Similar Destinations Research Articles

“She” power: role transition and self-empowerment of women in rural tourism

It is widely believed that participation in tourism empowers women, particularly by providing direct employment and income generation. However, this perspective frequently overlooks women’s agency and self-actualization. This study examines the Tingsong Cultural Community (TCC) in northeast China, integrating self-empowerment with role theory to focus on female participation in tourism. Utilizing multiple data collection strategies, both primary and secondary data were gathered between July 2019 and December 2022. Through inductive thematic analysis, the research unpacks the role transitions of Chinese rural women within tourism practices and the dynamics of self-empowerment. The findings reveal that: (1) role transition is a dynamic process involving exploration, identification, and obligation, marked by an enhanced sense of self-empowerment; (2) self-empowerment arises from awareness and interaction, benefiting from economic, cultural, and subjective dimensions; and (3) external support is essential for empowerment, ideally starting with vulnerable individuals to allow self-empowerment to develop organically. This study refines the concepts of role theory and self-empowerment while establishing the relationship between rural women’s role transitions and self-empowerment, contributing to existing knowledge. The practical implications related to external investment, endogenous development, and digital engagement are insightful for the sustainability of similar destinations.

Enhancing the appeal of Setu Babakan: Integrating marketing strategies to increase tourist visits

Background: Setu Babakan is a Betawi cultural tourist area located in South Jakarta, which possesses significant potential to attract visitors. However, it currently faces several challenges, including limited public understanding of Betawi culture, inadequate supervision, and insufficient facilities. This study aims to conduct a SWOT analysis and develop an integrated marketing strategy to enhance Setu Babakan's appeal as a Betawi cultural destination. Previous studies highlight the importance of cultural tourism and marketing strategies in attracting visitors to similar destinations. Methods: This research employs a descriptive qualitative method, gathering primary data from official Indonesian government releases and secondary data from various publications and online sources. A SWOT analysis is conducted to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats pertaining to Setu Babakan. Findings: he SWOT analysis reveals strengths in natural, educational, and cultural tourism, weaknesses in public understanding and supervision, opportunities for community income enhancement and increased tourist attraction, and threats from competition with other destinations. Based on this analysis, an integrated marketing strategy is formulated targeting specific audiences, including families, culture enthusiasts, nature tourists, and educational visitors. The strategy involves developing attractive tourism products, setting affordable prices, improving accessibility, leveraging digital marketing through websites and social media platforms, fostering partnerships with local governments, private sectors, and communities, and enhancing service quality and infrastructure. Conclusion: The recommended marketing integration aims to boost Setu Babakan's appeal as a Betawi cultural destination and increase tourist visitation. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study contributes new insights into the marketing strategies applicable to cultural tourism, particularly in the context of Betawi culture, by identifying specific audience segments and suggesting tailored strategies to enhance visitor engagement and experience.

Exploring the Interplay Between Economic Benefits, Social Challenges, and Sustainable Tourism in Chiang Mai and Phuket

This study investigates the impact of tourism on local communities in Chiang Mai and Phuket, Thailand, focusing on the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental dimensions. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative interviews with local business owners, tour guides, and residents, alongside quantitative surveys from 50 tourists in each region. Chiang Mai, known for its cultural heritage, and Phuket, a major beach tourism destination, offer contrasting tourism experiences, making them ideal case studies. Data was collected from February 2023 to February 2024, with findings revealing significant impacts on local economies, culture, and environmental sustainability. In Chiang Mai, cultural preservation efforts are challenged by over-tourism, whereas Phuket faces severe environmental degradation due to mass tourism. Both regions highlight the importance of sustainable tourism practices. The study also identifies opportunities in digitalization for promoting local tourism and the need for educational programs for both tourists and residents to enhance sustainability awareness. Future research could explore deeper into the effectiveness of digital tools for local tourism promotion, the integration of community-based tourism strategies, and the role of government policies in promoting sustainability in tourism. Understanding these dynamics will contribute to more inclusive and sustainable tourism practices in Thailand and other similar destinations.

