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21 pages, 10042 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Tourism Marketing Through Destination Image: An AHP Approach for UNESCO Creative Cities in Gastronomy—The Case of Popayán, Colombia

by Pablo Henrique de Oliveira Moreira, Carla Fraga, Joice Lavandoski, Paulo Almeida and Lucília Cardoso

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15050192 - 21 May 2025

Viewed by 33

Abstract

Popayán (Colombia) was the first city to be designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2005, positioning itself as a symbolic ‘myth of origin’ within the network. In the context of growing demands for local strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals [...] Read more.

Popayán (Colombia) was the first city to be designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2005, positioning itself as a symbolic ‘myth of origin’ within the network. In the context of growing demands for local strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is pertinent to understand how founding cities manage and project their image through sustainable tourism marketing. Almost two decades later, this study examines how Popayán communicates and sustains its image within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), guided by sustainable tourism marketing principles. Methodologically, the study adopts an exploratory and descriptive case study approach, based on documentary analysis of institutional sources and the application of the adapted Analytic Hierarchy Process Image—UNESCO Creative City Gastronomy (AHPI-UCCG) model. The results provided the following: (1) a multidimensional analysis of Popayán’s image in the context of sustainable marketing; (2) an assessment of how the city’s image responds to current branding challenges, using the adapted AHPI-UCCG model; and (3) a proposal for a context-sensitive investment agenda aligned with sustainability objectives. These results support the development of a personalised strategy for Popayán and demonstrate the potential of this approach to inform analyses of other Creative Cities of Gastronomy, while recognising the unique symbolic role of Popayán as the foundational case. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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15 pages, 1017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Destination Image and Brand Value as Predictors of Tourist Behavior: Happiness as a Mediating Link

by Deyber Jimenez-García, Ovet Espinoza Heredia, Eduar Cruz Lizana, Jose Joel Cruz-Tarrillo and Dany Yudet Millones-Liza

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15050176 - 9 May 2025

Viewed by 440

Abstract

Tourism has become one of the most important industries in the business world, significantly impacting various economies. In order to have a better understanding of tourist behavior, this study aims to examine the image of the destination and the value of the brand [...] Read more.

Tourism has become one of the most important industries in the business world, significantly impacting various economies. In order to have a better understanding of tourist behavior, this study aims to examine the image of the destination and the value of the brand as predictors of the behavior of tourists, assuming happiness as a mediating link. From a quantitative, non-experimental and cross-sectional methodological perspective, the information of a sample of 425 tourists was analyzed. The results support that tourist happiness predicts their intention to revisit a tourist destination (Path Coefficient 0.921). Also, tourist happiness and the intention to revisit predict the intention to recommend a tourist place. These results suggest that tourist happiness plays a fundamental role in aspects such as loyalty and the promotion of a destination, so it is important for tourism companies to promote tourist happiness as a marketing strategy that drives them to word-of-mouth recommendations and the intention to revisit a tourist destination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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29 pages, 1145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Hotel Sector Spanish: An Efficiency Study by Regions

by Juan Antonio Giménez Espín, María Pilar Alberca Oliver and José Manuel Santos-Jaén

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15030109 - 18 Mar 2025

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Abstract

In this paper, the non-parametric frontier methodology (DEA) with input orientation, variable returns to scale, and the Malmquist productivity indices are used to study the level of national and regional efficiency and know the productive change of Spanish hotels in the period 2014–2021, [...] Read more.

In this paper, the non-parametric frontier methodology (DEA) with input orientation, variable returns to scale, and the Malmquist productivity indices are used to study the level of national and regional efficiency and know the productive change of Spanish hotels in the period 2014–2021, after the health crisis caused by COVID-19. The main objective of this paper is to know if the national and regional efficiency and total productivity of this sector have changed due to this pandemic. The data were extracted from the Iberian Balance Sheet Analysis System (SABI) and the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE). The results obtained make it possible to determine which regions are the most efficient (Asturias, Castilla-León, and Cantabria) and to know that changes in productivity have their origin in efficiency. Furthermore, in 2021, after eliminating the restrictions imposed to fight COVID-19, investments made by hotel companies led to great technical progress. Thus, contrary to what one might think, the pandemic did positively affect the productivity of these companies, thanks to great technical progress and better adjustment of their scale. Besides, it is possible that COVID-19 has shifted tourism from regions with large cities to those with more natural areas, so the most efficient regions are those where natural tourism stands out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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18 pages, 1951 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategies for the Promotion of Regenerative Tourism: Hospitality Communities as Niches for Tourism Innovation

by Blanca Miedes-Ugarte and David Flores-Ruiz

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15010010 - 27 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2451

Abstract

Regenerative tourism has emerged as a critical evolution from traditional approaches to sustainable tourism, which have proven insufficient to address contemporary environmental, social, and economic challenges. This study examines the case of ‘Aves de la Sierra’ in Huelva, Spain, a pioneering initiative that [...] Read more.

