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Article
Publication date: 9 November 2022

Tim Fichter and Concepción Román

This paper aims to examine rural tourism preferences as an alternative niche market to mass tourism destinations. The analysis discusses the differences in perceptions and…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine rural tourism preferences as an alternative niche market to mass tourism destinations. The analysis discusses the differences in perceptions and willingness to pay (WTP) for various packages of rural tourism activities in Gran Canaria Island among residents and non-residents.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on a convenience sample of potential young customers who are familiar with outdoor recreational activities in nature. This study considers a discrete choice experiment that includes the type of accommodation as well as four types of rural tourism activities: active, passive, cultural and aquatic. The degree of preference for the considered attributes is obtained from the estimation of different discrete choice models.

Findings

Results reveal that the inclusion of the investigated attributes in holiday packages increases tourists’ utility, which motivates the promotion of rural tourism for young residents and non-residents. The most significant differences in perceptions of attributes between residents and non-residents were found in the activities of diving/snorkelling and stargazing, as well as the type of accommodation and package price.

Practical implications

This study will contribute to a better understanding of an alternative tourism market which will help key stakeholders in the tourism sector to better serve this important segment of the industry and to encourage more sustainable tourism in the future.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the WTP for rural tourism packages as a more sustainable alternative in mass tourism destinations and taking into account resident vs non-resident perceptions.

目的 

本文将乡村旅游偏好视为大众旅游目的地的替代利基市场。该分析讨论了居民和非居民对大加那利岛各种乡村旅游活动的看法和支付意愿的差异。

设计/方法/方法 

该分析基于熟悉户外休闲活动的潜在年轻客户的便利样本。该研究考虑了一个离散选择实验, 包括住宿类型以及四种类型的乡村旅游活动:积极、消极、文化和水上活动。所考虑属性的偏好程度是从不同离散选择模型的估计中获得的。

发现 

结果表明, 度假套餐中包含调查的属性增加了游客的效用, 从而促进了年轻居民和非居民的乡村旅游。在潜水/浮潜和观星活动, 以及住宿类型和套餐价格方面, 居民和非居民对属性的认知差异最显着。

独创性 

据作者所知, 这是第一项评估农村旅游套餐的支付意愿作为大众旅游目的地更可持续的替代方案的研究, 并考虑了居民与非居民的看法。

实际影响 

该研究将有助于更好地了解替代旅游市场, 这将有助于旅游业的主要利益相关者更好地服务于该行业的这一重要部分, 并鼓励未来更可持续的旅游业。

Objetivo 

Este trabajo examina las preferencias del turismo rural como nicho de mercado alternativo a los destinos turísticos de masas. El análisis discute las diferencias en las percepciones y la disposición a pagar por varios paquetes de actividades de turismo rural en la isla de Gran Canaria entre residentes y no residentes.

Diseño/metodología/enfoque 

El análisis se basa en una muestra de conveniencia de potenciales clientes jóvenes que están familiarizados con las actividades recreativas al aire libre en la naturaleza. El estudio considera un experimento de elección discreta que incluye el tipo de alojamiento, así como cuatro tipos de actividades de turismo rural: activo, pasivo, cultural y acuático. El grado de preferencia por los atributos considerados se obtiene a partir de la estimación de diferentes modelos de elección discreta.

Resultados 

Los resultados revelan que la inclusión de los atributos investigados en los paquetes vacacionales aumenta la utilidad de los turistas, lo que motiva la promoción del turismo rural para jóvenes residentes y no residentes. Las diferencias más significativas en las percepciones de los atributos entre residentes y no residentes se encontraron en las actividades de buceo/snorkel y observación de estrellas, así como en el tipo de alojamiento y el precio del paquete.

Originalidad 

Hasta donde los autores saben, este es el primer estudio que evalúa la disposición a pagar por paquetes de turismo rural como una alternativa más sostenible en destinos de turismo masivo y que tiene en cuenta las percepciones de los residentes frente a los no residentes.

Implicaciones prácticas 

El estudio contribuirá a una mejor comprensión de un mercado turístico alternativo que ayudará a los principales agentes del sector turístico a atender mejor este importante segmento de la industria y a fomentar un turismo más sostenible en el futuro.

