Smart tourism
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Smart Tourism: An Overview of Current Research and Trends
Introduction to Smart Tourism
Smart tourism leverages advanced technologies to enhance the experiences of tourists and improve the efficiency of tourism destinations. This concept has gained significant attention from both scholars and practitioners in recent years, leading to a substantial body of research aimed at understanding its various dimensions and implications.
Influence of Technology on Tourist Experiences
A significant portion of smart tourism research focuses on how technology influences tourists' perceptions, behaviors, and experiences. Studies have shown that smart technologies, such as mobile apps, augmented reality, and IoT devices, can significantly enhance the accessibility and interactivity of tourist attractions, leading to higher satisfaction and positive behavioral intentions, such as word-of-mouth recommendations and revisit intentions . For instance, research conducted at the Liangzhu Museum in China demonstrated that smart technologies positively impact tourists' experiences and their willingness to pay a premium for enhanced services.
Components and Development of Smart Tourism Destinations
Smart tourism destinations (STDs) are developed through the integration of various components, including technology infrastructure, data analytics, and stakeholder collaboration. A systematic review identified three main categories essential for developing smart destinations: components, measurement, and outputs. These components are crucial for creating a framework that helps stakeholders understand and implement smart tourism strategies effectively. Additionally, the development of smart tourism destinations is closely linked to the broader concept of smart cities, where the convergence of residential and touristic experiences is facilitated by advanced technologies.
Sustainable Development and Smart Tourism
The intersection of smart tourism and sustainable development is a growing area of interest. Research has highlighted the potential of smart tourism destinations to contribute to sustainable development goals by promoting green IT, smart energy, and waste management practices. This approach not only reduces the environmental footprint of tourism but also supports economic and social sustainability. For example, cities like Dubai have implemented smart tourism platforms to enhance the quality of life for residents and tourists alike, demonstrating best practices in integrating smart city and smart tourism initiatives.
Trends and Future Directions in Smart Tourism Research
The research landscape of smart tourism has evolved significantly, with notable increases in publication volume around 2015 and 2017, driven by international collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches. However, there are still gaps in the literature, particularly in qualitative studies involving human subjects and in the representation of hospitality journals. Future research directions include exploring the concept of "wise" tourism destinations, which address broader social issues such as inequality, wellness, and mental health, moving beyond the current paradigms of smart tourism.
Practical Implications for Stakeholders
For policymakers and stakeholders in the tourism industry, understanding the components and implications of smart tourism is crucial for developing competitive and sustainable destinations. Theoretical models and frameworks derived from systematic reviews provide valuable insights into the prerequisites and strategies for successful smart tourism implementation. Moreover, the integration of smart tourism with smart city initiatives can create urban spaces that are enjoyable for both residents and visitors, addressing challenges such as negative perceptions towards tourism.
Conclusion
Smart tourism represents a transformative approach to enhancing tourist experiences and destination management through the use of advanced technologies. The research highlights the importance of integrating smart tourism with sustainable development goals and smart city initiatives. As the field continues to evolve, future studies should focus on addressing existing gaps and exploring new paradigms to ensure that smart tourism contributes positively to both tourists and host communities.
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