Knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour to improve Melaka world heritage site management. Issue 1 (9th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Md Khairi, Nurul Diyana; Ismail, Hairul Nizam; Syed Jaafar, Syed Muhammad Rafy
• Is Part Of: International journal of tourism cities. Volume 8:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 106
• Publication Date: 2021-07-09
• Subjects: Tourist spatial behaviour -- Heritage management -- Outstanding universal value -- World heritage site -- Trip diary -- GPS tracking; Tourism -- Periodicals; Cities and towns -- Periodicals; Tourism and city planning -- Periodicals; 338.4791091732
• DOI: 10.1108/IJTC-01-2021-0018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-5607

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The paper aims to comprehensively use the knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour to improve World Heritage Site (WHS) management. Efficient heritage management can be achieved if critical aspects such as tourist spatial activities were better and comprehensively understood, primarily at the micro-level. Inaccurate information on these essential aspects will potentially cause problems in managing a WHS and compromises its Outstanding Universal Value. This study aims to extend the knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour by including the non-spatial and spatial characteristics of the tourists to better manage a WHS. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a trip diary and a GPS tracking app with 384 free independent tourists as the study respondents. Melaka WHS was chosen as the study area. The data were complemented by an aggregative analysis method to extract different discrete patterns based on individual itineraries. Findings: This paper indicates a noticeable relationship between individuals' non-spatial and spatial characteristics. It suggests that integrating these two characteristics can provide more comprehensive knowledge of tourist behaviour. Originality/value: This paper provides a different perspective to improving WHS management by determining the operative tools to develop an effective visitor management plan.