Tourism and Hospitality Research
Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): Tourism and Hospitality Research, March 2026

The Utilization of Virtual Reality in Destination Marketing in the Digital Era

Haryadi, Ahmad Fadli Putra (Unknown)
An, Sohyun (Unknown)
Chang, Kuang Yu (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Mar 2026

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology has significantly transformed destination marketing strategies in the tourism industry. Among emerging technologies, Virtual Reality (VR) has gained increasing attention due to its ability to deliver immersive, interactive, and emotionally engaging experiences for potential tourists. This study aims to examine the utilization of Virtual Reality in destination marketing within the digital era by synthesizing empirical findings from prior academic studies. Using a qualitative literature-based research design, this study systematically reviews and analyzes peer-reviewed journal articles and scholarly book chapters related to VR applications in tourism marketing. The analysis focuses on the role of VR in shaping destination image, enhancing tourist engagement, and influencing behavioral intentions. The findings indicate that VR contributes positively to destination marketing by strengthening emotional involvement, perceived presence, information quality, and visit intention. However, the effectiveness of VR varies depending on content design, level of interactivity, and user characteristics. The study concludes that Virtual Reality serves as a strategic marketing tool that complements traditional promotional methods rather than replacing them. This research provides theoretical contributions to digital destination marketing literature and offers practical insights for destination marketing organizations in adopting VR-based promotional strategies in the digital era.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

thr

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Tourism and Hospitality Research (THR) is a peer-reviewed open-access journal published by Lembaga Penelitian dan Pendidikan (LPP) Kalibra with registered number of e-ISSN 3110-2603 This journal serves as a platform for researchers, academics, practitioners, and policymakers to explore current ...