Understanding destination image from the perspective of Western travel bloggers: the case of Istanbul

Abstract

Purpose Travelers’ narratives disseminated online about destination experiences are an important source of information for measuring the performance of tourist destinations and understanding travelers’ perceptions, behaviors and expectations. Drawing on data from travel narratives, the purpose of this study is to examine the destination image of Istanbul as revealed in Western travel blogs. In addition, this study aims to identify the demographic characteristics of travelers who are more likely to engage in destination blogging activities. Design methodology/approach A deductive content analysis approach was used on a sample of travel blog entries retrieved from TravelPod.com. Based on the dimensions and attributes of destination image identified by Beerli and Martín (2004), a coding scheme was established to guide the coding process. Findings The findings suggest that the online destination image of Istanbul is generally positive. Specifically, the destination is mainly appreciated for its cultural and historical heritage, as well as for its tourist infrastructure. However, the findings also highlight some issues that concern Western travelers, such as safety and traffic congestion. Originality/value This study is timely as it explores the online destination image of a key destination in a period of instability. The findings are expected to offer insights for destination management organizations in Turkey on how Western travelers view Istanbul as a tourist destination. These insights are also important to help policymakers and tourism destination marketers design effective strategies.

Destination image formation: Towards a holistic approach

“…Similarly, in our study, Turkey was perceived as a relatively safe and stable place to visit. However, in a more recent research on Istanbul, a general concern about safety is more prevalent (Alrawadieh, Dincer, Istanbullu Dincer, & Mammadova, ). This could be explained by the timing of data collection.…”

“…This could be explained by the timing of data collection. Whereas our data collection took place just before the dramatic events of 2016, in their research, Alrawadieh et al () explored images through the online reviews shared in 2016. Finally, Turkey was also understood as a destination with good food, something that, interestingly, both visitors and nonvisitors agreed on.…”

The impact of visitors’ experience intensity on in-situ destination image formation

“…Tourism studies have explored numerous factors shaping destination image formation including previous experience/familiarity with the destination (Fakeye & Crompton, 1991;Kim & Morrsion, 2005;Smith et al, 2015;Vogt & Andereck, 2003) and information sources used (Alrawadieh, Dincer, Dincer, & Mammadova, 2018;Govers, Go, & Kumar, 2007…”

Tourist Experiences at Overcrowded Attractions: A Text Analytics Approach

“…Problems such as the increasing number of tourists in certain attractions, tourism gentrification, commodification on tourist sites, and rent escalation, are gaining more visibility [ 27 ]. These factors have all worsened tourist experiences in overcrowded areas [ 28 ]. An example can be seen from the deputy mayor’s unpleasant attitude towards tour buses in Paris [ 29 ].…”