2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0123
This study examines the international literature on sports events published between 1981 and 2024 within the framework of specific parameters.Design/methodology/approachThe data were analyzed using quantitative and bibliometric analyses. Studies related to sports events were scanned through the Scopus database, and 1,072 studies were evaluated.FindingsIt has been revealed that the highest number of studies related to sports events were published in 2021, with Tichaawa, T.M. being the author with the most publications. Griffith University conducted the most studies on this topic, and the United States had the highest number of publications. Additionally, the findings indicate that the number of studies on sports events is increasing, with more studies being conducted in business and social sciences. Regarding keyword usage frequency, the studies focus on destination image, economic impact, and sustainability. Clustering analysis results show that the studies are divided into four clusters, focusing on sports, tourism, and tourism development.Research limitations/implicationsDue to methodological limitations, the results of bibliometric analysis generally focus on metrics related to articles, sources, and authors. Another limitation is the examination of studies in the context of tourism that are published in the international literature and accessible only through the Scopus database in English. An additional limitation is that the publications analyzed in this study are specifically on sports events. This study aims to fill a gap in the field by examining sports event studies in the international literature, thereby providing researchers with a holistic perspective. It is considered significant as it will offer a different viewpoint on bibliometric studies related to sports events and sports tourism in the international literature, both in terms of the parameters used in the study and the study’s focus.Originality/valueIt is believed to be important because it is the first bibliometric study explicitly conducted on sports events.
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0129
Music festivals are categorized as event management in the hospitality and tourism (H&T) industry. Additionally, music festivals or events are a continuous phenomenon in the context of the hospitality and tourism industry. In this study, a bibliometric approach was proposed to examine research that addresses both the H&T industry and music festivals.Design/methodology/approachA total of 462 studies covering the years 1981–2024 were retrieved from the Scopus database. The study analyzed keywords, institutions, sources, countries, and titles. During the analysis phase, descriptive analysis, clustering, thematic mapping, and relationship networks were employed using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer analysis programs.FindingsAs a result of the analysis, the most frequently used keywords were “tourism” and “festival,” with the most prolific author being Kruger M., the most productive country being the United States of America, and the leading journal being Event Management. Seven different clusters emerged from the networking of keywords. In the thematic map, the motor themes were music festivals, experience, social media, and co-creation. The basic themes were festival, music, tourism, event management, market segmentation, and music tourism. The emerging or declining themes were culture, music events, and COVID-19. Finally, the niche theme was entrepreneurship.Research limitations/implicationsIt’s noted that this research solely utilized the Scopus database and publications such as chemistry and mathematics, were excluded. The findings were limited to bibliometric analysis, and future studies could include content and thematic evaluations.Social implicationsThe research is useful in understanding how music festivals socially direct tourists and their future perspectives. On the other hand, determining the global status of scientific publications regarding music festivals with high social and economic impact is important for proper planning and sustainability of such events.Originality/valueMusic festivals are an important type of event in terms of mobility in the H&T industry. In this respect, it is in a state of change and development over the years. This research examined publications about music festivals in the H&T industry from the past to the present with a bibliometric approach. In this way, the development of publications produced on the relevant subject was revealed.
Ciuffreda, Raffaela; Simonetti, Biagio
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0133
The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of MICE tourism in Campania and explore strategic opportunities for its development. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of this sector, the research aims to provide insights into how Campania can enhance its competitiveness as a MICE destination. The study seeks to offer recommendations for leveraging the region’s unique features, such as its cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, to attract more business travelers and corporate events, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic growth and sustainability.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the MICE tourism sector in Campania. It involves analyzing quantitative data from regional tourism statistics and economic reports, complemented by qualitative insights gathered from interviews with key stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industries. The research also includes a comparative analysis of Campania with other regions renowned for MICE tourism, aiming to identify best practices and potential areas for improvement. This comprehensive methodology ensures a thorough understanding of Campania’s current MICE tourism landscape and its future potential.FindingsThe study reveals that Campania has substantial potential for growth in the MICE tourism sector, owing to its rich cultural assets and appealing locations. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and limited marketing efforts hinder its full potential. The findings suggest that targeted investments in infrastructure improvements, particularly in transportation and event facilities, along with robust marketing strategies, could significantly enhance Campania’s appeal as a MICE destination. Emphasizing sustainable practices could further differentiate the region in the competitive global market, attracting environmentally conscious business travelers.Originality/valueThis study provides a comprehensive analysis of the MICE tourism sector in Campania, offering valuable insights into its current status and future potential. It highlights the region’s unique strengths and the challenges it faces, providing actionable recommendations for strategic development. By focusing on both economic growth and sustainability, this research contributes to a broader understanding of how regions can successfully leverage MICE tourism for long-term benefits. The findings and recommendations serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, tourism authorities and stakeholders in the hospitality industry seeking to enhance Campania’s position in the global MICE tourism market.
