Tourists intra-destination visits and transportation mode : a bivariate model

This paper investigates tourists' profile in relation to both intra-destination movement patterns and transportation mode choices at the destination through the use of bivariate probit models. The analysis is based on a field survey conducted among tourists visiting the Canton of Ticino, Switzerland. The results show a positive correlation between visiting more than one region and the use of private transportation at the destination. In particular, the two variables are explained by a mixed combination of independent variables; the transport mode choice of tourists can be well explained by demographics while destination movement patterns are rather influenced by trip characteristics. The introduction of activity participation and motivation increases consistently the fit of the model allowing a better understanding of tourist behaviour in relation to the spatial extent of the destination visited and to the transport mode selected. Finally, conclusions are drawn for policy implications in destination management and transport planning.