Determinants of Backpackers’ Perceptions of Security? A WOM-based Approach

Authors

  • Sina Shokoohyar Saint Joseph's University

Keywords:

Hostels, Security, Backpackers, Country of Origin, Word of Mouth Centering Resonance Analysis Sentiment Analysis

Abstract

This paper aims to identify the determinants of backpackers' perceptions of security. In particular, the impact of hostel cleanliness, location, staff, and atmosphere as well as backpackers' country of origin on backpackers' perceptions of security are being studied. Using Word-of-mouth (WOM) approach, the analysis shows that hostel cleanliness, location, staff, and atmosphere have a positive and significant impact on backpackers' perceptions of security. Additionally, backpackers from countries with a high level of security have higher expectations about hostel security and in turn are harder to satisfy compared to backpackers from countries with lower security. Applying Centering Resonance Analysis (CRA) and Naïve Bayes classification, this study provides evidence on how these attributes impact backpackers' perceptions of security. Results of this study are valuable in demonstrating how hostel managers can utilize rich information generated by backpackers on the Internet to develop and improve their business.

Author Biography

Sina Shokoohyar, Saint Joseph's University

Sina Shokoohyar is an Assistant Professor of Decision and System Sciences (DSS) at Saint Joseph’s University. His research focuses on developing decision analytic tools that can be implemented in ride-sharing platforms (e.g., Uber, Lyft, …), tourism industry, new product development project, and supplier evaluation systems.

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Published

2019-04-17

How to Cite

Shokoohyar, S. (2019) “Determinants of Backpackers’ Perceptions of Security? A WOM-based Approach”, e-Review of Tourism Research, 16(4). Available at: https://ertr-ojs-tamu.tdl.org/ertr/article/view/370 (Accessed: 19 April 2024).

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 4 (2019)

Section

Articles

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