Travellers’ social media postings during protests and mass demonstrations

Abstract

Social media sites are useful platforms for providing crisis-related information. This study aims to identify specific categories shared by travellers on social media during crises such as protests and mass demonstrations. By employing qualitative data analysis methods, 932 comments about three large protests in 2019 were included in the analysis. Study results show that security concerns of tourists are more prominent in protests with high casualties and police involvement. Information about public transportation and areas to avoid is vital for tourists. To address tourists’ concerns, many locals contribute to social media platforms in the absence of a timely and reliable source. Specific theoretical and practical implications are provided.