brought significant challenges, including environmental degradation, cultural commodification, and social inequalities. The overexploitation of natural resources, unsustainable waste management, and deforestation have raised concerns about the island’s long-term ecological health. Additionally, the commercialization of cultural traditions and rising land prices have disrupted local communities and eroded the authenticity of Balinese heritage. In response, Indonesia has launched the "Decarbonization Roadmap for the Tourism Sector" to transition towards a more sustainable tourism model. This roadmap, supported by traditional values like Tri Hita Karana, emphasizes balancing economic growth with environmental preservation and cultural respect. Sustainable tourism practices such as community-based tourism and ecotourism are emerging as potential solutions, focusing on local participation and environmental conservation. Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain, including the uneven distribution of tourism benefits, income inequality, and the heavy reliance on tourism for Bali’s economy. Addressing these issues will require integrated and thoughtful approaches that prioritize sustainability and inclusive development.

Sustainable medical tourism in the global competitive environment: The case of Cyprus.

The aim of this study is to examine the perceptions of Cypriot medical tourism experts regarding the phenomenon of medical tourism, as well as to emphasise the benefits and opportunities for Cyprus to become a highly competitive global healthcare destination. A Delphi study was conducted in Cyprus, with the participation of 20 experts in the field of medical tourism. At first, 20 experts took part in semi-structured interviews. Based on their feedback provided during that phase, a structured questionnaire was drawn up and completed, addressing a wide variety of medical tourism-related issues, such as benefits and losses from the development of medical tourism in Cyprus, advantages and disadvantages of Cyprus in attracting international patients, the key elements of a medium- to long-term strategic plan for the development of medical tourism in Cyprus, the role of the public and private sector and the importance of international accreditation of private and public hospitals. Cyprus appears to have some very favourable qualities when it comes to its listing as a competitive destination for medical travellers. Undeniably, the growth of medical tourism improves all sectors of the economy and society, but the healthcare industry is the one that benefits most. On the opposite end, medical tourism could potentially impact the access of local people to healthcare services. No clear answers were given by the expert respondents on the need for international accreditation of healthcare providers in Cyprus. The competent authorities should promote Cyprus to international markets as a medical tourism destination of choice, upgrading the quality of healthcare services it provides having due regard in parallel to any potential impacts to the access of local population to the healthcare system.

Comparison of Seasonal ARIMA and Support Vector Machine Forecasting Method for International Arrival in Lombok

Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average is a statistical model designed to analyze and forecast data with that shows seasonal patterns and trends. Support Vector Machine (SVM) is a machine learning-based technique that can be used to forecast time series data. SVM uses the kernel tricks to overcome non-linearity problems, whereas The SARIMA model is well-suited for data that exhibit seasonal fluctuations that repeat over time. Lombok International Airport is the main gateway to West Nusa Tenggara and has become a symbol of tourism growth in the region. Time series analysis is a very useful tool in determining patterns and forecasting the number of international arrivals at Lombok International Airport within a certain period. This study aims to compare the SARIMA model and SVM which can read non-linear patterns in the number of international arrivals at Lombok International Airport. After obtaining the SARIMA and SVM models, the two models are evaluated using test data based on the smallest RMSE value. The SVM model with a linear kernel trick provides the smallest RMSE when compared to SARIMA with SVM RMSE is 238,655. While the best model in Seasonal ARIMA is SARIMA (3,1,0)(1,0,0)12, the forecasting results show SARIMA is better in the forecasting process for the next 10 months.

Bandung as a Creative City in Indonesia: The Role of Community in Developing a Creative Tourism Urban Village Initiative

Bandung City Government, in collaboration with the Bandung City Culture and Tourism Office, has implemented the activation of creative tourism urban villages as a strategic measure to promote regional autonomy through the development of the creative economy. Prior studies have not extensively addressed the concept of creative tourism in urban villages as an alternative form of tourism. Therefore, this research aims to explore the involvement of communities in the management of creative tourism urban villages in Bandung, seeing them as the primary stakeholders. The objective of this study is to chart the potential and obstacles facing creative tourism urban villages in Bandung City from the perspective of tourism awareness groups as managers of creative tourism urban villages. The study employed qualitative methodologies with a phenomenological approach, specifically in-depth interviews with managers of creative tourism urban villages, as well as field observations of 8 activated creative tourism urban villages in Bandung city. The activation of creative tourism urban villages in the city of Bandung to promote the sustainable development goal is characterized by three primary themes: community dynamics, infrastructure readiness and external support. Community dynamics refers to the interactions that take place among community members as they collaborate to establish creative tourism urban villages in different regions through stories, conflicts and the active involvement of community members. The availability of infrastructure is contingent upon the presence of tangible assets that facilitate the execution of creative tourism urban village business operations, encompassing aspects such as road accessibility, parking availability, and building structures. Assistance from external entities refers to the support provided by external parties to foster the growth of creative tourism in urban villages, including mentoring, training, sponsorship, and collaboration networks. The activation of creative tourism urban villages needs to be accompanied by community independence and involvement in a bottom-up development process, not just a top-down one, so as to maintain the sustainability of creative tourism urban villages after the government no longer supports activities carried out by tourism awareness groups.