Regenerative tourism has emerged as a critical evolution from traditional approaches to sustainable tourism, which have proven insufficient to address contemporary environmental, social, and economic challenges. This study examines the case of ‘Aves de la Sierra’ in Huelva, Spain, a pioneering initiative that integrates ecosystem regeneration and community revitalisation as the core of its regenerative tourism proposal. Through the analytical theoretical framework of the Multi-Level Change Perspective (MLP) and transformative innovation, it analyses how local communities consolidate themselves as niches of innovation in regenerative tourism, autonomously managing their resources and narrative. The results of this action research process reveal a number of findings that can serve as a starting point for the dynamisation and development of other regenerative tourism experiences. These include the need for public policies aimed at strengthening these innovation niches through collaborative networks, organisational learning, and adequate funding. This article also contributes to narrowing the gap between theory and experience in regenerative tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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30 pages, 2733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Creative Tourism: Two Decades of Conceptual Evolution and Characterization

by Soufiane Benhaida, Larbi Safaa, Dalia Perkumienė and Gintautas Labanauskas

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14080172 - 9 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4789

Abstract

The concept of “creative tourism”, emerging at the century’s start, responds to the “creative turn” in tourist destinations, aligning with the evolving creative class, clusters, and cities. This study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine the evolution and academic focus on creative tourism [...] Read more.

The concept of “creative tourism”, emerging at the century’s start, responds to the “creative turn” in tourist destinations, aligning with the evolving creative class, clusters, and cities. This study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine the evolution and academic focus on creative tourism over the past two decades. Using databases like Scopus and Web of Science, we analyzed key trends, thematic developments, and the impact of creative industries on tourism. Our study reveals significant growth in creative tourism research, emphasizing creativity’s role in enhancing tourism experiences and formulating sustainable, culturally rich models. It underscores the importance of integrating creative industries into tourism and the positive impact on local economies and community development. This analysis not only maps the academic trajectory of creative tourism but also highlights its practical implications for future tourism management and sustainable community development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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16 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Physical, Mental, Spiritual, and Environmental (PMSE) Framework for Enhancing Wellness Tourism Experiences and Its Validation in the Context of Kerala, India

by Anju Kandan Parakkal, Bindu Vazhakkatte Thazhathethil and Babu George

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14070140 - 2 Jul 2024

Viewed by 2434

Abstract

Wellness tourism has emerged as a thriving sector in Kerala, India, renowned for its Ayurveda treatments, yoga, and holistic well-being offerings. However, a comprehensive framework capturing the key dimensions of wellness tourism experiences remains underexplored. This study aims to validate the physical, mental, [...] Read more.

Wellness tourism has emerged as a thriving sector in Kerala, India, renowned for its Ayurveda treatments, yoga, and holistic well-being offerings. However, a comprehensive framework capturing the key dimensions of wellness tourism experiences remains underexplored. This study aims to validate the physical, mental, spiritual, and environmental (PMSE) framework within the context of Kerala’s wellness tourism industry. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing data collected from wellness tourists who participated in various wellness services in Kerala. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the fitness of the PMSE framework. The findings reveal that mental experience and physical experience, with their respective sub-attributes, contribute significantly to the overall wellness tourism experience. The validated PMSE framework provides valuable insights for stakeholders, enabling them to enhance the quality and competitiveness of wellness tourism services in Kerala. By prioritizing the mental and physical dimensions of wellness experiences, Kerala can strengthen its position as a leading wellness tourism destination. This study advances the theoretical understanding of wellness tourism experiences and offers practical implications for destination management and service providers in Kerala’s wellness tourism industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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14 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Factors Involved in Tourists’ Decision-Making and Determinants of Length of Stay

by Valentin C. Mihai, Diana E. Dumitras, Camelia Oroian, Gabriela O. Chiciudean, Felix H. Arion and Iulia Cristina Mureșan

Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13100215 - 1 Oct 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 19549

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying the factors influencing tourists’ decisions in choosing their vacation destinations as well as factors influencing their behavior. An online survey was applied to 861 Romanian tourists. The principal component analysis was run to reduce the dimensionality of the [...] Read more.

