STATE AND PROSPECTS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMART TOURISM: GLOBAL EXPERIENCE AND UKRAINIAN PERSPECTIVES (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE CITY OF KYIV AS A TOURIST DESTINATION)

Abstract

The article is focused on analyzing the current state and principal trends in smart tourism, with particular attention to the impact of these technologies on urban tourism development. The aim is to examine the global experience of integrating smart technologies into tourism and to assess the future applications of these technologies for Ukrainian tourist destinations, especially the city of Kyiv. The research methodology includes the review of literary sources, statistical data, and empirical observations. The findings demonstrate the potential of smart technologies to enhance the quality of tourism services and to boost Kyiv's appeal to tourists. The study elucidates the concepts of "smart city" and "smart tourism." It also examines the tourism development indicators in Ukraine's capital from 2020 to 2022, Kyiv's status in global smart city rankings, and the documents that guide the implementation of "smart city" and "smart tourism" concepts in the city. The authors propose a set of actions to improve Kyiv’s standing in these rankings and to specifically advance the field of smart tourism in the capital as a tourist destination. They investigate global innovations and technological solutions that aid efficient tourism management, and how these methods can be adapted to the Ukrainian context, with a special focus on Kyiv. The potential and challenges related to deploying smart technologies in tourism, which could enhance Kyiv's attractiveness as a tourist destination, are discussed. The article offers strategic recommendations for advancing smart tourism in Ukraine, drawing on global best practices and local conditions. The research underscores the necessity for ongoing scientific inquiry into smart tourism to augment infrastructure and draw more tourists to the city. Developing strategies that incorporate smart technologies into tourism could be crucial in attracting tourists and elevating the international competitiveness of tourist destinations.