Visitor Harassment Research Unit Special Papers

Abstract

The goal of the study was to identify demographic factors that could predict visitors likely to support micro-traders at a destination after being harassed by a member of their community. Then show how the accommodations sector (like hotel managers and vacation home rental managers) can use the findings to improve visitor support of micro-traders at destinations with trader harassment (TH). The researcher examined seven demographic features of visitors to four countries. They were their gender, education level, income level, marital status, prior visit to the destination, type – domestic or international, and whether they were alone at the time of the harassment event. The survey respondents were individuals 18 years and older who had visited and experienced TH in the Dominican Republic, India, Italy, or Mexico.

Regression analysis revealed that prior visitation was the only significant predictor of post‑harassment support intentions. Repeat visitors were substantially more likely than first‑time visitors to indicate willingness to support micro‑traders if given the opportunity.

The article concludes by outlining five evidence‑based strategies through which accommodation providers can apply these findings to strengthen visitor support for micro‑entrepreneurs in TH‑prone destinations. Central to these strategies is sustaining repeat visitation and converting first‑time visitors into returning guests.

Keywords

Hotel, general managers, Airbnb, vacation rental, SME’s, vendors, tourist harassment, corporate social responsibility

Date of this Version

12-31-2025

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