Theses and Dissertations (Tourism Management)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/31926

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 52

Visa requirements and destination choice : integrating the theory of planned behaviour and the stimulus-organism-response model
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Douglas, Anneli; juma.chisava@gmail.com; Juma, Chisava
When tourists select an international destination to visit, the ease of obtaining a visa is seen as an important consideration. However, when the visa application process is perceived as burdensome and emotionally stressful, it can discourage tourists from participating in international tourism. Research to date has paid little attention to the relationship between visa requirements and destination choice. Another aspect that is overlooked in the literature is the influence of the visa application process on a tourist’s emotions, as well as whether the emotional responses that were triggered as a result of the visa application process influence the tourist’s intention to visit their destination of choice. Using the theory of planned behaviour and the stimulus-organism-response model, the study aimed to understand the relationships between visa requirements expectations, the emotions that were triggered as a result of the visa application process, and a tourist’s intention to visit their destination of choice. A mixed-methods sequential exploratory design was used to collect data from South Africans by means of focus groups and online self-administered questionnaires. The findings from the focus groups were used to develop and confirm some of the scales in the online questionnaire. Two additional visa requirements, not mentioned in the literature were identified. Nineteen participants took part in the focus groups, and 444 questionnaires were used in the quantitative data analysis. Structural equation modelling was used as the quantitative data analysis technique, revealing a number of significant relationships. The results differed slightly between those respondents who had applied for visas before and those who had not. For the group that had applied for visas before, certain visa requirements expectations played a moderating role in the relationship between a tourist’s perceived behavioural control towards a destination and their intention to visit a destination. For the group that had not applied for a visa before, emotions that were triggered as a result of the visa application process played a more pronounced role than for the group that had applied for a visa before. More specifically, there was a relationship between a respondent’s level of excitement and enthusiasm that was triggered as a result of the visa application process and their intention to visit a destination of choice. For this group, emotions also played a mediating role between the visa requirements expectations and the intention to visit a destination of choice. This study makes a valuable contribution by integrating the TPB and the S-O-R model to understand the influence of visa requirements on destination choice. The results should be useful in convincing policymakers to formulate less restrictive visa policies that would encourage tourists to visit their respective countries.
Modelling the destination preferences and travel motivations of tourists in an emerging market context
(University of Pretoria, 2022-06) Du Preez, Elizabeth; jstruwig@hsrc.ac.za; Struwig, Jare
The decision to travel is a complex occurrence involving a variety of multidimensional elements, considerations and decisions. It typically comprises travel motives (push factors) and negotiating destination choices (pull factors), which are influenced by circumstantial and contextual factors. Although a vast array of research has been done on the topic of travel motivation, very little research has been done to determine influences on these choices, as well as the role of barriers in selecting destinations. Most of the research on this topic has focused on plotting tourism movements and preferences, but very little research done to understand the drivers behind such behaviours and how choices are influenced. This thesis contributes to the body of knowledge on this topic. The existing body of literature predominantly comprises of research on the experienced traveller, whilst often neglecting the emergent traveller. Due to historical social injustices and existing inequalities, emergent travellers face more travel barriers (structural and symbolic). In response to this conceptual and knowledge gap, this thesis focuses on the emergent traveller and factors that impact choices, considering different contextual factors and barriers. This is important if regenerative and sustained tourism growth is to be achieved. This study seeks to better understand how those who have typically been marginalised by, or excluded from tourism, can be brought into the tourism industry. It promulgates adoption of a more inclusive tourism growth framework and investigates how some of the Westernised theories of tourism participation could meaningfully be adapted, amended or confirmed. Successful marketing and growth strategies are based on identifying and appropriately targeting homogenous groups from more heterogeneous populations. This study attempts to understand destination choices among emergent travellers better and will assist in segmenting emergent travellers which will assist enterprises in designing relevant marketing strategies suitable to discrete groups of tourists, including emergent travellers. The thesis is set within South Africa which offers a unique opportunity to advance the theoretical and empirical understanding of the dynamics and predictors of destination/activity preferences of adults in an emerging market with ongoing high levels of material inequality and a history of legislative discrimination (in the case of South Africa toward a majority population). The context allows for research to determine the impact of barriers such as racial prejudice on travel preferences. South Africa is therefore considered ideal since it provides the opportunity to (a) explore destination choices among people that have experienced discriminatory practices; (b) provides a large contingent of emergent travellers, and (c) provides an opportunity to determine travel preferences for disparate socioeconomic groups. The thesis employs quantitative methodology, using nationally representative data, based on specialised travel modules fielded as part of the South African Social Attitudes Survey (SASAS). The sample sizes of each of the datasets exceed 2 800 respondents and are therefore large enough to conduct the analysis with adequate precision. The first article focuses on travel constraints (both structural and symbolic) and how these have impacted specific destination choice preferences over