tourism research approach

Qualitative research, tourism

• Living reference work entry
• Later version available View entry history
• First Online: 01 January 2015
• Cite this living reference work entry

• Carina Ren 3  

462 Accesses

2 Citations

Qualitative research refers to inquiries applying a range of qualitative methods in order to inductively explore, interpret, and understand a given field or object under study. Qualitative research in tourism takes its inspiration primarily from the cultural and social sciences such as anthropology and sociology. Most often, the aim of this research approach is to explore and search for meaning or to develop an understanding through empirical studies, generating rich descriptions or collecting material, which may become subject to interpretation. Qualitative research seeks to avoid making generalizations, grand claims, and reductions and is often characterized by a high level of reflectivity and sensitivity to power relations and ambiguity. All of these characteristics will be elaborated further below.

The concept of qualitative research covers a range of methodologies, but is usually contrasted with and seen in opposition to quantitative and deductive research, as it attempts to...

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Institutional subscriptions

Ateljevic, I., A. Pritchard, and N. Morgan, eds. 2007 The Critical Turn in Tourism Studies: Innovative Research Methodologies. London: Elsevier.

Google Scholar  

Franklin, A., and M. Crang 2001 The Trouble with Tourism and Travel Theory? Tourist Studies 1:5-22.

Article   Google Scholar  

Jamal, T., and K. Hollinshead 2001 Tourism and the Forbidden Zone: The Underserved Power of Qualitative Inquiry. Tourism Management 22:63-82.

Jóhannesson, G., C. Ren, R. van der Duim, and A. Munk 2014 Actor-Network Theory and Tourism Research: Approaches, Implications and Future Opportunities. In Tourism Methodologies: New Perspectives, Practices and Procedures, J. Meged, B. Blichfeldt, K. Hvass and L. Hansen, eds., pp.119-137. Copenhagen: Copenhagen Business School Press.

Law, J., and J. Urry 2004 Enacting the Social. Economy and Society 33: 390–410.

Mol, A. 1999 Ontological Politics: A Word and Some Questions. The Sociological Review 47:74-89.

Phillimore, J., and L. Goodman, eds. 2004 Qualitative Research in Tourism: Ontologies, Epistemologies and Methodologies. London: Routledge.

Ren, C., A. Pritchard, and N. Morgan 2010 Constructing Tourism Research: A Critical Approach. Annals of Tourism Research 37:885-904.

Riley, R., and L. Love 2000 The State of Qualitative Tourism Research. Annals of Tourism Research 27:164-187

Tribe, J. 2005 New Tourism Research. Tourism Recreation Research 30:5-8

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Department of Culture and Global Studies, Aalborg University, 2450, Copenhagen, Denmark

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Carina Ren .

Editor information

Editors and affiliations.

School of Hospitality Leadership, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wisconsin, USA

Jafar Jafari

School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR

Honggen Xiao

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2014 Springer International Publishing Switzerland

About this entry

Cite this entry.

Ren, C. (2014). Qualitative research, tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_426-1

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_426-1

Received : 07 July 2014

Accepted : 07 July 2014

Published : 15 September 2015

Publisher Name : Springer, Cham

Online ISBN : 978-3-319-01669-6

eBook Packages : Springer Reference Business and Management Reference Module Humanities and Social Sciences Reference Module Business, Economics and Social Sciences

• Publish with us

Policies and ethics

StudySmarter Editorial Team

Team tourism research methods Teachers

• 14 minutes reading time
• Checked by StudySmarter Editorial Team
• Adventure and Niche Tourism
• Cultural Tourism
• Guest Services and Experience
• Hospitality
• Hospitality Analytics and Forecasting
• Hospitality Financial Management
• Hospitality Food and Beverage
• Hospitality Management
• Hospitality Safety and Security
• Hospitality Supply Chain
• Hospitality Sustainability and Ethics
• Hospitality Technology
• Human Relations
• Marketing and Tourism
• Marketing in Hospitality
• Safety and Security in Tourism
• Technology in Tourism
• Tourism Economics
• Tourism Education and Research
• Tourism Infrastructure
• Tourism Management
• Tourism Policy and Regulation
• Tourism Sociology
• Tourism Sustainability
• Tourism and Travel
• adventure tourism
• digital tourism
• educational tourism
• film tourism
• global tourism trends
• indigenous tourism
• literary tourism
• luxury tourism
• music tourism
• slum tourism
• sports tourism
• tourism and environment
• tourism entrepreneurship
• tourism operations
• tourism policy analysis
• tourism studies
• travel behavior analysis
• travel motivations
• wellness tourism
• Tourist Behavior
• Training and Development in Tourism

Jump to a key chapter

Tourism Research Methods Overview

Understanding tourism research methods is crucial in dissecting and comprehending various aspects of the tourism industry. It helps in gathering insights, analyzing data, and making informed decisions for tourism development .

Meaning of Tourism Research Methods

Tourism research methods refer to the various systematic procedures and techniques employed to collect and analyze data related to tourism. These methods include both qualitative and quantitative approaches and are used to explore trends, monitor changes, and evaluate strategies in the tourism sector. Common research methods in tourism include:

• Surveys : Used to collect quantitative data from a large number of respondents.
• Interviews : Provide in-depth qualitative insights from tourism stakeholders.
• Observational Studies : Involve observing tourist behaviors and interactions.
• Case Studies : In-depth analysis of a specific event or location.

Tourism Research Methods : A collection of systematic techniques and tools used to collect and analyze data pertinent to the tourism industry, aiding in understanding, planning, and managing tourism activities.

A tourism research firm may conduct a survey to gather data on tourists' satisfaction levels in a popular destination. This data can reveal trends and provide direction for improving tourist experiences.

Importance in Hospitality and Tourism

Tourism research methods play a vital role in the hospitality and tourism industry, offering benefits that include:

• Informed Decision Making : Enables stakeholders to make decisions based on solid data and insights.
• Market Trends Analysis : Helps identify and analyze evolving tourism trends .
• Enhancing Customer Satisfaction : Provides valuable feedback that can be used to improve services.
• Risk Management : Assesses potential risks and creates strategies to mitigate them.

Combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods can provide a more comprehensive understanding of tourism dynamics.

In the context of sustainable tourism, research methods can also focus on environmental impacts, cultural preservation, and socio-economic benefits. By employing longitudinal studies, you can understand the long-term effects of tourism activities on a community or ecosystem. Longitudinal studies track changes over time, which is especially useful in observing trends in tourist behavior or the impact of tourism on a destination. These studies require a commitment to follow up with subjects regularly, potentially spanning decades, offering unique insights unavailable through other research methods.

Research Methods in Hospitality and Tourism

In-depth knowledge of research methods is essential for students of hospitality and tourism to analyze market trends, assess customer satisfaction , and improve operational efficiency. This section will explore key approaches and the differences between qualitative and quantitative methods.

Key Approaches and Techniques

When studying hospitality and tourism, various research methods can be employed to address different research questions. Key approaches and techniques include:

• Surveys : Used widely in tourism research to gather quantitative data from a large audience, particularly for understanding customer preferences and behavior.
• Interviews : A qualitative method fitting for gathering comprehensive insights from experts, employees, and customers alike.
• Focus Groups : Facilitating group discussions to generate rich qualitative data on tourist experiences or new service concepts.
• Observational Studies : Involve systematically noting tourist actions and interactions to understand patterns and themes.
• Ethnographic Research : Offers detailed insight into cultural aspects that influence tourism through extensive fieldwork.

Research Method : A systematic approach encompassing various tools and techniques to gather and analyze data to address specific research objectives in hospitality and tourism.

