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Destination Competitiveness Through the Lens of Tourist Spending: A Case Study of the Canary Islands

Author

Listed:
  • Ana María Barrera-Martínez

    (Interuniversity Doctoral Programme in Tourism, Institute of Social Research and Tourism ISTUR, University of La Laguna, 38200 La Laguna, Spain)

  • Agustín Santana-Talavera

    (Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Institute of Social Research and Tourism ISTUR, University of La Laguna, 38200 La Laguna, Spain)

  • Eduardo Parra-López

    (Department of Business Management and Economic History, Institute of Social Research and Tourism ISTUR, University of La Laguna, 38200 La Laguna, Spain)

Abstract

The competitiveness of tourism destinations is a multidimensional concept encompassing natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, accessibility, and services that cater to an increasingly discerning tourism market. Business ecosystems enhance these competitive conditions by adapting to consumers seeking high-value, differentiated experiences. This study examined the relationship between accommodation supply and tourist expenditure in the Canary Islands based on a sample of 38,071 visitors from the 2024 Tourist Expenditure Survey (EGT) of the Canary Islands Statistics Institute. Using Python and R for statistical processing, the findings revealed distinct spending patterns across accommodation types, from five-star hotels to peer-to-peer rentals, demonstrating how supply diversification influences competitiveness. The results reinforce prior research on the significance of investing in infrastructure, technology, and human capital to optimise the tourist experience. Tourist expenditure serves as an indicator of competitiveness, reflecting visitor preferences and the destination’s capacity to meet them. Accommodation choice is identified as a key determinant of spending patterns and their distribution within the local economy. This study provides an analytical basis for evaluating tourism strategies, emphasising the strategic importance of accommodation heterogeneity. It advances methodological understanding of tourist spending behaviour, offering a practical framework for destination development and strategic planning.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana María Barrera-Martínez & Agustín Santana-Talavera & Eduardo Parra-López, 2025. "Destination Competitiveness Through the Lens of Tourist Spending: A Case Study of the Canary Islands," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-20, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:7:p:3262-:d:1629261
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    References listed on IDEAS

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