Visitor perception on public transport (Arriva) in Malta : the experience and accessibility aspects

Abstract

Tourism arrivals to Malta are increasing every year. The experience of these visitors is however influenced by transportation system on the Island. This research aims to identify this impact by Arriva, the operator of public bus system on the Island. This research indicates that visitor experiences are influenced by transportation system on the Island. The research identifies the impact that Arriva, the public bus system operator in Malta, have on the visitors, in terms of measurement of quality against experience on the Island and accessibility around the Island. Qualitative research had been carried out in order to answer two questions of the research it is: Is there a relationship between the quality of public transport in Malta and accessibility in Malta for visitors? Second research question is: Is there a relationship between the quality of public transport in Malta and the visitor experiences? Malta is an Island which enjoys many cultural and historical resources which are valuable and form a part of experience that visitors can have in Malta. This research will provide an opinion of visitors that would like to appreciate the resources of Malta but are constrained by transportation to desired locations. Research will indicate the outcome that Arriva has on accessibility aspect for tourists. General findings, of the conducted study, indicate that visitors find Arriva rather difficult to travel with. Moreover, the findings indicate that accessibility aspect to tourist attraction is perceived as rather positive. These findings may indicate that although Arriva is in need of improvement of its services, like punctuality, easiness of travel or pricing, some other services are tackled in correct way such as accessibility throughout the Island. To conclude the research one may notice that although accessibility is tackled properly the negative aspects of the service are overwhelming. The research also aims to show that these, 4 may result is weakening in tourism product on the Island, as tourist experience is most valuable aspect of tourism and travel.