The rise of digitalization in the tourism industry during COVID-19: Cyber space, destinations, and tourist experiences

ABSTRACT

Undoubtedly, tourism is one of the sectors most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this sense, it is one of the most important issues in tourism research. The strategies implemented in combating the pandemic caused a significant increase in the use of digital technologies in tourism. In this context, in this chapter, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism on digitalization are examined in the context of transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, and tourist experience. Research findings indicate that the traditional concept of space in tourism geography is in a transformation towards cyberspace. The pandemic has proven our need for digital strategies and planning tools in tourism. The future will be a time when smart and cyber tourism is increasingly discussed. © 2021, IGI Global.