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Purpose: This concluding paper filters out the main points relating to the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) arising from the theme issue. The aim is to provide an insight as to how the hospitality and tourism industry is aligning its actions with the SDGs given the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and other recent issues such as overtourism. Design/methodology/approach: The approach is based on evidence and findings derived from the case studies featured in this issue presented by practitioners and academics. Findings: The overall findings show destinations along with the hospitality and tourism industry are engineering a variety of strategies to make the industry sustainable. The practical solutions recommended by contributors are helpful in terms of sharing good practices and identifying potential barriers to the execution of those practices. Originality/value: The articles in this theme issue address a theoretical and practical gap while proposing innovative sustainable tourism strategies directed towards the implementation of the United Nations SDGs. The value of this paper lies in the fact that it draws from a variety of original case studies, each unique in their own right and proposes innovative ideas on how the tourism and hospitality industry may implement the SDGs in their businesses while safeguarding the interest of the economy, society and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study is to explain the educational practices that emerged with the concept of "new normal" in an overview. In line with this goal, the experiences of academics who are experts in their fields have been utilized. Design/methodology/approach: This paper draws on both academic and trade literature. Interviews with representatives from schools providing tourism education in North Cyprus were conducted online and in-person. The qualitative research method in the form of the interview method was employed in the research. The research participants consist of 15 academics working in the field of tourism education. Additionally, concerning the selection of these participants, sector experience and applied lecture status were taken into consideration. As the second dimension of the research, an extensive literature review was conducted and the subject was expanded by explaining it with examples from around the world. Findings: It has been revealed in the research that educational institutions and tourist businesses have to constantly renew themselves technologically. The findings obtained from academics include the innovations they use in the "new normal" tourism education in applications such as Hybrid/BL – Blended Learning, VR – Virtual Reality, Artificial intelligence, LMS & In-class response systems, API-based software systems in the courses they teach. The common opinion of academics who want to provide a better education is that educational institutions should always be infrastructurally prepared for such emergencies. Originality/value: The global COVID-19 pandemic created economic destruction in many countries and brought life to a halt. In the tourism sector, one of the sectors most affected by the COVID-19 problem, various restrictions were imposed on touristic activities. While this situation caused a decrease in demand in the tourism sector, it paved the way for great technological changes and resulted in the adoption of new educational practices in institutions providing tourism education. This paper traces these new development in the face of the pandemic crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper discusses the development of Madeira's tourism and its continuous action on aspects of sustainability. Design/methodology/approach: The paper analyses the evolution of tourism in the region in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and how an investment in sustainability and on the certification of the archipelago as a sustainable tourist destination is a key move for stakeholders, in particular residents, companies and tourists. Findings: To return to normality, and thus overcome the 2019 difficulties, Madeira continues to develop promotional activities in various international markets and develop sustainable tourism, supported by practices and policies that optimize the use of environmental resources. In so doing, sociocultural identity and authenticity is secured, while providing socioeconomic benefits for all stakeholders. Originality/value: The approaches and solutions presented are those of the regional Government of Madeira, illustrated by the efforts and decisions that led to the certification of the archipelago as a sustainable tourist destination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this viewpoint, the theme editors provide an overview of the theme issue that aims to address the role of rural tourism in supporting the wellbeing and socio-economic development of local stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach: The paper covers different facets of rural tourism in promoting the socio-economic development of rural communities. Specifically, the articles in this issue capture the nuances of how local stakeholders in rural tourism in different geographical regions use various strategies to promote the well-being and socio-economic development of local communities. Findings: The papers in this theme issue demonstrate the potential role of rural tourism in promoting the socio-economic development of rural communities. These papers make an important contribution to the theory and practice of rural tourism by providing in-depth insight into the recovery and growth strategies adopted by stakeholders in diverse rural tourism destinations, especially in the wake of turbulent times such as the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. These papers suggest frameworks for further research and provide case studies of innovation and adaptation. Originality/value: This theme issue analyses stories of innovation, adaptation, and growth of rural tourism in various destinations that presented the industry with unique challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion provides some lessons and charts direction for the industry. The significance is greater when stakeholders of rural tourism and policymakers view rural tourism as an engine for the recovery and growth of the rural and national economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to identify the opportunities for resetting Caribbean tourism along the lines of sustainability, the use of SMART technology and social inclusion so that it benefits all of its stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach: This is a conceptual paper that draws on research about the limitations of Caribbean tourism and the emerging needs of tourism stakeholders in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Findings: The paper proposes five areas of focus - educating smartly, becoming a smart and strategic employer, using technology smartly to identify value and values of internal and external customers, thinking, buying, using sustainably and connecting the dots in joined up government. Research limitations/implications: The paper draws on current research on problems associated with pre-pandemic tourism and proposes ways that these can be addressed. It utilizes the service-profit chain model to identify the relationships between internal and external service value. Practical implications: Caribbean tourism interests have the choice of using the pandemic as an enforced pause or an opportunity to reset. This paper assumes the latter choice and makes specific recommendations for private and public sector interests to shape a sector that is socially inclusive and sustainable and that incorporates smart technology. Social implications: The Caribbean is the world's most tourism dependent region but a critical examination indicates that the pursuit of tourist numbers and dollars has come at a cost to local residents. The paper utilizes the new three Ss of smart destinations, social inclusion and sustainability to recommend ways in which tourism can better serve the region and a new generation of tourists. Originality/value: Tourism in the Caribbean has grown exponentially but not always in a way that benefits all of its stakeholders. Covid-19 forced a cessation of most activities and created an opportunity to rethink tourism. This paper recognizes that the changing needs of external and internal stakeholders must be considered if tourism is to be successful and sustainable, and proposes five overlapping and important innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper discusses the outcomes of an exploratory study into the innovations, adaptations, and best practices that the tourism and hospitality sector in Africa should implement in dealing with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-induced disruptions. Design/methodology/approach: This paper was based on data collected through qualitative approaches by reviewing published academic articles and unpublished documents, including websites, media reports and global public health entities such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Because of the lack of reliable data in some cases, this study is inductive in nature. Findings: The main finding of this research suggests that Africa which is seemingly the least affected in infection and casualty rates has conversely borne the brunt of the negative responses from the global community in travel restrictions and mobility curtailment. Overwhelming trends suggest the domestic tourism market does not have the spending capacity of international visitors who arrive with foreign currency, inevitably main-stream in the form of USD, EURO and GBP, with their spending power estimated at between 1:18 and 1:22. The fragmented, cascaded and sometimes disorganised approach in dealing with policy adoptions and implementation