time (2006-2017). The marginality/ethnicity hypothesis theories formed the basis of the article and regression analyses was used to determine trends in the predictors of travel destination preferences. Article two focuses on destination product preferences and how travel experience impacts the number and combinations of destination choices. It determined if (and how) different travel destination choices vary by rank order between well-travelled and emergent individuals. The analysis gauged whether destination preferences form a Travel Career Ladder (TCL) (Pearce, 1983) or Travel Career Pattern (TCP) (Pearce, 2005) as postulated by these longstanding theoretical models. The taxonomy of McKercher (2016) was used for destination classification, and a cluster and CHAID analysis formed the basis of the analysis. Article three determines the interlinkages between motives (push factors) and destinations (pull factors), considering household income level (banded income). This was done by means of a threshold regression that categorised the data on motivations provided for visiting certain destinations using income thresholds. Results found that race, as a differential variable to travel destination choice, not only remained, but in fact increased despite the abolishment of legislative segregation policies. This related specifically to interest in Game Parks, where the significance of race as a discriminatory variable increased over the last decade. In addition, results from the thesis challenge the notion of a fixed racial preference in tourism and illustrate that differences in destination preferences among minority (ethnic) groups within race groups are often greater than between race groups. Another finding illustrated that preferences for destinations were best explained by the inter-relational effects of age, income and ethnic group. Geographic residency of the traveller was also found to have a large impact on destination choice and the formation of a travel habitus. One of the most significant contributions of this thesis pertains to transitioning of groups to new leisure preferences. Young and wealthy individuals within a community generally mirror venturers’ notions, exhibiting a heightened interest in tourism spaces outside the habitus. Age and wealth thus act as enablers for individuals within communities to start to explore new destinations, which are insightful, especially from a tourism growth perspective. Results indicated that travel experience furthermore impacted travel choice set sizes, implying that travel experience creates a desire for travel and interest in a greater variety of travel destinations. This study also showed that travel experience does not create travel habits that form a career ladder – thus not creating a heightened interest in lower order taxon destinations or more specific destinations. Travel experience rather creates a travel career pattern with certain destinations being universally popular. In this case, going to the beach, shopping and VFR emerged as core and popular, regardless of travel experience. A threshold regression, which grouped travellers with similar motives into categories using income thresholds, revealed that different income groups have different motives for visiting different destinations, showing that a marketing strategy based on generic motives per destination would not have universal appeal. Collectively, this thesis provides novel insight into advancing the theoretical and empirical understanding of the dynamics and predictors of destination preferences of adults in an emerging market with a history of legislative discrimination and high levels of material inequality. It challenges existing theory and illustrates that motives and combinations of motives differ for different income thresholds, thus advancing the TCP theory. It contributes to the body of knowledge on pull factors, illustrating that some destinations can be considered as core or popular, regardless of income or travel experience. This study also makes a methodological contribution when undertaking a threshold regression based on income to group motives of travel. It furthermore uses a range of quantitative methodologies to interrogate data within a unique context, where travel behaviour could be investigated given distinct time periods.
Evaluating tourism-agriculture linkages for inclusive growth in Zambia
(University of Pretoria, 2022) Saarinen, J.J.; brenda.nsanzya@gmail.com; Nsanzya, Brenda Monde Kabika
ABSTRACT Tourism-agriculture linkages are considered to be a pro-poor tourism strategy with potential to maximise the developmental impact of tourism through supply-chain linkages with the agriculture sector. Strong and sustainable tourism-agriculture linkages have the potential to create opportunities for local smallholder farmers to participate and benefit from a growing tourism economy through the supply of food products to the accommodation sub-sector. However, although tourism-agriculture linkages are possible, they are also challenging. Within the theoretical context of pro-poor tourism and inclusive tourism growth, the purpose of this study was to evaluate whether market linkages between the accommodation sub-sector and smallholder farmers in Livingstone, Zambia, contribute to inclusive growth and how the market linkage can be strengthened to foster inclusive growth. Using a mixed methods approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed using content analysis and Wilcoxon signed- rank test respectively. The study found that the tourism-agriculture linkage in Livingstone represents a pro-poor relationship in as far as local procurement is more dominant and inclusive of smallholder farmers. However, the extent and strength of the integration of smallholder producers into the tourism value chain is constrained by supply, demand and marketing challenges resulting in low inclusive growth outcomes. The role of the government is vital in creating policies that foster pro-poor sourcing and in attending to practices, dynamics and challenges that form and shape the quality of market linkages. The state ought to strengthen localised strategic partnerships, engagement and collaboration between existing tourism organisations and farmer cooperatives in implementing and monitoring policy and practical strategies for optimal tourism-led inclusive growth impact. The study highlights the importance of identifying enablers and barriers to strong tourismagriculture linkages from a perspective of the accommodation sub-sector and smallholder farmers with the advantage of a holistic representation of converging or conflicting experiences in the market linkage. The study adds to wider debates in Sub-Saharan Africa on tourism-agriculture linkages as a pro-poor tourism strategy and contributes to emerging theorisation of inclusive growth in the global tourism development context.
