EXAMINING THE MOTIVATIONS OF TOURISTS TO PARTICIPATE IN RURAL TOURISM AND ETHNIC RECREATIONAL TOURISM: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GENERATIONS X, Y, AND Z

Yıl 2026, Cilt: 10 Sayı: 1, 37 - 61, 26.03.2026

Cihan Yılmaz , Özlem Karataş

https://doi.org/10.59274/enderun.1707108

https://izlik.org/JA69PY93GN

Öz

ABSTRACT
This study aims to compare the motivations of Generations X, Y, and Z for participating in rural tourism and ethnic recreational tourism. Tourism is based on various motivations shaped by cultural and social dynamics, with rural areas and ethnic experiences playing a significant role in tourism preferences. Using quantitative research methodology, 390 surveys were administered to tourists from different age groups. The findings indicate that gender has no significant effect on motivations in either type of tourism. However, education level and income status variables led to significant differences in both rural and ethnic-recreational tourism motivations. Notably, lower income and certain education groups demonstrated lower tourism motivations. Regarding generational variables, rural tourism participation motivation was highest among Generation Z and lowest among Generation X; whereas in ethnic-recreational tourism, Generation Z's motivation was significantly lower compared to Generation X. Analysis of motivation statements revealed that rural tourism motivations were generally high, with nature-based and psychological relaxation elements being particularly prominent. In ethnic-recreational tourism, participation in cultural activities and package tour preferences were predominant. The study's findings support the determinant role of demographic factors on tourism motivations, demonstrating that motivation structures vary across different types of tourism.
Keywords: Rural Tourism, Ethnic Tourism, Recreation, Motivation.

Anahtar Kelimeler

Keywords: Rural Tourism , Ethnic Tourism , Recreation , Motivation.

Kaynakça

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