Gap time and Chinese tourists: Exploring constraints

Abstract

This study emphasizes the intersection of two topics: the breaks or gaps in the life trajectory of Chinese citizens which may facilitate travel behaviour, and the analysis of forces which may constrain this activity. To understand the future possibilities for Chinese gap time tourism, the present survey expands on Wu, Pearce, Huang, and Fan’s [(2015). Gap year in China: Views from the participants and implications for the future. Current Issues in Tourism, 18(2), 158–174] earlier netnographic work. The researchers document the demographic characteristics of Chinese potential gap time holiday takers, their preferred style and their perceived constraints. Respondents preferred relatively short breaks during their early career for their gap time. They were predominantly constrained by a culturally distinctive hierarchy of concerns that differed from those found in western studies. In order, the constraints were financial and time issues, lack of travel companions, social responsibility obligations, personal skills and safety concerns, and competing interests. The role of heuristics was suggested as further addition to the literature. Small increases in the percentage of tourists involved in gap time activities from China could have substantial consequences for preferred destinations. Implications to seize the market are thus offered.