Tourism Value Research Articles

Can Tourists’ Preferences Determine the Direction of Sustainable Development in Mountain Landscapes?

Tourism and recreation development in naturally valuable mountain areas is a complex issue. On the one hand, it has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of modern society, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. It also contributes to the economic growth of local communities, for which financial revenues from tourism are important sources of income. However, exceeding the limits of tourist absorption and improper trail management can lead to natural environment and landscape degradation. The Carpathians are marked by a dense and diverse network of tourist trails that can have an impact on biodiversity, which is often unique in this European region. The aim of the study was to determine tourists’ preferences in terms of the attractiveness and development of the mountain trails of the Carpathian region. The research was conducted using a survey on 10 main hiking trails in the Beskids. The results were compared with the inventory carried out in the field based on tourist values. The results highlight the possibility of achieving a balance between the use of tourist trails and the protection of the natural and cultural environment. Our results can be useful for the sustainable tourist management of mountain landscapes, linking nature conservation and recreation requirements.

The study of riparian areas in tourism: toward a conceptual framework of riparian tourism

Abstract. Riparian areas serve as interfaces between terrestrial and aquatic (including glaciers and glacial lakes) ecosystems, playing a crucial role in shaping landscapes, supporting flora and fauna diversity, and supporting human communities. Thus, riparian areas maintain ecological, cultural, and socio-economic resilience, enriching communities dependent on these ecosystems. Riparian areas are of great ecological value and have immense potential for tourism. However, the touristic value of riparian zones has largely remained unexplored and is confined mainly to the area of river-based recreational activities. This paper proposes “riparian tourism” as a holistic and sustainable form of tourism that encompasses both consumptive and non-consumptive forms of tourism. The exploration of the subject and the conceptualization of this potentially globally appealing form of tourism have the potential to offer entrepreneurial and touristic opportunities, especially for local communities, thereby ensuring not only ecological but also socio-economic benefits. The paper delves into creating a conceptual framework for riparian tourism, e.g. cryo-tourism. The research in this sense contributes greatly to increasing the discourse on sustainable tourism and emphasizes the urgency to incorporate tourism and conservation actions in riparian areas which are greatly impacted by the changing climate.

Touristic Value of Mostar Bridge: An Exploratory Research

The Mostar Bridge was built in 1557 by Mimar Hajruddin and continued its existence until 1993. It was destroyed by Croatian artillery fire during the Bosnian War and the stones used in its construction mixed with the Neretva River, which divides the Mostar region as a natural border. The stones of the bridge were removed from the river by Hungarian divers and reconstruction began in 1997 with the support of Turkey, France, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary. The Mostar Bridge, which was opened in 2004, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005. This study aims to reveal the touristic value of the bridge by examining the studies on the Mostar Bridge using the literature review method. Before literature review field work was conducted by the author to see the destination. After the search conducted in the Web of Science database under the title of ‘Mostar Bridge’, 92 studies were reached, and those that were double-counted and articles that were not appropriate in terms of content were removed. In the literature review conducted, it was understood that there were not enough studies on the touristic value of the Mostar Bridge considering its history. It is particularly evident that the bridge's potential for melancholy and diaspora tourism has not been utilized. The atmosphere of trust, peace and tranquility that was disrupted by the Bosnia War and the collapse of the bridge has also changed the ethnic structure of the region. While the vast majority of the Serbian population migrated after the war, Bosnians and Croats began to live in two separate areas, east and west of Mostar. While the Mostar Bridge creates a diaspora tourism potential for those who migrated and have historical ties to the region, it should also be evaluated in the context of melancholy tourism as it is the most concrete example of war and destruction. Studies to be conducted in the following period should emphasize the alternative tourism types that the bridge can serve and the tourism potential it carries.