Article
Publication date: 8 June 2015

Ann Holroyd and Heather Holroyd

The purpose of this paper is to understand how changes in an older adult’s physical capacity alter their bathing preferences, how the care environment incorporates residents’…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how changes in an older adult’s physical capacity alter their bathing preferences, how the care environment incorporates residents’ values and beliefs around bathing to fulfil these changing care needs, and how institutional factors, such as staff scheduling and communication processes, influence Resident Care Aides’ (RCAs) bathing practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple methods approach involving surveys and interviews with residents and RCAs in a Canadian residential care facility. This paper draws mostly from the semi-structured, qualitative interviews with older adult residents (n=9; Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) scores > 15) and RCAs (n=10) on two nursing units offering different bathing options.

Findings

Decreasing energy levels and physical decline were commonly cited reasons for residents’ changing bathing preferences. Residents were overall very appreciative of the bathing care they received in residential care, and identified the weekly tub bath as an anticipated encounter where they experienced a valued social interaction with their assigned RCA. While identifying bathing as an occasionally stressful aspect of their work, RCAs also described the bathing experience as an intimate bonding activity. The study identified bathing as an important activity in residential care.

Originality/value

Previous studies have focused on moderate to severely cognitively impaired older adults’ and their demonstration of agitated behaviours during bathing. Most participants in this study had only minor cognitive impairment, as measured by MMSE scores (average score=20.6); therefore, this study provides insight into the experiences and needs of older adults whose perspective is not generally reflected in the literature.

Details

Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-7794

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 June 2012

Fatemeh Khozaei, T. Ramayah, Ahmad Sanusi Hassan and Lilis Surienty

This study aims to examine the possibility that housing satisfaction mediates the relationship between fulfilled preference and a sense of attachment to place.

1998

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the possibility that housing satisfaction mediates the relationship between fulfilled preference and a sense of attachment to place.

Design/methodology/approach

A 15‐item questionnaire was administrated to 751 students residing in residence halls at a public university in Malaysia. The respondents were asked to choose their answer from a four‐point Likert scale that was constructed as follows: not at all; very little; mostly; and very much.

Findings

The results of the survey revealed that housing satisfaction partially mediated the relationship between fulfilled preferences and sense of attachment to place. These results highlight the importance of students' fulfilled preferences. It reveals that the more students' preferences regarding residence hall were fulfilled, the more they were satisfied with their residence hall and felt attached to it.

Originality/value

The findings of this study emphasise the importance of understanding students' residence hall needs and fulfilling their desire. These findings also emphasize that university students must not be viewed merely as temporary residents who stay in residence halls for just a few years.

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2016

Frank Boyle and Craig Thomson

Prolonged life expectancy coupled with the retirement of the “post war baby boomers” has resulted in an exponential rise in the 50+ population, peaking in the UK in 2035…

Abstract

Purpose

Prolonged life expectancy coupled with the retirement of the “post war baby boomers” has resulted in an exponential rise in the 50+ population, peaking in the UK in 2035. Recognising that longevity is often not accompanied by health, mobility or quality of life, the “shifting the balance of care” agenda promotes an integrated care model based around the resident’s home. This study aims to explore the adaptability of the existing social housing stock and how it relates to the requirements and preferences of the ageing population.

Design/methodology/approach

This research focuses at the local authority level, with the lead author embedded within North Ayrshire Council to establish the evidence base for their housing strategy for older people. Following a constructivist grounded theory approach, key themes emerge through consultation with a working group, wider stakeholder groups and an iterative review of policy and literature. These themes were explored through an evidence base of available health and housing datasets, and a questionnaire survey of 1,500+ people aged 50+ exploring housing preferences and needs for older people; six focus groups split between residents and social housing providers and stakeholder interviews.

Findings

The scale and acute nature of the problem facing social housing providers is highlighted and reveals an alarming information gap within housing data sets, exposing an in-balance between the supply and demand and realising the cost implications for adapting the housing stock.

Practical implications

It is important to resolve this information gap to develop the social housing stock to respond to preferences and establish solutions appropriate for its residents.

Originality/value

This work strengthens calls for a cohesive and integrated housing, health and social care system and exposes the challenge of delivering this at a local authority level.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 March 2018

Laurent Tournois

Cities from developing countries strive to compete on a global scale and hence try to attract and retain their residents in offering higher liveability. The purpose of this study…

Abstract

Purpose

Cities from developing countries strive to compete on a global scale and hence try to attract and retain their residents in offering higher liveability. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which liveability influences resident’s sense of place and determines residents’ behavioural intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was carried out to test the hypotheses using a sample of 362 residents from the city of Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Structural equation modelling and the method suggested by Hayes and Preacher (2010) for mediation analysis were used.