in managing developments around the pandemic further inhibits a compelling approach to continent-wide tourism and hospitality revival. Originality/value: This paper highlights trends, innovations, and adaptations to COVID-19-related revival strategies for Africa and contributes to academic debates on the topic which, in the Global South context is currently under-researched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper explores the challenges Malaysian tourism and hospitality organisations faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and assesses how they coped and strategized with these challenges. Next, the study explores innovative action and best practices in dealing with the pandemic. Additionally, the study focusses on the efforts of policymakers. The paper also reviews government policy and support programmes made available to the business sector during the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: The paper identifies the key pandemic-related issues and challenges faced in the tourism and hospitality industry through open-ended questions with senior industry practitioner insights and policymakers. Findings: The study highlights emerging challenges and issues for Malaysian hospitality and tourism businesses. In addition, it offers specific recommendations and strategies to enable industry stakeholders to respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Practical implications: These findings are of interest to Malaysian tourism and hospitality industry stakeholders and policymakers as they highlight challenges and offer possible post-pandemic solutions. Originality/value: The paper reflects current issues and challenges from the perspective of tourism and hospitality practitioners on managerial and operational issues relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to examine the post-pandemic prospects for the luxury yacht industry in the coming decade in contrast to those for mega cruise ships. Design/methodology/approach: The paper employed a qualitative approach via an examination of industry analysis and discussion with industry experts in tourism, cruising and luxury yachting. Findings: Based on industry analysis and discussion with key stakeholders, the finding is that the luxury yacht industry responded well to its market from the onset of the pandemic, and will continue on this path in both luxury and sporting yacht categories. To regain customer support after the long period of travel restrictions, cruise lines will have to significantly reduce their prices in order to stimulate demand. This, coupled with approximately 40% reductions in load capacity is a blow to the industry. Hence, this calls for the industry to commit itself to the present safety protocols, which are an added cost to their operations. In contrast, the luxury yacht industry is presented with a golden opportunity as a result of these constraints as it can stimulate revenue through charters and rentals. Practical implications: There was never anticipation of a global pandemic that would bring tourism operations to a total halt. The question is, what recovery strategies have been employed by the small island states that have invested millions of US dollars over the last two decades in expanding or developing new cruise ports? Given the historical perspective for Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio, Jamaica, the Port Authority of Jamaica can reposition the Marina to take advantage of the new opportunity that has been created for the yacht industry by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Social implications: It is likely that more Caribbean nationals will be employed on luxury yachts as compared with the less than 5% of Caribbean nationals employed on cruise ships prior to the pandemic. Originality/value: The economies of most Caribbean Islands and many other small island developing states (SIDSs) are heavily dependent on tourism; specifically cruise tourism during the cruise season. Some of these countries continue to anticipate a quick recovery for the cruise industry. This anticipation may not yield an immediate result because of the protocols that are needed in response to the pandemic. This paper shows that in the mid to long-term, the returns from significant investment in port development must be realized and the luxury yacht industry presents one such opportunity. This paper is helpful because the present outlook for cruising is not good, and so a new approach and strategy must be put in place to develop new products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This viewpoint aims to explore the question: How can we restart and monitor the path towards the tourism of the future? Design/methodology/approach: This paper identifies the progress made at scientific, institutional, political and technological levels, and how it is possible to foresee that we will enter in a new era of tourism indicators. Findings: A significant body of literature clearly demonstrates that tourism cannot be viewed simply from an economic point of view as it has a great influence on sociocultural and environmental dimensions. The impact of tourism and how to ensure its long-term success has been invoked for the last few decades, leading to the direct consideration of sustainability indicators in a wide array of scientific publications. However, despite significant advances, the lack of funding, lack of support or interest from the political community, bureaucracies or lack of methodological guidance and of technical skills along the entire value chain pose clear challenges to the development and adoption of wide data systems to support sustainable tourism policies. Originality/value: The paper sheds light on the Portuguese position regarding the recovery of the tourism sector in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also highlights the commitment to knowledge and monitoring of sustainability in tourism, articulated at international level, and how this is essential in order to make progress and to overcome the challenges facing the sector. At the same time, it demonstrates how fundamental it is to identify solutions to boost the potential of tourism as an economic, social, environmental and cultural phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to critically review the contributions made by the global trends issue participants on how tourism will impact people and planet and so provide answers to the strategic question defined for this global trends issue. Design/methodology/approach: A content analysis of the papers selected was performed to identify the most significant ideas and proposals and how they may contribute to knowledge and/or professional practice. Findings: As the tourism industry prepares to reach new records, there is a clear need to rethink tourism in the post COVID-19 era. The option of following a traditional pre-pandemic model of tourism development and growth is no longer productive, instead organizations and destinations must take the opportunity to develop a model where society takes center stage, the resources are used in a sustainable way and the results are distributed amongst all those involved in the tourism value chain. Originality/value: In this concluding article the authors, supported by the views and proposals of the entire writing team, provide answers to the strategic question, thus demonstrating how tourism will affect people and planet in the short and medium terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the latest phenomenon emerging from rural towns and villages, where a surge in traditional cafes and restaurants has spurred a new trend in sustainable tourism development. This phenomenon is linked to local efforts to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the series of lockdowns that accompanied it. This paper focuses on two critical lines of inquiry: (1) Where did the idea stem from? and (2) How has it developed to the extent that it now constitutes one of the few primary sources of income for underdeveloped communities? Design/methodology/approach: Exploratory research was conducted in rural and urban areas where tourism is still developing. In depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample consisting of ten owners of rural and traditional cafes who consented to their participation in the study. Findings: Emerging trends such as rural and traditional cafes and restaurants can be a stable source of income for underserved communities in uncertain times. Local entrepreneurs often play a critical role in the development of sustainable rural tourism efforts as they have a better understanding of the needs of their own local community. Furthermore, their projects typically carry higher levels of authenticity and innovation with a greater ability to attract both local and international travelers. Research limitations/implications: Taking into consideration the exploratory nature of this study, a small convenience sample was used. Originality/value: This study highlights the importance of innovation in the tourism industry during precarious times, the most recent example of which was the global COVID-19 pandemic. This paper suggests that the industry can rely on new emerging trends to mitigate the loss of revenue from previous sources of tourism. Furthermore, the study showcases the importance of domestic tourism trends and how it can lead to an expansion in international tourism resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examines changes in customer service encounter patterns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic during stays at hotels. The study re-visits the hotel services delivery process and examines how the hotel service blueprint has been re-framed. Design/methodology/approach: The study implemented an exploratory and qualitative research design to identify changes in customer service encounters and the hotel service delivery process. The research applied a cross-sectional