Geology, Archaeology, and Historical Studies of the Late 16th Century Plinian Eruption of Raung Volcano: A Potential Case for Disaster Geotourism in Ijen UNESCO Global Geopark, East Java, Indonesia

The enigmatic major eruption in the late 16th century, believed to have originated from Raung, the most active stratovolcano in the Ijen UNESCO Global Geopark in East Java, Indonesia, has ignited significant debate among researchers and historians due to its profound impact on the region. This research aims to substantiate Raung as the likely source of the major eruption by integrating geological, archaeological, and historical data. This study synthesizes current findings and explores ongoing debates surrounding historical volcanic activities. Eruption parameters suggest that the late 16th century eruption exhibited a Plinian type, characterized by an explosive eruption column reaching the stratosphere, widespread pumiceous tephra fallout, and pyroclastic density current (PDC). Stratigraphic succession reveals that the eruption occurred in five phases, with deposits from 10 eruptive units. These deposits are mainly concentrated on the northwestern flank of Raung. Archaeological findings, historical records, and local legends converge to pinpoint the occurrence of this catastrophic event in the late 16th century. These diverse sources estimate that the eruption resulted in approximately 10,000 casualties, marking it as one of the most significant volcanic disasters in the past 500 years. The implications of this eruption extend beyond historical documentation, providing a critical case study for advancing disaster mitigation strategies through geotourism in the geopark area. Moreover, the eruption record outcrops identified in this study can be proposed as potential new geosites within the Ijen UNESCO Global Geopark, enhancing its educational and touristic value. We propose the Jebung Kidul, Alas Sumur, and Batu Sappar sites as potential disaster-based geosites, considering that these sites record the eruption process and preserve archaeological structures. This addition would not only commemorate the historical event but also promote awareness and preparedness for future volcanic activities in the region.

More than fossils: Paleoburrows as geoheritage and paleoenvironmental archives in the Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul UNESCO Global Geopark, Southern Brazil

The paleoburrows (paleotocas) are ichnofossils produced by the autochthonous megafauna of South America. The Caminhos dos Cânions do Sul UNESCO Global Geopark (CCSUGG), Southern Brazil, contains a large amount of these ichnofossils, which are regarded as internationally relevant. This article aims to discuss paleoburrows as geoheritage and paleoenvironmental records, using the examples present in the CCSUGG. For this purpose, bibliographic research, paleoburrows cataloguing fieldwork and mapping routine were carried out. So far, 24 paleoburrows have been compiled. Mostly found in sedimentary friable rocks, such as the Botucatu Formation sandstones, can also occur in harder, weathered lithologies in a smaller amount. Some bioerosive structures show claw scrapping and digging signs, attributed to the Pliocene-Pleistocene South American megafauna, such as the giant sloths and the giant armadillos. Despite these 24 paleoburrows, four of them are recognized as geosites of regional and international value. These ichnofossils provide geological and paleontological values, considering their builders are already extinct and their presence allows to infer paleoenvironmental changes and megamammals distributions. Besides tangible values, these burrows evoke myths and histories about indigenous people and settlers who used these burrows as shelter, representing intangible cultural heritage. Even though these values, paleoburrows face threats that endanger their conservation, like unguided visitors, water flow and block falls. Hence, there are geoeducational efforts to preserve these ichnofossils for future generations. All these processes are evident in geosites with scientific, scenic and touristic values, the paleotocas giant paleoburrows.

Understanding values in summer farm tourism

ABSTRACT This study aims to analyze the main drivers behind summer farm tourism and the elements of summer farms and the summer farm experience that create value for tourists. The study contributes to the conceptualization of summer farm food consumption. By combining concepts used in the analysis of rural tourism, such as postmodernity and cultural heritage, with the hospitality-oriented Five Aspects Meal Model, we offer a new avenue to understand the drivers behind summer farm tourism. Empirically, the study contributes by bringing a hospitality perspective into research about rural tourism, thus offering new avenues for future research. The results show that intrinsic and extrinsic values (e.g. product-specific and non-product-specific characteristics) of summer farm products, along with a welcoming atmosphere, aspects related to the cultural and biological heritage of summer farms, the scenery, and the possibility of encountering real-life animals, are appreciated elements in creating consumer and tourist value. Tourists appreciate the simple rural experience and wish to preserve the cultural heritage embedded in summer farms. Furthermore, traditional elements of hospitality are highly conditioned by postmodern and cultural heritage values.

