Holiday intentions of Portuguese residents: a profile analysis for the years 2010 to 2014

Abstract

Purpose – This article aims to identify the holiday intentions of Portuguese residents, highlighting the importance and evolution of the internal market and the constraints that lead to a significant decrease of those taking holidays in recent years. Design/methodology/approach – The article is based on official tourism statistics and on an ongoing research by Instituto de Planeamento e Desenvolvimento do Turismo (IPDT) on “the holiday intentions of Portuguese residents regarding summer holidays”. Findings – The article finds that tourism in Portugal continues to grow and, in 2013, witnessed a record number of foreign tourists. Despite this success, domestic tourism showed a decrease, explained by the context of economic crisis that affects the country since 2009. However, other reasons such as professional commitments, and the avoidance of peak season for summer holidays, are also referred as reasons for not taking summer holidays. Practical implications – Results allow for a clear understanding of Portuguese residents’ profile regarding holiday intentions for summer holidays. The information presented and analyzed may be seen as very relevant in assisting decision makers in their strategy making process. Originality/value – This article seeks to illustrate the holiday intentions of the Portuguese residentes in a comparative study carried out over a three-year period. The results allow drawing conclusions about the tourism behavior of residents in Portugal during a severe economic crisis.