Innovation

Pandemic and Beyond - Developing innovative approaches against COVID-19 for tourism sector using a Mean-End Chain theory approach

This project seeks to investigate the shifts in travel motivations that have occurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and to assess the practical implications of these changes.

travel-motivations

Start & End Date

01/01/2021 - 30/06/2022

Main Applicant

Heo, C., EHL Hospitality Business School

External Funding

HES-SO

ORIGINAL RESEARCH TITLE

Pandemic and Beyond - Developing innovative approaches against COVID-19 for tourism sector using a Mean-End Chain theory approach

Project Description

This study utilized a Mean-End Chain approach and laddering technique of in-depth interviews to evaluate how COVID 19 has impacted individuals' motivations for travel. The findings showed the emotional and functional benefits of travel have become more diverse, with personal growth as a prominent ultimate value. The primary factors that affect destination selection and the ultimate purpose of travel remains largely unchanged. Learning and experience emerged as the two primary functional and emotional benefits, respectively. Interestingly, relaxation has become a less important factor, while the notion of sustainability has grown more significant as an emotional benefit of destination choice after the pandemic.

 

Scientific Output

Heo, C. Y., Kang, K., Saul, L., & Woo, J. (2022, August 2-5). How did COVID 19 affect travel motivation? Application of a means-end chain approach. [Paper presentation]. International Conference on Tourism and Social Research, Ukulhas, Maldives.

EHL Blog

Opportunities for Tourism Due to Post-Pandemic Travel Triggers

Insights from a recent research project that analyzes the post-pandemic emotional triggers behind making travel decisions. The findings highlight how people today are deciding to travel due to a desire to make human connections, find a sense of belonging, create lasting memories and undertake affordable sustainable actions. These new values of travel are opening up important opportunities for hoteliers and DMOs to create innovative and engaging offers based on quality rather than quantity of travel demand. In brief, new opportunities for tourism abound thanks to very personal, human triggers.

Post-Pandemic-Travel

In the Media

La tempête Covid: ils ont apporté des réponses

Quel est l’impact de la crise sur les industries du vin, de la restauration, de l’hôtellerie et du tourisme? Le 1er février dernier, l’EHL Hospitality Business School a organisé un séminaire qui réunissait plusieurs professeurs qui se sont penchés sur la question.

seminaire-Covid-EHL

Our Team

cindy_heo_9

Dr. Cindy Heo

Associate Professor