Tourism information and knowledge exchange in visitor information centres
(University of Pretoria, 2021-09) Fairer-Wessels, Felicite A.; Douglas, Anneli; khuli.tlabela@gmail.com; Tlabela, Kholadi Ramadimetja Uriel
Information and knowledge exchange is considered a process through which information, knowledge, experience, skills and expertise are exchanged and transferred among different stakeholders. While earlier frameworks (Sheldon, 1997; Deery et al., 2007) acknowledged the exchange of information, they did not consider knowledge exchange or the benefits that may result from the exchange process. The purpose of this study was therefore to examine the exchange of tourism information and knowledge in Visitor Information Centres (VICs) and how this exchange contributes to memorable visitor experiences, visitors’ behavioural intentions and socio-economic opportunities for local tourism businesses and surrounding communities. The reviewed literature laid the foundation to identify theoretical constructs used to develop a conceptual framework of information and knowledge exchange relevant to the VIC environment. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in parallel and in a complementary manner. For the quantitative element, self-completed and structured questionnaires were used to collect data from visitors and local tourism businesses. The qualitative element comprised conducting semi-structured interviews using an interview guide with open-ended questions to gather information from VIC staff members while focus group discussions employing a focus group guide were used to elicit information from surrounding community members. Each set of data from the two methods was collected, analysed and presented separately and the information generated was integrated in the discussion and interpretation of the overall findings and conclusions reached. Based on the findings, the conceptual framework was refined in order to arrive at a tested and confirmed framework to guide the exchange of tourism information and knowledge in VICs. The framework seeks to position the role that VICs may play to enhance visitors’ memorable experience and facilitate their behavioural intentions; and create socio-economic opportunities for stakeholders.
Ethnic Identity and Culture as Drivers of Travel Behaviour : The Case of South African Indians as Domestic Tourists
(University of Pretoria, 2020-09) Du Preez, Elizabeth; lynette.govendersa@gmail.com; Govender, Lynette Kumarivani
Ethnicity and culture are increasingly considered in the study of travel behaviour given the global movement of people. Historically during apartheid in South Africa, there was not much leisure travel amongst the Black, Coloured and Indian population groups. This discrepancy became a focus of the National Department of Tourism’s (NDT) domestic policy after 1994 to encourage all South Africans to travel, explore and experience all facets of our beautiful rainbow country in real time. This study focuses on South African Indians (SAI) as there is limited knowledge of the drivers of travel behaviour amongst such minority populations. Pragmatic mixed methods are used to collect qualitative (focus groups) and quantitative (survey) data amongst SAI living in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces. Findings suggest that there is already established domestic travel amongst the population. SAI have strong ethnic and cultural (Indian) identities that form a significant part of their decision-making; though not specifically having bearing on inter-provincial travel decisions. Of note is strong familial bonds extending beyond the nuclear family to their extended family members, influencing their travel behaviour. Other aspects include value for money, cuisine, safety and service. The study provides layered information presenting opportunities for future research. It also presents a profile of the market’s travel behaviour that can be useful for destination marketing authorities and travel trade in efforts to attract the SAI market.
Data Challenges in Constructing a Regional Tourism Satellite Account in an Emerging Destination Context
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Gouws, Andre; Du Preez, Elizabeth; ninichaneldu@gmail.com; Du Plessis, Chanel
In the context of South Africa, there is an increasing interest in the provision of a TSA to be made available at a region level (Ragab, 2014). The satellite accounting approach and its regional extension are likely to be the most appropriate tools to estimate the economic contribution of the tourism sector (Jean-Pierre & Perrain, 2016). Nonetheless, due to the complexity and limitations of the methodology (Jones & Munday, 2010) the researcher had to define the boundaries of the data available in South Africa at a regional level in terms of the RTSA requirements (United Nations, 2013). The construction of an RTSA can be done through a top-down or bottom-up approach (Jean-Pierre & Perrain, 2016; Song et al., 2012; Pham et al., 2008; Fletching, 2008). The top-down approach is the more common method used in literature since it is more cost effective, utilises existing resources and allows for national level and inter-regional comparisons. Taking this into consideration, the researcher applied a top-down approach in order to determine the appropriateness of the secondary data available in South Africa in the context of constructing an RTSA for a region. The data challenges in constructing an RTSA for the Western Cape region, in South Africa, related to the lack of a regional account, the inadequate tourism surveys at a regional level, and the unbalanced reconciliation of supply and demand. As in most emerging destinations, the study area did not have an available regional account detailed enough to satisfy the structural requirements of an RTSA. The location quotient technique was used to regionalise the national production table made it less accurate. The tourism data available at a regional level did not report on the necessary expenditure indicators to regionalise the national tourism expenditure; further, the international and domestic tourism data varied in indicators reported at granular level. This created inconsistencies in the estimated regional expenditure distribution between international and domestic tourism. Finally, these data challenges resulted in the regional supply and tourism demand ratio to be unbalanced. The aforementioned needs to first be addressed for an accurate and reliable RTSA to be constructed for a region. Therefore, as in many emerging destinations, the lack of adequate tourism supply and demand data is a critical limitation in estimating the value of tourism as an economic activity at a regional level. In conclusion, emerging tourism destinations would need to use alternative methods to construct an RTSA that would be deemed less accurate but still adequate for policymakers decision-making processes.