Does Social Trust Travel? Comparing Resident and Non‐resident Citizens from a High‐Trusting Country

In this study, we analyzed the effects of emigration on a high‐trust population's trust in other people. Our object of study was the Swedish‐speaking Finns, a homogenous national language minority of Finland with a relatively high proportion of emigrants. Using two highly comparable random sample surveys, one among Finland‐Swedes who had emigrated and one among Finland‐Swedes residing in Finland, we used emigration as a quasi‐experiment for explaining change in social trust. Theoretically, our aim was to test the symmetry of the experiential theory that, in similar studies but with low‐trust populations emigrating to higher trusting countries, has been found to explain an increase in trust. We distinguished between highly similar destinations and destinations that have lower levels of social trust. With the entropy balancing technique of weighting the covariates of the control group, we constructed two conditionally identical groups. The average difference in outcome of the weighted groups shows that the emigrants lost some of their trust when moving to countries with lower levels of trust. The effect was, however, time indifferent, which casts doubt on the assimilation hypothesis. The findings indicate that the experiential theory can explain also the loss of trust but that this comes with some restrictions.

Identifying rejuvenation strategies in micro tourism destinations: the case of Kaş

PurposeThis research paper aims to identify and provide insights into rejuvenation strategies in Kaş as a microtourism destination based on the views of stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachThe research utilizes a single-case design, applying an inductive approach to analyze data collected from semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data.FindingsThe inductive thematic analysis yields nine different main themes: product transformation, integrated sustainable development strategies, cooperation, promotion through the right channels, stable tourism policy, selective tourism strategy, tourism awareness, access to tourist movements and management and tools for monitoring the quality and sustainability of tourism.Practical implicationsThis research offers practical recommendations for regional authorities, residents and business stakeholders to foster sustainable tourism development by addressing resource utilization and existing challenges in the rejuvenation of Kaş.Originality/valueThis research contributes to theory by addressing the lack of applied research on the rejuvenation process in micro-tourism destinations, using Kaş (Turkey) as a case study. It identifies and emphasizes the unique challenges in microdestinations, enhancing our understanding and filling a critical knowledge gap. The identified rejuvenation strategies in Kaş are positioned to serve as a model for similar destinations, emphasizing their distinctive characteristics and challenges.

RIDESHARE: An Innovative Way to Commute

Abstract: In the face of escalating urban congestion, rising transportation costs, and mounting environmental concerns, the innovative concept of Ride Share is revolutionising the way people commute. This community-driven approach leverages technology, primarily through smartphone apps and web platforms, to facilitate the sharing of rides among individuals with similar destinations, effectively reducing the number of vehicles on the road. The key benefits of Ride Share include cost efficiency, as participants can significantly cut down on fuel and maintenance expenses, easing the financial burden of daily commuting. This also extends to reducing the demand for costly parking spaces, making it an economically appealing choice. Moreover, Ride Share's route optimization algorithms ensure efficient travel, further reducing time and costs. Beyond the economic advantages, this concept significantly contributes to environmental sustainability by alleviating traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It aligns with the global push for greener transportation solutions and the fight against climate change. Ride Share represents a paradigm shift in daily transportation, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. As it continues to gain popularity, it promises to play a substantial role in creating a more efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly future for commuters worldwide.

European historic cities and overtourism – conflicts and development paths in the light of systematic literature review

