A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF TOURISM POLICY IMPLEMENTATION RESEARCH

Abstract

Policy implementation is a significant process in tourism destination management that facilitates translating regulations into practice. However, there is a paucity of research on this process in the context of tourism. This study sought to assess research trends on tourism policy implementation to establish the existing trends and identify gaps for future studies. A bibliometric review approach was adopted. The study found that extant research focused on identifying policy implementation barriers, whilst a few addressed implementation process evaluation and stakeholder implementation frameworks. Most barriers emanated from governance and sustainability issues. The findings imply that geographical, theoretical and practical gaps exist. Keywords: Tourism, Policy, Planning, Implementation, Sustainable Development