A systems model of the tourist's destination selection decision process with particular reference to the role of image and perceived constraints

Abstract

A model of the tourist's destination selection decision process was developed and evaluated. Data were collected through in-depth personal interviews using a non-scheduled instrument and five semantic differential scale instruments. Five null hypotheses were formulated to test the utility of two of the model's ten components. They investigated whether destination image and respondents' perceived constraints of time, money, and travelability were useful in explaining differences in use of vacation time and in destination selection decisions. The hypotheses related to respondents' preferred destinations and to Mexico as a common locus vacation destination. A variety of statistical techniques were used to test the hypotheses including: factor analysis, discriminant analysis, analysis of variance, t-test, chi-square, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The hypotheses suggested that neither image nor perceived constraints were sufficient to explain differences in vacation or destination selection behavior. These findings supported the contention postulated in development of the model, that these components should be viewed in the context of the individual's total decision process system rather than as independent entities, for all components of the model influence vacation and destination selection behavior. The essence of a break from routine was either locating in a different place or changing the dominant social context from the work milieu to that of the family group. Change in life cycle stage often resulted in a change from vacation patterns. The most critical stage appeared to be transition from parental home to a different milieu..