Location-based services and tourism: possible implications for destination

Abstract

Location-based services (LBS) are applications that concern all services linked to geographical location. This concept is based on the localisation of people, services, amenities and all attractions linked to a tourism destination. With the development of mobile communication, LBS have become a new means of communication and promotion. This recent development is not still wholly expressed and may be a new means to promote and live the tourism experience, either before or during the experience itself. In tourism, LBS can help in finding new way to promote all tourism services. Moreover, LBS also lead the concept of augmented reality, which is the overlapping of information levels. However, LBS may also be used as substitute good of tourism and, therefore, LBS may even be considered as a threat for the tourism industry. The whole tourism experience may be enhanced or obstacle by LBS. This paper investigates first of all what LBS are and how they can affect business in general (and tourism destination in particular). Second, we would like to investigate how LBS may be useful for all tourism services, particularly in promoting and suggesting any kind of local services. Finally some conclusions are drawn.