COVID-19, a Myth in Tourism Communication. Analysis of the Contents Generated by Tourist Influencers 2.0 about the Pandemic and Destinations

Abstract

The web 2.0 model offers enormous communication potential to inform and educate in extreme crises, such as COVID-19. For this reason, the main objective is to analyze whether destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and tourism influencers 2.0 have used their channels to inform and educate about COVID-19 and the level of influence of this content on users. A quantitative and qualitative methodology is implemented to develop the research protocol, evaluating two periods delimited by the effects of COVID-19 (lockdown and de-escalation). The research is carried out on Instagram, and the sample corresponds to tourism DMOs and influencers 2.0 with the most significant impact on millennials. The results show that COVID-19 has not been a priority either for DMOs or for influencers since posts in this regard have little presence compared to those that promote tourism products and services. Regarding engagement, these types of publications do not have the highest rates, showing followers’ lack of concern. Consequently, there is little interest in health as a new dimension of tourism sustainability from DMOs’ and influencers’ standpoint. However, contrary to the general opinion about the growing role of sustainability, it does fit their preferences.