Exploring Higher Education Mobility through the Lens of Academic Tourism: Portugal as a Study Case

Abstract

This study seeks to expand the understanding of international academic tourism by revisiting concepts and their associations with the internationalisation of higher education and analysing the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. This research takes Portugal as a study case, drawing on secondary data. From a theoretical standpoint, this work makes a significant contribution to addressing persistent conceptual ambiguities. In managerial terms, the findings hold significance for advancing Portugal as an academic tourism destination and raising awareness among tourism and educational stakeholders about the relevance and competitive advantages of international academic tourism. Finally, we reflect upon the pandemic effects and potential repercussions of future challenges on international academic tourism globally.