survey-based design, which involved open-ended and closed interview questions with hoteliers in the Delhi/NCR region. Findings: The study identified an increase in contactless service during the service delivery process and in customer service encounters while staying at hotels. In so doing, the various service touchpoints in hotels need to transition from personalized service to contactless service encounters such as at check-in and payment, contactless room key access with available and accessible hand sanitizers, masks, room purifiers, automated room cleaning machines and the deployment of other smart artificial intelligence-based technologies. Practical implications: This paper profiles a revised service blueprint model for hotels, which could assist hotel service managers to address potential sources of customer dissatisfaction and service failure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value: The paper explores ongoing changes in the hotel service delivery process during the COVID-19 situation and reveals ways in which the service blueprint has been re-framed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to examine new housekeeping procedures introduced in response to COVID-19. The pandemic has required hotels to reassess their standard operating procedures, especially in housekeeping to retain the confidence of guests in the hotel/brand via high standards of sanitization, hygiene and the maintenance of social distancing. Design/methodology/approach: The article draws on publications and announcements made by major brands and associations about their updated standards of cleaning, hygiene and sanitisation, social distancing and workplace protocols arising from the pandemic. Further, a survey was used to determine the impact of new processes on housekeeping teams and their perceptions of its effect on service quality, guests and employee safety. Findings: Some key new processes are: keeping the hotel room vacant for several hours after departure, the sanitisation of every room, cleaning and sanitisation of high touch points, linen and waste management and low frequency or complete avoidance of the cleaning of occupied rooms. The survey questionnaire establishes that housekeepers value their new standard operating procedures (SOPs) and agree that "clinically clean" is the new normal and essential to avoid cross-contamination and keep guests and employees safe. Research limitations/implications: As the pandemic is a current phenomenon, the guidelines and protocols are rapidly evolving. Hotels are innovating and looking for new processes to manage infection control. This study has mainly focused on cleanliness and hygiene protocols and procedures prevalent in the industry. Currently, future work could be useful to evaluate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on the new processes and procedures that have been deployed. Practical implications: In order to recover from the pandemic, the Indian hotel industry faces a colossal task. Even when the virus peaks have passed and hotels can safely reopen, the fear of infection will continue and so guest trust and confidence is essential. Given this, the paper should be of interest to hoteliers and policymakers seeking to implement the best possible post COVID-19 housekeeping practices. Originality/value: This paper identifies and analyses best practice in hotel housekeeping in response to COVID-19. The new standards that are being adopted aim to assure hotel guests and employees about the hygiene and safety measures and standards that have been adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to provide answers to the following questions: How was the tourism and hospitality industry in Guyana impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic? What recovery strategies have been designed? What are the prospects for the successful implementation of those strategies? Design/methodology/approach: The paper is based upon a qualitative analysis of the recommendations and formal proposals that were issued from a variety of sources within government, private sector and academia during the 2019–2021 period of the pandemic. Findings: The main findings of this paper are that an industry consensus exists regarding the severity of the impact of the pandemic and the need for a collaborative strategy to be designed and innovative measures implemented in order to accelerate industry recovery. This recovery entails attracting to Destination Guyana both a new wave of health-aware travellers as well as visitors from traditional markets and the diaspora. Analysis suggests that there is a broad consensus and convergence of objectives that embrace both government and private sector. Originality/value: The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a significant quantity of literature and has seen a conspicuous incorporation of scientific medical data into tourism analysis. This is only to be expected in the circumstance of a global health emergency that has devastated the global tourism industry. The value of this article lies principally in its proposal of innovative methods and strategies that are critical to tourism recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The goal of this paper is to narrate about tourism in Sri Lanka in the context of the current pandemic and other challenges and identify innovative solutions to rebuild tourism. Design/methodology/approach: This qualitative study was undertaken by employing mainly secondary data sources. Findings: Since the 26-year long civil war in Sri Lanka ended in 2009, tourism grew to unprecedented levels over the next ten years. Sri Lanka had formulated strategies to attract six million tourists and US$ 10 billion earnings by 2025. Tourism had been the third highest foreign exchange earner of the country representing over 5% of GDP, around 500,000 employees. The 2019 Easter Sunday terrorist attacks that killed 269 people severely affected tourism. Within a year of the attacks, the global COVID-19 pandemic further impacted tourism further. The current war in Europe added to the problems of Sri Lanka, which in 2022 plunged to its worse economic and political crisis. The protesters against the political corruption and fiscal mismanagement demanded the resignation of the President, Prime Minister and the Cabinet. In spite of these major challenges, this paper attempts to bring some optimism about the future potential of tourism in Sri Lanka. Originality/value: This paper suggests 12 key measures and 9 suggestions for innovation to rebuild tourism in Sri Lanka from 2022 to 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore the concept of resilience both through conceptual lenses and an applied relevance and importance to the tourism and hospitality industry in the context of identifying the most effective approaches to cope with the worldwide epidemic of COVID-19. Design/methodology/approach: This conceptual paper is based on a comprehensive literature review and strategic interdisciplinary analysis as a basis for comprehensive policy recommendations. Findings: This paper suggests five clusters of globally applicable measures and approaches aimed to enhance the resilience of the tourism and hospitality industry in the face of COVID-19 and more broadly in the face of other regional and global large-scale disasters: fostering adaptive and creative leadership; humility and cautious navigating through a deep uncertainty; flexibility in building on the unknown; enhancing social capital; and developing mutual respect and positive interconnectivity among the various stakeholders. Originality/value: Through policy-driven applied conceptual analysis, this paper provides the various audiences in the travel and hospitality sector across the globe with an original, flexible and strategic approach to effectively respond to the multiple cascading effects of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper provides a conclusion to the theme issue by commenting on the contributions made by the writing team. Moreover, this paper advocates the use of interdisciplinary teams to build resilience in the tourism and hospitality industries. Design/methodology/approach: This paper draws on research and best practices cited in the preceding papers and offers viewpoints that link theory and practice. Findings: Although there is no one specific way to summarize the contents of this theme issue, the findings build on the idea of forging trust and alliances to advance local and global resilience. Originality/value: Post-disaster resilience is certainly relevant to the tourism and hospitality industries amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Findings and implications from this series of articles, interviews, and viewpoints can be used to aid the recovery of the tourism and hospitality industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different stakeholders including continuity planning specialists, social scientists, tourism/hospitality small business entrepreneurs and researchers all participated in this issue. i Towards a proactive, capabilities-based continuity framework for the hospitality and tourism... I Kimberly Carty i Most tourism firms are micro-, small- and medium-sized businesses that lack the capabilities and resources to dedicate to disaster preparedness planning. Theme Editor DeMond Miller shares his reflections on the significance and outcomes of the theme issue with Managing Editor Richard Teare. