Traveler Emotional Perceptions in World Heritage Cities

Abstract

This research presents an analysis of the emotional perceptions of foreign tourists towards the artistic and monumental heritage of Quito (Ecuador). The results show that some tourists have emotional experiences that lead them to feel, rather than to contemplate, the destination. Based on their emotional perceptions and cultural interest in visiting historic heritage, four tourist types are identified: alternative tourists, cultural tourists, emotional tourists, and heritage tourists. Heritage tourists are characterised by greater emotional connections with the visited heritage and heightened cultural interest in the destination. They also share a common cultural identity that connects them to the destination: the Ibero-American culture. The authors identify a need for improved knowledge about tourist responses to World Heritage sites, especially those from different cultures.