Diana Dryglas and Melanie Smith
The purpose of this theme issue is to explore the development of health tourism in challenging times, with a particular focus on the Visegrád countries. The issue investigates the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this theme issue is to explore the development of health tourism in challenging times, with a particular focus on the Visegrád countries. The issue investigates the ways in which health tourism enterprises and destinations can enhance resilience, adapt to post-pandemic conditions and navigate economic, social and political uncertainties. Additionally, it highlights the role of health tourism in improving individual and community well-being while aligning with the principles of sustainable development.
Design/methodology/approach
This theme issue employs a thematic approach, incorporating both theoretical and empirical perspectives on health tourism development. The research articles included in this issue utilize various qualitative and quantitative methodologies, such as case studies, survey-based research and Delphi studies. The focus is on examining the sustainability and resilience of health tourism enterprises and destinations in the Visegrád countries, drawing on data from key stakeholders, including industry professionals, policymakers and researchers.
Findings
The studies presented in this theme issue identify several critical aspects of health tourism development in the Visegrád region. Key findings include (1) the increasing significance of health tourism as a tool for regional economic development and social well-being; (2) the necessity of infrastructural improvements and service diversification to attract both domestic and international tourists; (3) the role of strategic collaboration between stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses and healthcare institutions, in ensuring the long-term viability of health tourism; (4) the importance of sustainable practices in health tourism management, particularly in light of climate change and resource conservation challenges and (5) the evolving consumer behaviour patterns in the post-pandemic era, which emphasize wellness, preventive healthcare and personalized experiences.
Originality/value
This theme issue contributes to the growing body of literature on health tourism by addressing gaps in research related to the Visegrád countries. It provides novel insights into the resilience and adaptability of health tourism enterprises and destinations in the face of global crises and economic fluctuations. By offering strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry practitioners and researchers, this issue fosters a deeper understanding of how health tourism can drive regional development and support sustainable growth in uncertain times.
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Diana Dryglas and Melanie Smith
This article provides the background to the topic being addressed in this issue: how to manage the development of health tourism in challenging times in the Visegrád countries…
Abstract
Purpose
This article provides the background to the topic being addressed in this issue: how to manage the development of health tourism in challenging times in the Visegrád countries. This introduction provides an overview of the current situation in the region, as well as summarizes the articles written in response to the main question.
Design/methodology/approach
This article provides a context for the research, explaining the historical and geographical background for the four countries in question. The information is based on secondary data derived from academic literature as well as professional research studies.
Findings
The findings shed light on the current trends, opportunities and challenges in the development of health tourism in the Visegrád countries. The information presents new insights into the factors influencing the growth of the industry, the impact of changing consumer preferences and the role of stakeholders in shaping the future of health tourism in the region. The findings highlight best practices and successful strategies for managing the development of health tourism in challenging times.
Originality/value
This theme issue contributes to the existing literature on health tourism by focusing specifically on the Visegrád countries, a region that has received relatively little attention in previous research. By exploring this unique region, researchers will be able to identify key trends and challenges that are specific to these countries, and develop innovative strategies for managing the development of health tourism in this context. The findings of this theme issue have practical implications for policymakers and industry stakeholders looking to navigate the evolving landscape of health tourism in the Visegrád countries.
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This article identifies some of the challenges facing health tourism development in Hungary and uses research with expert respondents to make recommendations for the sector.
Abstract
Purpose
This article identifies some of the challenges facing health tourism development in Hungary and uses research with expert respondents to make recommendations for the sector.
Design/methodology/approach
A combination of literature review, recent statistics and Delphi study data involving health tourism experts is used to identify challenges in product and service development which affect customer satisfaction.
Findings
Spas need to concentrate on improving their infrastructure where funding allows and to create better quality products and services that are tailored and marketed to specific segments. Investment may also be needed in staff recruitment and training to overcome shortages.
Originality/value
New insights are provided into the current situation in Hungarian health tourism using a comparative study of V4 countries. This helped to identify common challenges and solutions.
