Timing and holidays duration for people residing in the Province of Bologna

The survey carried out in late 2004 in the Province of Bologna made possible an analysis of the main characteristics of holidays taken in the two-year period 2003-2004. In particular, we evaluated the effects of several sociodemographic traits on the propensity of holidaymaking, taking longer holidays, and starting holidays in peak season. The analyses were developed using multivariate models including Heckman models based on estimation of simultaneous equations in order to take into account the selection bias embedded in the phenomenon under study. Results highlight that tourist behaviours are strongly affected by personal and unobserved attitudes. However, area of residence and occupational status (to be a worker or non-worker, and working category) emerge as key factors that influence holidaymaking propensity and holiday length.