William C. Gartner

Tourism Image: Attribute Measurement of State Tourism Products Using Multidimensional Scaling Techniques

State tourism image is a complex combination of various products and associated attributes . Attribute identification, along with state tourism product position, was inves tigated using multidimensional scaling analysis (MDS). Two-dimensional analysis on image data collected for the states of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah revealed salient attributes together with state touristic product images. The MDS procedure allowed for subjective interpretation of data, resulting in marketing implications for redirecting state image and modifying promotional campaigns. It was suggested that MDS analysis provides for alternative assessments of state tourism image, but before product reposition ing efforts are undertaken , individuals possessing intimate familiarity with the destination area be consulted for assistance in data interpretation.

Conceptualization and Operationalization of Destination Image

The destination image has received much attention for about three decades. Studies of various aspects of destination images increased in volume during the 1990s. Echtner and Ritchies (1991) review of destination image literature resulted in several suggestions in terms of both the conceptualization and operationalization of destination image. This study looks at the evolutionary nature of tourism destination image studies from both theoretical and operational perspectives. Necessary adjustments in the methodological rigor and the focus of inquiry for destination image research are offered using Echtner and Ritchies review as a guide. A review of literature about destination image and other pertinent concepts indicated that several of Echtner and Ritchies recommendations have been followed, whereas others have not. Also, several other important conceptualization- and methodology-related issues identified in the destination image literature are addressed.

The Impact of Tiananmen Square on China's Tourism Image

The Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has yet to recover from a dramatic drop in tourism due to the Tiananmen Square conflict. Occupancy levels remain lower than those existing before the conflict. Although the drop in tourism can be quantified, it was not known if there was a corresponding drop in the touristic image of the country. A study assessing the image of the country held by the mature market in the United States was completed one day before the Tiananmen Square conflict. In an attempt to assess image change due to Tiananmen Square, the initial study was repeated one year after the conflict using a similar sample population. Images of tourism attractions and services were compared between groups using Anova procedures. Touristic images of the country, for the most part, had declined; however, not all image components changed equally. Some evidence suggests that the image changes for touristic services may mean more to future travel to the PRC than the image changes noted for attractions.

Temporal influences on image change

Abstract Hunt (1971) defines state image as the impressions that a person or persons hold about a state in which they do not reside. But image is more complex than a single perception, for Brand identification as well as peoples perceptions of attributes of various activities or attractions within an area will interact to form a composite state image. Research into such images is a basis for product positioning of a states various attractions or activities against other regions. The effects of temporal influences on image change may have consequences for product positioning. Within the limits of this research design, very little image change was seen to result from short-term seasonal differences. However, the minor changes noted were in the hypothesized direction, leading to the conclusion that further research should be conducted on image change as a result of temporal influences.

Trends in outdoor recreation, leisure and tourism

Big picture society resources participation evaluation and valuation development management and operations education and training implications for management, public policies, marketing and planning.

Preferences and trip expenditures—a conjoint analysis of visitors to Seoul, Korea

Abstract This study analyzed the preferences of international urban travelers by focusing on European, North American, and Japanese travelers to Seoul, Korea, and attempted to identify the relationship between preferences and expenditures for the attributes or activities. The results indicated that, for both pleasure and business trips, the travelers from the near origin (Japan) tended to give most consideration to the ‘tangible’ attribute (shopping), while the travelers from the distant origins (Europe and North America) evaluated the ‘intangible’ attribute (local culture) as most valuable. Regardless of origin, business travelers spent significantly more than pleasure travelers in total trip expenditure. Preference for a specific activity does not seem to directly correlate with expenditure on the activity. The results provide useful implications for cities in developing a marketing plan for international travelers. Recommendations for future research are also suggested.

Tourism Destination Brand Equity Dimensions Renewal versus Repeat Market

This article investigates the concept of customer-based brand equity for a tourism destination, which has been introduced into the tourism literature only a few years ago. Specifically, it investigates whether differences between renewal and repeat tourists exist in their evaluation of a tourism destination. A theoretically proposed model, encompassing the dimensions of awareness, image, quality, and loyalty, was empirically verified for the European tourism destination Slovenia from the perspective of German tourists. The results imply that the dimensions of image and quality play the most important role in tourists’ evaluation of a destination, regardless of whether they are first-time visitors or repeaters. Results also reveal differences in importance for the dimensions of awareness and loyalty between renewal and repeat tourists. Drawing on the results, the article offers some implications for tourism organizations in developing and implementing destination marketing strategies in foreign markets.

Environmental impacts of recreational home developments

Abstract The growth of recreational home developments in many areas can be directly traced to tourism. Attractive areas with recreational amenities and inexpensive land become prime locations for new home developments. Many times these locations are in environmentally sensitive areas. The literature has assessed seasonal or second homes and the impact they have on the environment, but little investigation has been conducted for other segments associated with home development. In this study, permanent homeowners, seasonal homeowners, and recreational lot owners in Michigan were surveyed. Information on location preferences, reasons for property purchase, frequency of visitation, attitudes and knowledge concerning future development, and land use controls were analyzed. Results indicated the property owner segments had many differences, which helped explain why environmental impacts occured and the potential for future impacts remains high.

Mexican‐American/Anglo cultural differences as recreation style determinants

Abstract The fastest growing minority group in the United States is Hispanic, with the majority of this group made up of Mexican‐Americans. Researchers question whether this group forms a distinct subculture in American society and if present recreation facility design provides opportunities for the reinforcement of cultural values. Mexican‐American and Anglo campers using a minimally developed U.S. Forest Service managed campground in New Mexico were surveyed during the summer of 1985. Significant differences were noted between the groups. In particular, larger party sizes were noted for Mexican‐American campers than for the Anglo groups. Mexican Americans also indicated a preference for nearness to other campers, placed a higher priority on tangible campground design features, and intended to use more highly developed campgrounds and decrease use of dispersed or roadless area campgrounds in the future. Noted differences were believed related more to cultural identity than either socioeconomic or social ...

Economic impact of an annual tourism industry exposition.

Abstract This study was undertaken to estimate the economic impact on a specific region resulting from a nine-day tourism industry exposition. Over 80,000 people paid to attend the 1980 Greater Michigan Boat and Fishing Show which displayed equipment by 165 exhibitors. Detailed direct expenditure information was obtained from patrons and exhibitors. Multiplier analysis was employed to estimate total economic impact. Patrons were estimated to have a total economic impact on metropolitan Detroit of over