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Melanie Kay Smith, Ivett Pinke-Sziva and Zombor Berezvai
This paper aims to contribute to urban tourism segmentation studies by examining the role of culture as a motivation for city visits, different preferences for activities and the…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to contribute to urban tourism segmentation studies by examining the role of culture as a motivation for city visits, different preferences for activities and the demographic factors that influence activity choices. This study also compares the memorability of the trip across the segments identified based on their undertaken activities.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws on questionnaire data that was collected from 614 tourists in Budapest, Hungary. Tourist segmentation was based on a two-step procedure: principal component analysis and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis. Multinomial logistic regression was applied to reveal the effect of different demographic and travel-related characteristics on the segments.
Findings
The research revealed that cultural activities are still the most important motivation for urban tourists and that cultural tourists constitute the biggest segment (43%). They show a preference for heritage sites, museums and galleries rather than performing arts and festivals. Multinomial logistic regression showed that party tourists can be differentiated from cultural tourists and city break tourists predominantly by age and travel status. Older age groups and women are more likely to be interested in heritage sites, museums and galleries. Party tourists found their experience significantly more memorable than any other group and were much more likely to re-visit and recommend.
Research limitations/implications
Overall, this study provides useful information for destination management organisations and city agencies about which activities to promote and how to segment and potentially target tourists. This study did not include lifestyle and personality factors, secondary and complementary attractions or cultural proximity and distance.
Originality/value
There have been relatively few recent studies on urban cultural tourism segmentation, especially in whole destinations rather than at individual attractions, it was therefore considered timely to re-visit this area of research. This paper reinforces the importance of segmentation studies in tourism and analyses the changing motivations and activity preferences of urban cultural tourists over time.
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Ivett Pinke-Sziva, Melanie Smith, Gergely Olt and Zombor Berezvai
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the phenomenon of overtourism with specific reference to the night-time economy (NTE) in Budapest, Hungary.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the phenomenon of overtourism with specific reference to the night-time economy (NTE) in Budapest, Hungary.
Design/methodology/approach
The research took place between September and December 2017 in the so-called “party quarter” of Budapest – District VII. The chosen methods included mapping, observation, interviews and questionnaires with local residents, visitors and tourists.
Findings
Partying opportunities are valued highly by tourists and the majority of customers in the bars are tourists. Many people feel that there are too many tourists in the area, although few had a bad experience with tourists. The most common complaints were the dirt and litter, public urination, street crime and noise. Most respondents would welcome a better cleaning service, more bins, more police, more public toilets and better street lighting.
Research limitations/implications
The research was not undertaken in the high season, older residents were slightly under-represented and wider research across the whole city would give a more balanced perspective.
Practical implications
Recommendations are made for managing the NTE better in order to improve the experience of tourists and visitors and to improve the local resident quality of life.
Social implications
It is hoped that this research may prompt local authorities to take local resident perceptions and experiences into account by creating better management measures and regulations.
Originality/value
This is the first paper to provide data from the perspective of three main stakeholder groups in the context of the NTE in Budapest.
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Zoltán Kovács, Melanie Smith, Zhanassyl Teleubay and Tamás Kovalcsik
The research analyses the spatial-temporal behaviour of international visitors using mobile positioning data (MPD) in three second-tier cities in Hungary: Szeged, Debrecen and…
Abstract
Purpose
The research analyses the spatial-temporal behaviour of international visitors using mobile positioning data (MPD) in three second-tier cities in Hungary: Szeged, Debrecen and Pécs. The purpose of this study is to identify the origins of visitors, length of stay, seasonal concentrations and mobility between cities.
Design/methodology/approach
A large volume of data generated by foreign mobile phone users was processed and analysed for six consecutive months in 2018. The movements of around 3.5 million foreigners visiting Hungary were captured.
