The Theoretical Background of Virtual Reality and Its Implications for the Tourism Industry

Fueled by the Internet and artificial intelligence, virtual tourism represents an innovative integration of advanced technologies within the tourism industry. The 360 degree panoramic video has emerged as the most prevalent form of virtual tourism both domestically and internationally, owing to its affordability, ease of use, and mild impact. Nevertheless, the advent and proliferation of virtual reality (VR) has unlocked new opportunities in the tourism sector, as VR offers enhanced immersion and a more authentic user experience. Although VR is already employed in various capacities within the industry, it holds the potential to elevate virtual tourism to unprecedented heights. Diverging from prior research, this study examines virtual tourism as a distinct category of tourism that may materialize in the future. A focus group interview and a survey involving 243 respondents were conducted to gauge individuals' receptiveness to virtual tourism. Participants responded to questions regarding their travel habits and their perceptions of virtual tourism. Data analysis revealed concerns surrounding the technological aspects of virtual tourism: over 20% of respondents were entirely unfamiliar with VR, and a mere 17% utilized the technology. A larger proportion, nearly 40%, lacked awareness of VR's application in the tourism industry, and only 11.20% had personal experience with it. Concurrently, the Likert scale indicated that respondents recognized the advantages of virtual tourism in comparison to traditional travel, but they expressed skepticism about the technological advancements. Overall, most respondents displayed curiosity and a willingness to explore virtual tourism. These findings hold significant implications for both theoretical understanding and practical implementation within the tourism industry.