Findings

Findings show that residentspreferences for different types of liveability attributes (included in seven dimensions) influence their sense of place that in return shapes their behavioural intentions towards their place of residence. Results also reveal the importance of non-economic attributes of the urban environment. Moreover, residents’ sense of place mediates the relationship between liveability and residents’ behavioural intentions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could more deeply investigate the social functioning of a place and particularly the role of place identity, as it is recognized to affect residents’ attitudes and behaviours. In addition, further developments may contribute to the ongoing debate on the relationship between liveability and growth.

Practical implications

From a public policy standpoint, this study suggests that local authorities need to identify a distinct set of economic and non-economic characteristics that will encourage residents to stay longer in the place they live. As such, enhancing liveability represents a critical strategic initiative for cities from developing countries to make them a great place to live.

Originality/value

Compared to developed countries’ cities, few attempts have been made to investigate the attitudes of residents towards a place and the role of liveability in the context of emerging countries fast-growing urban areas. In addition, findings revealed the importance of place-based meanings, i.e. sense of place, which played a pivotal role in the development of place-protective behaviours.

Details

Journal of Place Management and Development, vol. 11 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8335

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 September 2023

Zoi Patergiannaki and Yannis A. Pollalis

The purpose of this study is to explore the discrepancies between the services provided by municipalities through e-Government portals and the services sought by residents in the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the discrepancies between the services provided by municipalities through e-Government portals and the services sought by residents in the context of smart cities.

Design/methodology/approach

This research investigates the information and services delivered by municipalities via e-Government portals and the services that residents wish to access through these portals. A mind map representation of ideas from 707 participants is used to visually illustrate the proposed e-Government portal structure based on user recommendations.

Findings

The findings reveal that existing e-Government portals fall short in offering a comprehensive range of e-services desired by residents. The results highlight the need for municipal e-Government websites to grant residents access to a diverse array of services and information. It is crucial to note that the specific services may fluctuate over time and between cities, reflecting the evolving needs of residents and the capabilities of municipalities.

Originality/value

This study is original in its focus on bridging the gap between existing e-Government portals and residentspreferences, using a mind map representation to visually illustrate the proposed portal structure based on user recommendations. The research emphasizes the importance of considering residents’ needs in terms of services and functionalities and adapting websites accordingly.

Details

Transforming Government: People, Process and Policy, vol. 17 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-6166

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 June 2014

Beatrice Godwin

Government guidelines promote service user consultation without providing extensive advice on people in later dementia. “Seen as too difficult to involve, they are effectively…

Abstract

Purpose

Government guidelines promote service user consultation without providing extensive advice on people in later dementia. “Seen as too difficult to involve, they are effectively excluded from […] influenc(ing) service provision”, especially institutional care residents (Clare and Cox, 2003, p. 936). This hard-to-reach group presents methodological challenges. The purpose of this paper is to explore innovative approaches, offering even those with fragmented or lost speech the opportunity to contribute to decisions about their care.

Design/methodology/approach

This specialist dementia home consultation included staff and every resident, irrespective of the level of their communication impairment. Consultation on potential colour schemes took the form of a ballot. Staff helped develop an unpatronising, person-centred approach. Visual aids supported communication, de-emphasising the spoken word and promoting inclusion.

Findings

The majority of residents appeared to express an opinion on the potential decor. Others chose a colour while not necessarily grasping the context. The approach engaged all except four.

Research limitations/implications

Even people with moderate/advanced dementia may be enabled to participate in consultation. Further research needs to refine methodology to include everyone and clarify the interpretation of results.

Practical implications

Service providers may widen their expectations of inclusivity in consultation exercises.

Originality/value

This consultation is important to researchers and practitioners because it explores ways of communicating, which avoid privileging the spoken word, revealing seldom-recognised abilities in people with moderate/advanced dementia.