If studying visitor engagement at a theme park, observational studies can provide data on how tourists interact with attractions and facilities. This could lead to strategic enhancements in park layout and offerings.

Interviews and focus groups offer deep qualitative insights, while surveys and questionnaires facilitate extensive quantitative data collection.

Qualitative vs Quantitative Methods

Understanding the distinction between qualitative and quantitative methods helps to choose the right approach for your research in hospitality and tourism. Each method has unique characteristics and applications:

• Qualitative Methods : Focus on exploring meanings, concepts, and experiences through methods like interviews, focus groups, and case studies.
• Quantitative Methods : Aim at testing hypotheses and identifying statistical inferences using surveys, experiments, and secondary data analysis.

The mixed-method approach has gained popularity in hospitality and tourism research, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to leverage the strengths of both. This approach can help triangulate findings, offering a robust understanding of complex research problems. For instance, qualitative data can provide context to quantitative findings, enriching the overall analysis. Conversely, quantitative data can offer statistical validation to qualitative insights. Employing a mixed-method strategy requires careful planning and proficiency in both methodological paradigms but ultimately fosters a more rounded analysis.

Contemporary Research Methods in Hospitality and Tourism

The field of hospitality and tourism is continuously evolving, requiring innovative research methods to stay abreast of changes. Incorporating advanced techniques and understanding emerging trends is vital to gaining insights and making informed decisions.

Emerging Trends in Research Methods

New trends in research methods have started to influence how data is collected and analyzed in the tourism sector. Some emerging trends include:

• Big Data Analytics : Utilizes large datasets to identify patterns and trends in tourist behavior and preferences.
• Social Media Analytics : Analyzes content from social platforms to gauge public sentiment and marketing impacts.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) : Used for immersive data collection and enhancing tourist experiences.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) : Applied for predictive analytics and customer service improvements.

Big Data Analytics : A method that involves analyzing vast datasets to uncover hidden patterns, correlations, and other insights, crucial for making informed decisions in tourism.

Suppose a hotel employs big data analytics to evaluate booking patterns during peak seasons. They discover that bookings increase by 20% when a local festival is promoted on social media. This insight helps in strategizing future promotional activities.

Emerging technologies like VR and AI are not only tools for data collection but also enhance visitor engagement and satisfaction.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in research methods has led to advancements such as personalized marketing strategies and real-time customer service automation. By employing machine learning algorithms, tourism businesses can predict tourist preferences and tailor services accordingly. This improves customer experiences, increases retention rates, and boosts profitability. The predictive capabilities of AI have transformed traditional market research approaches, offering unprecedented accuracy and customization possibilities.

Technological Advances in Data Collection

Technological advances have revolutionized data collection methods in hospitality and tourism, making them more efficient and comprehensive. Key technological advances include:

• Mobile Data Collection : Enables real-time data gathering through mobile devices, enhancing data accuracy and speed.
• Geolocation Services : Utilizes GPS technology to track and analyze tourist movements and preferences.
• Blockchain Technology : Offers secure data management solutions, ensuring data integrity and transparency.
• Internet of Things (IoT) : Connects various devices, allowing seamless data interchange and remote monitoring.

A travel agency can use mobile data collection to conduct customer surveys right after their trip ends, ensuring immediate feedback and improving service quality based on real-time data.

Integrating IoT devices helps in automating processes such as room temperature controls in hotels, directly enhancing guest comfort and satisfaction.

Blockchain technology’s potential in the tourism industry extends beyond data management. It facilitates secure transactions and can improve loyalty programs by tokenizing reward systems, thus ensuring transparent and tamper-proof reward mechanisms. Additionally, blockchain can authenticate travel documentation, safeguarding against fraud and easing border processes. Its decentralized nature helps in reducing costs and streamlining operations, providing an innovative edge in tourism management .

Cultural Tourism Research Methods

Cultural tourism research methods are essential in exploring the rich and diverse backgrounds of tourist experiences. These methods aid in understanding how cultural contexts influence tourism and can enhance the preservation and appreciation of cultural heritage.

Understanding Cultural Contexts

To comprehend cultural tourism , it's crucial to understand the significant cultural contexts involved. This involves analyzing how culture influences tourism activities, and vice versa, by employing various research methods.Key methods include:

• Ethnography : In-depth fieldwork offering insights into local customs and traditions.
• Participant Observation : Involves researchers immersing themselves in the cultural setting to experience firsthand interactions.
• Case Studies : Detailed examinations of specific cultural events or sites to understand unique cultural impacts.

Cultural Contexts : The array of beliefs, practices, traditions, and social behavior that define a particular group and influence their interactions with tourists.

An ethnographic study might involve living with rural communities to understand their festival practices. This provides authentic insights that help develop respectful and engaging cultural tourism products .

Including locals in the research process adds depth by incorporating authentic perspectives and traditional knowledge.

A major aspect of understanding cultural contexts is recognizing the intangible elements of culture, such as language, gestures, and rituals. Researching these requires sensitivity and a nuanced approach, often facilitated through ethnographic methods . These methods are interdisciplinary, drawing from anthropology, sociology, and geography, offering a comprehensive view of how cultural nuances affect tourist experiences. The insights gained can inform the development of tourism programs that honor and highlight the vibrant cultural tapestries of a destination, encouraging tourists to engage more deeply with the local context.

Innovative Approaches to Cultural Research

Recent advancements have brought innovative approaches to cultural research in tourism, broadening the scope and depth of data collection and analysis.Some innovative approaches include:

• Digital Storytelling : Uses multimedia tools to narrate cultural stories, enriching tourist experiences.
• Geotagging and GIS Mapping : Tracks and visualizes cultural landmarks and tourist routes for better accessibility and planning.
• Virtual Reality (VR) Tours : Provides virtual access to cultural sites, offering immersive pre-travel experiences.

A cultural research initiative might use VR tours to allow potential tourists to explore the architectural heritage of a city from home, increasing interest and awareness even before they visit.

Integrating technology in cultural research can expand access and engage a global audience, fostering cultural appreciation and interest.

Innovative approaches in cultural tourism research also tackle the challenge of heritage conservation by combining traditional knowledge with digital solutions. Geotagging, for example, not only helps tourists find and navigate cultural attractions but also assists in monitoring site conditions and visitor impacts in real-time. Digital storytelling platforms can archive local knowledge and cultural narratives, becoming valuable resources for future generations. Such integration of technology ensures that cultural heritage is preserved while making it more accessible and engaging for modern tourists, ultimately supporting sustainable tourism growth.

Handbook of Research Methods for Tourism and Hospitality Management

Research methods in tourism and hospitality management provide essential frameworks for analyzing trends, understanding customer behavior, and enhancing service quality. Employing the right methods helps in making data-driven decisions that contribute to industry success.

Purpose and Utilization

The primary purpose of utilizing research methods in tourism and hospitality is to achieve a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and operational effectiveness. Effective utilization of these methods allows you to:

• Identify Trends : Recognize emerging trends and consumer preferences.
• Optimize Operations : Enhance efficiency and service quality through informed decisions.
• Increase Customer Satisfaction : Tailor services to meet the specific needs and expectations of clientele.
• Risk Management : Minimize potential risks by understanding external and internal factors.

Research Method : A structured approach used to systematically collect and analyze data in order to gain insights and solve problems within the tourism and hospitality sectors.

A hotel chain might use a mixed-method approach that includes surveys and focus groups to study guest satisfaction . This data can be used to refine service delivery, resulting in improved guest experiences and increased loyalty.

Choosing the right research method depends on the objective: qualitative methods explore 'why,' while quantitative methods focus on 'how much' or 'how many.'

