VFR tourism: The Host Experience

The current study explores the experience of hosting friends and relatives (HFR). Based on 51 in-depth interviews with local residents at the Israeli tourism destination of Eilat, the study sheds light on the negative and the positive aspects associated with the constant demand to host friends and relatives. In addition, the study presents a fourfold typology of HFR behavioral styles that span from engagement in predominantly indoor-related activities to visitations in outdoor commercial attractions. Another dimension of the typology concerns the distinction between guest-oriented and self-oriented styles of hosting. The findings are discussed with regard to the literature on visiting friends and relatives (VFR), sustainable tourism development and the well-being of local residents.

► The study explores the negative and positive aspects of hosting friends and relatives (HFR).
► A fourfold typology of HFR behavioral styles is presented.
► Attention is given to the subjective perceptions of VFR hosts regarding their own experiences.
► The study focuses on local residents’ well-being and their micro-level personal experiences.