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Fast or slow? Exploring tourists' engagement inclination toward the pace of travel

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  • Li, Chunxiao
  • Yang, Yufan
  • Zhang, Hao
  • Zhang, Zhihui

Abstract

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, this study examines when and how tourists engage in slow-paced or fast-paced travel. Across six studies, the findings reveal that busyness (vs. less busyness) enhances willingness to engage in slow-paced (vs. fast-paced) travel, with the need for recovery mediating this relationship. Furthermore, the busyness effect is moderated by message framing and cultural background—but not by busyness valence. This research contributes novel insights into tourists' pace of travel and expands the theoretical understanding of busyness. The results offer market segmentation tools and actionable strategies for destination managers to align products with tourists' preferred pace.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Chunxiao & Yang, Yufan & Zhang, Hao & Zhang, Zhihui, 2025. "Fast or slow? Exploring tourists' engagement inclination toward the pace of travel," Annals of Tourism Research, Elsevier, vol. 111(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:anture:v:111:y:2025:i:c:s0160738325000374
    DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2025.103931
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    References listed on IDEAS

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