Consumer choices of international mountaineering holiday: A perspective of Slovak mountaineering market towards Slovak tourism providers

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to critically analyze consumer choices of Slovak mountaineers for purchasing international mountaineering holiday from Slovak outbound travel agencies/tour-operators. To increase the probability of the respondents' geographic, age and gender varieties, qualitative questionnaires were distributed among 80 respondents using the method of cluster sampling. The preferences of mountaineering holiday arrangement of the analysed market were found to be through personal communication with Slovak travel intermediaries, which was perceived more safe and time-saving then independent purchase or/and purchase through international travel intermediaries. An individually tailored holiday was preferred as it provides safety and simultaneously satisfies the desired elements of freedom and independence. The main issues regarding the provided services by the Slovak outbound travel agencies/tour-operators have been related to lack of mountaineering expertise and an inappropriate service delivery. © 2012 International University College. All rights reserved.