The effect of cultural capital on the probability to visit cultural heritage attractions

From a unique dataset identifying the determinants of visitation in cultural heritage attractions in the island of Crete; we examine the effect of cultural capital on the probability to visit cultural heritage attractions. The paper examines the impact of a number of dimensions of cultural capital (e.g., age and income variables) on tourists' stated preferences for alternative provisions of Cretan heritage attractions. The results demonstrate that the identified dimensions of cultural capital exert a significant effect on tourists' stated preferences. In order to have a better understanding of this process, the paper measures the effect of different levels of cultural capital (i.e., over young, mature, and senior tourists), on the probability of visitation. Indicatively, the results suggest that senior tourists on the island would be more likely to visit cultural heritage attractions if wine and dine facilities are provided on site, as opposed to the overall preferences of tourists on the island. In addition to that, the empirical results suggest that younger tourists on Crete (18 to 30 years of age) would be less likely to visit cultural heritage resources if congestion levels in these attractions deteriorate by 50%. This is a particularly interesting finding bearing in mind that Crete largely caters for the young and middle aged tourist market. The paper concludes with useful policy implications regarding the management of cultural heritage attractions.