Honors Theses and Capstones

Date of Award

Spring 2023

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

PAUL

Program or Major

Hotel & Hospitality Management

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

First Advisor

Markus Schuckert

Abstract

While Covid has significantly impacted the tourism industry, this research study analyzes the effect of the pandemic on consumers’ behavior towards vacation rental homes. More specifically, it focuses on the three main stages of vacation rental: the choice, booking, and stay. A qualitative research approach was used along with primary data collection. Interviews with individuals in Gen Z were collected in a semi-structured format with open-ended questions. The findings reveal that consumers are now more likely to choose vacation rental homes over other accommodations due to the space and privacy that rental homes provide. As a result of Covid, individuals prioritize cleanliness and spend more time and research before booking their stay. While Covid pushed consumers towards private accommodations due to a more individual setting, the lack of services in rental homes has been identified as an issue. These results will be helpful for hotels to learn why they may be losing consumers to vacation rental homes. Further research is needed to examine other types of consumers, specifically those who do not use vacation rentals. Additional studies may perform a quantitative approach when discovering the effect of Covid on consumer behavior within this industry.

Download

Share

COinS