Presented at the Ist International Symposium on Innovative Approaches in Scientific Studies (ISAS 2018), Kemer-Antalya, Turkey, Apr 11, 2018

SETSCI Conference Proceedings, 2018, 2, Page (s): 22-22 , https://doi.org/

Published Date: 23 June 2018    | 1218     11

Destination image refers to the mental schemes, beliefs and ideas of individuals about a place or destination. In the development of tourism, it is of utmost importance that the important products, the destinations, are made known and have a positive image in the sight of the tourists. How a destination is perceived by tourism stakeholders is crucial to the development of the destination. There seems to be a lot of studies about destination image in the literature. However, a study investigating how the image of a local destination is perceived in terms of domestic and foreign tourists and what similarities and differences are found has not been reached. . This study was carried out in order to determine whether there are differences of perception between domestic and foreign tourists who are two important tourism stakeholders.

The survey was conducted in Pamukkale by applying a questionnaire to a total of 1,032 tourists, 795 native and 237 foreign. As a result of the survey conducted through the 49-point questionnaire, it was observed that there was a significant difference between the local and foreign tourists' perception of the image of Pamukkale destination. It has been found that tourists are more involved in the expression of Pamukkale's image than local tourists. According to this, it can be said that Pamukkale's image perception on foreign tour is higher than the local tourists. However, participation in expressions "Pamukkale has a known reputation", "Relaxing and restful", "It is important for health" remains lower for foreign tourists. This situation has emerged as an important issue that should be emphasized and striking for the region that is marketed as being a health city in the world. Foreign tourists perceive Pamukkale more as a friendly, inexpensive thermal destination that preserves its natural and cultural heritage, has a tourist lower and upper structure, and is adequate. Moreover, the natural attraction and image of Pamukkale is more meaningful for the foreign tourists.  

Keywords - Tourism, Destination Image, Local-Foreign Tourist, Perception, Pamukkale