A framework for increasing understanding of self-drive tourism markets

Abstract

This paper aims to identify a framework for analysis of case study research into self-drive tourism and its associated markets. The history and significance of drive tourism markets around the world are briefly identified, and statistics are provided to support increased attention being paid to these markets. The lack of existing research is identified, with significant recent exceptions being this special issue of the Journal of Vacation Marketing and a collection of articles edited as a book by Carson et al.¹ In order to gain greater understanding of the diversity of self-drive tourism markets and their behaviour in destinations, the framework for analysis suggests attention be paid to location (destination) description; visitor characteristics; access, including distance aspects; nature of visitor flows; expenditure patterns; attractions; accommodation; promotion; history; investment; physical infrastructure; cooperation between stakeholders; level of public sector involvement; and economic impacts and innovation.