Findings
The data showed significant differences in tourist turnover, mobility patterns and flows indicating different levels of tourism activity and potential in the three cities. This included day trips, cross-border tourism, seasonal fluctuations and activity-driven demand (e.g. special events and cultural tourism).
Research limitations/implications
MPD cannot fully explain or predict drivers of visitor behaviour, such as purpose of visit, the precise activities that they undertake there and the experiences that they gain. It can, however, provide information on spatial and temporal flows, patterns and concentrations of visitors.
Practical implications
The investigated cities should follow distinct tourism development policies to attract more tourists and strengthen the links with their neighbouring destinations at the same time as differentiating themselves through marketing as competitive alternative destinations.
Social implications
Augmenting tourism has socio-economic implications for residents and communities. The development of cultural tourism and local event-based tourism must incorporate community needs.
Originality/value
The paper analyses the extent to which MPD can provide insights into visitors’ spatio-temporal mobility and flows in relatively under-visited second-tier cities and it highlights opportunities and gaps for big data research in an urban context.
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David Glew, Melanie B. Smith, Dominic Miles-Shenton and Christopher Gorse
The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed appraisal of the quality of domestic retrofits.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed appraisal of the quality of domestic retrofits.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents the results of technical surveys on 51 retrofits undertaken before, during and after the retrofits.
Findings
Failures are observed to be endemic and characterised into five themes: 72 per cent showed moisture issues pre-retrofit, 68 per cent had moisture risks post-retrofit, 62 per cent did not adopt a whole house approach, 16 per cent showed inadequate quality assurance protocols and 64 per cent showed evidence of insufficient design detailing. Each theme is further subcategorised with a view to identifying implications for future policy.
Research limitations/implications
The findings suggest the 10 per cent Ofgem retrofit failure rates predictions are an underestimate and so there may be a need for additional investigations to understand the trend across the UK.
Practical implications
Recommendations to reduce the failure rates may include making changes to the current inspection regime, widening understanding among installers; providing standard repeatable designs for repeated features; and empowering occupants to trigger inspections.
Social implications
The sample is representative of a substantial proportion of the homes in the UK suggesting that retrofit quality may in many instances be below the required standards.
Originality/value
Risks of moisture issues and underperformance in domestic retrofit are a concern for government industry and households. This research shows that many installation failures are the result of not implementing existing guidelines and a change to the enforcement of standards may be needed to enact a fundamental change in installer practice and process control.
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Uchitha Jayawickrama, Shaofeng Liu and Melanie Hudson Smith
Knowledge management is crucial for enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems implementation in real industrial environments, but this is a highly demanding task. The purpose of…
Abstract
Purpose
Knowledge management is crucial for enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems implementation in real industrial environments, but this is a highly demanding task. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of knowledge identification, categorisation and prioritisation that contributes to achieving ERP implementation success.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopts a mixed methods approach; a qualitative phase to identify and categorise knowledge types and sub-types; conducting in-depth interviews with ERP clients and implementation partners; plus a quantitative phase to prioritise knowledge types and sub-types based on their contribution to achieving ERP success for business performance improvement. An analytic hierarchy process-based questionnaire was used to collect empirical data for the quantitative phase.
Findings
This study has been able to identify, categorise and rank various types of ERP-related knowledge based on in-depth interviews and survey responses from both ERP clients and implementation partners. In total, 4 knowledge types and 21 sub-types were ranked based on their contribution to achieving ERP success; 4 variables of information quality, systems quality, individual impact and organisational impact were used to measure ERP success.
Originality/value
The empirical findings demonstrate exactly what kinds of knowledge need to be managed, enabling knowledge prioritisation when a client organisation or an implementation partner steps into an ERP implementation, in a real industrial environment.
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Tina Šegota, Marianna Sigala, Ulrike Gretzel, Jonathon Day, Jithendran Kokkranikal, Melanie Smith, Claudia Seabra, Philip Pearce, Rob Davidson, Cine van Zyl, David Newsome, James Hardcastle and Tijana Rakić