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1 – 10 of over 3000Lujun Su, Maxwell K. Hsu and Brian Huels
The purpose of this paper is to review the literature regarding negative information’s impact on consumer behavior in the context of tourism services. In addition, this paper…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the literature regarding negative information’s impact on consumer behavior in the context of tourism services. In addition, this paper empirically examines the likely difference between first-time and repeat tourists in terms of their: resistance to negative information.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a sample of 539 visitors to Mount Yuelu, a popular tourist destination in China, this study explores the differences between first-time and repeat tourists regarding how destination social responsibility (DSR) and service quality (SQ) influence tourist resistance to negative information.
Findings
The effect of SQ on resistance to negative information is stronger for repeat tourists than for first-time tourists. In addition, the study identifies that DSR and SQ have a positive impact on tourists’ resistance to negative information. Finally, findings indicate that destination identification partially mediates the relationship between DSR, SQ and tourists’ response to negative information, respectively.
Research limitations/implications
The findings provide valuable theoretical and empirical insights into the driving factors that influence consumer resistance to negative information.
Practical implications
The paper brings together DSR, SQ and tourist-destination identification to better understand the impact that visitation frequency (first-time versus repeat tourists) has on how tourists resist negative information about a tourist destination.
Social implications
Negative information that is generated about a destination may cause the number of future tourism visits to decline. Findings of this paper provide insight as to the framework that can make tourists more resistant to said negative information.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the services marketing and tourism literature by investigating the degree to which DSR and SQ affect tourist resistance to negative information as mediated by tourist-destination identification and moderated by visiting frequency.
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Jun Wen, Metin Kozak and Tianyu Ying
Given the increasing number of tourists exposed to commercially available cannabis, it is important to understand visitors' perceived constraints to cannabis consumption while…
Abstract
Purpose
Given the increasing number of tourists exposed to commercially available cannabis, it is important to understand visitors' perceived constraints to cannabis consumption while travelling. This study aims to compare cannabis tourists' perceived constraints between first-time and repeat tourists to gain comprehensive understanding.
Design/methodology/approach
This study involved 32 conversational field interviews (5–10 min) with Chinese tourists who had smoked cannabis in coffee shops in Amsterdam to identify perceived constraints to engaging in cannabis tourism. The hierarchical constraint model (HCM) informed qualitative data coding using a deductive approach to compare first-time and repeat tourists. Content analysis was conducted manually.
Findings
Results showed that both tourist groups faced intrapersonal, interpersonal and structural perceived constraints to cannabis consumption. Differences in first-time and repeat cannabis tourists' perceived constraints were explained using the neutralization technique framework and psychological tactics, such as the defence of necessity, claims of entitlement, normal practice and claims of relative acceptability. In addition, social exchange theory was employed to explain why repeat cannabis tourists perceived fewer constraints than first-time tourists.
Practical implications
Although the current study did not intend to address the importance of cannabis tourism in places where cannabis is commercially available, findings offer empirical guidance for industry practitioners and policymakers regarding cannabis use education, prevention and policy in tourism contexts; related efforts can promote the sustainable development of this tourism market while protecting cannabis tourists' physical and psychological well-being.
Originality/value
This study makes important theoretical contributions regarding travel constraints in the unique context of cannabis tourism between first-time and repeat tourists. Findings will also enable academics, industry operators, policymakers and local residents of cannabis tourism destinations to better understand how these tourists decide whether to consume cannabis overseas. Differences in these perceived constraints between first-time and repeat tourists are discussed to highlight the dynamic nature of travel constraints.
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Manuel Rivera, Robertico Croes and YunYing Zhong
This paper aims to examine and identify important attributes for mobile applications (apps) that might dictate tourist preferences for the apps on a small island destination…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine and identify important attributes for mobile applications (apps) that might dictate tourist preferences for the apps on a small island destination. Guided by the Task Technology Fit (TTF) theory, the study considers the tasks performed, technology characteristics and individuals’ characteristics in determining the mobile apps attribute set.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a conjoint methodology within a case study approach framework. The conjoint analysis allows for assessing preferences from different consumers regarding the objective characteristics of products or services that facilitate the optimal design of product development. Optimal product development is a challenge for destinations, as they strive to achieve and sustain optimal market positions. Mobile apps may empower destinations in this endeavor. The case study approach imparts a context-dependent knowledge that facilitates a more nuanced understanding of consumer preference of use.
Findings
The results of the conjoint analysis suggest a strategic mapping of the most important attributes including type of content information, coupons and location awareness in defining apps product development. Within each attribute, the study also identifies the significant characteristics of a mobile application that are preferred by tourists. This ranking exists irrespective of familiarity with the destination (first-time and repeat visitors).
