Open AccessCultural tourism and quality of life: Results of a longitudinal study
Author(s) -
Amanda Cecil,
Yue Fu,
Suosheng Wang,
Sotiris H. Avgoustis
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
european journal of tourism research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.467
H-Index - 16
eISSN - 1314-0817
pISSN - 1994-7658
DOI - 10.54055/ejtr.v3i1.45
Subject(s) - tourism , cultural tourism , quality of life (healthcare) , marketing , perception , quality (philosophy) , tourism geography , business , economic growth , psychology , political science , economics , philosophy , epistemology , neuroscience , psychotherapist , law
Cultural tourism development is considered a viable channel to attract tourists to a destination and to enhance residents’ overall quality of life (QOL). Since the early 2000’s, Indianapolis, Indiana has dedicated considerable public and private investment into developing and promoting cultural attractions, festivals, educational events, and other offerings. This research reports the findings of a five-year study, from 2004-2008, to monitor patterns and changes in residents’ quality of life (QOL) measurement and perceptions of cultural tourism. The results indicate that there are not significant increases in QOL ratings of Indianapolis residents, as it relates to cultural tourism development. However, the series of studies yield interesting conclusions that have practical implications for municipality and tourism leaders who continually evaluate the city’s cultural tourism initiatives.