Utilizing research methods requires an understanding of statistical concepts and analytical frameworks. For quantitative analysis, concepts such as mean, median, and standard deviation often play a crucial role. For instance, calculating the mean (average) feedback score from customer surveys helps in understanding overall satisfaction levels. In a quantitative model, you might encounter equations such as \(\text{Mean} = \frac{\text{Sum of all feedback ratings}}{\text{Total number of feedback}}\) which provides insights into the general sentiment of the guests.

Insights from Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches

In tourism and hospitality research, both quantitative and qualitative approaches offer valuable insights. Quantitative methods focus on numerical data and statistical analysis, while qualitative methods explore in-depth understanding through interviews and observations.With quantitative research, you can apply statistical tools and models to evaluate relationships and test hypotheses, such as:

• In-depth Interviews : Provide personal insights into customer preferences.
• Focus Groups : Facilitate interactive discussions on tourism experiences.

A tourism board could use both survey data to quantify tourist influx patterns and focus group insights to explore tourists' emotional connections with local attractions.

Leveraging both types of data allows for a more thorough understanding of the research problem, addressing both 'how' and 'why' scenarios.

The integration of both quantitative and qualitative research has given rise to mixed-methods research , which provides richer data and a broader perspective on the research question. Mixed-methods allow for the validation of quantitative findings through qualitative data, ensuring a more robust analysis. For example, statistical models might highlight a correlation between certain tourism activities and peak seasons, while qualitative interviews with tourists can explore the underlying reasons for these trends. This comprehensive strategy balances the strengths and limitations of each method, offering a detailed and nuanced understanding of complex tourism phenomena.

tourism research methods - Key takeaways

• Tourism Research Methods: Systematic procedures and techniques to collect and analyze data related to tourism, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
• Types of Research Methods: Includes surveys, interviews, observational studies, and case studies, each tailored to specific research objectives in hospitality and tourism.
• Importance in Hospitality and Tourism: Facilitates informed decision-making, market trend analysis, customer satisfaction enhancement, and risk management.
• Cultural Tourism Research Methods: Employ methods like ethnography, participant observation, and case studies to explore cultural contexts and impacts.
• Contemporary Research Methods: Incorporate innovative techniques such as big data analytics, social media analytics, VR/AR, and AI to analyze trends and enhance tourist experiences.
• Handbook of Research Methods: Guides on utilizing quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze trends, understand customer behavior, and improve service quality in tourism and hospitality management .

Flashcards in tourism research methods 20

Tracking tourist movements using GPS technology.

By offering virtual travel experiences through VR.

Eliminates need for qualitative insights

Simplifies data collection process

Enhancing social media engagement.

Observational studies provide in-depth qualitative insights from tourism stakeholders.

Learn with 20 tourism research methods flashcards in the free StudySmarter app

We have 14,000 flashcards about Dynamic Landscapes.

Already have an account? Log in

Frequently Asked Questions about tourism research methods

Test your knowledge with multiple choice flashcards.

Join the StudySmarter App and learn efficiently with millions of flashcards and more!

Keep learning, you are doing great.

Discover learning materials with the free StudySmarter app

About StudySmarter

StudySmarter is a globally recognized educational technology company, offering a holistic learning platform designed for students of all ages and educational levels. Our platform provides learning support for a wide range of subjects, including STEM, Social Sciences, and Languages and also helps students to successfully master various tests and exams worldwide, such as GCSE, A Level, SAT, ACT, Abitur, and more. We offer an extensive library of learning materials, including interactive flashcards, comprehensive textbook solutions, and detailed explanations. The cutting-edge technology and tools we provide help students create their own learning materials. StudySmarter’s content is not only expert-verified but also regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Team Hospitality and Tourism Teachers

Study anywhere. Anytime.Across all devices.

Create a free account to save this explanation..

Save explanations to your personalised space and access them anytime, anywhere!

By signing up, you agree to the Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy of StudySmarter.

Sign up to highlight and take notes. It’s 100% free.

Join over 22 million students in learning with our StudySmarter App

The first learning app that truly has everything you need to ace your exams in one place

• Flashcards & Quizzes
• AI Study Assistant
• Study Planner
• Smart Note-Taking

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

• View all journals
• My Account Login
• Explore content
• About the journal
• Publish with us
• Sign up for alerts
• Open access
• Published: 19 September 2024

Assessing age-related influences on motivation and attachment in film tourism: a SHAFE approach

• Minerva Aguilar-Rivero   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6235-0928 1 ,
• José E. Ramos-Ruiz 1 ,
• Lucía Castaño-Prieto 1 &
• Alba Viana-Lora 1  

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications volume  11 , Article number:  1243 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

• Business and management
• Cultural and media studies
• Environmental studies

The shift in tourists’ motivations indicates a growing interest in seeking novel experiences. Film tourism emerges as a category capable of meeting this demand for fresh encounters. This study presents fieldwork aimed at examining the significance of cinema in tourists’ behavior, attempting to determine if there are significant differences in motivational factors and attachment to a film destination based on the age groups analyzed. To achieve this objective, a methodology based on the statistical software SPSS v24.0 is employed for both the preliminary data analysis and scale reliability assessment, as well as for discriminant analysis, using 572 valid surveys from individuals interested in film tourism. Through this discriminant analysis, various motivational dimensions are explored, alongside the impact of place attachment to a film destination. The key findings highlight an evident generational shift is conspicuously observed concerning the presented responses, with the mean assessment rating of responses significantly higher for age groups below lower years in contrast to those exceeding higher years of age. The issue under study incorporates a new dimension of significant importance, which is the need to incorporate a generational perspective on the state of the matter. The practical implications of this research are significant, empowering public authorities and private companies overseeing film destinations to devise strategies that invigorate the tourist activity zone and boost revenue for both businesses and the local community. Some of the objectives may encompass fostering innovation and facilitating initiatives aimed at augmenting investments in relevant social areas pertaining to Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments-SHAFE.

Similar content being viewed by others

Exploring the appeal of villainous characters in film-induced tourism: perceived charismatic leadership and justice sensitivity

Exploring the impact of functional, symbolic, and experiential image on approach behaviors among state-park tourists from India, Korea, and the USA

A netnographic study to understand the determinants of experiential tourism destinations

Introduction.

An increasing number of consumers seek to satisfy their needs and desires through activities and products that offer meaningful and distinct experiences, moving away from the standardized demand observed years ago (Roy and Gretzel, 2020 ; Zhang et al., 2021 ). This premise of consumption linked to experiential aspects is applicable to the realm of leisure and travel, or, in other words, to everything associated with the tourism sector. Tourism consumption has even evolved into an institutionalized culture, transitioning from a fordist and mass-oriented nature to becoming an inherently postmodern attitude towards embarking on a journey (Zhang, 2007 ). Consequently, tourists prefer to imbue symbolism and elevate their consumption, purchases, or exchange of goods to a higher level, where the experience becomes the central axis or objective in doing so (Lu and Qian, 2020 ).

Consequently, products derived from mass or popular media, such as films, series, or similar content, possess a compelling attraction factor capable of influencing individuals’ decisions to choose a particular destination (Månsson, 2010 ; Vila et al., 2021 ), giving rise to the concept of film tourism. On the other hand, in terms of tourist influx triggered by cinema, series, and similar content, they play a crucial role in enhancing the popularity of destinations and activating the specific decision of tourists to visit them (Azevedo et al., 2023 ).

