Tourist Destination Research Articles

The Role of English Language Skills in the Tourism Industry in the 4.0 Era in Kuningan District, West Java Province

Through communication media, English plays a significant role in the sustainable tourism sector with the goal of promoting foreign travel, service, effective communication between foreign visitors and tourism actors, and the surrounding community, all of which are ultimately related to the growth of local tourism in the industrial era's sustainable tourism sector. 4.0 Tourist actors need to be fluent in English, especially in the vernacular, which includes basic discussion, linguistic proficiency, and basic conversation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the advantages of English- speaking culture in West Java Province's sustainable tourism sector during the Industrial Era 4.0. Descriptive qualitative analysis is the analytical technique employed. This study demonstrates the necessity of English-speaking culture in Kunuingan District, West Java Province's sustainable tourism industry in the industrial era 4.0 in order to promote the province's local tourist destinations overseas, increase the number of foreign visitors, and facilitate English-language communication. The ability to speak effectively in English is crucial for both those who work in the tourism business and those who live near popular tourist sites.

Exploring the influence of historical storytelling on cultural heritage tourists’ revisit intention: A case study of the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang

The revisit intention of tourists has long been a focal point of academic inquiry. However, there is still insufficient research on the antecedents of revisit intention from the perspectives of historical storytelling, destination image and perceived value. Taking the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as a case study, this paper, based on stimulus–organism–response (SOR) theory, examines the impact of historical storytelling on the destination image, perceived value, and revisit intention. Additionally, it further explores the mediating role of destination image and perceived value, as well as the moderating effect of place attachment in this chain. The research findings indicate that: (1) Historical storytelling significantly enhances tourists’ perception of the tourism experience and revisit intention; (2) The study supports the mediating effect of destination image and perceived value; (3) Place attachment has a significant positive moderating effect between historical storytelling and revisit intention. Effective historical storytelling can significantly enhance destination image and perceived value, improve tourists’ participation and satisfaction in tourism, stimulate revisit intention, and promote the sustainable development of tourist destinations. These findings enrich the research content of cultural heritage tourism, providing valuable suggestions for improving the management level of cultural heritage tourism attractions and increasing visitors’ revisit intention.

The ‘Airbnbisation’ of European cities: legislation for collaborative accommodations

ABSTRACT This study examines ‘Airbnbisation’ in tourist destinations, where professionally-managed properties have surged, affecting housing availability, prices, and community well-being, along with concerns about tax evasion. Despite platforms like Airbnb intending to support the sharing economy, short-term rental regulations struggle to differentiate between collaborative and professional lodgings, complicating oversight. To address this issue, the study examines regulations in 37 cities and evaluates their effectiveness in differentiating between collaborative and professional accommodations. The research proposes new short-term rental legislation using the results of three quantitative techniques. Data on short-term rental regulations, property locations, features, and host profiles were analyzed. Results show that regulations limiting annual rental days and properties per host encourage collaborative accommodations. However, rules controlling guest numbers, requiring licenses (among others) are not adequate to reduce professionalized lodgings. Collaborative accommodations are often found over 5 km from the cathedral, suggesting they aren't primary contributors to city ‘Airbnbisation’. This research aids policymakers in balancing residents' needs and short-term rental interests.

The Virtuous Circle of Governance in Tourism Destinations: Enhancing Competitiveness and Sustainability

Tourism governance has evolved significantly since the 1990s, shifting from traditional destination planning to more inclusive and collaborative models. This article explores the evolution of governance in tourism, emphasizing its potential to create a virtuous circle of continuous improvement. Governance in tourism is particularly relevant due to the sector’s transversal nature, which requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including public authorities, private enterprises, and local communities. Effective governance aims to enhance both competitiveness and sustainability, two central objectives for destination management. The article identifies seven key dimensions of governance—participation, coherence, responsibility, effectiveness, know-how/quality, openness, and simplification—each of which plays a crucial role in ensuring successful governance. Furthermore, it highlights the dynamics of the virtuous circle, where open communication fosters trust and capacity, enabling productive participation. This, in turn, leads to coherent action aligned with long-term goals, enhanced by expertise and a commitment to quality. Responsible decision-making ensures sustainability, thereby reinforcing the entire process. Ultimately, the virtuous circle of governance creates a self-reinforcing system that continuously improves the effectiveness and adaptability of tourism management. By adopting this governance model, destinations can better address the complexities of the tourism sector, fostering sustainable development while ensuring competitiveness.