PurposeThis paper aims to check if destinations with powerful similarities also show similar tourism/overtourism effects that differentiate them from other destinations. This paper gathers and compares data on overtourism in European historic cities already presented in the existing literature and points out features and problems typical for these destinations.Design/methodology/approachThis paper was based on the systematic literature review method, which allowed the author to indicate the most commonly studied European historic cities and the characteristics of overtourism problems.FindingsThe results of this study reveal that several European historic cities share similar tourism development patterns and the overtourism problems manifest numerous similarities. Significantly, these problems are characteristic of historic cities only and partially different from those observed in European urban destinations such as metropolises.Research limitations/implicationsThis study enhances a proper understanding of overtourism and the contradictory results published in the existing literature. This study is the first step in building a more situational approach to overtourism and adjusting the theory to particular destinations' features.Practical implicationsThe outcome of this study offers local policymakers several hints regarding effectively facing the overtourism problems. Historic cities require special attention when actions toward lowering extreme tourism pressure in monumental zones are implemented and residents' concerns about the spread of tourism, including short-term listings, to residential quarters need to be addressed.Originality/valueTo the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study based on a comparison of similar destinations aimed to develop theory and practical implications devoted purely to a limited number of destinations sharing numerous similarities. The set of coherent theoretical and practical implications designed for a narrow group of cities is to be an essential contribution to the development of research and practice in urban tourism.

Ciclo de vida de experiencias comunitarias de turismo en la cuenca del Lago de Pátzcuaro

This research is aimed at analysing community tourism experiences in the Lake Patzcuaro basin, based on Butler’s theory of the Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) adapted to the rural tourism context. The experiences of Yunuen, La Pacanda and Cerro Sandio were analysed. The information was obtained by literature research and field work. This was systematised by experience and by categories of analysis. The categories corresponded to community development processes and key factors identified in the development of Mexican community tourism experiences. In total, four processes and ten factors were recognized. To determine the phase of each factor in the TALC, the systematised information was contrasted with the adaptation made from the Butler model. The results show that Yunuen is the experience with the greatest consolidation. In terms of processes, those for physical development are in the development and consolidation phases, while those for environmental development are in the exploration and involvement phases. Additionally, it was determined which phase had a greater number of factors. The result shows that the majority are in the development phase. It is concluded that this adaptation of Butler's theory can serve as a guide to visualize challenges and potentialities of community tourism experiences and stands out as a tool for comparison and contrast between similar destinations.

Creating Sustainable Artistic Homestay: Approaches to Design Weizhou Island into an Ideal Tourist Attraction Homestay

This article explores the development of sustainable artistic homestays in Weizhou Island, China, a burgeoning tourist destination rich in cultural and ecological heritage. In this study, a narrative review method is employed, which involves a comprehensive examination of existing literature, focusing on several key themes: sustainable tourism, homestay development, infrastructure challenges, and ecological conservation. By synthesizing insights from a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and reports, this narrative review aims to provide a holistic understanding of the factors influencing the development of sustainable artistic homestays in the context of Weizhou Island. It assesses the current state of homestays, identifying key challenges such as environmental sustainability, cultural erosion, and economic viability. The article proposes innovative strategies for sustainable development, emphasizing ecological conservation, cultural preservation, and community involvement. It also discusses the potential benefits of these homestays, including promoting local arts, fostering cultural exchange, and generating economic opportunities for residents. The findings suggest that a balanced approach, combining sustainable practices with cultural authenticity, can transform Weizhou Island into an exemplary sustainable tourist attraction, setting a benchmark for similar destinations worldwide.

Refugees Separated by the Global Color Line: The Power of Europeanness, Whiteness, and Sameness

It is often erroneously assumed that Russians and Ukrainians are the “same people.” This conviction of sameness partly drove the aggressive invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with a determination to forcefully drag a sovereign nation onto an assumed similar destination with Russia and Belarus. Such an assault on a sovereign nation drew denunciations from organizations and people around the world. Nonetheless, by November 2022, the invasion had resulted in the tragic loss of numerous innocent Ukrainian lives and compelled an unprecedented number of people to seek sanctuary throughout Europe. The same event prompted a growing use of the language of imperialism to characterize Russia's supremacy, concurrently giving rise to the logic of Europeanness and whiteness. In this IMR Dispatch, I explore the impact of Europeanness, whiteness, and sameness on people of color fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. While it is crucial to examine the systematic racialization of these people, I argue that the racialized border enforcement witnessed during the conflict is better understood when viewed through the global color line embedded within migration and border management, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe where racialized logics are still underplayed.

