Implementation of the smart tourism concept and its impact on the intellectual potential of the region

Global economic development requires new approaches to regional management in the field of tourism. In the context of digitalization, smart tourism stands out, which relies on the implementation and grouping of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, digital platforms, big data, and virtual and augmented reality. This concept has gone beyond simple service automation, becoming a central element of regional innovation systems that significantly impact the development of territories and stimulate economic growth. The article explores how smart tourism technologies are being implemented in the tourism ecosystems of Russian regions, and how the level of digitalization in these regions is affecting this process. The study highlights the key components of this trend, including infrastructure, technology, social aspects, and institutional frameworks, and identifies key areas for strengthening smart tourism in the region. The proposed Smart Tourism Readiness Index (STRI) has been considered, which is designed to assess the region's readiness for implementing the concept of smart tourism. The comprehensive approach to creating tourist ecosystems focuses on both digital infra-structure and the development of attractive tourist areas.

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