Providing Advance and Real-Time Travel Information to Tourists: San Antonio Case Study

Luz, Yadira La; Mahmassani, Hani S.; Kraan, Mariette; Abdelghany, Ahmed · 2001 · ROSA P / University of Texas at Austin. Center for Transportation Research

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Summary

This study investigates how Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) can assist tourists, defined as travelers unfamiliar with a destination, in planning and executing trips. Motivated by the significant economic impact of tourism in Texas and the growing deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems, the research aims to determine the specific information needs and preferences of tourists. The primary objective is to understand the information search and trip-planning processes of these travelers to ensure ATIS technologies effectively enhance travel efficiency, alleviate congestion, and improve the tourist experience. The research was conducted through a case study focused on San Antonio, Texas. The methodology involved administering mail-back surveys to visitors in the city, collecting data on their visit characteristics, preferences for information items and sources, access to communication devices, and demographic details. The analysis employed descriptive statistics, tests of independence, factor analysis, and cluster analysis to group respondents based on the extent of their prior trip planning. Additionally, ordered probit models were used to examine the determinants of two specific planning behaviors: the timing of hotel reservations and the timing of decisions regarding specific destinations to visit. Key findings indicate that travelers strongly prefer using information sources they have previously used or are familiar with, rather than adopting new technologies. More than half of the respondents were classified as "planners" who organized their trips well in advance but traveled infrequently; consequently, they lacked awareness of new ATIS technologies like kiosks. Previous visitors to San Antonio were less likely to seek location-specific information, while those traveling by car sought details on entrance fees, children’s activities, and directions. The study found that kiosks were infrequently used, largely due to low awareness among the public. The ordered probit models provided insights into how traveler characteristics and information availability influence the timing of planning decisions. The significance of this study lies in its implications for the deployment and marketing of ATIS. The authors conclude that there is currently no large market willing to rely on new technology for navigation or congestion avoidance, primarily due to a lack of familiarity and availability. For ATIS to succeed, agencies and service providers must increase user awareness and promote these systems based on their benefits, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. The study highlights that existing information sources should include details about new technologies like kiosks to bridge the knowledge gap. Ultimately, the challenge for ATIS is to provide incremental, useful information that influences traveler behavior and improves the overall travel experience for individuals and the community.

Key finding

More than half of surveyed tourists were classified as trip planners who preferred using familiar information sources and showed low awareness of new ATIS technologies like kiosks.

Methodology

survey

Provenance

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