Travel Restrictions: Classification and Impacts

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi Campus, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.

2 MA Student in Tourism Management (Marketing), Farabi Campus, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.

Abstract

Context and Purpose: This research explores travel constraints to help tourism industry decision-makers manage potential crises. Using a meta-synthesis approach, it identifies and categorizes barriers influencing travel behavior and decision-making.
Design/methodology/approach: The study systematically reviews 52 articles from Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science (2008–2024), with 25 selected for qualitative analysis. It identifies seven key themes of travel constraints.
Findings: The seven themes include financial/economic, social/cultural, temporal, physical/health-related, psychological/perceptual, and political/legal constraints and their impacts on destination image and traveler behavior. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of travel barriers.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of understanding travel constraints for effective policymaking and crisis management in tourism. It calls for targeted strategies to address these barriers and enhance sector resilience.
Originality/value: This research offers a unique, comprehensive framework for understanding travel constraints through meta-synthesis. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders to mitigate constraints and improve traveler experiences.

Keywords


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