IngentaConnect Travel demand and behavior of university students in Hong Kong

Authors: Heung, Vincent¹; Leong, Jennifer²

Source: Asia Pacific Journal of Tourism Research, Volume 11, Number 1, March 2006 , pp. 81-96(16)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

University students represent an emerging market for the travel industry. This paper reports the findings of a study on the travel behavior and travel patterns of Hong Kong university students. Using a questionnaire, a survey was conducted to identify student travel motives, their travel planning process and travel preferences. A total of 264 university students in Hong Kong were interviewed and data analyzed. The results indicate that to “Experience new and different styles”, “Take it easy and relax”, “Go to places I haven't been before” and “Outstanding scenery” were perceived as important motives in students' travel decision-making. Four factors with 24 attributes were identified. These factors were “Social relationships”, “Obtain new experience”, “Relax and enjoy” and “Cost of travel”. Based on the findings of the study, it was suggested that modifications to the existing tourism products and services and new product development were necessary in order to meet the demand of this emerging market.

Keywords: Hong Kong; university students; travel motives; travel demand

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/10941660500500766

Affiliations: 1: School of Hotel & Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 2: School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

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