Consumer behaviour in tourism.

Abstract

To understand the purchasing behaviour in tourism, one needs to examine the complex interaction of many elements, present at different stages, from arousal to decision, as well as from purchase to post-purchase experiences. In consideration of all these processes, this chapter first deals with determinants of a broader nature, the cultural and reference-group influences. Next, concepts concerning the individual and his or her relationship with the environment are presented with a focus on: (i) personality factors and self-concept; (ii) perception and cognition; (iii) motivation; and (iv) attitude and intention. Other important determinants of tourist decision making, perceived risk and the family decision process, are then discussed. This set of concepts will permit an integrated analysis of the decision-making process. The final section presents an illustration of tourist behaviour modelling.