Evaluating the Impact of Hotel Classification on Pool Water Consumption: A Case Study from Costa Brava (Spain)

Swimming pools are key assets in the hotel industry. With climate change and water stress, more sustainable pools are needed in tourist areas. The study examines the relationship between hotel categories and the consumption of water in swimming pools in a Mediterranean coastal region facing water scarcity. The study focuses on the Costa Brava, with a focus on Lloret de Mar, a popular tourist destination. The research employs a combination of data analysis and the utilisation of evaporation models in order to estimate the consumption of water by swimming pools. The findings indicate that hotels in the higher categories, particularly those with three or four stars, contribute a notable proportion of the total water consumption due to their larger pool sizes and higher guest numbers. The study underscores the necessity for the implementation of sustainable water management strategies, particularly in the context of climate change. It recommends the utilisation of pool water-saving technologies as potential solutions. Furthermore, the paper highlights the broader environmental impact of tourism infrastructure on water resources and suggests policy measures to mitigate these effects. The research aligns with global sustainability goals such as the European Green Deal and the 2030 Agenda.

Understanding the Role of Tourist-Oriented Villages in Promoting Rural Tourism in China: Integrating Rural Landscapes and Tourist Services

ABSTRACT Rural tourism strategies in underdeveloped countries have gained significant popularity in recent years. However, the repetitive and irrational construction of tourist destinations contributes to the homogeneity of the tourism environment. Low quality in the rural landscape and tourism services could affect the attraction of tourist spots. Collaboration between rural areas and service-based tourism is essential for the development of tourist-oriented villages. This review paper aims to thoroughly analyze the relationship between rural landscapes and tourism services within tourist-oriented villages in China. It further explores how the synergistic development of these two sectors can enhance rural tourism and addresses the sustainability challenges these villages face. After analyzing the data by integrated review, it is evident that the “wisdom product” concept, which integrates a high-quality rural landscape with tourism services through cultural branding, can improve the attractiveness of tourist-oriented villages and achieve sustainable growth. By grasping this concept, rural areas can experience a revival, enabling local governments, villagers, and tourism service providers to actively participate in the long-term planning, management, and development of tourist-oriented villages, crucial for the enduring success of rural tourism initiatives in China.

Analisis Kesesuaian dan Daya Dukung Kawasan Ekowisata Mangrove di Pulau Osi

Osi Island is included in the leading tourist destinations of Western Seram Regency. The island has a major attraction, namely a mangrove forest along a wooden bridge with a length of 1,300 meters. The problems in this study are that there is no clean water, some facilities are not good, access in ecotourism areas such as bridges and trails are starting to have holes. The purpose of this study is to determine the existing condition of mangrove ecotourism, as well as to analyze the value of suitability and carrying capacity of mangrove ecotourism areas. This study uses descriptive analysis methods, visitor perception analysis, suitability analysis and area carrying capacity analysis. The results obtained are that the existing condition of the Osi Island mangrove forest ecotourism has cool forest conditions along the bridge and clean sea views, but the access (trails and bridges) to Osi Island is still damaged and there are supporting facilities and infrastructure that are already available. The total score of the results of the mangrove ecotourism condition of Osi Island is included in the S2 category (Appropriate), with a total score of 68 and a tourism suitability index of 78%, meaning that it can be used for ecotourism activities and the carrying capacity of the mangrove ecotourism area on Osi Island is 409 people per day

Shaping Tourism Strategies through Local Perceptions: A Case Study of Muharraq

Bahrain, a longstanding tourist destination in the Gulf region, has seen its economy benefit significantly from tourism. However, the improper development of tourism has led to negative impacts on urban tourism in historic areas, risking the loss of authenticity. This study aims to explore factors influencing the development of tourism strategies in Muharraq city, focusing on residents' perceptions. A qualitative approach was used, including a comprehensive literature review, interviews with residents to capture their views on tourism-related issues, and a self-administered questionnaire with key officials and stakeholders. The study identifies critical factors affecting tourism development and offers recommendations for enhancing cultural tourism in Muharraq. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to create sustainable strategies that balance economic growth with cultural preservation, ensuring that Muharraq remains a culturally vibrant city while promoting sustainable urban tourism. This research contributes to the broader field of urban tourism studies by highlighting the importance of local perceptions and participatory approaches in shaping effective tourism policies. By addressing key elements that influence tourism development, the study supports the creation of strategies that safeguard heritage while fostering sustainable growth in one of Bahrain's most culturally significant cities.