Concomitant use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and percutaneous microaxial assist device support for cardiogenic shock

ObjectivesVenoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) with concomitant percutaneous microaxial left ventricular assist device support is an emerging treatment modality for cardiogenic shock (CS). Survival outcomes by CS etiology with this support strategy have not been well described. MethodsThis study was a retrospective, single-center analysis of patients with CS due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI-CS) or decompensated heart failure (ADHF-CS) supported with VA-ECMO with concomitant percutaneous microaxial left ventricular assist device support from December 2020 to January 2023. ResultsA total of 44 patients were included (AMI-CS, n = 20, and ADHF-CS, n = 24). Patients with AMI-CS and ADHF-CS had similar survival at 90 days postdischarge (P = .267) with similar destinations after support (P = .220). Patients with AMI-CS initially supported with VA-ECMO were less likely to survive 90 days postdischarge (P = .038) when compared with other cohorts. Limb ischemia and acute kidney injury occurred more frequently in patients presenting with AMI-CS (P =.013; P = .030). Subanalysis of ADHF-CS patients into acute-on-chronic decompensated HF and de novo HF demonstrated no difference in survival or destination. ConclusionsVA-ECMO with concomitant percutaneous microaxial left ventricular assist device support can be used to successfully manage patients with CS. There is no difference in survival or destination for AMI-CS and ADHF-CS with this support strategy. AMI-CS patients with initial VA-ECMO support have increased mortality in comparison to other cohorts. Future multicenter studies are required to fully analyze the differences between AMI-CS and ADHF-CS with this support strategy.

Perancangan Konten Sosial Media Wisata Agro Lembah Kecubung

This research aims to design an effective social media content strategy to promote Kecubung Valley Agro Tourism. Agro-tourism is increasingly popular as a recreational destination, and social media has become a crucial platform for introducing and promoting tourism destinations. The study involved an in-depth analysis of agrotourism characteristics and target audience preferences. Through a content design approach that focuses on visuals, narrative and interaction, this research seeks to create an interesting experience for social media users. The research methodology includes surveys, interviews and analysis of social media data related to similar destinations. The results are expected to provide insight into user preferences, social media content trends, and the best strategies to increase the visibility of Lembah Agro Tourism. This research contributes to a practical understanding of how to design social media content that can increase user attraction and interaction, thereby advancing the promotion and marketing of agro-tourism destinations.

Multi-agent reinforcement learning for network routing in integrated access backhaul networks

In this study, we examine the problem of downlink wireless routing in integrated access backhaul (IAB) networks involving fiber-connected base stations, wireless base stations, and multiple users. Physical constraints prevent the use of a central controller, leaving base stations with limited access to real-time network conditions. These networks operate in a time-slotted regime, where base stations monitor network conditions and forward packets accordingly. Our objective is to maximize the arrival ratio of packets, while simultaneously minimizing their latency. To accomplish this, we formulate this problem as a multi-agent partially observed Markov Decision Process (POMDP). Moreover, we develop an algorithm that uses Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL) combined with Advantage Actor Critic (A2C) to derive a joint routing policy on a distributed basis. Due to the importance of packet destinations for successful routing decisions, we utilize information about similar destinations as a basis for selecting specific-destination routing decisions. For portraying the similarity between those destinations, we rely on their relational base-station associations, i.e., which base station they are currently connected to. Therefore, the algorithm is referred to as Relational Advantage Actor Critic (Relational A2C). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that optimizes routing strategy for IAB networks. Further, we present three types of training paradigms for this algorithm in order to provide flexibility in terms of its performance and throughput. Through numerical experiments with different network scenarios, Relational A2C algorithms were demonstrated to be capable of achieving near-centralized performance even though they operate in a decentralized manner in the network of interest. Based on the results of those experiments, we compare Relational A2C to other reinforcement learning algorithms, like Q-Routing and Hybrid Routing. This comparison illustrates that solving the joint optimization problem increases network efficiency and reduces selfish agent behavior.

