Let’s go cycling: An analysis of tourists’ experience on online user-generated content

Abstract

Purpose - This study explored cycling tourists’ experience in Singapore using an exploratory case study. Design/ methodology/ approach - Tourist’s spontaneous reviews (N= 409) posted on TripAdvisor were collected and further analyzed through Leximancer. Findings - The software identified 31 concepts grouped into five dominant themes of tourists’ experiences. In order of relative importance, the themes were tour, bike, guide, experience, and cycling. Moreover, it also revealed that most of the tourists have a favorable impression of their cycling experience in Singapore. Originality/value - The findings suggest that cycling tours can provide tourists with pleasurable experiences. Tourists embark on cycling tours in Singapore to learn more about the city and enjoy new experiences. However, to meet tourists’ expectations, it is essential that bicycles are well-maintained and accessible. In addition, tour guides should be attentive and knowledgeable. These have direct effects on tourists’ satisfaction level with cycling tours. Paper type - Research paper