Motivations and experiences of tourists visiting Hasankeyf as a last chance tourism destination

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present study investigates the motivations and experiences of tourists visiting Hasankeyf – a historic district in the Batman province, situated in the southeast region of Turkey – as a last chance tourism (LCT) destination that has recently been submerged with the entry into operation of Ilısu Dam. A mixed-methods approach is employed for the study, in which quantitative data was collected via a survey filled out by visitors (n = 429) to the Hasankeyf heritage site, while qualitative data was obtained from the online reviews left by visitors (n = 78). The findings reveal that motivations to visit the site relate mostly to the ‘heritage’ and ‘last chance’ dimensions of the site. The study results reveal further that the motivation and the perception of authenticity are key indicators of a memorable tourism experience. Further implications are offered, along with recommendations for future research.