https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/106879 2026-04-14T16:07:42Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145582 Title: The influence of nostalgic films on consumer choice movie-induced tourism : a Harry Potter case study Abstract: Nostalgia and film form the basis of this study, by exhibiting the experiences and views of Maltese individuals who have grown up watching the Harry Potter films and visited the United Kingdom. Films are a source of visual representation, upon which it provides information on destinations, creates a sense of awareness, initiates interest, incites desires and formulates specific destination images, which in turn results in decision making. By analysing the element of nostalgia as a motivational driver in tourism, the study provides insight into the reasoning behind consumers’ choice in visitation. A qualitative case study research method, specifically focus groups, was adopted, utilising self-designed questions. The researcher examined and analysed first-hand views and experiences from six participants who grew up watching the Harry Potter films and had previously travelled to the United Kingdom (UK). Factors such as film tourism, nostalgia pertaining the Harry Potter film series, travel motives and perceptions of the UK were studied. Secondary data, through literature collected from books and academic journals, further credited the research. The results indicate that nostalgic motivational drivers influence consumers’ choice in visitation. However it is not as distinguishable as other motivational factors, which more adequately embody one’s self-identity presently. Yet the pull that familiarity and nostalgic sentiments play in consumer’s choice and visitation to certain sites, which encapsulate the undertone of a nostalgic film (in this case the Harry Potter films), lead the researcher to integrate a new category in Croy and Heitmann’s (2011) film tourist typology, which centres around the concept of nostalgic motivational drivers, based on cultural significance and personal meaningfulness of one’s life experiences, acting as a source of self-identity and how one reconvenes with their memories. The study concludes that the influence of films acts as an image formation agent to one’s perception of a place; that even though it may be a romanticised depiction, it entices people to visit the place. Nonetheless, the exposure to other information sources creates an alternate image of place that is more representational of the true nature of the UK. Recommendations for future research to further evaluate the new category proposed in Croy and Heitmann’s typology is provided, while supplementary studies that would close the gaps in film tourism and motivational drivers are addressed in the conclusion. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145436 Title: The role of ICT in cultural tourism : taking it from professionals working in the respective fields Abstract: Cultural sites including museums have always been regarded as a showcase of cultures. As a result of technological innovation, they need to look at new ways to museology. Museums are adopting digitalization in their daily running. Nowadays, the tourism industry is expanding with new markets and niche sectors are emerging. Information technology is a niche which is expanding exponentially. The tourism industry is also investing in Information and Communication Technology, (ICT) to enhance the visitors` experience. This study aims at exploring the relationship between ICT and cultural tourism through the eyes of experts working in this field. The recent Covid-19 pandemic was a reflection on the tourism industry to re-think on innovative methods to reach a wider audience. This study took a qualitative stance where the participants voiced their opinion via online or face-to-face interviews. The interviews were analysed using Braun and Clarke`s thematic analysis. Furthermore, primary data was supplemented with secondary research by employing research with the focus on ICT, challenges, opportunities, cultural tourism, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Six interviews were conducted with people who are knowledgeable in this sector. From the results, it has emerged that the importance of ICT in cultural tourism sector is becoming a common aspect. Various ICT tools and platforms are being used to make museums sustainable. Financial hurdles and the museums accessibility for persons with special needs were among the challenges mentioned by the participants. More expertise, training on recent ICT developments and education are some recommendations to help these sectors to flourish. Description: M.A.(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144988 Title: Cultural events and their contributions towards the Maltese tourism industry Abstract: Events are one of the many sectors within the tourism industry that generate particular benefits for a destination. Contributions can be both economic and social. The tourism industry has become an essential economic pillar for destinations. In fact, some destinations rely heavily on tourism since it generates substantial income. Three events are examined closely in this study, along with their contribution to the Maltese Island. The Valletta Baroque Festival, the Malta Dance Festival, and the Malta Jazz Festival serve as case studies. The primary conclusions of this study are that such cultural events have an economic and social impact. They attract a substantial amount of tourists, who spend money on a variety of necessities, such as on accommodation. Such cultural events influence the decision-making process of a prospective visitor. The Valletta Baroque Festival also helps to attract tourists during the low season and this benefits Malta financially. Moreover, visitors coming for the event get a favourable impression of Malta and are persuaded to return. Data was acquired using both qualitative approaches, with interviews done with entities involved and quantitative methods through a survey distributed to visitors of the three events. Consequently, the mixed method approach was adopted for this research. It is clear that such events contribute significantly to the tourism industry and can be considered of benefit to a destination. Therefore one can conclude that cultural events should be supported and promoted by the national authorities and agencies. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144987 Title: The effects of immigration and entry requirements to Malta’s tourism Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between the current immigration and entry requirements in Malta, and how it affects the capability of people to visit the country for different purposes. To begin the research, the aims and objectives have been established in order to have a guide on where to go as the study comes together. Literature was used to explain a variety of aspects related in the study such as tourism in general, Malta as a tourist destination, the role of government and authorities, different types of visas and views on immigration. In addition to that, more information on the background for the existence of the visa requirements and immigration policies has been gathered through primary data collection. Another purpose of this dissertation is to discover recommendations for a better and more improved system. This is largely supported by the participants of the data collection who also provided several examples on how the requirements and process could be done better. This research seeks to provide timely and accurate information so that more knowledge would be available for future research in this area, especially knowing that there are limited sources currently available to support this type of study. The conclusions reached further support the literature and ideas presented thanks to the analysis of findings and results of data collection. Moreover, it is evident that there is a huge potential in modernising the current process of being permitted entry and residence in Malta. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z