Impact of Emerging Technologies on the Perception of Tourist Experience: A Theoretical Exploration

The tourism sector is undergoing a period of significant transformation, driven by the rapid adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are profoundly altering the manner in which industry players design tourism experiences and interact with customers. Specifically, AI facilitates advanced personalization of services by analyzing tourists' preferences and behaviors. At the same time, virtual reality offers immersive experiences that enable visitors to discover destinations more engagingly before their physical arrival. The study's conceptual framework aims to understand the impact of these technologies on tourists' perceptions of their experiences. It identifies the determining factors (antecedents), influencing mechanisms (mediators), and contextual elements (moderators) that shape this dynamic. By addressing gaps in the existing literature, the study highlights how these technologies are redefining interactions between tourists and destinations. The article's findings open new perspectives for future research, exploring how the synergy between these technologies can improve tourist satisfaction and loyalty. In conclusion, this research aims to perfect existing models and assist industry players in navigating a dynamic and constantly changing environment.