Development Strategy of Halal Tourism Objects in Medan City

This study aims to analyze the development strategy of halal tourism objects in Medan City. This study uses SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis method to evaluate the internal and external factors that affect the development of halal tourism in this city. The analysis results show that Medan City has significant strengths, such as rich cultural potential, nature tourism, accommodation and ease of communication. However, there are weaknesses such as halal services that need to be improved, service quality, and less effective promotion. Significant opportunities were also identified, including the rapidly growing halal tourism market and the potential for increased international cooperation. However, threats such as competition from similar destinations, security issues, economic fluctuations, and related policy changes need to be addressed. The results of this study indicate the need for a targeted and sustainable development strategy to capitalize on the potential of halal tourism in Medan City. Therefore, the Medan City government undertakes a strategy that involves improving service quality, effective promotion, and stronger cooperation with stakeholders. This strategy is expected to develop Medan City as an attractive and sustainable halal tourism destination.

Interactive Guide Assignment System with Destination Recommendation and Built-in Chatbox

This proposed system provides a website called 'Safari Nepal', where users can search for destinations and check their location on a map. Users when registering on the website, can fill up the details about themselves and choose to either be a tour guide or a tourist. Based on the search and preferences of the user, similar destinations are recommended to the user via a recommendation system that uses a content-based recommendation feature. This feature works on the data obtained from the user, either explicitly or implicitly. The concept of K-Nearest Neighbours (KNN) and Cosine similarity makes the recommendation more accurate. KNN uses a distance algorithm that sorts from most liked destinations to least liked, based on the preferences of the user. This sorted list of destinations is further filtered by Cosine similarity, which is a measure of how similar two vectors in an inner product space are. It is calculated by taking the cosine of the angle between two vectors and determining whether two vectors are pointing towards the same general direction. Thus, combined KNN and Cosine similarity gives a better recommendation to the user. The map is integrated into the system using Mapbox API. Also, the system connects users with tour guides and gives them space to chat via a chatbox called ‘Travel Buddy’ where they can discuss further the destination, the amount charged by the guide, etc. The chatting feature on the system allows multiple users to connect and make conversations about the destination creating various chatrooms. In the system, the user can also publish their blogs describing their experiences and share their thoughts on particular destinations.

Using Virtual Reality Video Development as Educational and Tourist Promotional Media

Maintaining tourism during a pandemic is a very tough challenge. Policy restrictions limit access and mobility by the government area until state regulations are lifted. The impact on sector tourist experiences are significant, because there is no activity in many destination tours. Indonesia and Thailand have similar destination tour cultures and heritage character histories , i.e. artifacts detailing the legacy and glory of Buddha. The Jago temple and the Grand Palace in Thailand are interestinng educational tours to learn about past civilizations . The appreciation activity for common artifacts that is conducted with a method visit to the location must be replaced with another way. Excellent and sophisticated metaverse technology can be utilized to present ambience and a natural feel of the location. The purpose of this study is to produce helpful virtual reality video products to educate the public about the artifacts in temple Jago in Malang and the Grand Palace artifacts in Thailand as an alternative educational media tour. The method was developed by implementing the ADDIE model. The purpose of this study is as following : (1) produce access in visual forms and shape the atmosphere of destination tours, (2) create access information especially on the culture of products and artifacts, (3) design educational media in website/video/multimedia format or in any other possible format to replace the atmosphere of visit travel, (4) produce deep media video forms or photographs to become products that can raise audience interaction, (5) produce the validity of related data with product artifacts in Jago temple culture and the Grand Palace of Thailand.
 Keywords: artifact Grand Palace, Candi Jago artifact, VR temple

Collaborative Integrated Sustainable Tourism Management Model Using System Dynamics: A Case of Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

Tourism is one of a region’s most prominent development vehicles. However, quality tourism is only achieved when supported by multi-sectors. This study aims to create a model of sustainable tourism management using a system dynamics approach. The model is based on the tourism development case in Labuan Bajo, a newly growing destination in Indonesia and a UNESCO Komodo biosphere reserve area. The research results in a model of sustainable tourism relevant to similar destinations with characteristics of high biodiversity but vulnerable to social inequality. This research finds it is critical to balance tourism growth and impact through the environment, economy, and social aspects and how destination management shall ensure multi-sector participation to create a conducive tourism ecosystem in the long run.