The shift in paradigm intersects with social innovation, as the latter is predicated upon emerging societal paradigms, the dynamics of interrelations therein, and the evolving spectrum of needs and demands. Particularly within the domain of Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments (SHAFE), social innovation serves as a valuable conduit for furnishing pragmatic strategies aimed at enhancing the integration of novel technologies and services within social frameworks and practices (Dantas et al., 2023 ).

The literature review is quite limited regarding the relationship between motivations and attachment to a film tourism destination concerning age, making it a research gap addressed in this study. Thus, this research aims to analyze, employing a discriminant analysis, how age influence the different motivational dimensions and how it plays a key role in the construction or feeling of motivation and attachment that Spanish tourists give to destinations considered to be film destinations. For this reason, the theoretical framework is developed, where the definitions and relationships between the concepts and variables of the study are addressed, followed by the methodology used and the analysis and discussion of the results. Finally, the conclusions and future lines of research are addressed.

Theoretical framework

Film tourism.

The concept of film tourism is quite intricate, thus making it challenging to delineate, given the absence of a singular definition to demarcate this term. Likewise, cultural tourism and literary tourism stand as antecedents to the subsequent development of what would be recognized as film tourism (Rodríguez Campo et al., 2014 ; Elicher and Fraga, 2022 ). At this juncture, a distinction must be drawn between film tourism and cinema-induced tourism. Furthermore, it is imperative to underscore the diverse formats (films, series, TV programs) and mediums through which these contents are disseminated (internet, conventional media such as television). There exist highly varied ways of consuming these cinematic contents, and the enjoyment thereof can manifest in vastly different locations (Pham and Hwang, 2022 ; Nakayama, 2023 ).

Numerous definitions have been amassed by scholars in an attempt to more comprehensively articulate the concept of film tourism. In this regard, Araújo et al. ( 2021 ) ascertain that film tourism finds its genesis in the nexus between tourism and the audiovisual sector. This emergence is a consequence of cinema-induced tourism, characterized by tourists visiting destinations depicted in movies. On the other hand, Croy and Heitmann ( 2011 ) assert that the concept of film tourism encompasses manifold facets. Some of these encompass the role of cinema as a motivating factor for tourism, integrated into vacation experiences. Furthermore, the allure of cinematic nostalgia, cinematic attractions, theme parks, film tours, and even film festivals are emphasized.

Hence, it is important to highlight the affirmation provided by the Spain Film Commission ( 2023 ), an organization spearheading the advancement of Spain as a hub for audio-visual production, which verifies that cinematic tourism emanates from the unique fascination kindled among individuals who view films, series, and advertisements. This emotional connection between the audience and the filming locales is giving rise to escalating worldwide tourist influxes.

With regard to the significance of film tourism, there has been a remarkable surge in the volume of travelers, escalating from 40 million tourists in 2012 to 80 million in 2018 (TCI Research, 2018 ). Similarly, driven by the audio-visual surge witnessed in recent decades, attributed to the emergence of novel platforms and content formats, mobile-based television and video consumption has exhibited an 85% upsurge since 2010 (Ericson ConsumerLab, 2017 ). The substantial consumption of such content, while not a newfound phenomenon, has garnered substantial prominence in contemporary times, underscoring a discernible evolution within the diverse genres of the audio-visual realm (Guerrieri et al., 2005 ; Araújo et al., 2021 ).

Motivation in film tourism

Motivation is one of the fundamental concepts of human behavior (Bayih and Singh, 2020 ). This motivation is known as the driving force of a physical or psychological nature in terms of need and desire, which elicits individual behavior (Dann, 1981 ; Pearce, 1993 ) in specific moments, solidifying itself as a final decision; it is the behavior and impulse behind every action (Crompton, 1979 ; Iso-Ahola, 1982 ).

The relevance of motivation is such that motives have often been used as market segmentation criteria (Grunwell et al., 2008 ). Thus, it allows for a better fit between supply and demand, thereby improving customer satisfaction and developing more efficient and fruitful marketing strategies (Kim et al., 2006 ). Furthermore, the influence of motivation transcends the subjective perception of the experience and affects subsequent evaluation of consumption in terms of satisfaction and/or loyalty toward the product, which establishes motivations as a precursor to satisfaction (Correia et al., 2013 ).

In the case of cultural events and festivals, motivation has been a highly recurrent issue in research studies (Yolal et al., 2009 ; Yoon et al., 2010 ; Yolal et al., 2012 ; Duran and Hamarat, 2014 ; Yolal et al., 2015 ; Yolal et al., 2019 ). The diversity inherent in these types of offerings causes them to function as attraction factors for a wide range of attendees (Báez-Montenegro and Devesa-Fernández, 2014 ). There are common factors associated with the motivations of film tourists, many of which are linked to all festival attendees (Savinovic et al., 2012 ). Among the most prevalent motivations are: the desire to break away from daily routine; the pursuit of new experiences; socialization; family bonding or kinship; excitement to explore new leisure and cultural opportunities; and the particular allure of the destination, festival, or event itself (Báez-Montenegro and Devesa-Fernández, 2017 ). On the other hand, authors such as Busby and Klug ( 2001 ) suggest that tourists visiting film destinations may have diverse motivations associated with novelty, pilgrimage, or nostalgia.

Similarly, this phenomenon occurs with the locations where successful cinematic productions have been filmed. In some of these instances, it is demonstrated how audiovisual products can harmonize seamlessly with the destination’s heritage. This combination piques audience interest, motivating enthusiasts to visit the respective destination (Liu and Pratt, 2019 ). Previous research has shown that television dramas, which provide audiences with moving images, narratives, visual elements, and storylines, have a significant impact on the perceptions and mental images of a particular destination. This could heighten awareness, knowledge, and interest in these specific locales (Kim and Richardson, 2003 ). In addition, research such as that conducted by Araújo et al. ( 2021 ) has shown that individuals under the age of 35 are more inclined to travel to destinations due to their exposure to specific television series compared to older age groups. This finding is con129 sistent with the results obtained by Oviedo-García et al. ( 2016 ), who identified that younger individuals, specifically those under 25, exhibited higher scores in certain motivational aspects towards film destinations. These motivations included factors like experiences at filming locations and personal connections to the place through cinema, among others.

Based on the on the preceding information, the following hypothesis is proposed:

H1: There is a higher level of motivation to visit a film destination among younger tourists.

Attachment in film tourism

Destination attachment is the guiding thread or emotional link between a specific space and an individual (Williams et al., 1992 ). Nevertheless, research has also revealed in previous studies that attachment can occur in an interpersonal relationship—person-to-person—and does not necessarily need to be the person-object dyad (Wong and Lai, 2015 ). This explains the phenomenon of people’s attachment to celebrities (Thomson, 2006 ), whom we can define as individuals known to the general public for their accomplishments in specific areas (Silvera and Austad, 2004 ), such as entrepreneurs, actors, music stars, or politicians, depending on their field.

There are research studies in the field of tourism that propose that the construct of destination attachment comprises two dimensions: place identity and place dependence. In this context, place identity refers to the emotional ties that people develop with specific locations, forming vital connections and psychological investments that develop over time. On the other hand, place dependence is understood as the effectiveness with which the environment achieves a goal under a set of alternative options (Proshansky et al., 1983 ; Williams and Roggenbuck, 1989 ; Williams and Patterson, 1999 ; Jorgensen and Stedman, 2001 ; Stedman, 2002 ).

Thomson ( 2006 ) already indicated in one of his studies the importance of celebrities—characterized as “human brands” by the author—in consumer satisfaction, trust, and involvement levels, along with the strong emotional connection consumers reported toward these celebrities. In other words, a consumer’s attachment to a destination or brand is unlikely if the initial perception is characterized by negative thoughts or feelings.

