Solo female visitors in museum tourism: an exploration based on social practice theory

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite the fast growth of solo female travelling market, the travelling experience of solo female travellers is still lack of in-depth research. The heterogeneity of museum visitors also makes solo female visitors worthy of more discussion. Based on qualitative data collected through interviews and online travel blogs, and taking the four elements of social practice theory as theoretical framework, this study concluded that settings including the intangible assets and spatial functions of museums, constituted the basis of other elements, while the others (materials, competences and meanings) made up the practice of solo female visitors in museums. Meanings mainly included knowledge construction, social connection, and self-construction, which were linked with competences that solo female visitors obtained and also had an impact on their daily life. Practical suggestions on museum management were provided according to the element of materials, which was reflected in online and offline exhibition spaces, cultural and creative products.