Tourist Behavior Research Articles

The relationship research between restorative perception, local attachment and environmental responsible behavior of urban park recreationists

The environmentally responsible behavior of tourists has been one of the focal points in the field of sustainable tourism research in recent years. Taking Guangzhou City Park as an example, this study investigates the relationship between restorative perception, place attachment, and environmentally responsible behavior of urban park recreationists by constructing the theoretical framework of "cognition-emotion-behavior" of recreationalists via online questionnaire surveys and using the test method of structural equation mode. Studies have shown that: (1) When the restorative perception of the environment is compatible, malleable, and attractive, the recreationist will produce environmentally responsible behavior. Meanwhile, when the environment has a sense of distance and compatibility, it will promote the active environmentally responsible behavior of tourists; (2) the path of perceptual environmental compatibility in the restorative perception of recreationists being → place dependence→ place identity → environmentally responsible behavior has a positive impact on environmentally responsible behavior; (3) place attachment has a significant positive impact on environmentally responsible behavior. This paper suggests that urban park management governors should focus on improving the charm and attractiveness of parks, diversifying recreational activities, and creating emotional attachment places, so as to promote the development of urban parks and meet the diverse needs and experiences of park recreation.

Motivations and satisfaction of tourists staying in homestays across Kashmir Valley

Abstract This study explores the motivations and satisfaction levels of tourists choosing homestays in the Kashmir Valley, an area renowned for its natural beauty and cultural richness. Despite the growing popularity of homestays, little research has been conducted on understanding the driving factors behind their selection and the satisfaction derived from such stays in this unique context. Utilising primary data collected through surveys and interviews from a sample of tourists, this paper employs Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and factor analysis to identify the underlying motivations for choosing homestays and to evaluate tourists’ satisfaction levels. The findings reveal that cultural immersion, personalised experiences, and the desire for authentic local interactions are primary motivations for tourists opting for home-stays over traditional hotel accommodations. Satisfaction levels were significantly influenced by the quality of interaction with hosts, the comfort of the accommodation, and the ability to experience the local way of life. The study’s results contribute to the theoretical understanding of tourist behaviour in the context of homestays and offer practical implications for hosts and policymakers aiming to enhance the homestay experience in the Kashmir Valley. By addressing the gap in the literature, this research provides valuable insights into the sustainable development of homestay tourism in culturally and ecologically sensitive regions.

‘김광석다시그리기길’의 장소적 의미 고찰

The purpose of this study is to derive the meaning of place of ‘Kim Kwang Seok Road’. The research method include literature research, field surveys, depth interview, field surveys and participatory observations. Through this, the formation process of the ‘Kim Kwang Seok Road’ was examined, and the planning and creation process of the ‘Kim Kwang Seok Road’ and the behavior of tourists were analyzed. The “Kim Kwang Seok Road” discovers a place of collective memory and is given a new meaning as a space of memorial. In addition, the “Kim Kwang Seok Road” makes us imagine the popular singer Kim Kwang-seok and resists the structure dominated by power and existing order. The way to revitalize the “Kim Kwang Seok Road” is to first plan a representative cultural event that symbolizes the “Kim Kwang-seok.” And the “Kim Kwang Seok Road” should function as a space where citizens can act independently.

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL NETWORKS IN TOURISM PROMOTION. EVOLUTION AND TRENDS

The present article investigates the impact of social networks in the tourism industry, highlighting their transition from simple social platforms to marketing tools. The paper focuses on analyzing the impact of digitalization on consumer behavior in tourism, proposing strategies for optimizing tourism marketing in the current digital context. Moreover, the article is part of a broader research that primarily employs literature review as its research method. At the same time, it paves the way for further in-depth analyses. The introduction emphasizes the changes that digitalization has brought to tourism with a focus on social networks. It discusses the importance of two-way communication as well as the influence of user-generated content and the role of emerging technologies. The chronological analysis of social networks from Myspace to Instagram and TikTok highlights the fact that academic literature was examined to illustrate how technology adaptation has improved over time and can be enhanced. The section on budget allocation and performance evaluation details the importance of adaptable strategies for maximizing ROI and underscores the importance of a complex approach based on quantitative and qualitative metrics. As part of extensive research, the paper contributes by encouraging the development of new strategies for digital tourism promotion adapted to the rapidity of changes.

