A Structural Theory of the Vacation
Journal
Tourism Management
ISSN
0261-5177
ISSN-Digital
1879-3193
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2009-04-01
Author(s)
Abstract
This paper presents a structural theory of the vacation incorporating four premises: (1) vacations have structure, (2) such structure consists of a composite of elements, (3) vacation structure results from situationally-constrained decision-making by the vacationer, and (4) many vacationers desire and seek structure to their vacation experiences. The paper proposes that three macro types of vacation structure exist - stay put vacations, arranged touring vacations, and freewheeling touring vacations. The timing of the vacationer's choice of key elements of the vacation - including their choices in travel routes and places of accommodation - is inherently different for each of the three vacation types. An empirical study identifies these three vacation types amongst the trips undertaken by a representative sample of Swiss households. The study also observes differences between the three vacation types in destinations chosen, duration of vacations, levels of vacation expenditure, composition of travel parties, choices of transport mode, and motives for travel. By understanding how tourists structure their vacations, tourism operators may be more able to create value in tourists' vacation experiences.
Language
English
Keywords
vacation tourism
vacation decision-making
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
Elsevier
Publisher place
Amsterdam
Volume
30
Number
2
Start page
240
End page
248
Pages
9
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
46039