The effects of travel experience dimensions on tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty: the case of an island destination

Purpose This paper aims to examine the effects of travel experience dimensions on tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 457 international tourists visiting Phuket through a convenience sampling method. The structural equation modeling approach by AMOS was used to test the effects. Findings In case of island destination, beach attraction is not the only factor contributing to tourists' loyalty, but hospitality of local people also plays an essential component to retain loyal tourists. Research limitations/implications This study examined only one construct (i.e. travel experience) affecting tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty. Practical implications Tourist experience in beach attractions and local people are the key factors to retain royal tourists. Social implications Quality of beaches and friendliness of local people are important factors to promote island tourism. Originality/value Two key factors of tourist experience were found to affect tourists' loyalty in the case of island destination: beach attractions and local people.