ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT FACTORS VERSUS ACTIVITY AVAILABILITY IN SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL TOURISM: EVIDENCE FROM TOURIST BEHAVIOR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.2298/IJGI260129008DKeywords:
physical health, sports activities, recreation, animationAbstract
Sports and recreational activities, together with tourist animation programs, have become increasingly relevant factors in contemporary destination choice, yet their role is still insufficiently explored from a behavioral and social perspective. This study investigates how tourists’ everyday engagement in sports and recreational activities translates into participation during vacations and how these activities influence destination selection. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through an online survey of 217 respondents and analyzed using non-parametric and parametric statistical methods. The results reveal significant differences between tourists’ sports-recreational behaviors at home and during travel, particularly with respect to physical health, emotional well-being, spatial attachment, and environmental support factors. The findings further indicate that supportive environmental factors such as the attractiveness of the natural environment and climatic suitability play a particularly relevant role in destination choice compared to the mere availability of sports facilities. In contrast, interest in animation programs appears more moderate, suggesting differentiated tourist preferences. By distinguishing between opportunities for sports-recreational activities and supporting environmental factors, this study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of tourist behavior and destination attractiveness. The results offer practical implications for destination managers and policymakers aiming to develop socially and environmentally sustainable tourism products.
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