The role of innovation in special interest tourism: a theoretical approach

Abstract

Introduction: The innovation process, and its application to several contexts, has been gradually gaining ground in the academic community as a field of study. Similarly, in recent decades, tourism has received greater attention from academics in different sciences and focus (e.g. economic, social, cultural and environmental). Objective: The purpose of this study is to explore and to contribute the literature on special interest tourism and innovation process (e.g. ecotourism management). Methods: This is a conceptual paper that brings together the major components of innovation process and its implications in special interest tourism contexts (e.g. ecotourism). Results: The study presents closely to primary classical innovation and entrepreneurship issues. The creation process associated with the nature and sustainable reservation systems, mechanisms and information sharing are a competitive advantage over tourism destinations and products. Conclusions: The generators entrepreneurship and innovative factors that may trigger an entrepreneurial activity. The study considers some of the implications for management and literature. Implications for future research are also presented.

Keywords

• Competitiveness
• Ecotourism
• Innovation
• Sustainability