International Journal of Tourism Policy (5 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Examining the relationship between visitors and residents in the context of overtourism: enhancing resilience for the promotion of sustainable tourism in Gangtok Hill Station of India  
  by Nitesh Kumar, Sunildro L.S. Akoijam 
  Abstract: Overtourism in Gangtok, Sikkim, is increasingly influencing how local residents perceive tourists and the tourism sector. This study explores the emotional and social responses of the host community using the stimulus organism-response (SOR) theory and Doxeys Irritation Index. Five important constructs were examined: congestion and touristification as external stimuli; annoyance and tourismphobia as emotional reactions; and antagonism as the final behavioural response. A structured questionnaire was distributed among 300 residents, representing a wide range of professions and demographic backgrounds. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data, which revealed strong associations between the constructs. The findings indicate that as tourism-related disturbances increase, residents attitudes progress from discomfort to fear and eventually to resistance. This highlights how unregulated tourism development can lead to growing social tensions in tourist destinations. The study strongly emphasises the need for sustainable tourism policies that take local sentiments into account while aiming to balance development with the well-being of the community.
  Keywords: overtourism; hill station; Gangtok; host community; sustainable tourism; residents; visitors; tourism destinations.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2025.10073042
   
  
• Examining the attitude-behaviour gap: barriers to sustainable tourism from a developing country, India  
  by Sarath Chandra Kanth Pedapalli, Bharti Gupta 
  Abstract: Although individuals may engage in pro-environmental behaviours daily, these attitudes do not always translate into sustainable actions during vacations. Numerous studies have explored this discrepancy, primarily in developed nations. Less attention has been given to whether it exists among eco-conscious individuals from developing countries, where climate change and structural challenges are deeply entrenched. This research examines whether an attitude-behaviour gap exists among eco-activists in the Indian travel context and whether its factors align with those in developed countries. The study employed an interpretative approach with 27 in-depth interviews. The results revealed a gap between participants pro-environmental concerns and their travel choices, reflecting barriers reported in developed nations. However, additional barriers, such as safety and seasonality concerns, emerged in the Indian travel context. The findings emphasise the need for targeted policy interventions in tourism planning and governance to tackle structural barriers and advance sustainable travel behaviours.
  Keywords: attitude-behaviour gap; sustainable tourism; eco-conscious travellers; structural barriers; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2025.10073069
   
  
• Analysing outbound travel preferences and motivations of South Korean tourists, especially to India from the perspective of Korean travel professionals  
  by Geetika Agrawal, Vikas Madhukar, Ruchika Kulshrestha 
  Abstract: The paper explores Korean travel agents perspectives on changing outbound travel trends among South Koreans, with a focus on India. Using convenience and snowball sampling, the researcher interviewed 10 travel agents catering to Indias market. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and face-to-face discussions. Content analysis method was adopted with multiple case studies to provide insight on outbound choices for Korean travellers visiting overseas, especially to India. Study shows that Koreans rely on travel agents to visit India and also use websites like Daum and Naver for information. Positive perceptions include Indian hospitality and friendliness, but challenges remain in accessibility, Korean-speaking guides, Korean food availability, infrastructure, and womens safety. The study highlights travel agents expectations from Indias Embassy and Ministry of Tourism, including a dedicated tourism office in Korea, familiarisation tours, stronger advertising, targeted campaigns, and promotion of new destinations such as Ladakh and South India alongside the golden triangle.
  Keywords: outbound travel; travel trends; Korean travel industry experts; motivations to travel to India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2025.10073473
   
  
• Investigating the patterns in halal tourism and marketing: sentiment analysis and topic modelling using Latent Dirichlet Allocation  
  by Suraj Kushe Shekhar 
  Abstract: This paper identifies the patterns in halal tourism and marketing from scholarly literature using sentiment analysis and the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) technique. Positive sentiments were found to be associated with the theme of study. Five main themes established via topic modelling are the growth of the Islamic and halal industry, Muslim-friendly tourism practice, religious/cultural tourism experience, Islamic branding and consumer loyalty in the hospitality industry, and crisis management in tourism. Results indicate that successful understanding and meeting of expectations among Muslim consumers are associated with six key attributes: halal certification, respect for their cultural preferences when providing services, as well cultivating loyalty to the brand. Furthermore, the analysis indicates that digital platforms are crucial for halal tourism marketing and attracting Muslim consumers. The research offers managerial implications for marketers focusing on Muslim travel and calls attention to the importance of uniform halal standards to maintain consumer trust.
  Keywords: halal tourism; sentiment analysis; topic modelling; Muslim travellers; digital marketing.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2025.10073827
   
  
• EU air passenger rights: challenges and legal developments  
  by Viktória Kundi, Ildikó Ernszt 
  Abstract: This paper examines the terms and conditions of six major airlines operating in Europe, focusing on consumer protection and air passenger rights. It analyses how key information, such as policies on baggage, rebooking, and refunds, is presented on airline websites, and evaluates the clarity and accessibility of this information for passengers. The research also reviews recent legal developments in the European Union, particularly those concerning delays and market practices. It identifies gaps in consumer protection by assessing airline communication practices and the broader regulatory framework, and concludes by offering recommendations to enhance transparency and strengthen passenger rights in European air travel.
  Keywords: tourism; aviation; low-cost airlines; national airlines; legislation; passenger rights; EU law; airlines; airline transparency.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJTP.2025.10074140