This study aimed at identifying the factors influencing tourists’ decisions in choosing their vacation destinations as well as factors influencing their behavior. An online survey was applied to 861 Romanian tourists. The principal component analysis was run to reduce the dimensionality of the 23 items and used to determine the factors that influence tourists’ decision in choosing their destination, leading to a four-component solution. The results indicated that aspects related to destination image, destination unique characteristics and the accommodation facilities are more important for women than for the men. Regarding the travel organization factor, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Families and older tourists with high incomes are positively linked to the length of stay. These insights on the factors influencing tourists’ decision-making process are of the utmost importance for managers and overall tourism service providers in the design of marketing and management strategies in accordance to tourists’ expectations and needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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22 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bibliometric Analysis of Key Variables in Tourism: Destination, Competitiveness, Image, Quality, and Tourist Satisfaction (2000–2023)

by José Marques Pereira, Paulo Almeida and Giovana Goretti Feijó Almeida

Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15020069 - 19 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1261

Abstract

In the scientific literature on tourism, a set of variables is frequently utilized. The objective of this study is to analyze the scenario of scientific publications on these variables between 2000 and 2023. This analysis employs a bibliometric approach, utilizing data collected from [...] Read more.

In the scientific literature on tourism, a set of variables is frequently utilized. The objective of this study is to analyze the scenario of scientific publications on these variables between 2000 and 2023. This analysis employs a bibliometric approach, utilizing data collected from the Scopus database. The bibliometric method was employed, with a focus on five variables (tourism destination, competitiveness, image, quality, and satisfaction) and five indicators (author, year, country, journal, and affiliation) essential for mapping research patterns and identifying key trends in the field of tourism. The findings demonstrate that the five variables under examination are inherently interrelated. The image of the destination is of particular importance, as it influences the quality of life of residents and the experiences of tourists, which in turn affects the competitiveness of the destination. The results also demonstrate the multidimensional nature of these variables in shaping tourism destination dynamics. This study underscores the value of bibliometric analysis as a strategic tool for synthesizing and deepening tourism literature. The findings not only highlight the primary research contributions and trends but also identify gaps and opportunities for future research, thereby promoting continuous advancement in tourism knowledge and best practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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26 pages, 780 KiB

Open AccessReview

Environmental Sustainability in Hotels: A Review of the Relevance and Contributions of Assessment Tools and Techniques

by Toshima Makoondlall-Chadee and Chandradeo Bokhoree

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14120320 - 29 Nov 2024

Viewed by 7086

Abstract

The hospitality industry is a major segment of tourism, which is, in turn, a main economic contributor for many destinations. Sustainable tourism practices are promoted worldwide by international organizations like the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to assist different countries. Various frameworks [...] Read more.

The hospitality industry is a major segment of tourism, which is, in turn, a main economic contributor for many destinations. Sustainable tourism practices are promoted worldwide by international organizations like the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to assist different countries. Various frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), and environmental indices and management systems such as ISO 14001 are common assessment tools for environmental sustainability. This research reviews the relevance of incorporating environmental and socio-economic factors within hotel operations that may lead to improved transparency and operational effectiveness while guaranteeing adherence to sustainability within the hotel business. Accordingly, a systematic review of environmental sustainability assessments in hotels was carried out. A comprehensive analysis of research articles published between January 2000 and January 2023 by reputed databases ranging from Google Scholar, Scopus, and others, were used to conduct the literature review. A total of 38 papers were examined adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards, and it is worth noting that a significant increase in interest emerged in 2018, especially in Europe and Asia. The review reiterated the relevance and need to use relevant assessment methods and tools that aid in implementing sustainable development strategies to promote tourism-dependent economies, which can serve as a guiding note for varied tourism destinations. It additionally provides valuable knowledge for future directions, whilst improving research methods and incorporating innovative technologies. These advancements are essential as they may guide policy decisions to protect the environment within the hospitality industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Tourism Management)

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