From Thomson’s research ( 2006 ), it can be drawn certain principles: the connection between consumer and celebrity through attachment theory recognizes the basic human need to establish a close bond with specific celebrities; and the importance of consumer motivation and attachment to the celebrity is key to developing attachment to the brand or destination and consequently, loyalty. Similarly, this scenario translates to the tourism industry, specifically film tourism. Various studies have highlighted the influence of place attachment on the intentions to visit a destination, though only a few have specifically examined this in the context of cinematic destinations (Lee et al. 2012 ; Hosany et al., 2020 ; Teng and Chen, 2020 ).

In the film tourism industry, celebrities play a significant role that directly and positively influences destination choice and tourist behavior during their journey (Yen and Teng, 2013 ). Attachment to celebrities serves as a pivotal and potent axis for the destination choice process, enabling tourist destinations to offer diversity and thus, provoke the creation of personal value when tourists visit these locations. This tourist attitude would not only lead to satisfaction, loyalty, and attachment to the destination, but also materialize as a beneficial long-term relationship for the film destination and the related industry (Wong and Lai, 2015 ).

As a result of the preceding discussion, the following hypothesis is formulated:

H2: There is a stronger attachment to the film destination among younger tourists.

SHAFE and age-friendly suitability nowadays

Various sectors are interconnected, and their shared challenges encompass fields such as the technology sector, urban planning, health, citizens, and their communities (van Staalduinen et al., 2021 ). Hence, it appears fitting to address the tourism sector and specifically film tourism, given its incorporation of many of these considerations, making it a strategic sector (Gomes et al., 2024 ).

Addressing these common challenges has the potential to contribute to building smarter, healthier, and more inclusive environments for present and future generations. While this may enable society to move towards a more sustainable paradigm, encompassing cultural, social, environmental, and economic aspects (Pitakaso et al., 2024 ). Thus, smart and inclusive environments, also categorized as age-friendly environments (SHAFE), necessitate a comprehensive approach that optimizes the design of these envisioned environments (van Staalduinen et al., 2021 ).

A central concept that must be considered in this regard is that of SHAFE. This acronym corresponds to Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments. Similarly, we must highlight the existence of NET4Age-Friendly, which is a COAST action that aims to foster the establishment and application of intelligent, health-promoting environments suitable for various age groups across the lifespan, with a particular emphasis on addressing the fragmentation and significant gaps, both conceptually and practically, in tackling European research and policy challenges (NET4Age-Friendly, 2024 ). Both the SHAFE network and the COST Action NET4Age-Friendly regard this as pivotal to the network’s development and its endeavors, primarily centered on the exchange and dissemination of successful practical approaches (Dantas et al., 2023 ).

The objective of Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments (SHAFE) is to promote the development of a healthful and welcoming environment suitable for individuals of all ages through the utilization of innovative technologies in crafting an inclusive and collaborative collective declaration (Dantas et al., 2019 ). By creating such environments, a supportive setting is established for older adults to maintain independence within the community (Nedeljko et al., 2023 ).

Already it can be evidenced, by the existence of models such as those mentioned, the need and special interest regarding this issue. It must be taken into consideration that the World report on ageing and health emphasized the necessity of establishing age-friendly environments in order to promote active and healthy ageing. This is imperative due to projections by the World Health Organization indicating that the population of individuals over 60 is expected to double by 2050 (Attaianese and Perillo, 2023 ). Considering that, in recent times, SHAFE (Smart, Healthy, Age-Friendly Environments) has emerged as a proposed design strategy to address the complexities of ageing.

In the scientific literature pertaining to the topic of film tourism, there are publications regarding the evolution of this market niche over time (Friedberg, 2023 ; Peter and Mihaela, 2019 ). There are even numerous authors who discuss innovative trends within the field (Hao et al., 2024 ; Lee and How, 2022 ). However, there is still no publication with this generational focus that is so necessary and imminent to address.

Methodology

Measurement, questionnaire design and sample.

The questionnaire utilized in this study drew upon previous research (Báez-Montenegro and Devesa-Fernández, 2017 ; Teng and Chen, 2020 ; Li et al., 2021 ), with indicators adapted to the context of the current investigation. The questionnaire is properly structured into two distinct blocks: On one hand, a block of questions related to motivations, attitudes, attachment, satisfaction, or loyalty towards a film destination; and on the other hand, a second block addressing questions regarding the sociodemographic profile. Questions in the first block were formulated on a seven-point Likert scale, where 1 corresponded to “Strongly Disagree,” 4 to “Neutral,” and 7 to “Strongly Agree.” Meanwhile, questions in the second block were polytomous.

The questionnaire was administered online, and the study period extended from June 2020 to November 2022, resulting in a total of 762 completed questionnaires. At the beginning of the questionnaire, there was a screening question aimed at identifying those respondents who had actually visited a film destination before. The questionnaire was provided in both Spanish and English to reach the widest possible audience of individuals who have visited a film destination at least once. However, after a final cleansing process, a total of 572 questionnaires were deemed valid, constituting 75% of valid questionnaires from the total. The removal of 193 questionnaires aligns with the recommendation of authors like Hair et al. ( 2022 ), who advise that entries with over 15% of missing observations should be excluded from the overall dataset.

Furthermore, in order to ascertain if there are bias issues (Podsakoff et al., 2012 ), the Harman’s single-factor test was conducted, where explained variance values of over 50% on the single factor would indicate common method bias concerns (Fuller et al., 2016 ). The results obtained place the percentage of explained variance of the single factor at 44.115%, indicating that the sample is not biased.

To ensure a sufficiently significant sample size that validates the study’s ability to make inferences about the entire population, G*Power 3.1 (Green, 1991 ) was employed. In this regard, the obtained data (Fig. 1 ) indicates that a required sample size should be 312, a threshold surpassed by the present research with nearly 600 collected questionnaires.

Determining sample size relevance using G*Power.

Preliminar analysis and reliability

The following table presents the preliminary data analysis, encompassing the mean, standard deviation, and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, aiming to ascertain the normality of the utilized variables. Additionally, the Cronbach’s Alpha test will be incorporated to assess the scale’s reliability. In this context, Cronbach’s Alpha values equal to or exceeding 0.70 signify an appropriate scale reliability (Nunnally and Bernstein, 1994 ).

Regarding the sociodemographic profile, it aligns with that of a young woman (aged below 35 years in nearly two-thirds of the total sample), possessing higher education, and typically employed in the private sector or pursuing studies. The following table provides a more detailed breakdown of the sociodemographic profile.

Softwares employed

The results from Table 1 have revealed the excellent reliability of the scale, yet also indicate the non-normality of the variables employed in this study as shown by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Consequently, the use of non-parametric tests is warranted. Hence, the statistical software SPSS v24.0 will be employed for both the preliminary data analysis and scale reliability (as discussed in the preceding subsection) as well as for the discriminant analysis to be addressed in subsequent sections. In this context, the aim is to ascertain the presence of significant differences in terms of age concerning tourists’ motivations and attachment to a film destination.

One of the primary aims of this study is to underscore the paramount importance of addressing age-friendly considerations in examining disparities in motivations and attachment to a film destination. To achieve this, considering the non-parametric nature of the analyzed variables, non-parametric tests such as Kruskal-Wallis will be applied. For this purpose, age has been divided into intervals, following Sturgees’ interval rule, as shown in Table 2 . The results obtained from this discriminant analysis are presented in the following two tables.

