Identifying the attributes of the ideal golf tourism destination


ÇİFÇİ İ., GÖKTEPE S., Demirciftci T., ÇETİN G.

ANATOLIA-INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY RESEARCH, cilt.36, sa.4, ss.745-762, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

Özet

Although various studies have provided customized features for thematic destination attributes (e.g., MICE), no previous research has explored the characteristics of ideal golf destinations. Therefore, this study aims to identify the key features of successful golf destinations through a phenomenological inquiry involving golf tourism stakeholders, including golf tourists. Thematic content analysis of the qualitative data revealed four major themes: generic attributes, geographic characteristics, golf course-specific features, and human aspects that would define an ideal golf destination. Providing a better understanding of golf tourism demand and destination characteristics, the paper's findings might trigger more effective planning and utilization of destination management efforts. The paper is also expected to inform future studies focusing on thematic destination planning theories.