The determining role of social media on glamping facility preferences of individuals

Glamping is a touristic product for individuals who want to go for a vacation in nature without compromising comfort and luxury. A qualitative research method is adopted in this study, which aims to determine the impact of social media on tourists' glamping facility preferences. For this purpose, semi-structured face-to-face and online interviews were conducted with 25 volunteers determined via the criterion sampling method, who have at least once stayed at a glamping facility they chose through social media. The data obtained were analyzed through the content analysis method on MAXQDA 2022 program. Three main themes were found at the end of these analyses: Pre-Travel, Travel, and Post-Travel periods. The results showed that these individuals used social media at each stage of their travels. It was found that the individuals checked the social media images and comments about glamping facilities before traveling. In images, they particularly checked the physical condition of the glamping rooms. It was also observed that these individuals mainly read comments about hygiene and the staff. No differences were found between the promised services and the services received during travel, and these facilities offered everything they promised. It was found that these individuals shared their experiences on social media after their vacations. They mostly share images about the architecture and physical condition of the rooms. It was concluded that the participants were satisfied with the overall service quality of these glamping facilities. When the national and international literature was reviewed, no studies were found regarding the impact of social media on individuals' preferences for glamping facilities. Within this context, this study becomes significant since it will greatly contribute to the national and international literature and the glamping industry.