Cyclists’ positive and negative memorable travel experiences and emotions through photo-elicitation

Abstract

This study examines the positive and negative aspects of travellers’ memorable cycling experiences, as well as the underlying emotions, using photo-elicitation. Accordingly, semi-structured photo-elicitation interviews were conducted with 18 international cyclists, based on their selection of 82 photos. As a result of content analysis, themes of positive memorable experiences were identified as “accomplishments,” “discovery of landscape, history, and rural settings,” “local and authentic aspects,” “infrastructure and amenities of destinations,” and “socialising and support.” In contrast, negative memorable experiences included “infrastructure and amenities of destinations,” “challenging weather conditions,” “personal issues,” and “mechanical failures.” Underlying emotions for each theme are also presented. The research outputs offer a significant theoretical framework on memorable cycling experiences and the underlying emotions from a holistic perspective, aiding destination managers, policymakers, and service providers.