Challenges and opportunities in geographical indication registered gastronomic products: Erzurum Rosette

Erzurum Rosette holds significant cultural value as a traditional dessert widely produced and consumed in Erzurum. Limited knowledge exists regarding the difficulties encountered by producers and the influence of Geographical Indication (GI) registration on production and marketing. This study aims to enhance the recognition of Erzurum Rosette, assess its production process to comply with the standards of the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TPTO), and explore its potential as a sustainable tourist product. A qualitative analysis was conducted on six producers of Erzurum Rosette. The information was gathered through semi-structured interviews that focused on demographic data, understanding GI, production challenges, and the influence of GI registration on sales. Responses were examined using thematic coding and statistical analysis. The study revealed that this traditional dessert production involves both male and female producers and that the producers have significant professional experience. General materials for production can be easily obtained, but obtaining the necessary special iron molds poses a significant challenge. Producers with a comprehensive understanding of GI have reported increased sales and market access after registration, but those with limited understanding have seen minimal impact. Common challenges include material supply and equipment availability, particularly regarding the procurement of iron molds. Sales and marketing strategies are generally effective, but continuous innovation is necessary for market expansion. Addressing supply chain issues and increasing awareness of GI benefits for producers are crucial for the sustainability and promotion of Erzurum Rosette. Improving support for local production and targeted training initiatives can help preserve traditional production methods and enhance the potential of Erzurum Rosette as a cultural and tourism value.

A taste of rural: Exploring the uncaptured value of tourism in Basilicata

Rural communities often struggle to adapt to societal and economic changes, but their cultural heritage can play a pivotal role in tourism development and establishing expectations for future development. Drawing upon community-based tourism theory, this study offers a fresh perspective on the untapped value in rural areas by considering the unique cultural identity and culinary heritage of Basilicata, Italy. It investigates the facilitators and inhibitors of social and economic progress as perceived by tourism vendors and tourists, examines how tourism contributes to the development of the rural web, and explores the uncaptured value between entrepreneurial activities in culinary tourism and political, governmental, and administrative measures. Aligning with the heritage areas movement, this study draws attention to the importance of preserving landscapes, local identities, and common goods. The results clarify the impact of tourism's localness on rural regions, particularly through tourism activities and local sourcing practices, and aim to inform strategies for employing tourism to develop rural areas.

THE IMPORTANCE OF URBAN RECREATION SERVICES IN CREATING A BRAND CITY

This paper aims to identify the role of activities in recreational areas in the city in creating and directing a brand city and to verify that tourist values have a significant impact on city branding. In this regard, the study was planned for people living in Turkestan or coming from outside the city and visiting recreation areas in the city, and the sample of the study was carried out with 165 visitors selected by random method. Throughout this investigation, one of the methods of data collection was used the survey method. Findings showed a positive and significant relationship between attractiveness, which are the criteria for City branding, and city’s image (r=0.629; pp<0.001). It is suggested that city’s locals and administrating authorities should take actions considering the factors of this research. From the viewpoint of diverse tourists, especially local cuisine is important in attracting tourists individually and collectively.

Features of the regional tourism product promotion of Mangystau region in the context of the “Experience Economy” development

Object: The main goal of this study is to identify the specifics of promoting the regional tourism product of the Mangystau region in the context of the influence of the “Experience Economy” on it. The hypothesis of this study is that the level of development of infrastructure and, in particular, accommodation facilities is not a determining factor in the influx of incoming tourists (non-residents). Methods: To achieve this goal, the following scientific methods were used: generalization method, structural analy sis, quantitative analysis, graphical method. Findings: It is known that the tourist product largely consists of intangible services, the use value and value of which is measured mainly by emotions, new sensations and impressions among tourists. The main source of added value in tourism, according to the concept of the “Economy of Experiences,” today is not just tourist services, but positive im pressions and feelings of consumers. In particular, certain dimensions of the experience economy are hypothesized to shape perceptions of well-being. In addition, it is assumed that the perception of well-being can lead to two managerial outcomes: brand identification and intentions to return to it, which will shape the promotion strategy of the tourism prod uct. Conclusions: In the context of growing internal and external competition in the tourism services market, on the one hand, and the increasing spread of the concept of the “Experience Economy”, its influence on the promotion of RTP, it is important to diversify promotion channels in terms of strengthening their emotional component.