Interconnected Eco-Consciousness: Gen Z Travelers’ Intentions toward Low-Carbon Transportation and Hotels

Generation Z (Gen Z) is widely acknowledged for their heightened eco-consciousness. Nevertheless, a notable research gap persists in the empirical examination of eco-friendly preferences within this demographic group, particularly concerning low-carbon transportation and hotel selections. Utilizing structural equation modeling and data collected from 357 Gen Z travelers, this study investigates the interconnected factors influencing Gen Z travelers’ intentions toward adopting low-carbon transportation and making low-carbon hotel choices based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). The results indicate that perceived value and environmental concern exert significant influence on the formation of attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control among Gen Z travelers. As a result, these psychosocial constructs make a substantial contribution to the intention of Gen Z travelers of adopting low-carbon tourism behaviors. Additionally, the study uncovers a positive correlation between the propensity to use low-carbon transportation and the inclination to choose low-carbon hotels for accommodation. These findings underscore the interconnected facets of Gen Z’s preferences for low-carbon tourism, thereby indicating the prospect for collaborative efforts to bolster sustainability within the tourism industry.

Religious tourism and its impact on tourist behavior in the Holy Najaf Governorate

Religious tourism and its impact on tourist behavior in the Holy Najaf Governorate

Halal Food, Religiosity, and Attitudes Toward Intention to Use Products and Services of Sharia-Compliant Hotels in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara

This study was motivated by the limited research on tourist behavior towards Sharia-compliant hotels. Lombok Island was selected for this study due to its recognition as the premier halal tourism destination in Indonesia, showcasing significant advancements and attractions that cater to the needs of Muslim travelers. Its objective is to predict how halal food, religiosity, and the attitudes of Muslim tourists influence their intention to utilize products and services offered by Sharia-compliant hotels. Structural equation modeling was employed with a sample of 154 visitors to Sharia-compliant hotels on Lombok Island, namely Grand Legi Hotel, Lombok Plaza Hotel, Lombok Raya Hotel, Pratama Hotel, and Santika Hotel. The findings reveal that both halal food and religiosity exert positive influences on attitudes, subsequently enhancing the intention of Muslim tourists to use the products and services provided by Sharia-compliant hotels. We recommend that future research explore other variables influencing tourists' attitudes and intentions to use Sharia-compliant hotel products and services. Additionally, tourism policymakers should pay attention to the importance of halal food and beverages and the religiosity of tourists to enhance the overall quality of halal tourism.

The Effect of Motivations on Sustainable Revisiting Behavior in Cross-Cultural Tourism: Mediating Role of Perceived Value

The Effect of Motivations on Sustainable Revisiting Behavior in Cross-Cultural Tourism: Mediating Role of Perceived Value

Applying protection motivation theory to examine tourist’s pro-environmental behaviour: case study of Lahijan, Iran

Purpose This study aims to examine the pro-environmental behavior of tourists in one of the northern cities of Iran, Lahijan, by applying the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). Design/methodology/approach The sample consists of a total of 180 tourists who had traveled to Lahijan city in Guilan province. Data is analyzed using descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) technique using Smart PLS 3.0. Findings The results confirm the importance of PMT in explaining the pro-environmental behavior of tourists. The findings of this study show the significant relationship between vulnerability, severity, self-efficacy, response efficacy, response cost and maladaptive perception with tourist’s pro-environmental behavior. Moreover, rewards are not related to pro-environmental behavior. Practical implications This study provides a better understanding of how to motivate tourists toward pro-environmental behavior. It also contributes to reinforcing PMT by adding evidence from tourism research and delivers profiles for tourism providers. Originality/value The study contributes to the understanding of the predictors of pro-environmental behavior of tourists in Iran using a full PMT which encompasses three concepts of threats appraisal, coping appraisal and maladaptive perception.

THE INFLUENCE OF CITY BRANDING "SERAMBI NUSANTARA" ON TOURISTS' INTEREST AND DECISION TO VISIT IN PENAJAM PASER UTARA

This study examines the extent to which the "Serambi Nusantara" city branding influences tourists' visiting interest and decision-making to visit Penajam Paser Utara. A sample of 400 respondents will be randomly selected using the Slovenian method to determine the sample size, and they will participate in a survey using a structured questionnaire. The findings of this research are expected to provide significant insights into the effectiveness of city branding in influencing tourist behavior and its relevance for developing improved tourism strategies in the region. The analysis results indicate that the city branding significantly affects tourists' visit interest and visit decisions with a contribution of 74.7% and 63.7%, respectively, while visit interest itself significantly influences visit decisions. This research can inform tourism marketing strategies and city branding initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in areas that may possess unique characteristics and challenges.

