Soft infrastructure at tourism sites: identifying key issues for Asian tourism from case studies

Pearce, Philip L., and Wu, Mao-Ying (2015) Soft infrastructure at tourism sites: identifying key issues for Asian tourism from case studies. Tourism Recreation Research, 40 (1). pp. 120-132.

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Abstract

Building on the under-utilized power of case studies, this conceptual review considers information to enhance Asian tourism sites and attractions. Soft infrastructure, defined as the total effect of the hospitality, interpretive and person-to-person encounters, was considered at 16 strategically selected locations drawn from 7 Asian countries. An emic, tourist-oriented perspective was used to appraise the effects of the soft infrastructure. The researchers employed information from academic publications, attraction websites, tourists' reviews and personal visits to identify common cross-site issues. Seven key issues were identified: the importance of emotional labour/sincerity; the value of quality and professionalism; creating understanding and the role of language; the appeal of performance and spectacle; the usefulness of immersion and participation; the power of authentic local voices; and the management of crowding and close encounters. Site and tourist precinct attraction managers can evaluate these issues to better use their tourism assets and create enhanced on-site experiences.

Item ID: 43217
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 0250-8281
Keywords: soft infrastructure; tourists' experiences; case studies; Asia; tourist attractions
Date Deposited: 06 Apr 2016 01:25
FoR Codes: 15 COMMERCE, MANAGEMENT, TOURISM AND SERVICES > 1506 Tourism > 150606 Tourist Behaviour and Visitor Experience @ 100%
SEO Codes: 90 COMMERCIAL SERVICES AND TOURISM > 9003 Tourism > 900302 Socio-Cultural Issues in Tourism @ 100%
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