The results presented in the previous table reveal significant differences concerning around 50% of the motivations that drive tourists to visit a film destination. The overall trend indicates significant differences within two distinct age groups: on one hand, the age group of under 25, and on the other hand, the group of over 55. In this manner, significant differences have been observed for these two age groups in motivations M2 (Experience new sensations), M8 (Share experiences), M9 (Enjoy the atmosphere), M10 (Watch different films), M16 (Entertainment), M17 (Escape from daily routine), and M18 (Networking with film industry professionals).

Furthermore, significant differences have also been noted between the age group of over 55 and the group comprising tourists aged between 46 and 55. These differences emerged in the context of motivations related to Professional reasons (M13) and when it pertains to networking with film industry professionals (M18).

Lastly, differences have been observed between the age group of over 55 and the age groups ranging from 25 to 35 (M16: Entertainment; M17: Escape from daily routine) and between 36 and 45 (M15: Rest and relaxation; M17: Escape from daily routine). In all the aforementioned cases, the age group of 55 or older displayed lower scores in the comparisons made between age groups. The following figure displays the scores per motivational indicator and age group Fig. 2 .

Notes: (1) Less than 25 years old; (2) 25–35 years old; (3) 36–45 years old; (4) 46–55 years old; (5) More than 55 years old.

Regarding film destination attachment, significant differences have also been observed across age groups. The results align with those obtained in Tables 3 , 4 . Once again, the most notable differences have emerged between the age groups of under 25 and over 55. These differences have manifested in four out of the seven film destination attachment indicators: FDA1 (This destination means a lot to me), FDA2 (I am very attached to this destination), FDA3 (I strongly identify with this destination), and FDA4 (This destination is a very special place to me). The observed differences indicate a higher valuation of these indicators among the age group under 25 compared to those over 55.

No significant differences have been identified for any age group in the film destination attachment indicators FDA5, FDA6, and FDA7. The following figure displays the scores per film destination attachment indicator and age group Fig. 3 .

The results presented above clearly indicate a generational shift in the responses provided, with younger age groups consistently exhibiting higher average ratings for their responses compared to those aged over 55.

Another noteworthy aspect from the data shown in previous tables and figures pertains to the significant differences observed between the age groups of 46 to 55 and over 55 compared to the age group under 25 in terms of motivations. These motivations were primarily related to professional aspects, such as professional reasons or making professional contacts within the film industry.

In all cases, it is evident that the age group over 55 displays a lower motivational predisposition towards reasons focused on enjoyment, leisure, or experiential matters. In contrast, the younger age groups, between 25 and 35, and 36 to 45, exhibit greater proactivity, interest, and motivation towards these types of considerations.

This offers insight into the fact that the search for new experiences, new products, environments, and entertainment in general, characterized by dynamism, proactive and energetic attitudes, corresponds to the younger age strata. The insatiable need for exploration, movement, and discovery seems to be a fundamental part of the motivations of younger individuals. This is consistent with findings from previous studies by Oviedo-García et al. ( 2016 ) and Araújo et al. ( 2021 ), where a higher appreciation of motivational dimensions related to visiting film destinations was observed among younger age groups. The results obtained in this regard provide support for these prior studies.

Caber et al. ( 2020 ) revealed the importance of younger tourists and their heightened consideration of perceived value, focusing on the overall tourism experience, which consequently impacted their overall satisfaction and behavioral intentions. Thus, it can be deduced that motivation (both internal and external factors) consistently precedes the general satisfaction of tourists (Lee et al., 2013 ), potentially establishing a connection with H1.

Báez-Montenegro and Devesa-Fernández ( 2017 ) found a positive and significant relationship between motivation and satisfaction in the case of film tourism, through case studies linked to the celebration of film festivals. Satisfaction is positioned as a precursor to loyalty, especially in the case of motivation for cinema (Báez-Montenegro and Devesa-Fernández, 2017 ).

Conversely, it could be argued that the motivations of older age groups are significantly different. The greater maturity, life experience, and accumulated wisdom that come with age might play a decisive role in the primary motivation for engaging with film tourism. In many cases, these cinematic journeys or motivations could indeed be linked to professional pursuits.

Smart technologies are a pivotal component of a smart city, offering the potential to bolster the independence, autonomy, and well-being of older individuals (Li and Woolrych, 2021 ). This is directly linked to the consideration of a new paradigm of inclusive city that takes into account technology as a key tool, as well as the way we communicate and enjoy our leisure time.

Regarding attachment to the film destination and age, the results obtained indicate that a younger age of the tourist generates a greater sense of affection towards a film destination than those of older ages.

Furthermore, it must be considered not only motivations but also generational needs, taking into account the new reality we are facing. The population is increasingly aging, the population pyramid is reversing, and quality of life and life expectancy are higher. Thus, establishing high-quality cultural sites and activities can help solidify tourist flows and contribute to the creation of age-friendly spaces.

Conclusions, limitations, and future lines of research

In conclusion, based on the presented study, the data reveal a significant amount of essential information in terms of motivational segmentation according to the age of film tourists. These results might respond to a broader issue that is not solely about what tourists of a certain age currently demand, but is rooted in generational differences.

Currently, the way we conceive life, enjoyment, and leisure differs significantly from how it was decades ago. People increasingly have a conception of enjoying life, prioritizing leisure time over excessive work, and seeking new experiences to enrich their dynamic lives. This aspect may have been quite different in the past, as leisure, travel, and tourism were not considered necessities in the same way. It’s possible that many of those over 55, when they were much younger, did not have the same mobility options, leisure opportunities, and entertainment choices. Thus, a culture of work dedication and indifference towards leisure might have shaped their personal expectations, attachments, and motivations towards leisure activities.

One of the limitations of this study is the fact that a significant number of surveys (193 in total) were not validated, accounting for 25% of the total. This omission is due to the presence of unanswered or blank entries throughout the questionnaire.

A future research direction could involve expanding the study to gather a larger number of valid questionnaires in order to establish a more robust discussion considering the studied dimensions. A more comprehensive and enriched structural model could yield more insightful and conclusive findings. Investigating the broader issue in terms of motivational aspects is crucial, not only because tourism often stands as a major contributor to revenue and economic prosperity but also due to the paradigm shift, changing needs, and alternatives being presented.

Furthermore, another consideration to make in this regard is that this population, which is increasingly living longer, will rotate generationally, and evidently there will be a moment when the adult population stratum reaches that maturity. Even in 10 years, those tourists who reach the age of 55 will be even more familiar with this content consumption, as technological immersion generates, and will generate, significant changes in our consumption patterns, leisure, and life.

The smart and age-friendly community approach encounters challenges in implementation, particularly among the elderly segments. Achieving healthy aging, social inclusion, and active participation can be accomplished by better coordinating ICT with the built and social environment, resulting in Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments. All of this entails considering how cities are shaped, the way individuals interact, and how they enjoy their leisure time. Tourism is part of our daily lives, not only as an economic driver but also as a social key to recreation. Motivated by technology, new forms of communication, and current content consumption trends, film tourism comes into play as a novel and essential element to consider in this scenario.

Similarly, societal population pyramids are evolving, as life expectancy continues to rise, older individuals possess greater economic capacity, and enjoy better health. This combination provides them with time, financial resources, and health to enjoy leisure and life. This presents an intriguing topic to explore, not only in terms of social benefits and population satisfaction but also in terms of decision-making power, economic wealth, and the future of the industries encompassing these sectors.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. The data from this study cannot be shared due to ethical considerations related to participant consent. The participants were informed and agreed that their data would only be used for this specific research project and would not be shared with external parties. Sharing the data without their explicit consent would breach the ethical guidelines under which the study was conducted. Therefore, we are unable to provide the data in a supplementary file or through an open repository. This decision respects the confidentiality and trust established with our participants.