The role of digital marketing and electronic word of mouth in restoring tourism visits after the covid-19 pandemic to the mangrove ecotourism Kampung Blekok, Situbondo

Introduction: The presence of ecotourism is more oriented toward environmental conservation, utilization of natural resources, cultural preservation, and economic benefits. However, post-COVID-19 pandemic tourist visits to the Kampung Blekok mangrove ecotourism have not recovered, and the condition of the ecotourism is not maintained and is damaged. This research aims to analyze the influence of digital marketing, electronic word of mouth, and interest in visiting on the decision to visit the Kampung Blekok mangrove ecotourism. Methods: Data collection on ecotourism behavior was obtained from 172 respondents using a questionnaire. The data analysis technique used was Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) with WarpPLS version 8.0. Results: The results of the research analysis show that digital marketing and eWOM produce a positive and significant influence on visit intention and decision. The mediating role of visiting interest in the relationship between digital marketing and eWOM on visiting decisions is partial. Mangrove ecotourism managers in Kampung Blekok can optimize digital marketing and eWOM strategies, and adapt to current tourism situations and trends. Conclusion: Digital marketing and eWOM are important in shaping visit interest and determining tourist decisions. Changes in tourist behavior using digital media can be a tool for progressing the ecotourism business by increasing tourists' visiting decisions.

Will Virtual Reality Experience Quality be an Alternative to Offline Visit Decision? Review of Literature on Tourist Behaviour on Instagram Social Media

Will Virtual Reality Experience Quality be an Alternative to Offline Visit Decision? Review of Literature on Tourist Behaviour on Instagram Social Media

From destination choice to departure: analysing French tourists’ behaviours facing health risks from COVID-19

ABSTRACT During a pandemic, individuals react both cognitively and emotionally, leading them to adopt self-protective behaviours. Governments, meanwhile, face a delicate balancing act between safeguarding public health and mitigating the socioeconomic impact. In the tourism industry, this translates to reducing infection risk while minimizing mass cancellations. Past research suggests that providing updated information can help achieve these objectives. This study examines two pre-departure behaviours of French tourists in response to health risks from COVID-19: (1) seeking or not seeking information about COVID-19 indicators and protective measures at the chosen destination; (2) continuing with the planned stay or cancelling it. Seeking information and cancelling trips are voluntary actions driven by various factors, including tourists’ emotional state, particularly their worry about contracting and transmitting COVID-19. We find that worry motivates both behaviours, with worry about contracting exerting the strongest influence. Information-seeking, regardless of whether analysed as ordinal or nominal, tends to promote cancellations. This suggests a potential conflict between public health and tourism objectives. Our findings highlight the critical need for tourism managers to reassure tourists about health safety and tailor communication strategies accordingly. In this vein, we discuss some propositions that could be considered in the event of future pandemics.

Reshaping future museums through innovativeness: the views of locals and tourists

ABSTRACT Innovations play a key role in museum development. However, there remains a gap regarding the extent to which museums’ innovativeness enhances the appeal for both locals and tourists. This study offers insights into museums’ innovativeness, visitor satisfaction, and behavioural intentions by adopting a demand-side perspective. The aim is to examine and compare the impact of museums’ innovativeness on the behaviour of locals and tourists applying consumer-centric views. A face-to-face survey of visitors (N = 344) in one of the technical museums of Saint-Petersburg was conducted. The empirical part is based on the CFA and SEM techniques. This research reveals the strong impact of the perceived innovativeness of a museum on visitors’ satisfaction and revisit intention (for locals and tourists separately). The study facilitates the comprehension of the impact of museum innovations on the behaviours of visitors and their decision-making processes.

Tourists’ Littering Behavior and Feeling of Guilt: Implications for Sustainable Coastal Destination Management

Though tourists have long been acknowledged to litter beaches during their holidays, there is little empirical focus on understanding the characteristics of tourists who litter beaches. Based on data obtained from 843 international tourists who visited two main coastal destinations in Ghana and analyzed with binary logistic regression and chi-square test of independence, it is revealed that close to half of the tourists admitted to littering beaches during their holiday in Ghana. Further, male tourists, younger adults, high school leavers, those who traveled to Ghana in the company of others, as well as those who visited for the purpose of leisure have the highest probability of littering beaches. Among those who littered, females, older adults, bachelors and postgraduate qualification holders, and those who visited for the sake of seeing friends and family and business felt guilty for their littering behavior. The implications of these findings in the context of promoting sustainable tourist behavior at coastal destinations are discussed.