Details

Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-7794

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 August 2016

Paraskevi Karanikola, Thomas Panagopoulos, Stilianos Tampakis and Aikaterini Karipidou-Kanari

The purpose of this paper is to investigate residents’ perceptions, preferences and satisfaction concerning the urban green infrastructure of Kalamaria, Greece, to evaluate the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate residents’ perceptions, preferences and satisfaction concerning the urban green infrastructure of Kalamaria, Greece, to evaluate the importance of urban parks for residents’ well-being and to suggest management improvements.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a random sampling method, 385 residents were interviewed. Green infrastructure number and size, design suitability, safety, variety and care of plants, noise pollution, facilities for people with disabilities and duration and frequency of visits to green areas were among the considered parameters. Factor and hierarchical log-linear analyses were conducted.

Findings

The existing green spaces were insufficient in number, size and design, and their distribution was unsatisfactory. The facilities and equipment in the green spaces were evaluated as rather mediocre, and most respondents were unsatisfied with the overall planning and management of the green infrastructure in the municipality of Kalamaria. The results indicate that resident’s well-being relates to their satisfaction with urban green infrastructure. Frequent and longer visits of green spaces significantly improved the perceived well-being. The residents expressed an intention to pay 20-40 percent more than the average price for a house with a view of a green area.

Originality/value

Public perception surveys enable green infrastructure managers to identify preferred management alternatives and to use this information in an urban planning framework. Local authorities can use the results of the present survey to manage the city’s green infrastructure, enhance the city’s resilience and anticipate climate change challenges and the future needs of residents.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 27 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 April 2020

Dheyaa Hussein

This study aims to provide a method to assess the perceptual impact of the visual complexity of building façades.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to provide a method to assess the perceptual impact of the visual complexity of building façades.

Design/methodology/approach

The research identifies the number of design elements and the variation in their position and colour as variables of visual complexity. It introduces the concepts of vertices and corners as atomic indicators on which the measurement of these variables is built. It measures visual complexity and its variables in images of building façades and analyses their relationships with participants' reactions. It reports on the effect of visual complexity on preferences, the adequacy of different methods in measuring visual complexity and the perceptual impact of each of its variables.

Findings

The research demonstrates that visual complexity can be assessed through the measure of its variables and their statistical mapping to users' preferences.

Originality/value

The manuscript provides the foundation for a planning/assessment tool for the visual control of the built environment using computer systems based on the preferences of residents through the examination of the relationship between the users and their environment. It creates a paradigm, which introduces a robust concept in the visual analysis of urban design.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 August 2023

Rabi Narayan Mohanty and Ashaprava Mohanta

The infill design approach for heritage settings is a challenging task, and it draws the attention of design professionals and residents. The extant literature has advocated for a…

Abstract

Purpose

The infill design approach for heritage settings is a challenging task, and it draws the attention of design professionals and residents. The extant literature has advocated for a contextual design approach for new buildings in heritage sites. However, the degree of contextualism for a new building in heritage sites is subjective, and it varies between exact replication and contrast scales. This study aims to evaluate an appropriate design approach for historic precincts of Odisha, an eastern state of India.

Design/methodology/approach

Two prime eastern heritage sites (Puri and Ekamra Kshetra) are selected as cases in this study. This research methodology involves identifying key architectural elements from both sites and a questionnaire (prepared by design experts) based on interviewing 400 residents and 36 design professionals on their aesthetic preferences for the different architectural styles and elements. The questionnaire was prepared by the design experts based on the identified architectural styles and elements of both sites. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis are used to measure the significance of design approaches and elements.

Findings

This study's outcome confirms that most of the respondents (design professionals and residents) prefer the replication design approach with traditional architectural elements of Odisha. Also, documentation of the chronological development of architectural styles and elements of heritage sites of Odisha is done in this research.

Research limitations/implications

This study has a few limitations: first, the land use characters (mixed, residential, commercial, etc.) of buildings in the heritage precinct are not considered in this research; second, this research has not included the financial aspect of infill design and last, the impact of respondents' socioeconomic factors on their aesthetic perceptions is not considered in this research.

Practical implications

The development authorities can use the outcomes of this research to implement a design strategy for infill buildings in the historical sites of Odisha.

Social implications

This research article has documented traditional architectural elements of two prime heritage sites of India.

Originality/value

To date, no quantitative research has been done on infill design approaches in any Indian heritage precincts. This is the first quantitative research on the perception of stakeholders and users on the infill design in historical settings of Eastern India. This research has identified key architectural styles, elements and materials of the heritage sites.

Details

Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-1266

Keywords

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