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This viewpoint paper provides insights and actions as to how destinations and airports need to be aligned in post-COVID-19 resumption. This paper aims to inform those working in airports and tourism boards about how to deal with airlines and support connectivity and route development post-COVID-19. Design/methodology/approach: This paper provides a practical viewpoint based on working with airlines and tourism boards as part of consultancy and advisory development. Findings: This paper offers practical suggestions on how airlines, airports and tourism boards can work together to support air connectivity and tourism development. Practical implications: This paper provides those working in aviation and the tourism industry with practical steps to manage route development and connectivity post-COVID-19. Originality/value: The paper suggests new ways of working towards the integration of efforts made by airlines, airports and tourism boards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to provide an overview of the short-term impact of COVID19 on the new tourism paradigm worldwide, as well imagining how it could influence society's inclusion. The purpose is thus to share some insight into this unprecedented situation. Design/methodology/approach: This paper uses a practical and empirical approach, based on readings and conversations with international stakeholders, and contrasted with the Creative Tourism Network's background. Findings: This paper explores the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the tourism industry, human values and intangibles and new opportunities for societal inclusion, together with examples of good practices. Practical implications: The viewpoint is based on observation, analysis and conversations with stakeholders around the world. It also draws on examples and practical cases from the destinations' members of the Creative Tourism Network. Originality/value: This paper draws on observation and reflections about the evolution of societal inclusion through new forms of creative and niche tourism, accelerated by the COVID-19 crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: At a time when tourism is embarking on the path to recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, this paper aims to put forward a set of principles guiding the development of tourism to enable global society to become more inclusive and sustainable. Design/methodology/approach: This paper adopted a descriptive design using views and data mainly published by 11 international organisations and specialised agencies between March and mid-June 2020. Content analysis was carried out to enable the research to identify features and the presence of challenges for tourism within international organisations' documents and leaders' speeches to compare them. Findings: The results revealed that there are five key principles that may have a significant impact on tourism development, suggesting that these could be adopted for building a more inclusive and sustainable economy, while mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. Practical implications: Adopting the five key principles recommended in this paper can help tourism to emerge stronger and in a more sustainable way from COVID-19 or other future crises. Equally, this can incite changes in policies, business practices and consumers' and locals' behaviours with a view to building a truly sustainable sector. Originality/value: This study helps to reconfirm existing knowledge in the COVID-19 context by highlighting five guiding principles that can help tourism players to respond to this crisis disruption and future ones via transformative innovation. In doing so, these will also be contributing to the achievement of the ideals and aims of the Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As the world tries to come to terms with the exact economic and human cost of the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses are trying to discern and act on the implications of the "new normal" in order to survive and grow. Amongst all the industries impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, travel and tourism has been the hardest hit. Operators across the value chain are trying to innovate and improvise in order to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on cash flows and working capital. The primary purpose of this paper then is to take a closer look at the measures adopted by the Indian hotel industry to restore revenues, conserve resources and attain greater operational and cost efficiencies in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis. The article also brings to the fore the growth-enhancing measures adopted by the industry in anticipation of a "new normal" in the post-Covid world. Design/methodology/approach: This study is based on primary data collected via a survey, followed by a series of interviews with a select group of senior finance managers from a wide spectrum of hotels based in India. Findings: Our findings suggest that Indian hotels have adopted several measures to enhance cash flows/revenues, reduce operating costs and cash outflows and conserve resources in order to tide themselves over during the crisis. Prominent cash flow–enhancing measures include price drops on special offers and reductions on list prices. Cost-cutting measures include economizing on energy consumption, reductions in labour costs and the postponement of maintenance expenses and discretionary spending. Resource conservation measures that have been adopted focus on postponement of capital expenditure and an increasing shift to localizing supply chains. Growth-enhancing measures adopted by the industry in anticipation of the long-term "new normal" include restructuring of the workforce and measures aimed at attracting domestic tourists and increasing product diversity. Originality/value: This study attempts to understand the short-term and long-term financial management strategies adopted by Indian hotels in the face of unprecedented disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first of its kind in the Indian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper explores medical tourism development challenges in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) pre- and during Covid-19. Medical tourism is becoming a dynamic, rapid growth area and an engine of economic development. Design/methodology/approach: In-depth interviews were conducted with medical tourism professionals. Fourteen medical tourism stakeholders were interviewed from 1 January to 31 January 2020. Qualitative thematic analysis was applied on medical tourism challenges before and during the pandemic. Findings: The major themes indicated concerns for medical tourism in the UAE and they included higher medical services costs and a shortage of highly qualified medical expertise. The emerging themes related to the challenges of coping with Covid-19 and strategies to attract medical tourists. Originality/value: This study contributes towards (1) the theory of medical tourism, (2) the related limited prior published work on this topic relating to the UAE and (3) the importance of medical tourism in today's tourism industry. Additionally, there are theoretical and practical implications for medical tourism stakeholders in terms of attracting inbound medical tourists to the UAE from other countries during the Covid-19 crisis and in the post-pandemic situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper reviews the challenging trends in the tourism sector of the UAE brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. In so doing, it highlights a radical shift in the consumption of travel products and the related marketing strategies that tourism enterprises could adopt. Design/methodology/approach: The study aims to discern the ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic for the tourism sector of the UAE by conducting a thematic review of the contextual literature. It highlights how tourism businesses can employ transformative strategies to revive the sector. Findings: The outcomes reveal that tourism businesses are finding it difficult to respond to the needs of customers in settings where physical distance is a reality. Given this, the study reveals the importance of digital technology in building a relationship between the supplier and the customer. Businesses can leverage virtual reality to provide enriching experiences to prospective customers and in so doing, influence their tourism product choices. Further, there is a need to co-create values wherein the final tourism product is beneficial to both the supplier in terms of profit margin and within the scope of the customer's willingness to pay. Originality/value: This review highlights that there are both demand and supply-side shocks in delivering tourism products in the post Covid-19 era. It also considers the key socio-economic factors that need to be accounted for when designing tourism products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine how societal disruptions in the wake of disasters and crises also disrupt the tourism and hospitality industries. Design/methodology/approach: This paper takes a case-study approach. First, the literature on disasters/crises is reviewed; then three cases in which disasters impacted local, regional and global tourism and hospitality industries are examined: Hurricane Katrina, Arab Spring and the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings: Three principles are proposed to assist in mitigating the impacts of disaster on the tourist industry. These principles also serve as a means of potentially re-orienting and guiding the tourism and hospitality industries toward a sustainable and equitable future. Originality/value: In addition to the three guiding principles offered in this paper; the examination of COVID-19 offers a novel case in which tourism is impacted globally by a singular disaster. Findings and implications from this case will guide recovery and, potentially, allow for a reconceptualization of the tourism and hospitality industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to discuss how the tourism industry is contending with the economic and interorganizational challenges wrought by the COVID-19 outbreak and heightened by a lack of communication between the government and local businesses in the state of Israel. The researchers examine the dependency of the tourism