Sustainability Aspects of Whale Shark Tourism: A Perspective from Tourist Blogs

This study explored tourists’ blogs to identify sustainability challenges and opportunities to inform best-practice management of the whale shark tourism industry worldwide. Few researchers have investigated blogs in the context of swim‐with whale shark experiences as recounted from the tourist perspective. This research was based on a content analysis of a sample of 58 tourist blogs, amounting to 31,509 words of content. The findings explored common sustainability themes within the whale shark tourist experience including proximity of the encounter, nature of the interaction, and whale shark tourist behavior. By comparing three whale shark tourism destinations–Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia–several sustainability challenges and opportunities were identified. The findings contribute to previous knowledge by advancing our understanding of whale shark tourists’ perception of critical aspects during their swim-with whale shark experience, which guided recommendations for improved and sustainable management.

Sustainable pathways: understanding the interplay of environmental behavior, personal values, and tourist outcomes in farm tourism

The burgeoning growth of farm tourism necessitates a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationships between environmental behavior, personal values, and visitor outcomes, emphasizing the imperative for sustainable practices and stewardship within these settings. The current study seeks to develop an integrative model to understand how power conservation and eco-logically aware behavior influence visitors’ ecological vision, sense of responsibility, well-being, and attachment outcomes, encompassing both place and product. Employing a structured questionnaire, data were gathered from farm tourists in Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia, and the structural model was analyzed using regression and mediation analyses to unravel the complex interactions among key variables. Results revealed that power conservation practices significantly contribute to visitors’ sense of responsibility for environmental protection, while ecologically aware behavior predicts a profound ecological vision. However, the structural equation model did not reveal significant mediation effects on well-being. The findings suggest the importance of targeted energy-saving initiatives and experiential activities to enhance ecological awareness. Integrating well-being considerations into sustainability programs and adopting transparent communication strategies can enrich the overall visitor experience, fostering a sustainable and fulfilling form of tourism.

Impact of information provision on tsunami evacuation behavior of residents and international tourists in Japan

Effective disaster management can help mitigate both human and financial damage. However, the absence of appropriate disaster preparedness and management efforts can increase the vulnerability of international tourists to natural disasters. International tourists differ from residents and local tourists in various ways, including limited knowledge of disasters and disaster responses, use of different languages, limited access to signs, and shelter locations and evacuation routes. This study developed an agent-based evacuation model to determine the differences in evacuation behaviors among international tourists, residents, and local tourists during a tsunami. Further, it clarified the impact of both soft and hard countermeasures such as information provision and shelter capacity expansion. Our case study was conducted in the Minato Bay area in Osaka, Japan. The simulation results revealed disparities in the evacuation behaviors between international tourists and residents in the arrival times at shelters. The enhanced sign accessibility and provision of signs in multiple languages significantly reduced the arrival time of international tourists at shelters. Consequently, it is necessary to improve disaster management plans that ensure information provision in multiple languages and the establishment of temporary shelters near tourism spots to support international tourists during disaster evacuation.

Designing Tourist Itineraries with Design Thinking and System Usability Scale: A Case Study of Uluwatu Island, Bali

Purpose: This research aims to design a travel itinerary media that integrates necessary elements from various sources and presents them in an attractive and informative format. The approach used is Design Thinking, which places the user at the center of the design process. Method: The research employs the Design Thinking approach, which involves five main stages: Empathy, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. Data were collected through direct observation, questionnaires, and analysis of tourist behavior and preferences. The resulting prototype was tested by a representative group of users to assess the functionality and usability of the travel itinerary design. Result: The study culminated in the creation of a tourist itinerary media design, developed through the Design Thinking process. This design effectively integrates essential elements from diverse sources, ensuring it is both visually appealing and informative. Crucially, user testing with the System Usability Scale (SUS) produced an average score of 76.75. This score reflects a high level of user satisfaction and confirms the system's strong usability, highlighting the design's potential for enhancing the tourist experience. The positive reception underscores the study's impact in offering a user-friendly and engaging tool for tourism planning. Contribution: The main contribution of this study is the development of a more innovative tourist itinerary design that is in line with user needs. Through the Design Thinking approach, this research provides practical guidance for designing relevant and effective solutions in the tourism industry context.

Exploring the Impact of Celebrity Endorsements and Social Media Platforms on Sustainable Consumer Behavior in Tourism

Exploring the Impact of Celebrity Endorsements and Social Media Platforms on Sustainable Consumer Behavior in Tourism