Footprint of Love in Destiny: measuring regenerative cultural tourism on the Way of the Holy Grail
Abstract
This study proposes a novel conceptual and operational framework for measuring the positive socio-cultural, emotional, and regenerative impacts generated by travelers in cultural destinations. While tourism research has traditionally focused on negative externalities or economic indicators, limited attention has been given to operationalizing the constructive and regenerative contributions of visitors.
To address this gap, the present research introduces the Footprint of Love in Destination (HAD), defined as a multidimensional conceptual construct designed to capture the ethical, relational, cultural, and environmental contributions of travelers. The study develops a structured operational model based on five core dimensions: community participation, cultural preservation, emotional-relational impact, shared learning, and environmental stewardship.
Building on interdisciplinary tourism theory and behavioural science, the research proposes a technological implementation framework through a mobile application architecture designed to facilitate data collection, behavioural engagement, and impact visualization. The Way of the Holy Grail cultural route is presented as a suitable pilot context due to its cultural, symbolic, and territorial characteristics.
This research contributes to tourism studies by establishing a theoretically grounded and operationalizable framework for measuring regenerative tourism behaviours, expanding current approaches beyond sustainability toward measurable positive impact generation. The study provides a foundation for future empirical validation and technological implementation in cultural destinations worldwide.
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