industry on the general preparation programs that were developed and are currently being deployed by the relevant national stakeholders and question whether instead, it should use the pandemic as a catalyst for formulating its own nuanced tourism-travel-and-hospitality-oriented strategies and procedures. Design/methodology/approach: Applying an ethnographic-based mix-methods research approach, this paper draws on insights from data compiled by fusing existing theoretical and emerging practical knowledge with empirical research (qualitative and quantitative) conducted among numerous relevant macro (governmental/centralized industry) and micro (hotels, travel and tourism operators and service providers) stakeholders as well as potential consumers. Findings: It is essential that national and local government bodies form collaborative interorganizational relationships with local stakeholders to jointly activate case-specific hospitality and travel-specific risk mitigation management strategies. Moreover, the pandemic laid bare the tentative and fragile nature of the globalized tourism industry supply and demand chains, a condition that may be remedied via a pivot toward using national or even regional supply chains and goods and service providers. Within Israel, such changes could lead to increased economic benefits that extend beyond the tourism industry to provide certain security-related benefits. Originality/value: Relating to idiosyncratic factors relevant to an Israeli cultural context, this paper uses the ethnographic field-borne familiarity of the researchers with the tourism and travel industries in Eilat and the Dead Sea to offer applicable suggestions for leveraging certain industry resources to both meet the demands of the present-day circumstances and cultivate a multifaceted organizational web of macro and micro social, economic and environmental networks so as to foster a more diversified and therefore resilient local tourism and travel economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The interview with Mr Itsik (Isaac) Peres aims to provide a set of insights from the field – through global, Middle-Eastern and Israeli lenses – on some of the major challenges for the tourism industry in the face of COVID-19. Design/methodology/approach: This paper consists of an academic interview with Mr Itsik (Isaac) Peres and presents an engaging discussion between the experienced and knowledgeable tour guide and a scholar of resilience. Findings: Mr Peres calls for a balanced approach that views health considerations as the top priority but at the same time believes that the tourism industry may – at least partially – adapt itself to the global pandemic and operate through a "new normal" during COVID-19. It is also claimed that there is no conflict between necessary international standards and local knowledge, creativity and adaptation measures. Mr Itsik Peres also addresses the potential major local and regional opportunities for the tourism industry and for the society as a whole that may emerge because of the new Abraham Accords (a peace treaty between Israel, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed in August 2020). Originality/value: This paper presents an original and comprehensive analysis of the major challenges and solutions for the tourism industry in the face of COVID-19 through the lenses of an experienced professional in the field. The interview provides the reader with short-term and long-term "take away" messages for more effective and adaptive functioning of the tourism industry – during the COVID-19 epidemic and following its hopeful end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to examine developments in tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic using the hotel sector in the North-East of England as the area of study. The country has attracted a lot of attention not only because of its importance as a tourism destination but also due to its rather controversial management of the pandemic at least in its early stages. Design/methodology/approach: Fifteen semi-structured interviews based on ten open-ended questions were conducted with North East of England-based hotel managers of international brands on the level of their hotels' preparedness to effectively deal with pandemic cases. The interviews took place in August and September 2020 with participants kept anonymous. Findings: Meeting new operational and bureaucratic requirements added to the cost structure and proved a major challenge for managers who saw their hotel occupancy rates and revenue collapsing within a short period of time. Innovative and aggressive pricing strategies were introduced to lure especially younger travelers in the absence of business clientele. Staff were made redundant and/or asked to work overtime making effective human resource management very difficult. Originality/value: This is one of the first research attempts to highlight the importance of the COVID-19 pandemic for the hotel sector in a major region of the UK. The paper also attempts some generalization by discussing managerial implications and suggesting a possible way forward for the hotel sector. Developing resilience by building on previously used successful business practices proves of essence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to study organisations involved in rural tourism during the COVID-19 crisis and draw out lessons for similar organisations. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative approach has been adopted to develop the case studies for the three organisations, and the popular crisis management model has been used to analyse their responses. Findings: The three organisations studied responded well to survive the COVID-19 crisis, and, the responses were grouped into three broad themes, namely importance of a good team supporting the business, increased digital engagements and the need to diversify their customer bases. Practical implications: Organisations working in tourism sector have been facing several crises concurrently. The findings of this study on rural tourism should hopefully provide feedback and guidance to face the future challenges that might emerge in the tourism sector. Originality/value: This study would perhaps be one of the first to map the responses of organisations working in India during the COVID crisis, where rural tourism has slowly started to become a significant rural development strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore the gradual commercialisation of second homes in non-urban locations and identifie a spectrum that ranges from lending to rentals to home exchange. Design/methodology/approach: This paper is a conceptual one based on a review of literature relating to the acquisiting and use of secondary residences or "second homes". Findings: This paper observes that the secondary residence is often the object of a material over-investment that is symbolic and mental. The owners never quite leave their main place of residence when in the secondary one. The result is not two complementary spaces, but a hybrid space made up of the interlocking of the two. This paper also concludes that digitalization has made it easier to rent a secondary residence for a short period of time, using for instance the Airbnb platform, thus making it more an object of trade than a second home. From a sustainability perspective, the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to bring to the relatively rapid growth of short-term renting a halt. Further, it may encourage owners to be more psychologically and physically invested in their secondary residence, thereby contributing more to the local economy. Originality/value: Few authors have considered the way digital tools can alter the relation with the secondary place of residence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this article, the authors introduce the strategic question and demonstrate its relevance to society and for organizations. They also profile the articles selected for the annual global trends issue and explain how they illustrate the various angles on how tourism is impacting people and the planet. Design/methodology/approach: The authors draw on a review of their previous research and other available information and on the articles selected to identify how tourism is impacting people and the planet. A brief explanation of the positions and proposals presented by the global trends issue authors as well as their key contributions is also presented. Findings: From the analysis undertaken by the authors, it is clear that there is a need to rethink tourism in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is even more important as the tourism industry has already recovered to 2019 levels (pre-pandemic performance) and is expected to break new records by the end of 2023. As the authors reach this milestone, the choice now is either to continue to follow the traditional pre-pandemic model of tourism development and growth or to take the opportunity to rethink where the tourism industry is heading and how it will impact people and the planet. The authors advocate for the second option, supported by research undertaken by the authors in recent years that clearly shows the favourable impact of tourism and why it must be treated and developed with society in mind. This involves use of resources in a sustainable way and distributing the outcomes among all those involved in the process. Originality/value: In this introductory article, the authors contextualize the strategic question and demonstrate its relevance to society and for organizations. They also analyze the context of growth that the tourism industry has gone through since the end of 2022 and highlight the perspectives offered by a team of experts invited to reflect on the theme underlying the strategic question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are numerous pressures on the cruise tourism industry as in the recent past, many well-established