A Cross-Country Analysis Latest RESEARCH ARTICLE on the impact of technology on international tourism by Dr. Nguyen Phuc Canh - a Senior Researcher of HAPRI's team.
Relationship between Internet usage and mobile phone usage
The study examines the relationship between information technology adoption and outbound tourism using panel data from 126 countries during 2000-2017. It investigates how Internet and mobile phone usage influences tourism expenditures and international departures across different income groups. The findings reveal significant positive impacts of technology adoption on outbound tourism, with Internet usage showing stronger effects than mobile usage.
The research demonstrates that technological advancement, particularly Internet connectivity, plays a crucial role in shaping international tourism patterns. The study finds consistent positive relationships between Internet/mobile usage and three key tourism metrics: total outbound tourism expenditures, international tourism expenditures for travel items, and the number of international departures. Notably, these effects are strongest in high-income economies, followed by upper-middle-income economies, and lastest in lower-middle-income economies.
Moreover, the study highlights how digital connectivity reduces traditional barriers to international travel by providing easier access to information, booking services, and travel planning tools. The findings suggest that investing in digital infrastructure and improving Internet access can significantly boost tourism development, particularly in emerging economies.
The research emphasizes the need for policymakers to foster appropriate socio-economic environments that support safe and effective use of digital technologies. This includes investing in digital infrastructure, ensuring cybersecurity, and implementing proper data privacy frameworks. Digital literacy programs are also crucial for helping citizens protect their personal and financial data when planning travel online.
The study's findings are particularly relevant for tourism industry stakeholders and policymakers working to enhance tourism development through technological advancement. By understanding the relationship between digital connectivity and tourism, countries can better target their infrastructure investments and policy initiatives to support tourism growth.
KEYWORDS:
Information technology
Outbound tourism
Internet usage
Mobile usage
Cross-country analysis
Economic development
Citation:
Nguyen, C. P., Schinckus, et al (2024), "Information technology and outbound tourism: A cross‐country analysis", International Social Science Journal, DOI: 10.1111/issj.12534
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