Computational modelling and simulations in tourism: A primer

The aim of this contribution is to briefly sketch and discuss the main issues that concern the activities of modelling and simulating complex phenomena and systems. The focus is on numerical and computational techniques. We discuss the validity of these methods and examine the different steps to be taken for ensuring a correct, accurate and reliable implementation. The approach is essentially of general methodological nature, regardless of specific techniques or tools. •Modelling and simulations are important tools for tourism and hospitality research.•The paper presents a basic introduction to the approach.•Design and implementations need to follow a rigorous methodological path.•Important issues are those concerning the verification, calibration and test.•With these attentions they provide useful and interesting insights.