Understanding tourist experiences of sounds at nature-based destinations: from a relational perspective

Tourists' experiences of sounds at nature-based destinations, such as Mount Huangshan, are dynamic and contextual, shaped by ongoing interrelationships among individuals, sounds, and their surroundings rather than intrinsic sound properties. Natural silence is perceived only when human voices and visual stimuli are absent, highlighting the contingency, temporality, and heterogeneity of these interactions. The study employed a mixed-methods approach—combining in-situ photos/videos, real-time portable sound sensing, GPS tracking, wristband wearing, and in-depth interviews with 34 participants—to uncover how diverse sounds influence mobile tourist experiences. This research advances theoretical and methodological understanding while offering practical insights for destination planners to enhance tourist engagement by reconnecting visitors with natural sounds in varied contexts.

Kou, L., Xiao, X., Xu, H., & Cheng, J. (2023). Understanding tourist experiences of sounds at nature-based destinations: from a relational perspective. Current Issues in Tourism, 27(4), 600–618. https://doi.org/10.1080/13683500.2023.2168522