Investigating South African inbound tour operator participation in sustainable tourism practices
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Douglas, Anneli; Fairer-Wessels, Felicite A.; igsteyn@yahoo.com; Steyn, Ignatius Ludolph
Inbound tour operators play a key role in sustainable tourism development, as they are centrally positioned in the distribution chain and provide the link between the supply and demand of tourism products and services. Embedded in this position, inbound tour operators can put pressure on their suppliers to operate more sustainably, while educating their customers on sustainable tourism practices, and influencing consumers’ decision-making before the purchasing of tourism products and services. Inbound tour operators can further implement sustainable tourism practices as part of their business operations. To date, little research has focussed on inbound tour operators’ contribution to sustainable tourism development, especially in a developing country context. Sustainable inbound tour operators can also become certified by a sustainable tourism certification programme to showcase their commitment to sustainability. Various studies have highlighted the history, benefits and issues related to certification programmes, but few studies have investigated the perspective that inbound tour operators have towards sustainable tourism certification programmes. Making use of a qualitative research approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 South African inbound tour operators to investigate and identify the sustainable tourism practices currently being adopted within their organisations. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings produced a list of sustainable tourism practices currently being adopted by inbound tour operators in South Africa. This study proposes that sustainable tourism organisations should become certified by a national or global sustainable tourism certification programme, to prove that they are truly operating sustainably, thus decreasing the effects of greenwashing. In addition, the certification of tourism organisations can assist inbound tour operators in identifying truly sustainable suppliers, fostering the development of a sustainable supply chain management strategy.
Social media usage in the decision process of volunteer tourists
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Fairer-Wessels, Felicite A.; u12224112@tuks.co.za; Nel, Marian Charlotte
Volunteer tourism involves tourists volunteering for part of or all their travels and includes direct interaction with the natural environment within a specific social setting. Non-promotional material has a greater impact on the volunteer tourist’s ultimate decision to volunteer than promotional material (Easton & Wise, 2015). This research addressed the impact of social media in influencing volunteer tourists to participate in volunteer programmes in a developing country context, i.e. Namibia. Primary, qualitative data collection with the use of in-depth interviews from five selected volunteer tourism organisations (VTOs) in Namibia was undertaken. Volunteer tourists and VTO representatives were interviewed. This is a pioneer study of the influence of social media marketing on volunteer tourists and their decision (-making process) to participate in selected volunteer programmes in a developing country, i.e. Namibia. Main findings of the study include both volunteer tourists and VTOs considering social media presence and online interaction as a valuable platform to connect and share information. Facebook is considered as the most popular social media platform. VTOs strongly believe that social media marketing influences volunteer tourists’ decision-making in participating in volunteer programmes and that it gives a definite competitive advantage over other VTOs who do not participate in social media marketing efforts. The majority of the volunteers interviewed, believe that past volunteers’ reviews did influence them to participate in the programme and VTOs are encouraging volunteers to share experiences. The findings of the study may assist selected VTOs in developing countries in the development of social media marketing strategies.
