Theoretical Framework Of VFR Travel

The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the relevant theory and the literature which surrounds the concept of VFR travel and the expenditure patterns. The chapter is divided into 3 sections. The first part discusses the theoretical framework of the study. The second part discusses the literature around the concept of VFR travel and the expenditure patterns. The factors which influence the expenditure patterns of tourists’ are discussed in relation to the independent and dependent variables. The last part will discuss the summary of the chapter (knowledge gap) and how the theoretical and the literature review will form the basis of the methodology and data analysis.
2.1 Theoretical Framework
Theories assist in understanding the relationship
It is argued that cognitive learning is when a customer is unfamiliar with the product or service, but as a result of the experiences will modify their actions on future occasions (Aslin and Rothschild, 1987; Ushadevi, 2013). The cognitive approach supports the theory of consumer behaviour which in cognitive terms is the theory of the customer decision model. The consumer decision model decisions are influenced by 2 main factors namely; stimuli which is processed as a result of previous experiences and external variables (environmental influences or individual differences) (Aslin and Rothschild, 1987; Ushadevi, 2013). The environmental influences include: culture; social class; personal influence; family and situation. Individual Influences include: motivation, involvement, knowledge, personality, values and lifestyles (Abdallat and Emam, 2001). Cognitive development contributes to the expenditure of tourists through repeat visits which is instigated by past experiences (McFarlane and Boxall, 1998; Ushadevi,
The humanistic approach explains when human interacts with the environment (Mostert, 2006; Bray, 2008). The elements that encompass the human behaviour include: thought, feeling or action of people (Mostert, 2006). The human behaviour approach to the theory of consumer behaviour can be linked to the Maslow hierarchy of needs through motivation (Mostert, 2006; Ushadevi, 2013). The Maslow hierarchy of needs is divided into 5 categories: psychological; safety; belonging; esteem and self-actualisation (Mostert, 2006; Ushadevi, 2013). If customers have achieved the last stage of the hierarchy (self-actualisation) it implies that they are able to do or achieve them. For example, disposable income allows them to travel thus spending at a