Can smart tourism technology enhance destination image? The case of the 2018 Taichung World Flora Exposition

Purpose Smart tourism technology (STT) has become prominent in the development of the tourism industry. This study aims to propose a model that integrates the cognitive–affective–behavioral model and trust transfer theory in the context of the 2018 Taichung World Flora Exposition, a mega-event. Design/methodology/approach An integrative model incorporating a questionnaire was used as the study framework. A total of 456 valid travel survey questionnaires were obtained. Findings The results suggested that the antecedents (STT and perceived value [PV]) positively affected memorable tourism experience (MTE) (cognitive component). MTE positively affected destination image (DI) (affective component), and DI positively affected intentions to revisit and recommend locations (behavioral component). Finally, MTE mediated the relationships among DI, STT and PV. Originality/value This study contributes to the development of a theoretical framework that incorporates a MTE in the context of mega-events and smart tourism concepts. The findings can help governments and the tourism industry understand the effects of STT on tourists’ experiences, perceptions and behaviors.