Process / pipelineperception-measurement

Destination Image Scale

The Destination Image Scale (DIS) measures how potential or actual visitors perceive and emotionally evaluate a tourism destination. Developed by Echtner & Ritchie (1991) and extended by Baloglu & Brinberg (1997), it captures both rational beliefs about destination attributes (attractions, climate, value, safety) and affective emotional responses (excitement, pleasantness, arousal). Destination image is a primary driver of visitation intention and repeat patronage, making the DIS essential for destination marketing strategy and competitive positioning.

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Sources

  1. Baloglu, S., & Brinberg, D. (1997). Affective images of tourism destinations. Journal of Travel Research, 35(4), 11-15. DOI: 10.1177/004728759703500405
  2. Echtner, C. M., & Ritchie, J. R. B. (1991). The meaning and measurement of destination image. Journal of Tourism Studies, 2(2), 2-12. DOI: Not assigned
  3. Hunt, J. D. (1975). Image as a factor in tourism development. Journal of Travel Research, 13(3), 1-7. DOI: 10.1177/004728757501300301
  4. Ritchie, J. R. B., & Zins, M. (1978). Culture as determinant of the attractiveness of a tourism region. Annals of Tourism Research, 5(2), 252-267. DOI: Not assigned

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Referenced by

ScholarGateDestination Image Scale (Destination Image Scale (DIS)). Retrieved 2026-06-04 from https://scholargate.app/en/tourism-management/destination-image-scale