Research limitations/implications
The implication is that revealed preferences anchored in conjoint analysis provide a powerful approach to optimize product development in a small island destination. From a practical perspective, the findings suggest that the developments of a mobile app for a destination must concentrate on fostering spending and consider the app as a new marketing channel. From a theoretical point of view, the current study highlights the usefulness of using the conjoint analysis and the TTF theory as an overarching framework in mapping a multi-attribute decision-making space that influences tourist judgment and preference of use. The conjoint method applied in the study enables researchers to clearly identify a combination of various mobile app attributes that are most influential on tourists’ choice and preference of use. The guiding framework, TTF theory, allows the conjoint product designs to go beyond the technology characteristics to include tasks performed by tourists and their individual characteristics.
Originality/value
This study is the first to apply a conjoint analysis within the TTF theoretical framework in the context of a small island destination when assessing tourists’ use preferences toward mobile applications, while at the same time investigating whether any differences exist between first-time and repeat visitors. The study demonstrates that complementing the nature of the task (traveling) with context-specific interface and interactive features is an important area of inquiry that can benefit from adopting conjoint analysis.
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This article aims to test the relationship between expected attractiveness-satisfaction-loyalty for international adventure tourists visiting Tanzania. The proposed model is based…
Abstract
Purpose
This article aims to test the relationship between expected attractiveness-satisfaction-loyalty for international adventure tourists visiting Tanzania. The proposed model is based on travel consumer behavior theoretical constructs extracted from the literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This article aims to test the relationship between expected attractiveness-satisfaction-loyalty for international adventure tourists visiting Tanzania. The proposed model is based on travel consumer behavior theoretical constructs extracted from the literature.
Findings
The findings for overall model differed from the moderating factors of high risk, low risk, first-time visit and repeat visit. Also, the results are interesting when satisfaction is tested as a mediator.
Practical implications
Practitioners could consider the fact that repeat visits may change tourists’ perceptions toward destination and may even increase their inclination to take on risks. This may impact innovation of consumer products in tourism. Also, policy makers could benefit on how loyalty programs can be developed to increase performance.
Originality/value
The study offers specific strategic recommendations toward different groups of tourists (i.e. first-time, repeat visitors, risk averse, risk seeking) and proposes logic for setting up a loyalty program as a long-term strategy for success.
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The purpose of this paper is to use a new segmentation approach based on objective variables to calculate direct tourism-related sales volume and revenue by selling wine at a…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to use a new segmentation approach based on objective variables to calculate direct tourism-related sales volume and revenue by selling wine at a winery in the Rheingau region of Germany.
Design/methodology/approach
In the framework of a 2015 face-to-face survey in the Rheingau, 1,555 tourists were interviewed. For segmentation, two-step clustering was applied to classify survey participants into homogeneous groups. To calculate tourism-related wine sales volume and revenue, a special model based on official statistics and the survey’s results was used.
Findings
Four wine-tourist segments were identified by using cluster analysis with objective variables, such as nationality, visiting frequency and volume of wine purchased in the region: wine and Rheingau lovers who have a high interest in wine, wine-oriented tourists who do not come to the region very often, first-time tourists who came to the region mainly because of the nature and history and international tourists. With the help of calculations on tourism-related wine sales volume and revenue, it can be stated that approximately 18 per cent of total wine production will be purchased directly in the region by tourists, valued at €36m.
Originality/value
This paper contributes to existing wine-tourism research because a multi-dimensional segmentation model was applied using objective variables, such as nationality, visiting frequency and volume of wine purchased in the region. Using the calculation of tourism-related sales volume and revenue, winemakers in the Rheingau can gain a clear picture of tourism’s importance.
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Suhail Ahmad Bhat and Mushtaq Ahmad Darzi
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of destination image on satisfaction level and tourist loyalty toward the various tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. The…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of destination image on satisfaction level and tourist loyalty toward the various tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. The study, also, attempted to investigate the mediating role of satisfaction and moderating role of gender, past experience and tourist origin in the proposed model.
Design/methodology/approach
The study was carried out in the state of Jammu and Kashmir spread over three divisions, i.e., Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The study employs questionnaire survey method for data collection. Purposive sampling was adopted for data collection and data analysis was carried out through exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling techniques.
Findings
The study has found that cognitive image, affective image and unique image are the significant dimensions of destination image, which in turn has a positive effect on satisfaction level and tourist loyalty. It was also found that destination image has both direct and indirect effect on tourist loyalty.
Research limitations/implications
The state of Jammu and Kashmir has been badly affected by ongoing political instability, which has caused huge losses to the tourism industry. The results of the study will be helpful to policymakers in designing various strategies and programs for maximizing tourist inflow and growth of tourism industry in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Practical implications
Further, finding of the study will assist destination managers in understanding consumer behavior for promoting destination shopping activities. This will enhance tourist expenditure at destinations and thus provides direct benefits to the local economy.
