Crafting memories : the importance of interactive souvenir -making in a tourist destination / Alexandra M. Del Monte

ABSTRACT:
For travelers to remember special moments at a specific location, souvenirs are essential. Souvenirs have traditionally been valued for their authenticity and uniqueness. Souvenirs increase visitors’ fulfillment and loyalty. Hence, this study explored the importance of interactive souvenir-making in a tourist destination. A total of twelve (12) participants participated in this study were visitors of a tourist destination in Manila from ages 17-45 years old. Results of the study have shown that the Perception of Visitors towards Interactive Souvenirs includes Cultural Promotion and Appreciation, Memorability with Family Engagement, Cultural Experience Opportunity, Personal Involvement in Souvenir Creation, Worthiness of Interactive Souvenir for its Purpose, Sentimental Value of Interactive Souvenir, Vacancy to try Interactive Souvenir. While the Elements of Interactive Souvenir-Making that Supports in Creating Memorable Experiences in a Tourist Destination are Hitting two birds with one stone, Reminiscence, The Outcome, and Sense of Belongingness. On the other hand, the Factors of Interactive Souvenir-Making contribute to (a) Tourism Promotion, (b) Learning Experience, (c) Favourable Word of Mouth includes Memorable Experience due to Innovation, Repeat Visitation, Availability and Convenience. Next is the Overall Visitor’s Experience Towards the Hand fan Interactive Souvenir-Making which tackles the Immersive Experiences of Visitors, Importance of Interactive Souvenirs for Visitors, Beneficial to the Visitors and the Tourist Destination, Influenced by Persuasion, Engaging and Interactive Experience when Traveling, Souvenirs Contribution to Unique Experience, Memorable Tourism Experience. Lastly is the Possible Recommendations for Interactive Souvenir-Making to Enhance the Memorable Experience of a Visitor to a Tourist Destination that includes the Suggestion for Enhancement and Ensure Quality and its Price.