THE EFFECT OF AESTHETIC EXPERIENCE ON SATISFACTION AND BEHAVIORAL INTENTION: THE CASE OF KASTAMONU

Aesthetic experiences have always been important for people, and tourists' aesthetic experiences towards the destination positively affect tourist satisfaction. This ensures that the destination is recommended to others, revisited, and similar destinations are visited. Therefore, behavioral intentions are also seen as a factor that will benefit destinations for long-term competitiveness, especially because it is difficult and costly to reach new customers. Based on this situation, the aim of the study is that investigate the effect of aesthetic experience on satisfaction and behavioral intention in Kastamonu, a destination with cultural, natural and historical riches. For this purpose, data were collected through a questionnaire. The questionnaires were conducted face to face on a voluntary basis to the tourists visiting the touristic points in the city center between August and September 2021. As a result of the analyzes made, it has been defined that the aesthetic experience has positive effect on satisfaction. Additionally, it was determined that satisfaction affects behavioral intentions. Based on the research results, it is possible to say that the tourists who are satisfied with their visit to Kastamonu will recommend Kastamonu to others about to say positive things, and encourage them to visit Kastamonu.

Understanding the personality of Europe’s only world surfing reserve

PurposeThis study aims to uncover the destination personality of the World Surfing Reserve (WSR) in Europe, Ericeira, from local stakeholders’ perspectives; understand if WSR recognition influences the perception of destination personality; and understand if there is an alignment between the vision of the destination management Organization (DMO) and stakeholders in terms of destination personality.Design/methodology/approachAn extensive literature search was conducted to identify personality traits, which were then filtered and included in a survey of Ericeira's stakeholders and in a DMO interview. A principal components analysis enabled the identification of the most relevant personality traits.FindingsCool, appealing and self-assured emerged as destination-specific personality traits of Ericeira, indicating that other similar destinations can consider them in future branding actions. The findings indicate that WSR recognition can be a determinant for local tourism but has no impact on destination personality as viewed by local stakeholders. Therefore, one can suggest that personality is embedded in a tourist destination and is somewhat resistant to external WSR recognition. In general, alignment was found between the views of the local stakeholders and the DMO.Originality/valueThis study reinforces the literature on the importance of stakeholder involvement in place brand development. It also suggests that external recognition may have an impact on local tourism but has a limited impact on destination personality. Finally, this research constitutes a baseline for further studies on the destination personality traits of current and prospective WSR.

The new ecotourists of the 21st century: Brunei as a case study

Literature often describes the archetypical ecotourists as well-educated, and financially secure, coming from the “Western” Baby Boomer with strong convictions on the need for the conservation of nature and indigenous cultures. Today, traveling is made affordable for the mass coming from diverse nationalities, particularly of the younger generation, who are eager to experience disappearing cultures and nature. Although they appear to share traits of the ecotourists, are they truly the younger generations of ecotourists or do they seek out similar destination sites but for different reasons? Our research is the first attempt to answer this question. The paper aims to redefine the archetypical ecotourists in a market dominated by generations X, Y, and Z. The study involved survey questionnaires administered to 237 respondents living in Brunei coming from multiple generations comparing their attitudes, travel motivations, interests, and behaviour. A stratified-convenience sampling method was used to distribute the questionnaire to capture equal numbers of respondents in the three different generation groups. The data reveals some degree of incongruency between the younger generations of ecotourists and of the old archetypes. We found that the new ecotourists deviate in ideology and value. The new ecotourists are more inclined towards hedonism, social approval and popular culture. The differences in archetype have implications for tourism planning in general, and ecotourism in particular.