Search

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the tourism sector, disrupting travel and centralising a shift towards domestic tourism. This study examines the changing preferences and demands of travellers to promote the recovery and sustainability of domestic tourism. The research conducted 1 034 online surveys with the general public to analyse their travel behaviours and preferences concerning domestic tourism activities willing to participate in. The findings indicate that despite limited disposable income, a significant portion of the South African population possesses discretionary income and is interested in participating in tourism activities. Travel preferences are influenced by various socio-economic and demographic factors. Changing patterns in destination choices and activities are also noted, which influence travel behaviour and related tourism consumption/ demand for products and experiences, marketing and impacts. Respondents are knowledgeable of and attracted to many domestic tourism products in South Africa, with social and nature-based tourism being prominent. Monitoring domestic tourism trends can inform marketing strategies and product development. Additionally, awareness and communication strategies should be improved, and incentives should be provided to encourage local travel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cape Town, one of South Africa's key coastal tourism destinations, provides a useful case study to examine visitor profiles in Coastal and Marine Tourism (CMT) sites. Nine hundred and seven visitor surveys were completed in purposively selected CMT locations in Cape Town. The main findings reveal that there is diversity among visitors frequenting CMT sites in Cape Town in terms of type of visitor, gender, population group, age, educational level and economic status. Visitors participated in a range of CMT activities and indicated an interest to participate in future activities. Furthermore, high levels of satisfaction with the CMT activities and locations were evident which suggests that a growing demand for CMT activities in Cape Town which needs to be managed. Examining visitor profiles, perceptions, preferences and experiences is important to improve planning and management of these destinations to ensure long-term sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]