Destination Services and Travel Experience in the Gaming Mecca: the Moderating Role of Gambling as a Travel Purpose Among Chinese Tourists

Despite a growing body of research on tourist service and experience in casino gambling, there is limited research guiding how destination travel and hospitality services may impact tourist travel experience as well as what the consequences are of such an experience, especially in the increasingly popular gaming destinations. This study explores the linkage between destination services, travel experience, and behavioral outcomes among Chinese tourists visiting Macau, the world gaming capital. The moderating role of gambling as a travel motive is also explored. The findings suggest that travel experience in the gaming Mecca is driven by multiple destination service attributes that go beyond gaming and entertainment facilities. This study presents insights into how destination services might impact travel experience and, in turn, word-of-mouth and revisit intention, depending on whether gambling is the travel purpose. The authors conclude with implications for theory and practice, limitations, and future research directions.