Mapping the “Smart Destination” Concept: Uncovering Practitioners’ Perspectives in a Cross-National Setting
Additional information
Authors
Garbani-Nerini E.,
Reinhold H. J.,
Cantoni L.
Type
Journal Article
Year
2025
Language
English
Abstract
In public administration and management literature, the smart city has become a major research topic, with growing interest in its definitions, characteristics, and implementation processes. In tourism, the concept of
smart tourism destination
mirrors this ideal, though the perspectives of practitioners remain underexplored. This article addresses this gap by examining what it means to be a smart tourism destination from the viewpoint of tourism professionals in Brazil, Italy, and Switzerland/Liechtenstein. Using a word association survey, the study identifies thematic clusters reflecting key elements such as technology and data, management and marketing, sustainability, users, and collaboration. These were cited by over 75% of 205 respondents, revealing a rich and varied understanding of the concept. The findings suggest that most participants are familiar with the
smart tourism destination
concept; however, further research is needed to assess whether this awareness translates into actionable strategies along a maturity continuum.
Journal
Journal of Smart Tourism
Pages (or article number)
27652157251393837
ISSN
2765-2157, 2765-7272
Diffusion
License
License undefined
Visibility
Private
