Tourist types and happiness a comparative study in Maremma, Italy

Combining two lines of investigation—into alternative forms of tourism and the economics of happiness—this study addresses two intriguing issues from the specific viewpoint of an economist. It investigates whether and to what extent the attitudes and behaviors of alternative tourists, in this case park visitors, differ with respect to other more mass types of tourists, in our case beach tourists. Then, it seeks to understand whether a relationship exists between self-reported happiness and the type of tourist one belongs to. Ultimately, considering the standard definition, it investigates whether alternative forms of tourism may be considered beneficial for both hosts and guests. Results are discussed in an attempt to stimulate more in-depth research in this field.

► The paper merges two lines of research, into tourism and the economics of happiness. ► It tests the relationship between happiness and the type of tourist one belongs to. ► It confirms that: Park Visitors have different local impacts compared to Beach Tourists. ► It demonstrates that a correlation exists between motivational states and happiness. ► It confirms that alternative tourism may be beneficial for both hosts and guests.