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0136
The aim of this study is to emphasize the importance of Turkey’s gastronomy festivals within the context of event tourism by identifying and highlighting their significance.Design/methodology/approachInternational gastronomy festivals in Turkey hold significant importance within the scope of event tourism. These festivals contribute both economically and culturally by promoting Turkey’s rich and diverse culinary culture on a global scale. The importance of international gastronomy festivals in Turkey within event tourism also extends to cultural diplomacy and international promotion. These festivals enhance Turkey’s touristic image and help reach a broader audience internationally by showcasing the country’s cultural richness and hospitality. Bu baglamda bu çalisma, Türkiye’de gastronomi festivallerinin önemini ve mevcut durumunu arastirmayi ve etkinlik turizminin gelisimi kapsaminda düzenlenen etkinlikleri belirlemeyi amaçlamaktadir.FindingsIn this context, this study aims to investigate the importance and current status of gastronomy festivals in Turkey and to identify events organized within the scope of the development of event tourism.Research limitations/implicationsThe study provides information about international gastronomy festivals nourished by Turkey’s rich culinary culture. However, local gastronomy festivals are not included.Practical implicationsDevelop Comprehensive Marketing Strategies: Promote gastronomy festivals through targeted marketing campaigns that highlight the unique culinary experiences and cultural attractions of each region. Utilize digital platforms and social media to reach a wider audience and engage potential visitors.Social implicationsEnhance Collaboration Among Stakeholders: Foster collaboration between local governments, tourism organizations, culinary associations, and local businesses to ensure the successful planning and execution of gastronomy festivals. Encourage partnerships with international culinary institutions and chefs to enhance the prestige and appeal of these events.Originality/valueThe importance of international gastronomy festivals in Turkey within event tourism also extends to cultural diplomacy and international promotion. These festivals enhance Turkey’s touristic image and help reach a broader audience internationally by showcasing the country’s cultural richness and hospitality.
Ertaş, Çağdaş; Karakan, Halil Ibrahim
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0121
This study aims to use TripAdvisor data to identify which themes and events will attract more interest in the future of tourism activities and to provide guidance to the industry accordingly.Design/methodology/approachThis study used qualitative case study approach. To identify key themes in the top-rated activities, thematic analysis of user-generated content was conducted through MAXQDA 2020 Analytics Pro software.FindingsThe findings of this study indicate a growing trend in tourist preferences, with a notable increase in the popularity of wellness activities such as spa treatments and yoga retreats. Tourists also highly prefer cultural experiences like local festivals and historical tours, adventure activities such as hiking and water sports, and food-related activities like cooking classes and wine tastings. There is a significant trend towards sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism activities. These results underscore the need to cater to diverse tourist interests in developing future tourism offerings.Practical implicationsDeveloping innovative events, using data-driven marketing strategies, involving local communities, and catering to diverse preferences can enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of the tourism sector.Social implicationsUnderstanding tourists' tendencies towards cultural, adventurous and sustainable experiences helps tourism operators and managers to create offers that satisfy tourists while promoting environmentally friendly practices. This shift promotes cultural preservation, environmental protection and community involvement.Originality/valueThis study uniquely analyzes top-rated TripAdvisor activities to identify key trends in tourist preferences, highlighting the growing demand for cultural, adventurous, gastronomic, and sustainable tourism.
