‘Big-5’ personality traits and revisit intentions: The mediating effect of memorable tourism experiences

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the influence of the ‘Big Five’ personality traits on memorable tourism experiences (MTE) and revisit intentions. It explores the interrelationships among these three constructs. 
Methods: A sample of 239 outbound tourists at Larnaca and Paphos international airports in Cyprus was utilized. The research employed a combination of exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and mediation analysis to assess the mediating role of MTE dimensions between personality traits and revisit intentions. 
Results: The results indicate that most associations between the Big Five personality traits and the seven MTE dimensions were not statistically significant, with the exception of two relationships: neuroticism with novelty, and openness with refreshment. All seven MTE dimensions were found to have a positive and significant impact on revisit intentions. However, the direct effects of personality traits on revisit intentions were not significant. Mediation analysis showed partial mediation for all seven MTE dimensions in the relationship between agreeableness and revisit intentions. 
Implications: Given the limited predictive power of the Big Five personality traits and the seven-dimensional MTE scale in this context, future research should consider employing alternative or expanded measures for both personality and MTE. Researchers are encouraged to refine and broaden these constructs to better capture their potential influence on tourist behavior.