Corporate travel policy compliance : a generational analysis of corporate travellers
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Douglas, Anneli; u13180194@tuks.co.za; Weber, Mary Mnandi
The corporate travel industry is a vitally important industry worldwide that continues to grow and contribute to the global economy. Due to the increase in corporate travel and the economic impact thereof, numerous large companies are appointing a dedicated travel manager to implement policies, regulations and homogenous routines, with the main objective of managing the company’s travel expenses and their travellers’ travel behaviour. One of the main challenges for travel managers is ensuring compliance with such policies. Various factors could lead to corporate travellers violating the travel policy. However, corporate travellers are not a uniform concept, and the workforce today consists of three generations: The Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y, with vastly different characteristics in terms of work values and travel needs. Managers are tasked with understanding these different characteristics and as a result, are adjusting their organisational structures and policies to accommodate and manage the different generations more successfully. The question that remains unanswered is if differences also exist between generations in terms of factors that lead to non-compliance, and more importantly, whether the travel policy should be adjusted to accommodate these differences. The main purpose of this study was thus to conduct a generational analysis of corporate travel policy compliance to ascertain whether policy compliance differs between generations and whether the factors leading to corporate travel policy non-compliance differ among generations in the workplace. Convenience sampling was used to distribute an online questionnaire to corporate travellers. A total of 205 questionnaires were used in the data analysis which included techniques such as factor analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square tests and finally logistic regression. The results of the study revealed that generations differ in terms of their level of compliance and that the content of the travel policy, business ethics, inequality of the travel policy, consequences of non-compliance, traveller satisfaction, life satisfaction, travel procedures and personal values are all factors that could potentially influence policy compliance. Therefore, knowing that there are in fact differences that exist between generations in terms of factors that lead to non-compliance, companies could consider adjusting their corporate travel policies accordingly.
Astro-tourism as a catalyst for rural route development
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Du Preez, Elizabeth; Fairer-Wessels, Felicite A.; u14312329@tuks.co.za; van Wyk-Jacobs, Laeticia
The purpose of this study was to understand the importance of niche market-based tourism routes in a sustainable rural development context. This study proposes a framework for tourism route development with Astro Tourism as the focal niche. Sustainable tourism routes occur when strong linkages are established between attractions, products and services in rural areas. Having an integrated approach between local, provincial and national stakeholders, from both the private and public sector will create job opportunities and by so doing, alleviate poverty. Towns in the Karoo rural node of the Northern Cape Province in the Republic of South Africa were selected as a case study for the research, where Astro Tourism, as an emerging niche market, is gaining momentum due to the establishment of two world-class astronomy projects, namely the South African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) in Carnarvon. Mixed methods were employed to investigate the sustainability of tourism product development through exploring the experience and perceptions of the various role-players. These included the tourists, local communities, tourism businesses and private stakeholders in the astronomy and tourism disciplines, as well as government representatives. The researcher obtained a holistic view of the different role-players by including a variety of research instruments. Focus group sessions were held with local community members in the towns selected; in-depth interviews were conducted with government representatives; semi-structured questionnaires were distributed to relevant stakeholders and structured questionnaires were distributed to tourism businesses and tourists. This amalgamation of research instruments ensured a dataset of high quality. The analysis of the consolidated data from the different role-players provided unique information for sustainable destination development from both the demand-side and supply-side perspectives. Unique access allowed the researcher to engage directly with stakeholders through various platforms, all adding invaluable data to the research. This study contributes to the existing literature on sustainable rural development and niche market-based tourism routes. The literature review also deliberates on Astro Tourism and space tourism as distinctive contributors to tourism product development. As an outcome, the study presents a framework depicting Astro Tourism framed within a tourism route as mechanism to develop rural areas in developing countries.
Development of Angola as a post-war tourism destination : the role of small and medium enterprises in tourism in Luanda Province
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Du Preez, Elizabeth; magnificentosvalda@yahoo.com; Jacinto, Formosa
Post-war countries face a challenge in the process of re-entering the tourism market for several reasons. The damage and deaths caused by the violent war environment create the challenges of restoring their image, their economy and of asserting security. As a result, post-war countries have limited monetary resources for development. For this reason, they turn to tourism to help in their development and utilise Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the process to establish the foundations for tourism development. SMEs play an important role in the development process because they provide products and services and create jobs. This study explores the factors related to developing tourism in a post-war tourism destination, along with the importance of SMEs in the developing country context. Angola is used as case study of such a post-war tourism destination; despite the country’s great potential, it is unable to compete effectively as a desirable tourism destination. Multi-method qualitative research was conducted to collect data from eight government officials as well as 11 local business owners in Luanda Province. It was found that government officials and business owners have the same perspectives on the importance of SMEs and peace for the development of Angola. The study presents a framework for the successful support of SMEs in post-war tourism destinations. The most important aspects include: the importance of peace for development; the importance of SMEs for tourism and development; the business environment infrastructures; and the encouragement of government for the establishment of tourism SMEs.
