Perceived Value in Tourism: A PLSPM Approach

This paper examines the concept of perceived value in rural tourism referred to the specific context of Sicilian holiday farms. Herein main dimensions composing the rural tourist perceived value (RTPV) are discussed. Using Partial Least Squares Path Modelling (PLSPM) –a statistical technique especially suitable for exploratory purposes with small samples – a theoretical structural model of the multidimensional structure of RTPV is tested and the causal relationships among RTPV and its dimensions (Functional, Convenience, Emotional and Educational) and among RTPV and tourists’ satisfaction and loyalty are explored. Results from a field survey on 350 tourists give a contribution in terms of i…

IL VALORE PERCEPITO DAL TURISTA NELL’ESPERIENZA AGRITURISTICA: COSTRUZIONE DI UN INDICATORE SINTETICO

Measuring the perceived value of rural tourism: a field survey in the western Sicilian agritourism sector

Rural tourism constitutes a valuable tool for the sustainable development of many rural areas. This paper examines the concept of perceived value in rural tourism. A quantitative field survey was carried out in some main Western Sicilian holiday farms (agritourisms) during the Spring 2014. A theoretical model of the tourists’ perceived value in this specific context was developed and validated, using a 22-item scale. Using Partial Least Squares Path Modelling a theoretical structural model of the multidimensional structure of the RTPV was tested, assessing intensity and direction of the causal relationships among RTPV and its dimensions. Five dimensions were identified as forming the constr…