The intention to share a sustainability communication about a tourism destination

Purpose This paper aims to analyse the determinants of the intention to share a post about an environmental issue posted by a tourism destination on Facebook. The authors use the stimulus-organism-response (SOR) model as a theoretical framework and consider cognitive variables (destination social responsibility, tourist social responsibility and three types of congruence) as antecedents of emotions and of the tourists’ response (intention to share). Specific factors related to the social platform (attachment and active use of social media) are also included. Design/methodology/approach The model was tested for two destinations with different positioning (green tourism versus sun and beach). For the sampling strategy, the authors conducted an online poll targeting Facebook users who had undertaken at least one trip in the previous year. The sample consisted of 1,001 individuals. Findings The empirical evidence obtained indicates that consumer–cause congruence is the most important variable for explaining the intention to share the post for both destinations, with the destination–cause congruence being non-significant. The authors also observed that active participation on the social network stimulated the intention to share this specific content. Originality/value Unlike prior research, this paper examined consumer motivators for engaging with online corporate social responsibility content for tourism destinations, specifically focusing on destination social responsibility in sustainable tourism. The model also incorporates three types of congruence, revealing variations in their impact on explaining the intention to share sustainability-related posts.

Sustaining organizational trust among restaurant employees after the crisis: Insights from a developing country

Sustaining trustful employee-organization relationships and improving job satisfaction are always significant challenges for managers, especially in the restaurant industry. For the purpose of fathoming the value of trust, an analytical framework examining organizational trust as an explanatory mechanism through which various organizational conditions influence job satisfaction has been proposed based on the guidance of the social exchange theory. Analysis of survey data from 302 restaurant employees in a celebrated tourist destination of Vietnam have shown both direct and indirect impacts of transformational leadership, internal communication, and career growth on job satisfaction via enhanced trust. Together these main findings have contributed to academic research on employees’ attitudes within the organization and provided a blueprint for creating a congenial working condition for employees in restaurant businesses, which results in employee trust towards their organizations and job satisfaction.

Wakatobi Development Priorities as A Sustainable Tourism Destination Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process Method

Wakatobi is one of the tourist destinations renowned for its underwater beauty, holding great potential to be developed as a sustainable tourism destination. This research aims to determine the priorities for sustainable tourism development in Wakatobi using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. The AHP method is employed to identify and prioritize various criteria and sub-criteria contributing to sustainable tourism development. Based on the research findings, infrastructure and facilities were found to be the highest priorities, with a focus on improving transportation infrastructure and public facilities. These findings indicate that the development of transportation infrastructure and public facilities is crucial to support the sustainability of tourism in Wakatobi.

Self-efficacy and personal innovation in the intention to use of facial recognition systems by tourists: a mediation model moderated by trust and anticipated emotions

ABSTRACT Facial recognition systems are crucial for personalising and enhancing user experiences in tourism. These technologies reliably verify identities and improve security and efficiency in areas such as airports and hotels. However, there is a lack of research on the psychological and emotional factors shaping the use of these technologies. This study proposes a novel conceptual model that examines how self-efficacy and personal innovation influence the intention to use facial recognition systems, through a model mediated by trust and moderated by anticipated emotions, to better understand the psychological and emotional dynamics underlying the use of emerging biometric technologies in the context of tourism. We issued a survey to 1027 frequent tourists and analysed their data using PLS-SEM. The results highlight the importance of users’ self-efficacy, trust and emotions in their predisposition to use facial recognition systems. Furthermore, this study considers the potential practical implications for developers and administrators of tourist destinations.

