Bibliometric Analysis on "Sustainable Tourism" and “Destination Image " From 2009 to 2024

Abstract

A comprehensive analysis of the extant body of scientific research on sustainable tourism and destination image in tourism literature is required. This analysis should encompass the period between 2009 and 2024. The bibliometric method was employed to analyse two tourism variables. The present study will utilise the PRISMA protocol to systematically review the extant literature on sustainable tourism and destination image, encompassing a total of 104 documents, with no exclusion filters applied. The year 2009 was selected as the initial point of reference because it marked the year when the volume of publications began to demonstrate a correlation with the two variables under investigation. The year 2024 was incorporated into the analysis as it represented the most recent complete year. The analysis concentrated on a set of three indicators: author, year of publication, and journal. The analysis employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, encompassing both simple statistics and qualitative content analysis. The theoretical implications of this study broaden the existing discussions on the variables investigated. The analysis of the publications revealed the presence of patterns and trends, thus highlighting an interconnection between the themes with direct impacts on both the projected image and the management of destinations. This was achieved through the implementation of preservation policies and sustainable best practices. The primary limitations of the research are related to the temporal scope of the analysis, which covers only the period from 2009 to 2024, the restriction of the Scopus database, and the non-use of software that could expand the bibliometric study. The importance of bibliometric analysis as a crucial tool for synthesising and understanding the vast body of literature in the field of tourism is reaffirmed. The results of the study highlight the importance of creating strategies that give priority to the interests of local communities. This is an essential factor in promoting more sustainable, responsible, and conscious development by tourism destination managers. Consequently, emphasis is placed on the significance of research contributions and trends, in addition to identifying gaps and opportunities for future investigation.