Using innovation and entrepreneurship for creating edge in service firms: A review research of tourism and hospitality industry

This paper aims to inform policy and research in the domain of tourism and hospitality on the role of innovation and entrepreneurship. The paper applies the review research methodology to collate, comprehend, and synthesise 139 papers selected through a standard procedure. Our findings show that innovation drives growth and value in new tourism and hospitality firms. The study examines external factors, particularly government policies, influencing industry stakeholders’ entrepreneurial orientation and the macroeconomic environment affecting entrepreneurial activities. It also highlights the importance of social entrepreneurship in industry innovation and sustainability. This article emphasises the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in tourism and hospitality growth, value creation, and social and environmental issues.

Navigating digital transformation and business model innovation in the tourism sector: challenges opportunities, and leadership styles

PurposeTechnological advancements are reshaping the tourism industry, necessitating the adaptation of business models through digital technology utilisation for intelligent, sustainable and inclusive tourism offerings. The diverse nature of tourism businesses, encompassing size, technology access, risk aversion, labour intensity, and more, presents a spectrum of challenges and opportunities for business model innovation (BMI) and digital transformation (DT) to maintain competitiveness. This study focuses on the core aspects of DT and BMI within the tourism sector, offering pivotal insights to aid tourism companies embarking on the intricate journey of DT and BMI in this evolving landscape.Design/methodology/approachThe study conducts an extensive literature review to identify critical issues and pathways for tourism businesses pursuing DT and BMI. The review is focused on the challenges, opportunities, risks and imperatives that tourism organisations have to navigate in the current DT landscape to renew their business model.FindingsThe findings underscore the pressing need for tourism businesses to undergo a holistic DT. While digital technologies are reshaping the essence of tourism value chains, the transformation extends beyond technology adoption to encompass a profound renewal of organisational culture, competencies, structure, leadership and operational models. This paradigm shift is indispensable for crafting more innovative, sustainable and more inclusive tourism development. The paper also provides strategic recommendations and outlines future research directions to fortify the transformational journey of the tourism sector.Originality/valueThe paper provides key insights into supporting DT and BMI in tourism businesses, advancing a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities tourism organisations face in the digital age.

Streamflow Simulation for Nam Xong River Basin in Vang Vieng District, Vientiane Province

Nam Xong River is one of the tributaries of Nam Lik River, which is considered an important river that creates natural tourism value for the people in Vang Vieng District. Nam Xong Dam was another dam built to generate electricity and divert water to Nam Ngum 1 reservoir to increase hydropower generation capacity. Recently, Nam Xong River Basin (NXRB) has been affected by flooding almost every year due to changes in the amount and pattern of rainfall which is highly variable. Another issue is aggravated by the problem of ungauged basins where the number of hydrological and meteorological stations are limited and unequally distributed over the basins. This obstructs the reliability of streamflow prediction and water resources management. This study therefore aims to address the problems of ungauged basins by performing tasks that serve a main objective: application of HEC-HMS for simulating the streamflow for NXRB. The hydrological and meteorological data used in this study are daily streamflow 2 stations and rainfall 4 stations located in and around the basin. The simulation period is considered based on random flood events from 2005 to 2021. Out of these, 5 events (2005-2015) are selected for model calibration and another event of 2021 are considered for model validation. The results found that the HEC-HMS model can estimate the flow rate in accordance with the observed data, especially during the low flow period. Throughout the considered period, the average flow and total flow volume showed a downward trend. For the result of estimating the maximum flow from the model, the streamflow is lower than the observed data, and the time to peak from the model comes about 1 day later than the observed one in 2014, probably due to the distribution of rainfall in the study area with high variability. Therefore, the HEC-HMS model could be used to simulate daily streamflow in limited data areas. This study could provide recommendations for hydrological modeling for other basins that have similar characteristics to the NXRB.