Destination management organisational functions in advancing business tourism
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Du Preez, Elizabeth; u11243792@tuks.co.za; Mahlangu, Nosiphiwo
One of the sectors within the tourism industry which is considered to be large and continuously expanding is the business tourism sector, also known as MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). Countries and cities rely heavily on investment in infrastructure to support the development of this sector and to ensure sustained growth, many destinations use destination management organisations (DMOs) and convention bureaus to provide leadership. These organisations are also tasked to actively promote the destination for leisure travel and it is necessary to understand the distinct requirements that set business tourism development and promotion apart from leisure tourism. This study employed multi-method qualitative research to investigate the roles and functions that DMOs perform in order to develop business tourism in a destination. This included understanding the challenges faced within varied destinations. Data was collected through interviews with a sample of nine major DMOs at various levels and four major conference centres across South Africa. Strategic documents and website content was also analysed as supplement to the primary data. The study shows the importance of especially DMO stakeholder engagement, marketing, identification of opportunities to host business tourism events within the destination, as well as bidding support as the main roles and functions that need to be performed to ensure sustained growth of business tourism. A framework is presented depicting the interaction between DMOs at the national, regional and local levels, as well as with the various industry stakeholders.
The current use and future expectations of business travellers regarding mobile travel applications
(University of Pretoria, 2016) Douglas, Anneli; Lubbe, Berendien Anna; AVANROOYEN@CARLSONWAGONLIT.CO.ZA; Van Rooyen, Adrenè
Mobile travel applications provide a wide range of services to support any stage of the travel process and have therefore become indispensable to travel distributors and travellers alike. While the use of mobile applications in the context of leisure travel has been the topic of several studies, their use by business travellers has enjoyed relatively little academic attention and it has become evident that a need exists for more substantial scientific research in this area. The overall aim of this study was to investigate the current use of mobile applications by business travellers before, during and after their business trips, and to determine their needs regarding the development of applications for future use by taking into consideration the different profiles of business travellers and the different characteristics of the trips they undertake. The findings of this study contribute to the available literature relating to business travel by extending our knowledge of business travellers and their use and future expectations of mobile travel applications. The data for this study was collected by means of an internet-based questionnaire distributed to approximately 13 098 business travellers who had booked domestic and/or international trips with Carlson Wagonlit Travel South Africa during the period from 1 August 2013 to 31 July 2014. Due to the overwhelming amount of data received, a cluster analysis was done. The results showed that female business travellers typically earn slightly less than their male counterparts, that fewer have degrees and that they find mobile travel applications more useful during the booking stage, whereas males find them more useful during the travelling stage. The results also give an indication of the profile of the average business traveller and provide information on the expectations of business travellers with regard to the further development of travel applications for future use.
The impact of social media on the existence of visitor information centres in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2016) Fairer-Wessels, Felicite A.; lidia.swart@up.ac.za; Swart, Lidia
The visitor information centre (VIC) play a valuable role in the distribution of tourism-related information in most areas in South Africa that are frequented by tourists. They also provide a contact point for human interaction where trust can be built between the VIC staff and visitor, thereby making the destination a more worthwhile and valued experience. The main role of the VIC is to provide information in the form of knowledge also referred to as value-added information. Today, the VIC, as intermediary, could be left behind as the Internet (of which social media is part) has become a powerful source of information for tourists and marketing tool for hotels and tourist attractions without them having to spend millions of Rands on alternative marketing strategies. This study sought to establish whether VICs still have a role to play in the South African tourist industry with the increasing presence of social media. A mixed method research methodology was applied, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques. In-depth interviews were conducted with the staff and managers of selected visitor information centres in Cape Town and Johannesburg, respectively. The interviews were transcribed and the findings are presented in Chapter 5. Questionnaires was distributed, online, to a sample of 200 visitors, using Qualtrics. Overall, the aim of the study is to furnish information about the value of VICs in the tourism industry, including the role played by demographics in respect of social media usage, in order to help improve the functioning of VICs as a knowledge base that adds value to the process of making South Africa one of the top 20 tourism destinations, globally, by 2020.
The relationship between international educational tourism and global learning in South African high school learners
(University of Pretoria, 2016) Lubbe, Berendien Anna; Saarinen. J.J.; chrismcg@saol.com; McGladdery, Christine Anne
There is a growing demand in the literature for rigorous empirical research to test the underpinning assumption of international education theory, namely that global learning occurs as a consequence of international travel. Through the application of a global learning survey instrument to 1152 Grade 11 learners in 16 South African exclusive independent high schools, evidence is provided to indicate that significant global learning only occurs when the international travel experience is facilitated to encourage learning, when there is a desire by learners to engage with cultural differences at their travel destination, and when learners feel comfortable expressing their opinions within their tour group. Furthermore, some types of international educational tourism are more conducive to global learning than others. Additionally, a conceptual, process-driven model of international educational tourism is proposed based on the synthesis of educational tourism, international education, experiential education and global learning theories. The model is tested and refined through analysis of the data collected from the questionnaire. By conceptualising educational tourism as a process it overcomes the limitations associated with segment-based definitions and in doing so demonstrates the potential for hybridising educational tourism with other sectors of the industry. Finally, owing to the expense involved with international travel, non-travel related factors are identified which encourage global learning in high school children. Non-coerced participation in community service and possessing an altruistic disposition are found to be the most influential. The implication of this finding is that there are substantially less expensive and more accessible means of developing global learning, which is essential in South Africa where huge discrepancies exist in terms of financial wealth and quality of education.
