The effects of technological improvements in the train network on tourism sustainability : an approach focused on seasonality

This paper analyzes the effect that the creation of the Spanish high-speed railway network has had on tourist competitiveness. The Spanish high-speed train system is one of the most technologically advanced in the world. Little research has been conducted as to the effect of transportation infrastructures on the reduction of tourism seasonality in this type of destinations and the increase of arrivals. By analysing the results of the Gini Index applied to the monthly arrivals of national travellers, it can be seen that the initial evidence pointing to a low effect on the reduction of seasonality levels changes with the expansion and consolidation of the network. Evidence has been found indicating that a minimum number of connected cities is necessary for the benefits of the high-speed network to be truly significant on tourism in terms of increased arrivals and reduced seasonality.