cruise tourism locations have been turning tourists and ships away due to overtourism. It is argued here that now is the time to consider the introduction of new destinations. Design/methodology/approach: The article is based on a literature review and discussions with experienced practitioners. Findings: The cruise industry has continued to evolve and the numbers of people engaging in cruise tourism had been on the increase globally until the Covid-19 pandemic. Medium-sized and mega ships with state-of-the-art facilities were in regular use. Despite the fact that there was a boom, the need for an extension of cruise lines destinations has arisen as there are numerous nations with exciting locations waiting to be discovered. Some of the limitations of such destinations include difficulty of access for large mega ships and infrastructure. A way forward can be found though by engaging local smaller boats/ships to transfer tourists to local destinations. Research limitations/implications: More work is needed to clarify issues such as (1) the readiness of proposed host communities to receive tourists; (2) terms and conditions of engagement of local boat companies; (3) cruising infrastructure development and (4) facilities upgrading that is compatible with international cruising standards. Originality/value: This paper highlights some of the issues being faced by cruise companies in well-established tourism destinations. It also emphasizes the need for new, hitherto undiscovered locations to accommodate a likely expansion in demand in the post-Covid-19 era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper seeks to reflect on the impacts of the pandemic on the management of tourist destinations, discussing the role of destination-management organizations in the tourism development model, as well as the challenges that these organizations must address to ensure an effective construction of a more sustainable and competitive tourism. Design/methodology/approach: The methodology is based on a literature review linking destination management with pandemic and post-pandemic responses. Findings: The COVID-19 pandemic represents an unprecedent shock to the tourism industry's growth model since World War II, challenging tourism stakeholders (destinations and companies) with several threats and opportunities to their future competitiveness. In addition to the massive impacts in terms of business development, the abrupt reduction of tourism demand and the significative loss of jobs, the pandemic also caused significant disruption in terms of destination-management models. In less than four months, the focus of Governments and Destination Management Organizations shifted from defining development models compatible with improving the quality of life of residents due to the emergence of the so-called overtourism phenomenon, to the urgent need to support the industry's survival, to preserve jobs and ensure conditions of safety for tourists and workers. Originality/value: Demonstrates the need for a profound change in the paradigm of destination management so that the sector is prepared to face future shocks. It also proposes further discussion on the role of destination management in the recovery process of the tourism sector in global terms, given the challenges that these organizations face. The article also considers the ways in which destination management can be a fundamental tool in the process of building a more inclusive, sustainable and competitive future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This concluding article summarizes the main findings in response to the theme issue strategic question: How are hospitality and tourism businesses in India responding to the COVID-19 pandemic? Design/methodology/approach: The conclusion identifies some contemporary and relevant areas for development in the post-pandemic era. To summarize, this paper draws out the key findings of the theme issue articles and presents the main recommendations for industry action. Findings: This conclusion highlights emerging issues for Indian hospitality and tourism businesses and includes specific recommendations for industry professionals, policymakers and other stakeholders in relation to strategies that could be adopted to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Practical implications: Given the wide impact of the pandemic across industries, this issue will be of interest to practitioners, higher education leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders as it draws on industry-focused research to explore the challenges and possible solutions to current and pending challenges. This issue also provides insights for further collaborative research. Originality/value: This article provides insights from practitioners and academics relating to the current and on-going impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and developmental steps that the hospitality and tourism industry in India is taking in response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to present the authors' perspectives on the new narrative styles adopted by international millennial travel vloggers during the COVID-19 pandemic. They aim to promote virtual tourism, and the authors present six examples of millennial vloggers. Considering tighter government regulations relating to travel, vloggers have developed novel ways of content creation through "travel writing." Design/methodology/approach: The authors used narrative analysis to review their sample of vlogs and how specific changes in each vlogging stage are motivated by viewer expectancy. Findings: Millennial vlogger couples are using the YouTube platform to meet the demand for virtual tourism. Research limitations/implications: This study provides new ways of looking at travel vlogging as an occupation and means of entertainment. However, the current dynamic situation may well lead to further challenges for this kind of research. Practical implications: The implications relate to the provision of a better understanding of the scope for virtual tourism and how it can lead to new avenues for tourism development. Originality/value: The authors reviewed millennial vloggers during the COVID-19 pandemic and applied narratology to the vlogs to better analyse the changes caused by the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has had serious and far-reaching consequences on every aspect of human life. As various countries went into lockdown, hospitality and tourism was badly affected and this has had an impact on hospitality and tourism education too. This paper aims to assess the impact of the pandemic on hospitality and tourism education in India and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies in support of the industry. The study also proposes recommendations for resilience-building. Design/methodology/approach: A pilot survey using semi-structured interviews was conducted and followed by a detailed questionnaire-based survey of industry representatives and educators. Selected industry leaders were also interviewed to understand the industry perspective on the pandemic, the "new normal" and the expectations of post pandemic graduates. The study focuses on four main areas – (1) existing interrelationships between industry and academia, (2) the efficiency of Internet-based education during the pandemic, (3) the "new normal" and the expectations of graduates and (4) recommendations for resilience-building. Findings: There is a perceived gap between academia and industry that needs to be bridged. We found that the pandemic is seriously affecting education with challenges ranging from technological issues, disparities and reduced enrolments to student behavioural issues. Most impacted was the practical training component in operational areas and especially in food production and services. It is now clear that education needs a shift in focus from the more traditional, operational aspects of hospitality and tourism to technological awareness, knowledge and soft skills development. The research also identified a need for better two-way communication and information exchange between industry and academia. In fact, the lessons learnt from the pandemic need to be communicated from industry to academia. This is important given that industry expects graduates to be adaptive, compassionate, able to multi-task, familiar with the principles of crisis management and proficient with technology. Originality/value: The study analyses possible long-term effects and implications for the workforce of the future as the industry struggles to respond to the pandemic. The study also suggests possible avenues and methods for industry and academia to form more symbiotic relationships and become more resilient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020, the travel sector has faced an intense challenge, making tourism one of the most affected sectors at the time of writing. Based on the results of a survey administered to a sample of 700 Italian tourists, this paper aims to acquire an empirical understanding of key challenges for the travel and tourism sector in the coming months and the possible responses of tourist cities. Design/methodology/approach: To study tourism after the pandemic, OUT (University of Naples Tourism Research Center) has created an online survey to answer the following questions: What will tourism be like after the pandemic? What will the main changes in travel behaviors be? What role will new information technologies play in future tourism? Are there territorial differences based on the spread of the virus? Findings: The pandemic has inevitably affected everyone's tourist choices, regardless of how much their specific area of residence has been impacted by the virus. Consequently, it will significantly influence travelers' experiences. The Italian tourists who were survey respondents are aware that physical distancing rules will probably remain in effect for an extended time