The potential significance of geographic information systems (GISs) and remote sensing (RS) in sustainable tourism and decent community involvement in African-rural neighborhoods

PurposeThis study looked at the potential applications of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) for inclusive community development and participation, sustainable tourism, and rural community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in sub-Saharan Africa and other rural areas worldwide.Design/methodology/approachTo evaluate resource management systems for rural tourism and the environment in Africa and abroad. The study makes use of reviews of relevant literature and documents, and while linking applications for sustainable tourism and local community empowerment with CBNRM and GIS, vital content was manually analyzed.FindingsThe study shows a potential affinity between agricultural and tourism businesses that GIS in line with the CBNRM conception can strengthen. In many rural and underdeveloped regions of the continent, this highlights the need for a credible and varied tourism strategy to develop and empower the relevant communities.Originality/valueMost agricultural communities in Africa are located in low-income regions. Such areas are rich in natural wildlife and have popular tourist destinations. A mix of regional community development initiatives can be built using GIS, sustainable tourism, CBNRM, and community-based tourism (CBT).

Law on environmental protection in tourist villages in the context of sustainable development of the tourism industry: A qualitative case study in Vietnam

After the Covid-19 pandemic, Vietnam's tourism industry welcomed 1.37 million international visitors. For the whole year 2023, the total number of international visitors will reach 12.6 million, nearly 3.5 times higher than in 2022, exceeding 57% of the original target (8 million) and reaching the adjusted target (12 -13 million views). In Vietnam, which a country which is undergoing economic development, this is a good sign for many workers and businesses, but it can create great pressure on environmental protection in many localities with tourist destinations. For example, as a destination attracting foreign tourists in Hoi A City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, the average amount of waste per day is nearly 100 tons; of which single-use plastic waste accounts for 15 - 23% (Thu Huong 2022). In order to prevent and minimize environmental pollution in tourist villages, the Goverment of Vietnam has issued many different documents such as: Decree No. 08/2022/ND-CP orienting no circulation after 2025 and using single-use plastic products and non-biodegradable plastic packaging in tourist areas and destinations; Decision No. 1316/QD-TTg Project to strengthen plastic waste management in Vietnam also points out that by 2025, 100% of tourist resorts and accommodation establishments will not use single-use plastic products and plastic bags which are so hard to decompose. In addition, the Government has also issued a set of criteria guiding environmental protection for tourism establishments and services in tourist areas and destinations, with instructions on minimizing plastic waste...However, around the issue of environmental protection in tourist villages in Vietnam, there are still problems that need to be solved. Through qualitative analysis method, the authors will analyze and propose solutions to remove regulations related to environmental protection mechanisms in tourist villages, aiming at sustainable development of the tourism industry towards a circular economy in the current period.

Sustainable Tourism Investment and Development in Metro City, Lampung

Objective: Investment in the development of tourism in an area needs a policy that has an impact on business actors. Tourism is a necessity for entertainment. It has the potential for the economy of local communities and becomes regional income. Theoretical Framework: The theories in this article include Graham's theory of investment, which emphasizes long-term investment and diversification. Investment objectives, economic impact on local communities, and the environment. Method: Mixed methods with MAXQDA tools were used in this study. The research location is Metro City, Lampung Province, Indonesia, with a literature review of reputable publications, a survey of 21 tourist destinations, and a questionnaire of 399 respondents. Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis were integrated and then described. Results and Discussion: The results showed that 21 tourist destinations in Metro City were active and still developing at 66.7%, while tourist destinations that were inactive or not developing were 33.3%. Destinations that still exist and develop are 14 tourist destinations while 7 destinations are damaged and no longer developing. In addition, UMKM for the community has the opportunity to increase community income. Research Implications: Tourism and investment as a factor that contributes to the region with government policies due to knowledge, managerial skills, marketing strategies, and distribution and production networks that benefit the local economy. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature with the hats of investment, tourism, society, and local government policy. The relevance of this study is that the condition of Metro City tourism development is low, and investment innovation in the tourism sector is needed.

Malay identity in the exploration of miniature creation as souvenirs: contextual miniature of Malay architecture of North Sumatra, Indonesia

As a testament to the past Malay glory, there are monumental architectures in Medan (North Sumatra, Indonesia), Langkat (North Sumatra, Indonesia) and Batubara Regencies (North Sumatra, Indonesia) that have become Malay icons. The city of Medan and several areas in North Sumatra are known as tourist destinations since the early 20th century. The tourism has strong potential but it has not been supported by representative souvenir products. This article discusses the preservation of Malay identity through research into the manufacture of miniatures as souvenirs. The aim is to explore the potential of Malay architectural forms to be explored in the production of miniature souvenirs to revitalize North Sumatra’s Malay identity. The replicated research methods are survey, creation (creative experiment), and conservation methods in the socio-cultural approach. Research data was collected from various sources and analyzed using an interactive model. The results of the study explain that the potential identity of Malay architecture can be mapped based on its type (function) and structure. Its exploratory potential, both technically and aesthetically, lies in the dynamic visualization of roof forms and architectural facades. As it is researched based on the iconic Malay architectural figures, the miniature products are exclusive in the form of unique souvenirs with a strong Malay identity.

