Exploring the Indicators of Cultural Differences in Tourists’ Perceived Authenticity of the Destination (Case Study :Chinese and German Nationals)

Abstract

The present study aims to explore and understand the indicators for cultural differences in tourists’ perceived authenticity of the destination. This research was conducted using a qualitative and quantitative approach. Qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews with industry and academic experts (N=18) who were purposefully selected. Then, the quantitative examination of the findings was done by distributing questionnaires among Chinese and German nationalities (N=200). Based on the qualitative findings of the research, nine main themes and 28 sub-themes were obtained from interviews with experts regarding the indicators affecting tourists’ perceived authenticity of the destination. In the next step, the findings were analyzed by distributing a questionnaire among 200 Chinese and German nationalities. First, the model which was presented for tourists’ perceived authenticity of the destination, shows that the perceived authenticity between these two sample populations is mainly different. For Germans, authenticity means visible originality, integrity, and historical antiquity. However, the unique experience impacts the Germans’ perceived authenticity of the destination. In contrast, the Chinese often associate authenticity with unique experiences rather than simply the historical antiquity or integrity of the destination. The difference in these perceptions can be rooted in cultural values, historical narratives, and political approaches prevailing in these countries. In addition, the finding shows that external factors, such as the media portrayal of the destination and diplomatic relations between the country of origin and the destination, are influential in shaping these perceptions.

Keywords

• cultural differences
• perceived authenticity
• china
• germany
• inbound tourism