Originality/value
Very little research has been conducted on moderating role of gender, past experience and tourist origin in the destination image and its association with satisfaction and tourist loyalty in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Managing destination image and quality of tourist experience are critical to induce favorable expectations of destination in the tourist’s mind.
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Theera Erawan, Donyaprueth Krairit and Do Ba Khang
The purpose of this paper is to expand and empirically test a model of tourist external information search behaviour.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to expand and empirically test a model of tourist external information search behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual model was developed based on the “three‐pronged approach,” an approach that is used to cross validate among the results from literature review, expert interviews, and an exploratory field study in order to confirm and propose a reliable conceptual model. A confirmatory factor analysis was then performed to ensure that the constructs were valid and reliable. Structural equation modeling was used to test the conceptual model and its hypotheses.
Findings
The results revealed six variables that are significantly related to tourists' external information search behavior. Four of these variables had not been identified previously. These are as follows: information sources usefulness and accessibility, subjective norms, perceived personal risk, and ability to search.
Research limitations/implications
The issue of model generalization should be taken into account because the samples were limited to non‐group tour and first time visited tourists. Further research should consider other tourist groups.
Practical implications
The results from this study provide useful information for both government and tourism‐related businesses in planning marketing communication strategies to help promote Thailand as a travel destination.
Originality/value
By proposing a managerial modeling based on theoretical foundations and methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative approaches, this study is among the first that expands the model of tourist external information search behavior by fully exploring the determinants of external information search behavior and integrates the theory of planned behavior into the model.
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Khairunnisak Latiff, Siew Imm Ng, Yuhanis Abdul Aziz and Norazlyn Kamal Basha
The purpose of this paper is to discover authenticity dimensions that draw tourists to Melaka and George Town World Heritage Site. It also examined the mediating effect of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discover authenticity dimensions that draw tourists to Melaka and George Town World Heritage Site. It also examined the mediating effect of attachment and the moderating effect of cultural motivation.
Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-method design was used. Qualitative approach was conducted to discover authenticity dimensions followed by a quantitative approach to explore the dimensions’ ability in predicting attachment and intention to recommend.
Findings
Findings revealed that objective, existential and food authenticity were significant stimuli of recommend intention. The mediating effect of attachment on constructive authenticity-intention and existential authenticity-intention were also supported. Cultural motivation indeed moderated the relationship between objective authenticity-attachment, constructive authenticity-attachment and existential authenticity-attachment.
Originality/value
Knowing that authenticity can be perceived differently, therefore, a mixed-method study design offers more insight on discovering authenticity elements. Using a qualitative approach, the study began by exploring important authenticity dimensions from both supply and demand groups, and subsequently, these dimensions were verified using quantitative approach. As expected, food authenticity was found as a standalone dimension.
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Yaou Hu and Songjun Xu
Repeat tourists are invaluable to tourist destinations. However, their perceptions and reactions toward unfavorable destination changes remain underexplored. This paper aims to…
Abstract
Purpose
Repeat tourists are invaluable to tourist destinations. However, their perceptions and reactions toward unfavorable destination changes remain underexplored. This paper aims to answer two important and unresolved questions: how do repeat tourists react to perceived unfavorable changes? and what are the main unfavorable destination changes for repeat tourists?
Design/methodology/approach
This research builds on the strategic memory protection theory. This paper consists of two studies (a quantitative one and a qualitative one) conducted in China. The quantitative study proposed and tested a structural equation model linking perceived unfavorable changes, tainted memories, revisit satisfaction and destination loyalty. Data were collected via a questionnaire distributed on an online survey platform with 416 valid responses. The qualitative study was conducted to determine the unfavorable destination changes that repeat tourists perceive. Ninety-five valid responses were used for analysis.
Findings
This research empirically shows that perceived unfavorable changes diminish repeat tourists’ destination loyalty by tainting their initial memories and reducing revisit satisfaction. This full mediation confirms the importance of personal memories and psychology in tourism experiences. This research further uncovers two main types of unfavorable destination changes: destination mismanagement (i.e. overcommercialization, insufficient facilities, poor destination management, excessive prices and a decline in service qualities) and negative environmental changes (overtouristification, changes to natural and social environments and changes in tourist sites and activities).
Originality/value
This research adds to the destination loyalty literature by unveiling actual repeat tourists’ revisit perceptions and psychological processes toward unfavorable destination changes. This research also identifies the typical unfavorable changes perceived by repeat tourists.
研究目的
重游游客对旅游目的地来说极其重要。然而, 他们对不利的目的地变化的看法和反应仍未得到充分探讨。本研究旨在回答两个重要且未解决的问题:重游游客如何对感知到的不利变化做出反应? 对重游游客来说, 不利的目的地变化主要有哪些?