The impact of an accreditation system for trails on growth in hiking tourism
(University of Pretoria, 2015) Kruger, Elizabeth Ann; u97021980@tuks.co.za; Slabbert, Liandi Magdalena
The key determinants influencing consumer behaviour and consumer decision making in hiking tourism has not been clearly defined at an academic level. A particular knowledge gap exists in literature concerning the role of accreditation systems in consumer decision making regarding the consumption of hiking tourism products. In order to address these shortcomings, this study took a quantitative approach in the form of a survey research strategy to measure the importance of and future intended response towards trail accreditation, as determined by consumers from two different populations: hikers and nonhikers. This was achieved by presenting a hypothetical country-wide implementation of a case study accreditation system to respondents. The findings from this study demonstrate a link between accreditation and consumer decision making and the future uptake of hiking tourism amongst both hikers and non-hikers. Consumer response to the individual constructs represented by accreditation, such as trustworthy information, is demonstrated and the most important information aspects in decision making are highlighted. The study also contributes to the existing body of knowledge regarding consumer awareness and willingness to pay (WTP) towards accreditation systems and ecolabels in tourism.
The strategic role of the media in constructing a destination image : the Kenyan experience
(University of Pretoria, 2016) Lubbe, Berendien Anna; pmuhohominn@gmail.com; Muhoho-Minni, Wanjiru
This study examines the role of the media in construction of a destination image with the theoretical framework being applied to the experience of Kenya as a tourist destination. The objectives of the study are to empirically analyse the role of the media as a factor in destination image construction, to analyse the impact of media on visitation, and to propose a media communication framework that can be applied by the Kenya Tourism Board to influence construction of a positive destination image of Kenya in normal times, and to mitigate negative media representations in times of crisis. An in-depth literature review was conducted and a mixed method approach was used to collect data. The quantitative method was used to collect data from actual and potential visitors to Kenya through airport and web-based surveys. Through in-depth interviews with Kenya tourism stakeholders, the qualitative method explored: the current tourism situation in Kenya; views of the stakeholders on the influence of media reporting and representation on the destination image and visitation; and the media communications strategies followed by the Kenya tourism industry in promoting the image of Kenya. The resulting data from the surveys are mostly categorical in nature and were analysed using Chi square tests and T-tests. Analysis of the qualitative data was done by summarising the content of the interviews and categorising the statements, from which conclusions were drawn. The findings revealed that the media has an influence on destination perception, however not all aspects of the destination image will be influenced and not all media information sources have the capacity to influence. Similarly the media will influence destination visitation but again not all media has the capacity to influence, and the potential and the actual visitors intent to visit will be influenced differently. Television news reports and television travel documentaries were identified as the most influential media in construction of the organic image of Kenya. Nevertheless, in regard to the construction of a destination image in general, although both potential and actual visitors will depend mostly on the Internet and travel guides, it is the media of television, travel guides and newspapers that were found most influential. Of the three, the media of television proved to be prominent. From the perspective of the Kenyan stakeholders the Internet and social media are the most used sources for providing information on Kenya. The results show that although the media is influential in construction of a destination image and also on visitation intent, it is not as highly influential as theorised or expected. Other aspects that influence destination image and visitation come into play. A media communication framework for destination image is constructed based on the empirical results of the study.
The impact on visitation and the relative importance of iconic animals as tourist attraction in selected SANParks
(University of Pretoria, 2015) Lubbe, Berendien Anna; De Bruyn, P.J. Nico; u29373914@tuks.co.za; Meyer, Irma
The study focuses on the introduction/reintroduction of iconic animals in selected SANParks namely Addo Elephant, Karoo, and Mountain Zebra National Park. The purpose of the study was firstly to determine the relative importance of iconic animals as a tourist attraction in relation to other attractions, and to determine if their presence affects the type and number of visitors to the parks. Secondly it aimed to assess the willingness to pay to specifically view iconic animal species. The collected data enabled us to compile a detailed description of the visitor profile including demographics, behavioural characteristics, purpose of visits and how these differ between the international and domestic markets. Results show that the relative importance of iconic animals is different across the selected parks, but remained a top 10 travel motivation. The research indicated a general tendency for an increase in visitor numbers with the introductions/reintroductions of iconic animals but not a significant change in type of visitor. Lastly the research indicated that the majority of respondents are willing to pay more for the presence of iconic animals in various categories. This study supports the key research and management issue of using appropriate nature-based tourism as the best possible financial opportunity to support and supplement conservation whilst providing sustainable high quality, nature-based, value-for-money tourism experiences. Further research will be done to compile a conceptual framework assessing the economic implications with regards to the introduction/ reintroductions of iconic animals to indicate the economic plausibility, assist in managerial and related investment decisions and conservation efforts.