Evaluation of Social Media Tools in Health Tourism Marketing with Multi Criteria Decision Making Methods

Today, countries are turning to alternative tourism types due to the destructive and corrosive effect of mass tourism. Various factors in the global market affect consumer preferences and shape their demands. This situation leads countries to seek alternative tourism types. While developed countries tend to focus more on sports tourism, the rising value of health tourism stands out for developing countries. The high costs of healthcare services in developed countries, waiting times, and the lack of many health services offered by insurance companies lead consumers to outsource their helthcare needs. Relationship marketing plays a key role in health tourism services, and consumers seek first-hand answers to their questions. The health sector's sensitive and complex structure informs and raises consumers' awareness on the axis of relational marketing dimensions. This study aims to via multi criteria decision making to determine and rank the social media channels used in health tourism marketing. While the criteria weights are determined by the Best-Worst Method, the priority order of social media channels is determined by COmbinative Distance-based ASsessment. Expert opinions were consulted during the criteria determination and the ranking of the alternatives. As a result of the analyses, the importance of social media is emphasised once again. Social media tools, especially through mobile application applications, shape the age with the audience it reaches, the distribution between regions, the time spent and the information transmitted. The need for socialisation accelerates the development of technology with the rapid orientation of people towards this field. In this case, youtube, which has gained momentum with the number of users and the use of visual and auditory elements together, holds the leadership in the reflection of relational marketing on health tourism today, as it creates space for all segments, even though information pollution is experienced.

The making of cheese in the Orkney Islands

ABSTRACT This paper explores the meanings of cheese production and consumption in the geographical branding of the Orkney Islands. Based on both traditional and innovative techniques, the making of cheese in the Orkney Islands is rooted in the historical farming role of its inhabitants but also in its strategic position in the North-Atlantic Ocean. This article explains the origins and evolution of the production of cheese on the islands and connects it to the contemporary consumption on the islands’ restaurants, that award tourism value to cheese people, places and practices.

Reflecting Experiences of Regional Academic, Tourism, and Education Specialists in Geoheritage Evaluation for Fujairah, UAE and Southeast Arabia

In Southeast Arabia (i.e. the United Arab Emirates [UAE] and Oman), geoconservation is a budding initiative, but to date, there has been limited evaluation of geoheritage sites in this region. Many geoheritage evaluation methods have been developed over the last 20 years, but the most popular methods reflect experiences from experts in Europe. The representativeness of these methods for different regional, cultural, and social contexts requires scrutiny. This study developed the first parametric method for geoheritage evaluation focused on Southeast Arabia, using Fujairah, UAE as a case study. The study applied a novel approach based on questionnaires completed by regional geoscience academics, local nature tourism professionals, and local science teachers. The preferences they expressed for scientific value, educational value, and touristic value, respectively, were used to develop the evaluation method. To test the requirements for informed decisions by tourism professionals and science teachers, the study compared results of questionnaires from two occasions: after a seminar on regional geoheritage sites, and after site visits. The resulting method deviates from previous methods in the relative weight it places on various criteria, substantiating the need to target wider regional voices in methods for geoheritage evaluation in Fujairah and Southeast Arabia. It reflects the need to consider cultural and societal differences, as well as curricular requirements for the educational value, that are not highlighted in existing evaluation methods. The applicability of the method was tested and confirmed by ranking geosites in Fujairah, and the method could be used at a regional scale in the future.

탄소저감 기술동향 분석 및 적용사례 연구 - 공원 및 숲을 중심으로

As the threat of climate change due to global warming intensifies, the world is increasingly experiencing extreme weather phenomena. Consequently, the importance of achieving carbon neutrality is expected to grow. Parks and forests play a crucial role in capturing and storing carbon, offering the most eco-friendly spaces that provide convenience and relaxation for users, as well as resilience for cities. They also serve as essential elements of carbon neutrality with their scenic and touristic value. This study focuses on these aspects, reviewing the trends in existing carbon reduction technologies and investigating carbon dioxide capture and utilization technologies that can increase the amount of carbon that parks and forests can capture. These technologies were classified according to six principles, identifying bioconversion technology as the most applicable and dry capture and mineral carbonation technologies as relatively superior. The study analyzes the current policy foundation and shortcomings for the commercialization and business application of these technologies, along with future improvements that need to be addressed. The purpose of this research is to establish a foundation for creating carbon-neutral parks and forests by identifying applicable technologies, assessing policy hurdles, and suggesting improvements, thereby enabling faster and more efficient carbon absorption and storage. According to the findings of this study, by identifying and expanding the application of technologies suitable for parks and forests and improving policies accordingly, it is expected that a more eco-friendly and efficient reduction of carbon dioxide can be achieved.

