Welcome to the International Tourism Studies Association (ITSA) – a global network that brings together tourism scholars, researchers, and practitioners from both developing and developed countries. Established in 2008, ITSA is a unique organization devoted to fostering scholarly exchange, global collaboration, and innovation in tourism education and research.
Who We Are
At ITSA, we believe that tourism is a powerful engine for economic development, cultural exchange, and sustainability. Our association is comprised of international tourism professionals, educators, policymakers, and students who are committed to advancing the field of tourism studies.
With members from over 40 countries, ITSA is a truly inclusive and diverse organization. Our community spans the globe — from the Americas and Europe to Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Our goal is to facilitate international partnerships, academic development, and knowledge-sharing to tackle the global challenges faced by the tourism industry.
Our Mission
The mission of ITSA is simple yet impactful:
To encourage interaction and cooperation between members in developed and developing countries through research collaboration, conferences, publications, and educational exchanges.
We aim to:
- Promote the growth of international tourism research and education
- Create accessible platforms for global tourism scholarship
- Encourage inclusive dialogue across cultures, disciplines, and regions
- Provide resources and support for early-career researchers
- Bridge the gap between academia and tourism industry practice
Our Vision
We envision a world where tourism research is diverse, inclusive, and deeply collaborative. We believe that the future of tourism lies in smart, sustainable, and ethical practices informed by rigorous research and global conversation.
By promoting tourism studies that are globally connected and locally relevant, we seek to be a catalyst for real-world impact in tourism development.
What We Do
1. International Conferences
ITSA hosts biennial international conferences that bring together top scholars, policymakers, students, and tourism professionals from around the world. These conferences foster a vibrant exchange of ideas and provide a platform to present cutting-edge research.
2. Publications
We proudly publish the International Journal of Tourism Cities (IJTC) – a peer-reviewed academic journal focusing on urban tourism and tourism cities. We also publish conference proceedings, newsletters, and other resources that contribute to the global body of tourism knowledge.
3. Programs & Initiatives
Our Philip Pearce Trinergy Program is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of one of the world’s foremost tourism scholars. This initiative honors excellence in tourism research, mentorship, and global academic collaboration.
4. Regional Networks
Through our Regional Vice Presidents, ITSA supports the creation of regional networks that organize localized events, workshops, and webinars. These networks are vital in ensuring that tourism voices from all corners of the world are heard.
5. Mentorship & Career Development
ITSA offers mentorship opportunities for emerging scholars and postgraduate students. We connect early-career researchers with experienced academics to provide guidance, feedback, and career support.
Our Community
ITSA is more than an organization – it is a community. Members frequently describe ITSA as welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating. Many of our members stay involved for years, often taking on leadership roles and mentoring newcomers.
We take pride in our:
- Small, intimate conferences that foster real relationships
- Global membership that represents diverse voices
- Academic-industry bridge that brings together researchers and practitioners
- Volunteer-driven leadership passionate about shaping the future of tourism
Why Join ITSA?
If you are a tourism scholar, student, practitioner, or policymaker, ITSA offers unparalleled value:
- Opportunities to present and publish your research
- Access to an international community of experts
- Mentorship from leaders in the field
- Participation in high-impact events and webinars
- Insights into global tourism development trends
Whether you’re conducting fieldwork in Africa, managing urban tourism in Europe, studying sustainable tourism in Asia, or teaching in the Americas — you’ll find a supportive network here.
Partnerships and Collaborations
We believe in the power of partnerships. ITSA works closely with:
- Universities and research institutes
- Tourism boards and development agencies
- International organizations such as UNWTO
- Industry stakeholders in hospitality, travel, and destination management
Together, we co-create impactful research projects, organize regional events, and promote best practices for tourism development worldwide.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, ITSA is committed to adapting to the ever-changing landscape of global tourism. From smart tourism technologies and circular tourism models to responsible travel and cross-border education, we are always at the forefront of the latest developments in the field.
In 2024, we are excited to host our 10th Biennial Conference in Riga, Latvia, under the theme:
“Bridging the gaps in tourism knowledge and practice: The future of Sustainable, Smart and Secure tourism and hospitality.”
We invite all tourism enthusiasts and professionals to join us in this exciting journey.
Get Involved
To become a member or find out more about our initiatives, please explore our website intltourismstudies.org or email us at intltourismstudies@gmail.com.
Join us in shaping the future of tourism — through collaboration, research, and global friendship.