and, therefore, they cannot imagine future tourism not conditioned by these measures. This does not mean that Italians will give up tourism in the short-medium term, however. Indeed, the research data highlight the resilient character of tourism in that it is transformed but does not cease to exist. Originality/value: By studying the future through a sociological approach, it is possible to identify how the COVID-19 emergency will impact tourism and how both the form and social meaning of mobility will be conditioned. On the basis of the data, the analysis will be directed from the present to the post-pandemic horizon, hypothesizing possible scenarios for the future of tourism and providing some possible policy indications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to offer an insight of the role of the African Union (AU) and the Economic Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) in implementing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) for the air transport sector and the tourism industry. The objective is to show how the AU along with its advisory body ECOSOCC collaborates with regional tourism organizations and stakeholders to achieve the SDGs. Design/methodology/approach: The methodology is based on desk-based research and content analysis of documents, reports and research articles related to Agenda 2063. Findings: The findings show that achievement of the SDGs necessitates collaboration between regional and international organizations. But, not all AU members are committed to implementing the SDGs. However, the COVID-19 outbreak has threatened many tourism economies, and stakeholders are now interested in finding a solution to the crisis. Practical implications: The outcome of this study provides an improved understanding of the importance of SDGs while confronting tourism challenges during the pandemic crisis in Africa. Originality/value: According to the authors' best knowledge, the study is among the first to address SDG issues in a post-COVID African context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to understand the various facets of augmented reality (AR) and to explore its prospects for supporting the relaunch of the tourism sector post-COVID-19 in accordance with the guidelines set out by WHO and UNWTO. Design/methodology/approach: This study falls into the category of exploratory research. It is based on a systematic review of secondary data. Thematic content analysis has been adopted to trace out the various ways in which AR can be an aid in overcoming challenges in the relaunch of tourism after the pandemic. Findings: It was found that norms such as social distancing and lower mobility are going to be followed even after the COVID-19. Therefore, there will be a great demand for mobile and Web-based AR to not only ensure tourist safety but also to create unique, accessible, personalized, context-specific, deep and memorable experiences. Practical implications: Apart from its academic contribution to the existing body of knowledge, this work can assist various tourism DMOs and policymakers to devise futuristic policies for AR-driven tourism management and development. Originality/value: The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented and never seen before. In this context, this study establishes its novelty by exclusively focusing on the aspects of AR that can support the relaunch of tourism post-pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The COVID-19 crisis has had a dramatic impact on the tourism industry, with new challenges that calls for a combination of short- and medium-/long-term perspectives. At the destination level, a factor that has a critical incidence in the recovery path is the type of tourism governance. With the spotlight on this factor, the purpose of this paper is to reflect on the need to accommodate the model of tourism governance to the requirements of this new time. Design/methodology/approach: The discussion that already existed in the literature about the roles of destination marketing organizations (DMOs) has been brought into the new context of the coronavirus crisis to propose three fundamental changes in them, together with the centrality of host communities in a model based on public–private–people partnerships. Findings: Under the principle that the M in DMOs has to stand for management, an evolution of these organizations toward the performance of three different roles is proposed, namely, as the orchestrator of the various players in the destination, the facilitator of opportunities for its members and the intelligence promoter and their strategic mind. Practical implications: The practical implications of this proposal are numerous, as it represents a move beyond the usual public–private partnerships of the old normal and goes further than the traditional roles of marketer, intermediary in the value chain and brand promoter. Originality/value: To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first work dealing with the topic of tourism governance in the context of the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The competitiveness of the Alpine regions is strongly influenced by environmental constraints and its relationship with the urban network in the valley floor, which cannot be one of pure dependence. This study aims to analyse the health of the Italian Alpine economy through the performance of its capital companies, defined as those operating in the strictly mountainous are-as within the territories covered by the Alpine Convention. The authors compare the performance (2012-2018) of the "inner core" firms with a counterfactual sample of companies from neighbouring territories to delineate the strengths and weaknesses of the Alpine enterprises. The paper addresses policymakers and practitioners who will design the future policies for the high lands, exploiting a vast collaborative planning network. Design/methodology/approach: The study analyses two broad strands of literature on territorial competitiveness. It uses the coarsened exact matching techniques for the selection of a counterfactual sample at the enterprise level. The study follows a policy-oriented design, offering answers to future challenges. Findings: The Alpine region has several different local production systems, with a significant level of heterogeneity among firms that differentiate the top 25% from the rest. The counterfactual analysis carried out does not provide clear evidence of significant differences. Instead, it con-firms strong similarities between the Alpine core and the peri-Alpine belt. It is only in terms of employment growth that the core grows less (with a high statistical significance). Finally, the authors introduce the analysis of sustainable value added (SVA) in the core area and use the "tourism chain" to compare different models. The focus here is on two keywords – rarefied and uncontaminated – that enable the transformation of some typical weaknesses of the "minor (or marginal) mountain" into assets for development, provided that place-based and network policies are activated. Research limitations/implications: The study focusses on the Italian Alps and could be extended in the future to the other countries participating in the Alpine Convention. It may also be enriched by qualitative analyses of partnerships and sole proprietorships that are not identified by the balance sheet analysis. Practical implications: The study follows a policy-oriented design, offering possible solutions to future challenges. Social implications: The study offers some suggestions on the post-COVID-19 phase. The bottom-up, reluctant and community dimension are possible strengths to face the challenges that are opening up. Originality/value: The study is one of the very few to carry out a counterfactual analysis of Alpine enterprises. It offers evidence on the strengths and weaknesses of the productive fabric of the high lands and updates the assessment of the health status of Alpine enterprises to accompany future fact-based policies after the COVID pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this empirical research is to define blended learning (BL) in the context of tourism education and discuss its effectiveness in learning and, upon completion, the employability of graduates in due cause. Design/methodology/approach: The qualitative research consists of 22 in-depth interviews with experts from the tourism industry and graduates. The sampling method was purposive (judgmental), and open-ended questions were asked in order to encourage the interviewee to be expressive and to share their views and opinions on what the impact of the BL program has been. Findings: The study found that the most significant obstacles were a lack of funding, a lack of cooperation from the local and various levels of government and a lack of knowledge about sustainable tourism product development among local residents. Originality/value: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of the tourism schools and university departments have developed a combination of mixed learning to include online, classroom and sector experience, which can be summarized as BL. This research suggests that BL has provided for a blend of skills and, as a result, employable graduates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding barriers to inbound medical tourism in the United Arab Emirates from a provider... I Vinaytosh Mishra, Sudhir Rana i Identifies the main barriers to the development of medical tourism in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Theme Editors: Mohit Vij and Sanjay Nadkarni share their reflections on the significance and outcomes of the theme issue with Managing Editor Richard Teare. