Journal Title: Journal of Management and Tourism Research

Volume : 7 Issue : 01

Page : 1- 15

I.W.G.A.S.V. Gunawardana¹ C.P. Danthanarayana ² U.G.O. Sammani³

^1,2,3 Department of Tourism Studies, Faculty of Management, Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka

² https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6344-706X
³ https://orcid.org/ 0000-0003-3591-290X

This study aims to investigate visit intention and tourist experiences within the context of  fashion events in Sri Lanka, with special reference to the Colombo district. The research  objectives encompass an exploration of the influence of fashion event characteristics on tourist  experiences mediated by visit intention in fashion events to the broader tourism industry in  Sri Lanka. A quantitative research approach was utilized for the study. Data was collected  from the 120 fashion events participants and convenience sampling technique was used as  sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data while Partial  Least Squared Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze data. The main findings showed that the characteristics of fashion events have a positive influence on visit  intention, while positively impacting the tourist experience. Visit intention was found to play  a significant fully mediating the relationship between characteristics of fashion event and  tourist experience. The study recommends some policy implications such as creating a unique  identity for fashion events can contribute to the preservation of the cultural heritage. The  country can promote its cultural identity and preserve its rich history by incorporating  traditional elements into modern fashion

Key Words : : Characteristics of fashion events, fashion industry, fashion tourism, tourist experience, visit intention

Journal Title: Journal of Management and Tourism Research

Volume : 7 Issue : 01

Page : 17- 45

M.T. Pathirana¹, T.K. Vimukthika², U.S. Warnakula³ M. De Silva⁴, D.K. Hettiarachchi⁵

^1,2,3,4 Edith Cowan University Sri Lanka
⁵Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management

¹ https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8784-3833
² https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9712-0364

Backpacker tourism has emerged as a transformative segment within Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, offering significant opportunities for sustainable development and cultural exchange. This study examines the motivations, preferences, and decision-making processes of backpackers, alongside the strategies employed by tourism suppliers to engage this unique traveller segment. Employing the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as a framework, the research draws on qualitative data from interviews with 56 backpackers and 42 tourism suppliers across the key destinations in Sri Lanka. Findings reveal that backpackers are primarily influenced by the aspects of affordability, cultural richness, and eco-conscious experiences, while peer recommendations and social media play a pivotal role in their decision-making. Tourism suppliers, in response, have tailored their offerings to include budget-friendly accommodations, immersive cultural activities, and sustainable practices, leveraging digital marketing to enhance engagement. This study highlights the socio economic benefits of backpacker tourism particularly its contribution to the local communities and the promotion of eco-friendly initiatives. By addressing the evolving needs of this segment, stakeholders can maximize its potential to foster long-term growth in the tourism industry. The findings provide practical recommendations for enhancing the backpacker experience while reinforcing Sri Lanka’s position as a premier destination for culturally immersive and sustainable travel.

Key Words : : Backpacker tourism, marketing strategies, Sri Lanka, suppliers, sustainability