Patterns Of Tourist Expenditure And Types Of Vacation Across The Family Life Cycle

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between the family life cycle and tourist behavior, and found that stages in the family life cycle are reflected in both the type of vacation taken and financial expenditure made. Social orientation of young singles is evident, as are constraints imposed by children. Vacation activities correlate with the age of adult members of the group. Data are presented for accommodation, travel, meals, tours, shopping and entertainment, and reveal strong and consistent patterns of use for market segmentation.