Exploring the effects of a ‘new’ listing of a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the case of Singapore Botanic Gardens

A UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) listing significantly influences visitor behavior, satisfaction, and revisit intentions. A study comparing pre- and post-listing data from the Singapore Botanic Gardens revealed that WHS designation alters the perceived importance of push-pull factors—motivations driving visitors to a site—and increases overall satisfaction and intent to return. The research highlights how global recognition can reshape tourism dynamics, offering actionable insights for marketing strategies. By analyzing visitor surveys before and after the 2015 listing, the study provides evidence that WHS status enhances perceived value and emotional connection to heritage sites.

Lee, S., Phau, I., & Quintal, V. (2017). Exploring the effects of a ‘new’ listing of a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the case of Singapore Botanic Gardens. Journal of Heritage Tourism, 13(4), 339–355. https://doi.org/10.1080/1743873x.2017.1354005