Let’s go cycling: an analysis of tourists’ experience on online user-generated content

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore cycling tourists’ experience in Singapore using an exploratory case study. Design/methodology/approach: Tourist’s spontaneous reviews (n=409) posted on TripAdvisor were collected and analyzed through Leximancer. Findings: The software identified 31 concepts grouped into five dominant themes of tourists’ experiences. In order of relative importance, the themes were tour, bike, guide, experience, and cycling. It revealed that most tourists have a favorable impression of their cycling experience in Singapore. Originality/value: The findings suggest cycling tours can provide tourists with pleasurable experiences. Tourists embark on cycling tours in Singapore to learn more about the city and enjoy new experiences. However, to meet tourists’ expectations, bicycles must be well-maintained and accessible. In addition, tour guides should be attentive and knowledgeable. These have a direct effect on tourists’ satisfaction level with cycling tours.