High-speed rail, tourists’ destination choice and length of stay: A survival model analysis

Abstract

We analysed the determinants of the length of stay for tourists arriving in a Mediterranean coastal destination by means of high-speed rail (HSR) service. This study is based on data obtained from a survey completed by HSR passengers returning from holiday in Costa Daurada (Catalonia). The empirical analysis is based on estimations made using a survival model. The influence of the availability of HSR service on tourists’ destination choices together with the tourists’ profiles, party structure or accommodation characteristics was used as explanatory variables. Results revealed that the existence of HSR services played a minor role in tourists’ decision of whether to visit the Costa Daurada. Also, evidence suggests that the existence of the HSR station would only affect the length of stay of those tourists who stay overnight in second residences.