Araújo N, Fraiz J, de Carlos, De Carlos P (2021) Film tourism in Spain: destination awareness and visit motivation as determinants to visit places seen in TV series. Eur Res Manag Bus Econ 27(1):100135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iedeen.2020.100135

Article   Google Scholar  

Attaianese E, Perillo M (2023) Environmental design for SHAFE approach. E3S Web Conf 436. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202343612005

Azevedo A, Araújo J, Rodrigues R (2023) The (negative) impact of violent and gore TV crime series on destination image and travel motivation. J Destin Mark Manag 28:56–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdmm.2023.100782

Báez-Montenegro A, Devesa-Fernández M (2014) Segmenting and profiling attendees of a film festival. Int J Event Festiv Manag 5(2):96–115. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEFM-08-2013-0021

Báez-Montenegro A, Devesa-Fernández M (2017) Motivation, satisfaction and loyalty in the case of a film festival: differences between local and non-local participants. J Cult Econ 41:173–195. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10824-017-9292-2

Bayih BE, Singh A (2020) Modeling domestic tourism: motivations, satisfaction and tourist behavioral intentions. Heliyon 6(9):42–59. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04839

Busby G, Klug J (2001) Movie-induced tourism: the challenge of measurement and other issues. J Vacat Mark 7(4):316–332

Caber M, Albayrak T, y, Crawford D (2020) Perceived value and its impact on travel outcomes in youth tourism. J Outdoor Recreat Tour 31:103–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jort.2020.100327

Correia A, Kozak M, Ferradeira J (2013) From tourist motivations to tourist satisfaction. Int J Cult Hosp Res 7(4):411–424

Crompton J (1979) Motivations for pleasure vacation. Ann Tour Res 6:408–424. https://doi.org/10.1016/0160-7383(79)90004-5

Croy CW, Heitmann S (2011). Tourism and film. En Robinson, P, Heitmann, S & Dieke, P (Eds), Research themes for tourism. Cambridge, MA: CAB International

Dann GMS (1981) Tourism motivation: an appraisal. Ann Tour Res 24(2):425–439. https://doi.org/10.1016/0160-7383(81)90082-7

Dantas C, Louceiro J, Vieira J, Staalduinen W, Zanutto O, Mackiewiz K (2023) SHAFE mapping on social innovation ecosystems. Int J Environ Res Public Health 20:118. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010118

Dantas C, van Staalduinen W, Jegundo A, Ganzarain J, Van der Mark M, Rodrigues F, De Luca V (2019) Smart healthy age-friendly environments—policy recommendations of the thematic network shafe. Transl Med Unisa 19:103–108

CAS   PubMed   PubMed Central   Google Scholar  

Duran E, Hamarat B (2014) Festival attendees’ motivations: the case of International Troia Festival. Int J Event Festiv Manag 5(2):146–163. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEFM-07-2012-0020

Elicher MJ, Fraga C (2022) Literary cinematic tourism: new clues of the brazilian literature influences on film tourism development in Brazil. Pasos Rev Turismo Patrim Cult 20:1011–1022. https://doi.org/10.25145/j.pasos.2022.20.067

Ericson ConsumerLab (2017) Tv and media 2017. A consumer-driven future of media. An ericsson consumer and industry insight report October 2017. Available at. https://www.ericsson.com/assets/local/careers/media/Ericsson_consumerlabtvmediareport.pdf

Friedberg A (2023) Window shopping: cinema and the postmodern . University of California Press

Fuller CM, Simmering MJ, Atinc G, Atinc Y, Babin BJ (2016) Common methods variance detection in business research. J Bus Res 69(8):3192–3198

Gomes S, Lopes JM, Ferreira L (2024) Looking at the tourism industry through the lenses of industry 4.0: a bibliometric review of concerns and challenges. J Hosp Tour Insights 7(1):436–457. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHTI-10-2022-0479

Green SB (1991) How many subjects does it take to do a regression analysis? Multivar Behav Res 26:499–510. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327906mbr2603_7

Article   CAS   Google Scholar  

Grunwell SS, Ha IS, Martin BS (2008) A comparative analysis of attendee profiles at two urban festivals. J Conv Event Tour 9(1):1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/15470140802104516

Guerrieri P, Iapadre L, & Koopmann G (Eds) (2005) Cultural diversity and international economic integration: the global governance of the audio-visual sector. Edward Elgar Publishing

Hair JF Jr, Hult GTM, Ringle CM, & Sarstedt M (2022) A primer on partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) (3rd ed). SAGE Publications Inc

Hao X, Jiang E, Chen Y (2024) The sign Avatar and tourists’ practice at Pandora: a semiological perspective on a film related destination. Tour Manag , 101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2023.104856

Hosany S, Buzova D, Sanz-Blas S (2020) The influence of Place Attachment, ad- evoked positive affect, and motivation on intention to visit: a imagination proclivity as a moderator. J Travel Res 59(3):477–495. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287519830789

Iso-Ahola SE (1982) Towards a social psychological theory of tourism motivation: a rejoinder. Ann Tour Res 9(2):256–262. https://doi.org/10.1016/0160-7383(82)90049-4

Jorgensen BS, Stedman RC (2001) Sense of place as an attitude: lakeshore owners attitudes towards their properties. J Environ Psychol 21(3):233–248. https://doi.org/10.1006/jevp.2001.0226

Kim H, Richardson SL (2003) Motion picture impacts on destination images. Ann Tour Res 30(1):216–237. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0160-7383(02)00062-2

Kim H, Borges MC, Chon J (2006) Impacts of environmental values on tourism motivation: the case of FICA. Brazil. Tour Manag 27(5):957–967. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2005.09.007

Lee CG, How SM (2022) Hallyu tourism: impacts on inbound tourists to South Korea. Curr Issues Tour 25(9):1361–1367. https://doi.org/10.1080/13683500.2021.1924637

Lee J, Kyle G, Scott AD (2012) The mediating role of place attachment on the relationship between festival satisfaction and loyalty to the festival hosting destination. J Travel Res 51(6):754–767. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287512437859

Lee TH, y, Hsu FY (2013) Examining how attending motivation and satisfaction affects the loyalty for attendees at aboriginal festivals. Int J Tour Res 15(1):18–34. https://doi.org/10.1002/jtr.867

Li ML, Woolrych R (2021) Experiences of older people and social inclusion in relation to smart “age-friendly” cities: a case study of Chongqing, China. Front Public Health, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.779913

Li S, Tian W, Lundberg C, Gkritzali A, Sundström M (2021) Two tales of one city: fantasy proneness, authenticity, and loyalty of on-screen tourism destinations. J Travel Res 60(8):1802–1820. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287520961179

Liu X, Pratt S (2019) The downton abbey effect in film-induced tourism: an empirical examination of TV drama-induced tourism motivation at heritage attractions. Tour Anal 24(4):497–515. https://doi.org/10.3727/108354219X15652651367505

Lu Y, Qian J (2020) Towards a material approach in rural geography: architectural experiments in China’s rural renaissance and reconstruction movements. Geoforum 116:119–129. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2020.08.006

Månsson M (2010) Negotiating authenticity at Rosslyn Chapel. In B TimmKnudsen & AM Waade (Eds), Reinvesting authenticity (pp 169–180). Bristol: Channel View Publications

Nakayama C (2023) Destination marketing through film-induced tourism: a case study of Otaru, Japan. J Hosp Tour Insights 6(2):966–980. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHTI-02-2022-0047

Nedeljko M, Bogataj D, Perović BT, Kaučič BM (2023) Smart and age-friendly communities: a review of research, policy and literature. IFAC-PapersOnLine 56(2):9546–9551. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifacol.2023.10.255