Altun, Ozlem; Kiraz, Sıla; Saydam, Mehmet Bahri
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0130
This research aims to investigate the motivations and perspectives of festival tourism in Northern Cyprus, emphasizing its economic, cultural, and social impacts in the post-pandemic era.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach was used to find out themes from semi-structured face-to-face interviews with twenty visitors who attended various festivals in North Cyprus.FindingsThe results of this research uncover that festivals considerably contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists, which boosts sales for local businesses and promotes traditional Cypriot cuisine. Additionally, festivals play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and crafts, fostering community engagement and cultural exchange. The study also identifies key challenges and opportunities, such as the need for improved marketing strategies, enhanced infrastructure, and sustainable practices to mitigate environmental impacts.Originality/valueThis study provides a comprehensive analysis of festival tourism in Northern Cyprus, offering novel insights into its economic, cultural, and social impacts while proposing innovative strategies to enhance its post-pandemic recovery and sustainability.
Aktepe, Batuhan; Demirci, Barış
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0124
The main objective of this research is to unravel and analyze emergent technologies that are altering and improving the event industry. The study seeks to recognize the most vital technological advancement, uses and effects on event preparation, management and participant experience.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, a narrative literature review method was used to examine emerging technologies in event management.FindingsThe research reveals that the emerging technologies examined in the articles affect and transform the event industry differently. Many of these technologies are currently being used in the event industry and are likely to be utilized in the coming years.Originality/valueNumerous studies in the literature are related to the research field. However, as technology evolves rapidly, it is necessary to repeat studies at regular intervals. This article contributes to the literature by tracking new technological developments in the event industry.
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-07-2024-0170
The aim of this study is to analyze the gastronomy festivals in Türkiye within the scope of the United Nations sustainable development goals.Design/methodology/approachIn line with this purpose, a systematic review approach, which is a qualitative research method, was adopted as the method of the study. In the study, the data was collected with document analysis technique by accessing secondary sources. Systematic literature review was used to analyze the data.FindingsWhen the gastronomy-themed festivals in Türkiye are analyzed, it is seen that 23 of them are in line with at least one of the United Nations sustainable development goals. The number of festivals organized in accordance with more than one of these goals is 18. The number of festivals organized in accordance with at least one goal is 5. The fact that only 23 of the 351 festivals in the research universe are organized in accordance with the United Nations sustainable development goals reveals that festivals are insufficient in terms of sustainability.Research limitations/implicationsThis study adopts theoretical approaches such as the experience economy, as it provides unforgettable consumption experiences for both producers and consumers participating in gastronomy festivals, and stakeholder theory, as festivals involve many stakeholders. The study also presents practical approaches, such as supporting local development, which is one of the primary objectives of festivals.Originality/valueThis study has revealed the sustainability status of gastronomy festivals in Türkiye which have been taken into consideration more frequently in recent years. It may also contribute to the literature to examine the organized gastronomy festivals within the scope of the UN sustainable development goals.
Baydeni̇z, Erdem; Özdoğan, Osman Nuri
2024 Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes
doi: 10.1108/whatt-06-2024-0126
The aim of this study is to systematically review scientific research on sustainability in the event industry to understand the current state of affairs and provide a roadmap for future studies. By combining the topics of the event industry and sustainability, it aims to thematically analyze the scientific literature in this area.Design/methodology/approachThis study analyzed 1,710 studies in the Web of Science (WoS) database as of June 1, 2024. The keywords “event industry” and “sustainability” were used to search for academic articles, review articles, and conference proceedings. The data were analyzed geographically, thematically, and temporally. Cross-national research contributions, document types, researcher profiles, and interdisciplinary relationships were examined in detail.FindingsThe analysis shows that sustainability is an increasingly important issue in the events industry, with countries such as the USA, China and Australia leading the way. Most research is in the form of articles, with conference proceedings and reviews playing an important role. There is a particular concentration in categories such as “management,” “hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism” and “sustainability science.” Even during the pandemic, there has been a significant increase in research activity, underscoring the importance of this topic on a global scale. Researchers have made significant scientific contributions in this area. These interdisciplinary studies have revealed important intersections between environmental sustainability and event management.Originality/valueThis study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the event industry and sustainability, illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of the field and the geographical distribution of research activity. A systematic review of the literature consolidates the body of knowledge in this field and provides directions for future research. This study highlights the need for more in-depth and comprehensive research on sustainability, and provides an important framework for strengthening the links between event management and sustainability.
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