Tourism Growth and Economic Development: Academic and Non-Academic Perspectives

Abstract

This article explores the complex relationship between tourism growth and economic development from academic and non-academic perspectives. The former mainly highlights the positive influence of tourism while recognizing biases and limitations that may arise from using different methodologies, variables, or temporary scenarios in research. However, non-academic stakeholders, such as the media and politicians, offer unverified and biased opinions that can influence public perceptions and lead to failed investments. This article provides recommendations to foster a balanced conversation between the two perspectives, with a broader dissemination of academic results and a recognition of the difficulties in analyzing the relationship between tourism and economic development, such as the mobility of stakeholders.