NET4Age-Friendly (2024) What is NET4Age? https://www.net4age.eu/

Nunnally JC, Bernstein IH (1994) The assessment of reliability. Psychom Theory 3:248–292

Google Scholar  

Oviedo-García MÁ, Castellanos-Verdugo M, Trujillo-García MA, Mallya T (2016) Film-induced tourist motivations. the case of Seville (Spain). Curr Issues Tour 19(7):713–733

Pearce P (1993) Fundamentals of tourist motivation. In D Pearce & R Butler (Eds), Tourism research: Critiques and challenges (pp 113–134). London: Routledge

Peter B, Mihaela G (2019) Film tourism through the ages: from Lumière to virtual reality . Chanel View Publications

Pham D, Hwang YH (2022) Halo effects of a country in film-induced tourism: a case study of the Ha Long Bay, Vietnam in ‘Kong: skull Island. J Destin Mark Manag 25:143–158. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdmm.2022.100722

Pitakaso R, Srichok T, Khonjun S, Gonwirat S, Nanthasamroeng N, Boonmee C (2024) Multi-objective sustainability tourist trip design: an innovative approach for balancing tourists’ preferences with key sustainability considerations. J Clean Prod 449:141–153. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.141486

Podsakoff PM, MacKenzie SB, Podsakoff NP (2012) Sources of method bias in social science research and recommendations on how to control it. Annu Rev Psychol 63:539–569. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-120710-100452

Article   PubMed   Google Scholar  

Proshansky H, Fabian A, Kaminoff R (1983) Place-identity: physical world socialization of the self. J. Environ Psychol 3(1):57–83. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0272-4944(83)80021-8

Rodríguez Campo L, Fraiz Brea JA, Alén González E (2014) El turismo cinematográfico como tipología emergente del turismo cultural. Pasos Rev Turismo Patrim Cult 12(1):159–171. https://doi.org/10.25145/j.pasos.2014.12.012

Roy N, Gretzel U (2020) Feeling opulent: adding an affective dimension to symbolic consumption of themes. Tour Geogr , 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/14616688.2020.1867885

Savinovic A, Kim S, Long PE (2012) Satisfaction and intention to re-visit an ethnic minority cultural festival. J Travel Tour Mark 29(7):682–694. https://doi.org/10.1080/10548408.2012.720154

Silvera DH, Austad B (2004) Factors predicting the effectiveness of celebrity endorsement advertisements. Eur J Mark 38(11/12):1509–1526. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090560410560218

Spain Film Commission (2023) Film and tourism http://www.shootinginspain.info/en/home

Stedman RC (2002) Toward a social psychology of place: predicting behavior from place-based cognitions, attitude, and identity. Environ Behav 34(5):561–581. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916502034005001

TCI Research (2018) 80 Million international travellers . http://xl4z.mj

Teng HY, Chen CY (2020) Enhancing celebrity fan-destination relationship in film-induced tourism: the effect of authenticity. Tour Manag Perspect 33:100605. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2019.100605

Thomson M (2006) Human brands: investigating antecedents to consumers’ strong attachments to celebrities. J Mark 70(3):104–119. https://doi.org/10.1509/jmkg.70.3.104

van Staalduinen W, Dantas C, van Hoof J, Klimczuk A (2021) Building smart healthy inclusive environments for all ages with citizens. In: Pires IM, Spinsante S, Zdravevski E, Lameski P (eds) Smart objects and technologies for social good. GOODTECHS 2021. Lecture Notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering, vol 401. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-91421-9_19

Vila NA, Brea JAF, de Carlos P (2021) Film tourism in Spain: destination awareness and visit motivation as determinants to visit places seen in TV series. Eur Res Manag Bus Econ 27(1):100135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iedeen.2020.100135

Williams DR, Roggenbuck JW (1989) Measuring place attachment: some preliminary results. Paper presented at the symposium on outdoor recreation planning and management, NRPA Symposium on Leisure Research. San Antonio, TX, 22–27 October

Williams DR, Patterson ME, Roggenbuck JW (1992) Beyond the commodity metaphor: examining emotional and symbolic attachment to place. Leis Sci 14(1):29–46. https://doi.org/10.1080/01490409209513155

Williams DR, & Patterson ME (1999) Environmental psychology: mapping landscape meanings for ecosystem management. In Cordell HK, Bergstrom JC (eds). Integrating social sciences and ecosystem management: human dimensions in assessment, policy and management . Sagamore: Champaign, IL; 141–160

Wong JY, Lai TC (2015) Celebrity attachment and behavioral intentions: the mediating role of place attachment. Int J Tour Res 17(2):161–170. https://doi.org/10.1002/jtr.1974

Yen CH, Teng HY (2013) Celebrity involvement, perceived value, and behavioral intentions in popular media-induced tourism. J. Hosp Tour Res 39(2):112–123. https://doi.org/10.1177/1096348012471382

Yolal M, Çetinel F, Uysal M (2009) An examination of festival motivation and perceived benefits relationship: Eskişehir International Festival. J Conv Event Tour 10(4):276–291. https://doi.org/10.1080/15470140903372020

Yolal M, Özdemir C, Batmaz B (2019) Multidimensional scaling of spectators’ motivations to attend a film festival. J Conv Event Tour 20(1):64–83. https://doi.org/10.1080/15470148.2018.1563012

Yolal M, Rus RV, Cosma S, Gursoy D (2015) A pilot study on spectators’ motivations and their socio-economic perceptions of a film festival. J Conv Event Tour 16(3):253–271. https://doi.org/10.1080/15470148.2015.1043610

Yolal M, Woo E, Cetinel F, Uysal M (2012) Comparative research of motivations across different festival products. Int J Event Festiv Manag 3(1):66–80. https://doi.org/10.1108/17582951211210942

Yoon Y-S, Lee J-S, Lee C-K (2010) Measuring festival quality and value affecting visitors’ satisfaction and loyalty using a structural approach. Int J Hosp Manag 29(2):335–342. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhm.2009.10.002

Zhang CG (2007) Heritage tourism and its globalization—a ritzerian analysis. J Guangxi Univ. Nationalities (Philos Soc Sci Ed) 29(6):31–36

CAS   Google Scholar  

Zhang Z, Liang Z, Bao J (2021) From theme park to cultural tourism town: disneyization turning of tourism space in China. Reg Sustain 2:156–163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.regsus.2021.05.003

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain

Minerva Aguilar-Rivero, José E. Ramos-Ruiz, Lucía Castaño-Prieto & Alba Viana-Lora

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Contributions

Conceptualization, A-R and V-L; methodology, A-R and R-R.; validation, C-P; writing—original draft preparation, A-R and C-P; writing—review and editing, A-R, R-R and V-L. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Minerva Aguilar-Rivero .

Ethics declarations

Competing interests.

The authors declare no competing interests.

Ethical approval

The author(s) confirm that all research was performed in accordance with relevant guidelines/regulations.

Informed consent

Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.

Additional information

Publisher’s note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, which permits any non-commercial use, sharing, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if you modified the licensed material. You do not have permission under this licence to share adapted material derived from this article or parts of it. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ .

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article.

Aguilar-Rivero, M., Ramos-Ruiz, J.E., Castaño-Prieto, L. et al. Assessing age-related influences on motivation and attachment in film tourism: a SHAFE approach. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 11 , 1243 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03738-3

Download citation

Received : 27 February 2024

Accepted : 05 September 2024

Published : 19 September 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03738-3

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

Quick links

• Explore articles by subject
• Guide to authors
• Editorial policies