Electronic word-of-mouth intentions in personal and public networks: a domestic tourist perspective

This research investigated the determinants of electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) sharing intentions in personal and public online networks among domestic tourists. Using a quantitative research design, this study surveyed domestic tourists visiting five major tourist destinations in India. Six hundred thirty valid responses were subjected to principal component analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling to examine the relationships among destination attributes, tourists’ psychological processes, and their intentions to engage in eWOM. The findings show that destination inhabitants’ friendliness and the natural beauty of the destination influence tourists’ overall destination experience. The overall destination experience and personal pleasure from vacations impact eWOM sharing with friends and family (personal networks) and with strangers (public networks). The results also indicate that the overall destination experience mediates the relationship between destination attributes (destination inhabitants’ friendliness and the natural beauty of the destination) and online sharing intent with friends and family. The overall destination experience also mediates the path between personal pleasure from vacations and eWOM sharing intent in personal networks. For tourism developers and destination managers, this study underscores the importance of enhancing the natural appeal of destinations and fostering positive interactions between tourists and locals. It also suggests creating authentic experiences at the destination so that tourists with high involvement generate eWOM about the destination.

Antecedents of visitors’ brand loyalty: An investigation of India International Trade Fair

Tourism destinations rely on visitors’ loyalty for continued profitability, which is reflected in repeat visits to a particular destination. Events play a critical role in enhancing the demand for a destination and increasing visitor loyalty. This study focuses on measuring the impact of visitors’ brand experience, visitors’ brand experience, visitors’ brand identification, satisfaction, and trust on their brand loyalty in the context of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) held in New Delhi. A structured questionnaire was administered to 243 visitors attending the event. The proposed conceptual model draws on the theories of Anthropomorphism, Social Identity and Relationship Marketing. Empirical testing was conducted using Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling. The results indicate that visitors’ brand loyalty is significantly predicted by their personality, experience, brand identification, satisfaction, and trust at IITF. There is limited research on the antecedents of visitors’ brand loyalty in the context of festivals and events. This research adds new dimension to studies pertaining to festivals and events. Based on the findings, the study proposes directions for future research and managerial implications for event organizers.

Gastronomy tourism destinations: developing a scale to measure tourists’ perceived attributes

Gastronomy tourism destinations: developing a scale to measure tourists’ perceived attributes

Pollutant Load Capacity of Rawa Besar Lake, Depok, West Java

Depok City has dozens of lakes and one of them is Lake Rawa Besar. The Depok government gives priority to Rawa Besar Lake to be development as a tourist destination. At this time the waters of Rawa Besar Lake are in a polluted condition caused by domestic waste, land use change, chicken farming and floating net caramba. The study aims to analyze water quality, determine the carrying capacity of pollutant loads and provide recommendations for pollutant load reduction. The calculation of the Pollution Load Capacity refers to Minister of Environment Regulation No. 28 of 2009. Based on water quality analysis, 5 parameters exceed the quality standard, such as BOD, COD, total phosphate, total nitrogen, and total coliform. Using the model and calculation of the pollutant load capacity of lake and/or reservoir. The pollutant load capacity of Lake Rawa Besar for BOD parameters is 50.26 kg/year while the existing load is 262.76 kg/year, COD is 418.81 kg/year existing load is 1150.41 kg/year, phosphate is 0.50 kg/year existing load 26.45 kg/year, nitrogen 12.56 kg/year existing load 85.88 kg/year and total coliform 8.4 x 104 amount/year existing load 9.6x106 amount/year. The burden of incoming pollutants exceeds the pollutant load capacity of Lake Rawa Besar. Pollution control efforts are carried out by implementing communal wastewater treatment systems such as an Anaerobic Baffled Reactor (ABR).