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An Exploratory Study of Consumers’ Travel-Related Concerns About COVID-19

In: Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism 2022

Author

Listed:
  • Wenqi Wei

    (University of Massachusetts)

  • Irem Önder

    (University of Massachusetts)

Abstract

This study explores consumers’ travel-related concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic via YouTube comments. Drawing on the risk perception theory and adopting a Markov Chain approach, this study demonstrates the topics that consumers discussed and empirically illustrates perceived risk in the tourism and hospitality industry via sentiment analysis across four sectors: recreation and entertainment, accommodation, transportation, and food and beverages. Results indicate discussion regarding travel-related videos is not only limited to travel-related topics but also includes a broad perspective of social, political, and historical topics. For instance, hotels have a new function as quarantine facilities with effective disease control procedures and social responsibility for public health. Additionally, health, performance, financial, social, and psychological risks are identified. Whereas the presence of travelers is typically regarded as positive, travelers during the crisis are regarded as “irresponsible” and “selfish” individuals who spread the virus and endanger public health. This shift of perception calls for both the industry and academia at large to educate people about the importance of disease control and rebuild travelers’ image and reputation. Recommendations to reduce the perceived risk in each sector are also provided.

Suggested Citation

  • Wenqi Wei & Irem Önder, 2022. "An Exploratory Study of Consumers’ Travel-Related Concerns About COVID-19," Springer Books, in: Jason L. Stienmetz & Berta Ferrer-Rosell & David Massimo (ed.), Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism 2022, pages 245-255, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-030-94751-4_22
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-94751-4_22
    as

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