Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.37741/t.71.1.7
Destination Brand Experience and Place Attachment: A Study at the Peneda-Gerês National Park
Hugo Martins
orcid.org/0000-0002-1651-8715
; University of Maia; CEGOT - Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning, Coimbra, Portugal
Paulo Carvalho
; University of Coimbra; CEGOT - Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning, Coimbra, Portugal
Nuno Almeida
; Polytechnic of Leiria; ESTM; CiTUR – Centre for Research, Development and Innovation in Tourism, Leiria, Portugal
Abstract
Brand experience and place attachment are key issues of a destination as it is increasingly important that visitors develop attachment and positive attitudes towards the natural environment, which is generally related to a high level of satisfaction. The current research explores the relationship between destination brand experience (DBE) and place attachment, their implications with pro-environmental behaviours, behavioural intentions (revisit or recommend), and tourists’ satisfaction in the context of natural protected areas. A survey was conducted at Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal. A total of 507 valid questionnaires were analysed using structural equations modelling. The findings show the relevance of DBE with the other constructs. It was in the relationship between DBE and satisfaction that the highest path coefficient was verified. The association between place attachment and satisfaction was not confirmed inducing the idea that satisfaction is not enough for tourists to create attachment bonds. However, DBE can lead to the creation of emotional and affective ties to a particular destination. As a practical implication, the management entities should invest in strategies that can get visitors more identify with this natural area, to increase the level of experience and the degree of satisfaction.
Keywords
destination brand experience; place attachment; protected areas; Peneda-Gerês National Park
Hrčak ID:
294013
URI
Publication date:
20.2.2023.
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