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Solo and shared tourist experience: The competition between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations

Author

Listed:
  • Moliner-Tena, Miguel A.
  • Algueró-Boronat, Mar
  • Rodríguez-Artola, Rosa M.

Abstract

With solo travel continuing to rise globally, it is crucial for both scholars and practitioners to understand how solo versus collective experiences shape satisfaction and word of mouth (WOM). Based on self-determination theory (SDT), this study aims to examine the differences between solo and shared tourist experiences and their impact on satisfaction and WOM. A survey yielded 1,206 valid responses from tourists who had taken one of three types of trip (solo, couples, or family) to seven Spanish tourist destinations and revealed that solo travellers use social media more frequently than couples and families. While satisfaction levels were comparable, the drivers of that satisfaction differed: accommodation plays a stronger role for solo travellers, whereas gastronomy is more important for couples and families. These findings extend SDT to the tourism domain by showing distinct motivational pathways, while offering practical guidance for tailoring hospitality services to solo versus collective travellers.

Suggested Citation

  • Moliner-Tena, Miguel A. & Algueró-Boronat, Mar & Rodríguez-Artola, Rosa M., 2026. "Solo and shared tourist experience: The competition between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 202(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:202:y:2026:i:c:s0148296325006137
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2025.115790
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