뷰티의료관광의 기대, 지각된 가치 및 행동의도: DSC (관광목적지-자아일치도)의 조절효과를 중심으로

Purpose: In-depth research has been conducted, focusing on the beauty as one of the pursuits of tourists, particularly in the context of cosmetic surgery tourism. Beauty medical tourism should provide not only excellent medical services but also tourism programs at destination where enhance effective treatment. Therefore, this research argued the significance of destination brand management by verifying that tourist’s self-congruity is related with variables such as expectation, perceived values and behavioral intention. Methods: Based on the Meaning Transfer Theory (MTT) and the Destination Self-Congruity (DSC) theory, research model was designed. A survey was conducted targeting Chinese women tourists who share a substantial portion of the South Korean beauty medical tourism market. Total 340 valid samples were collected for a month from April in 2023. Using SPSS 18.0 and Smart PLS 4.0 packages, measurement model’s reliability and validity were tested. Structure model’s model fit and path analysis were conducted. Results: The empirical analysis revealed several significant findings: Expectation of beauty medical tourism had a significant impact on perceived values (Hypothesis 1). Perceived values of medical tourism significantly influenced behavioral intention (Hypothesis 2). Beauty medical tourism DSC had significant moderating effects on perceived values, and behavioral intention, partially. (Hypothesis 3). In specific, DSC have moderating effect, leading external perceived value to behavioral intention. Conclusion: To induce potential medical tourists to visit, how to brand the beauty of DSC, or medical tourism destinations where medical services are provided, and how to match this with potential tourists self-congruity are the key to realizing beauty medical tourism.

Leisure constraints towards accessible tourism: self-characteristics of people with disability along tourism value chains

ABSTRACT Despite the intensifying legal focus on enhancing accessible infrastructure, people with disability are still often marginalized in traveling. To facilitate the advancement of accessible tourism, this research employs the self-categorization theory, incorporating the experiences of individuals with disabilities within all stages of the travel process. Following a qualitative approach, leisure constraints of people with hearing, seeing, learning, and mobility disability in traveling are examined, deriving potential pathways towards holistic accessible tourism value chains from a multidimensional disability perspective. The findings of this study show a lack of awareness among industry stakeholders regarding the needs of people with disabilities. This is indicated by inaccessibility and weak reliability of information, insufficient sensitisation of staff, or the absence of adequate feedback possibilities. Inherent to this, participants evolve structural and interpersonal constraints, particularly in the pre-travel and on-site phases. While positive travel experiences lead to an increase in the self-confidence of people with disabilities, negative examples trigger intrapersonal constraints, whereby travel plans are discarded due to a self-categorization as individuals with limited opportunities for social inclusion. Theoretical contributions as well as implications for practice are derived to address shortcomings along accessible tourism value chains.

Navigating market waves: How CEO political ideology shapes the currents of innovation-induced tourism value

The upper echelons theory postulates that the cognitive frameworks of top executives shape organizational decisions and behaviors. Based on this theory, this study contributes to the literature by analyzing the effects of the chief executive officer's (CEO) political ideology and political climate on variations in the market value of tourism firms resulting from their innovation activities. An empirical application was conducted on major U.S. hotel companies that have traded on the stock market for the last 25 years (1998–2022) and made innovation-related announcements. This application shows that, although the implementation of innovative activities positively affects a firm's market value, both the CEO's political ideology and the political climate influence the degree of change in the said market value. This study has fundamental theoretical implications for upper echelons theory by improving the understanding of how cognitive diversity derived from political ideology influences decision-making and its outcomes.