The Effects of Personality Traits on Memorable Tourism Experiences and Behavioral Intentions

The purpose of this study is to find whether personality traits significantly influence memorable tourism experiences (MTEs), which in turn may impact behavioral intentions (BIs). The study uses a sample of convenience of 239 tourists returning home from the Larnaca international airport in Cyprus. Linear regression analysis, frequencies, and nonparametric tests of independent samples are utilized to analyze the data. The findings reveal that most relationships between the five dimensions of personality traits and the seven dimensions of MTEs are not statistically significant except for the relationships of neuroticism and openness with MTEs. Furthermore, all the dimensions of MTEs such as hedonism, novelty, local culture, refreshment, meaningfulness, involvement, and knowledge are significantly related to behavioral intentions. The overall conclusion from the study is that the validity of personality as a predictor of MTEs and BIs is very low. Theoretical and managerial implications, limitations, and future research are discussed