Sustainable tourism and city branding: Balancing growth and authenticity

Background: The rapid growth of tourism has necessitated a re-evaluation of its impacts on local cultures and economies, highlighting the need for sustainable practices. This paper explores the intersection of sustainable tourism and city branding, focusing on how destinations can balance economic growth with the preservation of authenticity. Method: Through a comparative case study analysis of Indonesia and the Philippines, this research examines the strategies employed by major cities in these countries to attract tourists while maintaining cultural integrity and promoting sustainability. In Indonesia, cities like Bali and Jakarta have implemented various initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable tourism, such as community-based tourism projects and environmental conservation efforts. Similarly, destinations like Manila and Cebu have developed branding strategies in the Philippines that emphasize cultural heritage and ecological sustainability. This study identifies common challenges faced by both countries, including managing the environmental impact of tourism and ensuring local community involvement in tourism planning. Result: The findings suggest that while Indonesia and the Philippines have made significant strides in integrating sustainability into their tourism and branding efforts, substantial hurdles remain to achieving a perfect balance. Conclusion: Key recommendations include enhancing policy frameworks, increasing stakeholder collaboration, and fostering greater awareness among tourists about sustainable practices. This paper contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism and city branding by providing insights that can inform policy and practice in other regions facing similar challenges. Novelty/Originality of this study: They are developing a holistic and adaptable comparative framework for evaluating sustainable tourism strategies, integrating economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects, and considering each destination's unique characteristics. Various tourism destinations can adopt and adapt this framework to develop and implement tourism practices that effectively balance economic growth, cultural preservation and environmental sustainability in their local context.

The Development of Natural and Cultural Tourism in Buku Limau Island Based on Social Networking

The local authorities are promoting Buku Limau Island as an emerging tourist site. The island's distinguishing features include stunning coral reefs, picturesque white sandy beaches, and its role as a hub for the production of salted and fresh seafood. The objective of this study is to identify and describe the natural and cultural attractions on Buku Limau Island, particularly in the Manggar Subdistrict of East Belitung Regency. Additionally, the study seeks to examine social networks in order to facilitate the development and expansion of natural and cultural tourism destinations in the area. This research employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing data gathering approaches such as observation, focus group discussions (FGD), and surveys administered through questionnaires. UCINET program was used to conduct descriptive qualitative analysis and social network analysis to identify and reveal tourist characteristics. This is followed by the breakdown and study of social networks among stakeholders and interest groups. The findings of this study indicate that Buku Limau Island exhibits attributes of both natural and cultural tourism, with the predominant population of fishermen being of Bugis ethnicity. The identification and study of social networks demonstrate that stakeholders have formed networks to actively support and cultivate tourism attractions, encompassing both natural and cultural aspects. Nevertheless, there are still certain stakeholders who have not been engaged in the network throughout the process of developing and improving the tourism destination. The research limits are deliberately established to enhance the study's focus and depth. The information and data acquired are directly relevant to the fundamental issue of this investigation. The scope of this study is limited to the creation of natural and cultural tourism centered around social networks on Buku Limau Island. Theoretical implications shed light on the ideas of local government assistance, social networks, and tourist attractions. Meanwhile, the practical consequences surely affect the government, tourism stakeholders, and the community in their efforts to promote the growth of natural and cultural tourism through social networks on Buku Limau Island.

¿Cómo de slow es tu mensaje?: Efecto en la comunicación turística en redes sociales

The accelerated growth of tourism in recent decades has led to the massification of many destinations, generating a great deal of controversy about this massive form of tourism and its effects on society and/or the environment. In response, new trends are emerging, such as slow tourism, which are more concerned with sustainability, decelerating the speed of travel and connecting with the destination and with yourself. This study examines the extent to which the tourism orientation of a social media post influences consumer behaviour in terms of attitude towards the post and intention to visit. For this purpose, a one-factor experimental design, the tourism orientation of the message (slow versus mass), is carried out. The results show that the message with a slow orientation generates a higher visit intention than the message with a mass orientation. In addition, the attitude towards the post mediates this relationship. This study offers important implications by highlighting how the inclusion of slow features in a tourism message on social media improves the attitude towards the post and contributes to generate a higher visit intention.

