Tourism actors perceptions of responsible tourism practices: Analysis based on literature review
Abstract
Sustainable tourism (ST) is increasingly recognized as vital for the long-term development of destinations, with shared responsibility among all tourism actors. Responsible tourism practices (RTP) are the practical expressions of this vision, enabling the implementation of ST principles. While the importance of RTP is well acknowledged, there remains a notable gap in the academic literature regarding how different tourism actors perceive these practices.
This study aims to provide a comprehensive and focused literature review of empirical studies published between 2020 and 2024, examining the perceptions of various tourism actors toward RTP. The primary objectives are to assess tourism actors attitudes, identify gaps in the current research, and derivate a future research agenda. The Scopus database was utilized to extract relevant empirical studies, with clearly defined inclusion criteria and a rigorous evaluation process ensuring the relevance and quality of the selected literature.
Findings reveal that tourists view RTP as enhancing travel authenticity, ethical engagement, and enjoyment, contributing to repeat visitation and responsible behavior. Tourism businesses, particularly smaller firms, demonstrate uneven awareness of RTP; however, many recognize the benefits of RTP for competitiveness, employee well-being, and community relations. Communities increasingly appreciate RTP, associating them with improved quality of life and sustainability, with perceptions shaped by the inclusiveness and authenticity of implementation. Notably, there is a lack of empirical research on government perspectives regarding RTP.
This review contributes to bridging knowledge gaps in RT research. It supports future academic inquiries and informs policymakers and tourism practitioners in designing more effective, inclusive, and strategic approaches to promoting responsible tourism and achieving sustainable development goals.
This study aims to provide a comprehensive and focused literature review of empirical studies published between 2020 and 2024, examining the perceptions of various tourism actors toward RTP. The primary objectives are to assess tourism actors attitudes, identify gaps in the current research, and derivate a future research agenda. The Scopus database was utilized to extract relevant empirical studies, with clearly defined inclusion criteria and a rigorous evaluation process ensuring the relevance and quality of the selected literature.
Findings reveal that tourists view RTP as enhancing travel authenticity, ethical engagement, and enjoyment, contributing to repeat visitation and responsible behavior. Tourism businesses, particularly smaller firms, demonstrate uneven awareness of RTP; however, many recognize the benefits of RTP for competitiveness, employee well-being, and community relations. Communities increasingly appreciate RTP, associating them with improved quality of life and sustainability, with perceptions shaped by the inclusiveness and authenticity of implementation. Notably, there is a lack of empirical research on government perspectives regarding RTP.
This review contributes to bridging knowledge gaps in RT research. It supports future academic inquiries and informs policymakers and tourism practitioners in designing more effective, inclusive, and strategic approaches to promoting responsible tourism and achieving sustainable development goals.
Keywords:
sustainable tourism, responsible tourism, responsible tourism practices, tourism actors, literature review.
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