Structural Model on Perceived Destination Competitiveness in CARAGA Region

Abstract

The study determined the best fit model of perceived destination competitiveness and ascertained which domains in quality of vacation experience, satisfaction with travel/tourism services and travel motivation best predicts the destination competitiveness of tourism in Caraga Region. Data were collected using four modified questionnaires, tested for reliability and validated by experts. The data were analyzed from a sample of 400 tourists using descriptive bivariate analysis, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC), Regression analysis, and structural equation model (SEM). Subsequent regression analysis showed that quality of vacation experience and satisfaction with travel/tourism services are significantly related to the perceived destination competitiveness. Results of the proposed five models using SEM revealed that the Hypothesized Model 5 passed all the goodness of fit indices criteria, signifying the importance of quality of vacation experience as the major predictor of perceived destination competitiveness.  In the light of the above stated findings, the perceived destination competitiveness of tourist providers is an important issue from the tourist’s perspectives as it affects his tourist’s quality of vacation experience, satisfaction with travel/ tourism services and travel motivation.