Antecedents of memorable heritage tourism experiences: an application of stimuli–organism–response theory

Sthapit, E ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1650-3900, Garrod, B, Coudounaris, DN, Seyfi, S, Cifci, I and Vo-Thanh, T (2024) Antecedents of memorable heritage tourism experiences: an application of stimuli–organism–response theory. International Journal of Tourism Cities. ISSN 2056-5607

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Abstract

Purpose: Based on stimulus-organism-response theory, this study aims to develop and tests a model of memorable heritage tourism experience (MHTE). The model proposes that experiencescape, experience co-creation, education and photography are important antecedents of MHTE, which is then a driver of place attachment. Design/methodology/approach: Data for this study were collected using a Web-based questionnaire of people aged 18 years and over who had a heritage tourism experience during the previous three months (February–April 2023). The survey was distributed in May 2023 using Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk). A survey link was posted on MTurk, which remained active for the first week of May 2023. Out of the 283 responses received, 272 were valid responses from individuals who met the participation criteria. Findings: Experiencescape, experience co-creation, education and photography were found to be positive drivers of the MHTE, with a positive relationship between MHTE and place attachment. Originality/value: Many studies linked to memorable tourism experience (MTE) mainly replicate Kim, Ritchie, & McCormick’s (2012) MTE scale, regardless of the specific study context. This study offers an alternative framework through which alternative antecedents and outcomes of tourists’ MTE can be identified.