研究设计与方法
本研究以策略性记忆保护理论为理论基础, 包括两项在中国开展的研究(一项定量研究和一项定性研究)。定量研究提出并验证了一个将感知的不利变化、记忆破坏、重游满意度和目的地忠诚度相关联的结构方程模型。定量研究数据通过在线问卷平台收集, 共有 416份有效数据。定性研究的开展旨在确定重游游客所感知的不利目的地变化的类型, 共有95份有效访谈数据用于定性分析。
研究结果
本研究通过实证分析表明, 感知到的不利变化会破坏重游游客最初的记忆和降低重游满意度, 进而降低了他们的目的地忠诚度。这种完全中介效应证实了个人记忆和心理在旅游体验中的重要性。本研究进一步揭示了两种主要的目的地不利变化类型:目的地管理不善(即过度商业化、设施不足、目的地管理缺位、价格过高、服务质量下降)和负面环境变化(过度旅游化、自然和社会环境变化、旅游景点和活动变化)。
原创性/价值
本研究通过揭示真实的重游游客的重游感知和对不利目的地变化的心理过程, 丰富了目的地忠诚度研究的文献, 同时还总结了重游游客所感知的典型的不利的目的地变化的类型。
Propósito
Los turistas que repiten son muy valiosos para los destinos turísticos. Sin embargo, sus percepciones y reacciones ante los cambios desfavorables en el destino han sido poco exploradas. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo responder dos preguntas importantes y no resueltas: ¿Cómo reaccionan los turistas que repiten un destino ante los cambios desfavorables percibidos? ¿Cuáles son los principales cambios desfavorables en el destino para los turistas que repiten?
Diseño/metodología/enfoque
Esta investigación se fundamenta en la teoría de la protección estratégica de la memoria. Consta de dos estudios (uno cuantitativo y otro cualitativo) realizados en China. El estudio cuantitativo propuso y evaluó un modelo de ecuación estructural que vincula los cambios desfavorables percibidos, los recuerdos contaminados, la satisfacción de la revisita y la lealtad al destino. Los datos se recopilaron a través de un cuestionario distribuido en una plataforma de encuestas en línea con 416 respuestas válidas. El estudio cualitativo se realizó para determinar los cambios desfavorables en el destino que perciben los turistas. Se utilizaron noventa y cinco respuestas válidas para el análisis.
Resultados
Esta investigación demuestra empíricamente que los cambios desfavorables percibidos disminuyen la lealtad de los turistas que repiten un destino, al empañar sus recuerdos iniciales y reducir la satisfacción de la revisita. Esta mediación total confirma la importancia de los recuerdos personales y la psicología en las experiencias turísticas. Esta investigación descubre, además, dos tipos principales de cambios desfavorables en el destino: mala gestión del destino (es decir, comercialización excesiva, instalaciones insuficientes, mala administración, precios excesivos y disminución de la calidad del servicio) y cambios ambientales negativos (turistificación excesiva, cambios en los entornos naturales y sociales, y cambios en los sitios y actividades turísticas).
Originalidad/valor
Esta investigación contribuye a la literatura sobre la lealtad al destino, al desvelar las percepciones de los turistas que repiten visita, y sus procesos psicológicos hacia los cambios desfavorables en los destinos. También identifica los cambios desfavorables típicos percibidos por los turistas que vuelven a un destino.
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Ozan Atsız, Veronica Leoni and Orhan Akova
This paper aims to empirically analyze tourists' length of stay in Istanbul, an important cultural destination. The objective of the study is twofold: (1) uncovering the…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to empirically analyze tourists' length of stay in Istanbul, an important cultural destination. The objective of the study is twofold: (1) uncovering the qualitative difference between one-night visitors and longer stay visitors and (2) for those visitors staying longer at the tourism destination, investigating the key determinants of length of stay.
Design/methodology/approach
This research was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to international tourists who were about to leave the destination. To perform the analysis, we applied a two-step approach: first, we opted for classical binary logit to investigate the tourists' group membership (one-night vs longer stays); second, we applied a zero-truncated Poisson model for uncovering the drivers of length of stay for longer stay visitors.
Findings
The results confirmed the structural difference between the two visitor subgroups. Moreover, we found a positive impact of cultural attributes on tourists' length of stay.
Practical implications
The findings provide useful information for destination managers and planners, highlighting the importance of designing different tourism policies in light of tourists' heterogeneity. Moreover, the results confirmed the importance of the preservation and promotion of cultural attributes, given that these are a key factor in determining the success of a destination.
Originality/value
The importance and originality of this study are that it explores the impact of cultural/heritage attributes of the destination on tourists' length of stay. Moreover, it sheds light on the qualitative difference between short- and long-stay visitors.
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