The world from the perspective of digital nomads: exploring sentiments in destination reviews

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the emotional landscapes and spatial preferences of digital nomads, focusing on how sentiments expressed in destination reviews influence their mobility and destination choices.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a lexicon-based sentiment analysis of social media comments and reviews, alongside advanced geographical information systems (GIS) mapping techniques, the study analyzes the emotional tones that digital nomads associate with various destinations worldwide.

Findings

The analysis reveals significant patterns of emotional sentiments, with trust and joy being predominant in preferred destinations. Spatial patterns identified through GIS mapping highlight the global distribution of these sentiments, underscoring the importance of emotional well-being in destination choice.

Practical implications

Insights from this study offer valuable guidance for Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) in strategic planning, enhancing destination appeal through targeted marketing strategies that resonate with the emotional preferences of digital nomads.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel approach by integrating sentiment analysis with GIS to map the emotional and spatial dynamics of digital nomadism, contributing a new perspective to the literature on tourism and mobility.

Citation

Özgen Çiğdemli, A.Ö., Yayla, Ş. and Çiğdemli, B.S. (2024), "The world from the perspective of digital nomads: exploring sentiments in destination reviews", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 16 No. 3, pp. 303-315. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-03-2024-0044