Integrating Authenticity, Well-being, and Memorability in Heritage Tourism: A Two-Site Investigation

Keywords

existential authenticity; memorability; perceived authenticity; psychological well-being; subjective well-being

Abstract

Authenticity, well-being, and memorability are essential to understanding tourist experience, yet little is known about the mechanism underlying these interrelated concepts. This study explores how tourists' perceived authenticity influences memorability through their existential authenticity and well-being in the context of heritage tourism. Using data from visitors to two world heritage sites in China (West Lake and Lijiang), the effects of existential authenticity on tourists' psychological and subjective well-being are empirically tested. Findings from cross-regional surveys reveal that existential authenticity, triggered by tourists' perceived authenticity of local cultural heritage, is significantly associated with memorability and psychological and subjective well-being. Results further show that perceived authenticity of local cultural heritage contributes to memorability through existential authenticity and well-being. Elucidation of these conceptual relationships has theoretical and practical implications for heritage tourism studies and management.

Publication Date

2-1-2022

Original Citation

Yi, X., Fu, X., Lin, V. S., & Xiao, H. (2022). Integrating Authenticity, Well-being, and Memorability in Heritage Tourism: A Two-Site Investigation. Journal of Travel Research, 61(2), 378–393. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287520987624

Document Type

Paper

Language

English

Source Title

Journal of Travel Research

Volume

61

Issue

2

College

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Location

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

This document is currently not available for download.

View via DOI


Share

COinS