THE AVAILABILITY OF INTERPRETATION MEDIA AND TOURISTS’ SATISFACTION WITH MOVIE INDUCED TOURISM IN KENYA

Abstract

Purpose: This paper is anchored on the findings of a study that sought to assess the availability of interpretation media in movie induced tourism and its effect on tourists’ satisfaction in Kenya. Methodology: The study adopted explanatory and descriptive research designs. The study targeted 1,318 tourists from Karen Blixen Museum where the movie “Out of Africa” was filmed and Samburu County where the movie “The White Maasai” was filmed. In addition, a total of 658 bloggers airing their views on the filming locations were targeted. Simple random sampling and convenience sampling techniques were used to sample 345tourists and 221 bloggers, respectively. Structured closed-ended questionnaires were employed in collecting data. Main Findings: Findings from regression model showed that interpretation services had a positive and significant effect on tourists satisfaction (β = 0.647, p< 0.000).Based on the study findings and subsequent discussions, this paper concludes that the availability of interpretation media is effective in enhancing tourists’ understanding and appreciation of the destination being visited. Specifically, availability of guards in Karen Blixen Museum and Samburu and other interpretation media enhanced tourist experience and a majority were satisfied.  Implications: The findings can be used to improve practice by encouraging tour guides to have a clear knowledge of a destination to be able to guide tourist and facilitate the offering of quality products. It is therefore important to have interpretation services since they contribute to tourist satisfaction. Novelty: The study contributes to the creation of additional knowledge to the field of movie-induced tourism thus enhancing the understanding of the nature and characteristics of movie-induced tourism.