The new scale created for understanding ecotourism on the Shangri-La Plateau is a refreshingly modern approach. It goes beyond traditional methods by analyzing three key aspects: context, psychological effects, and behavior execution. This innovative scale is specifically tailored to the unique features of the plateau, where high altitudes and dramatic landscapes create distinct ecosystems and rich cultural heritage.
Shangri-La’s tourism context highlights various natural wonders. For instance, lake tourism focuses on water resources and wildlife, while wetland tourism showcases aquatic plants and diverse birdlife. Forest parks combine lush vegetation and geological formations, all aimed at enhancing tourists’ sensory experiences. The breathtaking scenery, including towering peaks and mesmerizing valleys, sets the plateau apart from other destinations.
A significant finding from the study is how the uniqueness of the plateau triggers awe in visitors. This feeling differs from ordinary satisfaction, as it fosters a deeper connection with the environment. Tourists typically perceive the plateau as a sacred space, increasing their engagement and willingness to protect it. The results suggest that cultural atmosphere has a more profound impact on tourists than natural elements alone, pointing to the importance of cultural appreciation in ecotourism.
Furthermore, this study investigates the psychological underpinnings of tourists’ pro-environment behavior (PEB). It identifies three key psychological factors: awe, self-attitude (SA), and subjective norms (SN). These factors work together to motivate responsible environmental actions. When tourists experience awe, they become more aware of their surroundings and are motivated to protect them.
The research introduces a model illustrating how external contexts, like the natural and cultural attributes of Shangri-La, influence tourists’ internal motivations, leading to PEB. This “context-perception-emotion” mechanism enriches the understanding of how environmental awareness is cultivated among visitors.
Practical steps can further enhance environmental protection efforts in the region. For example, investments in preserving the incredible landscapes and cultural artifacts can create awe-inspiring experiences for tourists. Using engaging visuals, like cartoons and interactive displays, can help convey important environmental messages and deepen the emotional connections of visitors to the region.
Additionally, involving tourists in protective measures through workshops and demonstrations can foster a sense of responsibility toward the environment. Technologies like virtual reality can also help showcase hidden natural and cultural wonders, leading to greater appreciation of the region’s beauty and fragility.
There are some limitations to this study. For one, it relies on tourists’ self-reports, which can be affected by social expectations. Future research should involve more diverse methods, such as interviews or experiments, to gather a richer dataset. Seasonal variations in ecotourism experiences also warrant investigation, as different times of year may affect perceptions and behaviors.
Overall, the insights gained from this study not only illuminate how to enhance the ecotourism experience in Shangri-La but also provide a framework for understanding tourists’ behaviors in various other locations. Expanding the analysis to include other ecotourism sites could further validate these findings.
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Development studies,Environmental studies,Geography,Psychology,Science,Humanities and Social Sciences,multidisciplinary