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is twofold. First, to consider the ways in which transportation could be more sustainable in North Cyprus, which is mostly dependent on tourism and higher education as a small island destination. Second, to investigate current issues in the transportation sector related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed a qualitative approach, and a descriptive analysis technique was used to analyse semi-structured interviews, conducted by telephone and face-to-face. To investigate current problems in the North Cyprus transportation sector – one of the most affected by the pandemic – travel agencies were chosen as the study's population and research participants were selected purposively. Findings: The findings indicate that the unpredictability of domestic policies combined with the structural challenges confronting North Cyprus contribute to unsustainable current transportation policies. North Cyprus transport and tourism both suffered significant losses during the pandemic but travel agencies were disproportionately impacted. Our study results showed that exorbitant ticket prices, taxes and transportation costs have emerged as the most significant issues in the transportation sector. Research limitations/implications: More efficient and accurate policies that meet the needs of the sector and give opportunity for development are required. This is a critical issue for policymakers to address, as they also represent a significant barrier to the sector's long-term competitiveness. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first qualitative study to look at North Cyprus' transportation problems from the perspective of travel agencies and the impact of the pandemic. It is thought that this study will contribute to the development of solutions for transportation problems and sustainable practices in small island developing states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The novel coronavirus has not only caused significant illness and loss of life, it has caused major disruption at local, national and global levels. While the healthcare industry is experiencing growth during the pandemic, disruption to travel has affected medical tourism. This article considers the short-term factors affecting medical tourism and how they could be mitigated by incorporating technological advances to secure long-term growth. Design/methodology/approach: The study examines data provided by the Indian government as well as from non-government sources available in the public domain to review the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on medical tourism. The authors also examine data on technological advances in the healthcare industry that could help to reduce the impact of the pandemic. Findings: This study's findings show that while in-person services have been seriously impacted in the short term, technological adaptation of medical services to facilitate remote medical consultation has significantly increased. This has enlarged the business opportunities available to hospitals and general practitioners, and it could be leveraged to enhance medical tourism. Originality/value: The article provides an analysis of the impact of the pandemic on medical tourism and how technology could be used to overcome short-term negative impacts and support longer-term development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The coronavirus pandemic has triggered a paradigm shift in all businesses, and given the restrictions that followed, hospitality and tourism has been significantly affected. This article identifies some emerging issues and trends in hospitality and tourism businesses related to this, and in so doing, it introduces the theme issue. Design/methodology/approach: The article draws on recent reports and articles and on several rounds of discussion between academics, practitioners and other stakeholders to identify the issues arising, which are then explored in the articles featured in this theme issue. Findings: The study findings reveal that the pandemic response has prompted advances in technology, profit management, training, service blueprinting and online education, coupled with industry integration, sustainability practices, housekeeping services, medical tourism and virtual tourism among others. Originality/value: The theme issue sought to address the real-life issues that are impacting hospitality and tourism in India and some of the wider implications. This exploratory work is based on inputs from industry professionals, policymakers and other stakeholders in relation to the emerging issues and the formulation of strategies to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on hospitality and tourism businesses in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study is an empirical exploration of the tech-based transformation strategies being adopted by luxury hotels in India to assuage the fear psychosis and restore guest confidence in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It sheds light on the "new normal" and its overarching implications for hotel operations from the user experience perspective. Design/methodology/approach: A mixed method strategy was adopted for data collection. Qualitative data was gathered from a video analysis of two webinars with high-profile panels of thought leaders about the challenges arising from the global health crisis and related post-pandemic recovery strategies. This data has been triangulated with desk research and data collected through an online survey which sought to map guest sentiments with respect to resuming the use of hospitality services and their attitude towards the proposed tech transformation initiatives in the Indian luxury hospitality industry. Findings: The research data indicates that despite their pandemic-related trepidations, people still have a strong urge to be social and to travel. Technology can play a pivotal role in creating safe spaces for social distancing, facilitating a contactless guest interface to alleviate guest concerns for safe hygiene and rebuilding customer confidence to address the trust deficit. Practical implications: Hospitality organisations must be discerning in the investments they make in new technology and contactless experiences because hasty investments in extensive automation may be perceived as gimmicky by guests. Intelligent and astute use of technology tools can minimise human error, optimise service efficiency and enhance guest experience through elevated levels of personalised hospitality in luxury hotels by judiciously marrying high touch with high tech. Originality/value: This study is the one of the first empirical explorations of the tech transformation strategies adopted by luxury hotels in the Indian context in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores their efforts for the continued co-creation of high value experiences based on consumer perspectives, with implications for both hospitality and tourism theory and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to identify the innovative training programmes used by the hotel industry in India to support guests and employees during the Covid-19 pandemic. It also discusses the role of contemporary training programmes in boosting consumer confidence and enhancing their re-visit intentions. Design/methodology/approach: The study centres on 28 virtual in-depth interviews (conducted via video conferencing applications) with hotel industry stakeholders in India based on two sets of semi-structured questionnaires. The study included hotel training managers, operations staff and some hotel guests. Interviewees were selected using a non-random purposive sampling method. Findings: Results suggest that the implementation of new training programmes has significantly and positively influenced the re-visit intentions of guests. The study highlights the fact that the majority of guests prefer hotels that have stringent hygiene and sanitation protocols and where the hotel staff appeared to be more concerned about the safety of the guest during service delivery. Hotels were also found to be implementing various innovative programmes, especially Covid-19 awareness training and environmental management certificate training among other specialist programmes. Originality/value: Prior research on pandemics (such as Middle-Eastern respiratory syndrome [MERS], severe acute respiratory syndrome [SARS], Spanish flu, etc.) has been undertaken and the role of training as a response, but there is little prior work on the role of these confidence-building training programmes in the Indian context and their influence on the re-visit intentions of guests after the Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to explore the strategies adopted by tourism and hospitality businesses in North Cyprus during the Covid-19 pandemic. The analysis also points to sustainable tourism approaches that could be adopted in the post-Covid-19 period. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative methodology was used to collect detailed information from 20 tourism and hospitality business owners operating in North Cyprus. Findings: The findings illustrate the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on tourism and hospitality operations in North Cyprus and reveal how businesses have coped and responded to these challenges. Some operators have been able to adapt and their actions provide indicators for a sustainable tourism business model in North Cyprus. Practical implications: The study draws on the experiences of business owners and reveals how they have sought to sustain their operations during the uncertain conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic. Social implications: The findings of this study could assist government agencies in the construction of sector-specific support programs for tourism and hospitality businesses. Originality/value: The adverse effect of Covid-19 on tourism and hospitality operations is a current topic that needs to be analyzed. This study draws on the experiences of practitioners to analyze the competitive strategies used by tourism and hospitality businesses in North Cyprus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]