BACK TO THE FUTURE: RECONFIGURING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY?

 

The ICOT2022 conference builds on the eminent support of the international scholarly community and the success of the previous eleven International Conferences on Tourism (ICOT) held in Greece, China, Cyprus, U.K., Italy, Thailand, Portugal but also virtually following the COVID-19 outbreak.

The twenty-first century brought unprecedented challenges for the tourism, hospitality and events industries. Until the end of 2019, globalization vs glocalization, extravagant economic and travel activities, marked issues related to climate change, overtourism vs degrowth, terrorism and the aftermath of the economic crisis of 2008 comprised the most talked-about topics in tourism studies. Then, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic changed dramatically the scenery and the priorities of the tourism and hospitality industries. Even experienced and ‘heavy’ travelers and travel lovers have to rethink on their beloved hobby. Destinations, which were troubled with over-tourism in 2019, need now to re-orientate their strategic plans. Focusing on the place rather than the destination, branding becomes a priority in order to effectively manage the destinations as safe places for international and domestic travelers, investors and local communities alike.

ICOT 2022 seeks to contribute to the debate regarding how to decrease risk and uncertainty in order to resume the viability of tourism. For some, a focus on sustainable practices and crisis management initiatives, appears more necessary than ever before. On the other hand, other practitioners and scholars believe that the COVID-19 impacts on destinations and the traveler’s attitude is temporary.

The conference will stimulate discussion and exchange of ideas related to the conference theme and beyond, between tourism professionals, academics, researchers, policy-makers, consultants, practitioners, government officials and postgraduate students from tourism academia and related fields.

We therefore invite submissions on all aspects of tourism development, policy, planning, growth and degrowth that will add to the current debate.