Perceptions on local communities’ role and awareness in rural tourism development : a case study from Lesotho
(University of Pretoria, 2014) Saarinen, J.J.; Lekaota, Limpho
Rural tourism is an increasingly recognized tourism sector in southern Africa, and with increasing tourist visitations to local communities it has a great potential to benefit local development and well-being. In order to maximize the benefits and minimize the costs, rural communities should be able to participate actively in all aspects of tourism, including planning and management. The main purpose of this study is to analyse the perceptions of local communities and their awareness, involvement in and benefits from tourism. This was approached on the basis of survey and interview materials from local rural communities and local authorities (nature reserve managers, tourism officers, environmental/conservation officers and Conservation Committee Forum members) in the Katse and Mohale Tourism Development Area of Lesotho. Thus the mixed method research design was selected, using qualitative and quantitative approaches to derive descriptive statistics. Non-probability, purposive and convenience sampling approaches were used to gather the data. The study was conducted in three villages adjacent to the T‟sehlanyane Nature Reserve - Ha „Mali, Bokong Nature Reserve -Ha Lejone and Liphofung Nature Reserve - Phelandaba. The information gathered was used to formulate a model of the elements influencing rural tourism benefit-sharing processes in rural local community contexts. Such model could be beneficial as without a strong emphasis on local benefit-sharing, Lesotho people, especially in the rural areas, would probably not receive the potential benefits of tourism development in the future. Such a model would support communities‟ awareness of and participation in tourism development, leading to wider benefit-sharing in rural tourism. Based on the results, the surveyed community members of Ha Lejone indicated having a relatively good awareness of the benefits of tourism. They also perceived that their environment attracted tourists and thus perceived that they could benefit more from tourism. By comparison, the respondents in Phelandaba perceived few benefits while the Ha „Mali respondents showed slightly more benefits. The results indicate that among the respondents from the villages, the Ha Lejone respondents were the most knowledgeable. Ha „Mali and Ha Lejone respondents recognized community members‟ participation but the Phelandaba respondents generally disagreed that the communities were involved in planning, as they indicated not being consulted in any planning about tourism. Phelandaba respondents agreed regarding the negative impacts of tourism, while those of Ha „Mali partially disagreed and Ha Lejone disagreed. Respondents from all three villages would prefer greater involvement and decision-making power in the management of tourism. The study concludes that there should be provision for basic training and continuing educational workshops on tourism for all stakeholders, which could promote tourism awareness and positive perceptions of and attitudes towards tourism. Government should not merely construct conservation and tourism development areas but should also empower local communities to participate in all stages of planning, development and management. Involving community members in as well as formulating supporting tourism regulations, implementation, monitoring and evaluation procedures would be beneficial for sustainable rural tourism development. Partnership amongst all tourism-related stakeholders in rural tourism management is an ideal tool for promoting rural tourism.
Towards an integrative tourism development framework for local communities in Namibia
(University of Pretoria, 2014) Saarinen, J.J.; Kavita, Erling K.
This study examines the existing policy and planning frameworks in relation to tourism and local development in Namibia and the level of integration for the respective rural communities. The focus is on the Torra Conservancy in the north-western part of Namibia. The specific objectives are to assess the relative degree to which the local communities have had control in the community-based tourism (CBT) through the community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) programme in terms of rights, empowerment and economic benefits. The study involves a retrospective review of literature on integrative tourism and rural local development and through a survey of key community based tourism (CBT) actors in Bergsig and in Windhoek, Namibia. This study is mainly based on quantitative approach. In addition, thematic interviews were used, where possible, to understand and deepen the views expressed in the survey results. Respondents representing the three main clusters of the tourism industry; government, private sector and the host local communities were examined on their interpretation of the current development of the tourism industry in Namibia. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis indicated statistical significant differences between different groups. The research findings revealed that the extent to which local communities participate in the tourism development process depends on the idealistic, and perhaps to some degree unrealistic, expectations, of community-based tourism in the national tourism policy spectrum. Since community perceptions match what is on the ground from development, problems are socially real and necessitated a viable solution for amelioration. Implications are discussed for building a more integrative policy approach that could help guide research, planning, development and evaluation of community-based tourism projects.

Browse

Recent Submissions