Tourism Knowledge Domains: A Keyword Analysis

This study examines author-selected keywords of research published in Annals of Tourism Research, Journal of Travel Research and Tourism Management. In total, 5,534 keywords from 2,504 articles form the basis of this analysis. Iterative coding results in 200 core keywords serving as descriptors of major research subjects, and 10 gene words indicating knowledge domains formed through cross-references and hybridization of core keywords. The emergence of core subject areas supports the knowledge domains carved out by the three journals; the analysis also facilitates discussion on knowledge mapping and subject linkages in tourism studies. The study concludes with reflections on implications, limitations and future research associated with knowledge development in tourism.