Drugie życie silbo gomero – jak edukacja, turystyka i sztuka przyczyniły się do ocalenia gwizdanego języka z Gomery

THE SECOND LIFE OF SILBO GOMERO – THE CONTRIBUTION OF EDUCATION, TOURISM AND ART TO SAVING THE WHISTLED LANGUAGE OF THE ISLAND OF LA GOMERA Silbo gomero is a whistled language used by inhabitants of La Gomera (Canary Islands) and created before the arrival of Spanish settlers to overcome communication problems resulting from the deep ravines and narrow valleys that radiate through the island. The language, commonly used in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, declined in the 1950s–1980s due to economic migration, the growth of tourism and technological developments e.g. the telephone. Since the language was endangered in the late 1990s, revitalization efforts were generated at both community and governmental level. Nowadays, tourism is not a threat to silbo gomero; it’s seen as a great opportunity and as a generator of both employment and income. Unlike other islands in the archipelago, La Gomera focuses on natural resource-based tourism and cultural tourism and silbo gomero seems to be an ideal magnet for tourists looking for something more than the beach and the sun.

English for Tour Guide: Kegiatan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat bagi Guru SMK di Purbalingga

This community service program seeks to help teachers enhance their English communication abilities, and in particular English for Tour Guide. Aside from that, it provides information, insight and creative inspiration in teaching and learning activities, which can indirectly contribute to the growth of local tourism. This activity was carried out utilizing a training method based on the results of an analysis of needs and challenges encountered at SMK Negeri 1 Bojongsari in terms of English mastery, conducted through interviews and observations. The training method used is through presentation of material, drilling, and evaluation. This PKM activity is for vocational school teachers and students, as well as UHAMKA lecturers and students. This training event went off without a hitch, as planned by the UHAMKA PKM team. Participants were enthusiastic and involved in creating a conducive atmosphere till the program ended. The evaluation results indicate that more time is needed for practice and evaluation. Furthermore, it is advised that existing activities such as comparable training, be held on a regular basis to develop teachers' teaching skills.

Bilingual Signboards on Lombok: Approaches to Acquiring the Translation Equivalence

It is particularly intriguing to analyze the application of Baker's theory of translation equivalence through research on such brief texts as on signboard because it reveals a lot of interesting patterns. In order to make a signboard read in the least amount of time feasible and to get the word across to the reader in a more expedient manner, short phrases are frequently used. Texts taken from Lombok's newly emerging market for multilingual signboard served as the basis for this research's collection of data. This descriptive qualitative research aims to investigate the compatibility and applicability of the extended levels of Baker’s translation equivalence in the context of the collected data found on bilingual signboards at religious tourism sites on Lombok Island, particularly in relation to ethical, moral, and semiotic considerations. The study reveals the complex nature of translation equivalence in signboard, highlighting different levels such as word-level, grammatical, text-level, pragmatic, semiotic, and ethical equivalence. It offers practical insights for signboard designers, translators, and the tourism industry worldwide, providing essential information to unfamiliar tourists, contributing to their navigation and exploration of destinations. Additionally, the study underscores the significant role of signboard in tourism development, effective communication of information, intercultural understanding, and the growth of tourism in various destinations beyond Lombok.

‘We are the roots!’ Decolonial practices of local tourism

The roots of ancestral legacy persist entangled with the currents of modern globalisation. While the global tourism market promotes corporate ventures and international travel, rural and Indigenous communities confront the challenge of adapting amidst hegemonic influences. In coastal communities of Ecuador, the juxtaposition of pre-colonial belonging and contemporary tourism development exemplifies this tension. Drawing on decolonial perspectives, this paper investigates how rural Indigenous communities on the Pacific coast of Ecuador have navigated their tourism ventures, negotiating notions of private property, access to credit, and business administration formalities, while upholding traditional Indigenous values and collective land property needs—what we term decolonial practices of local tourism. Moreover, the emergence of proximity tourism offers a promising avenue for advancing decolonial practices within the global tourism market, prioritising geographical and cultural closeness over conventional distance-focused approaches. Employing a collaborative approach, the research integrates Indigenous methodologies with conventional research methods, bridging diverse backgrounds within the research team, including academia, consultancy, and Indigenous leadership. The analysis underscores the pivotal role of collective land ownership in preserving cultural identity and fostering resistance to capitalist encroachments. The study concludes with a call to amplify Indigenous voices, cultivate solidarity, and advocate for more inclusive and equitable approaches to tourism development. This imperative stems from the need to decolonise and promote culturally sensitive local tourism practices, urging a reconfiguration of the tourism industry towards a more equitable and respectful engagement with Indigenous communities.