Business Travel and Bleisure Tourism A Study on The Travel Motivations of Academics

Abstract

In this study, the aim is to evaluate the tendencies and travel motivations of academics, who are one of the profiles of bleisure tourists in the sample of universities in Kayseri, towards bleisure tourism. The study also aims to provide suggestions that industry representatives can benefit from in product design and marketing activities, and to present knowledge that is expected to have a widespread impact on relevant body of knowledge. In line with the purpose of the research, data were collected through semi-structured interviews using the purposive sampling method, including 24 academics, within the framework of maximum diversity sampling in qualitative research methods. As a result of the analyses, it was found that the majority of participants, although not previously familiar with the concept, showed a positive inclination towards bleisure travel within their professional lives and frequently experienced such travels. Additionally, among the motivation factors for participants regarding bleisure travel, cultural exploration, personal planning, and participation in activities, as well as factors such as discovering local flavors, visiting architectural and cultural elements, and benefiting from the facilities of the hotel, were observed.