Nevertheless, as noted, the analyses cannot and should not be
used to predict changes in the numbers of visitors to Australia, or in
the spatial or temporal distribution of those visits, as a result of
altered climatic conditions. Additional research is required to assess
tourists’ likely behavioural reactions to these projected changes,
whether using a qualitative or traditional survey-based approach.
The contingent behaviour analysis techniques employed by
Richardson and Loomis (2005)in their study of the likely impacts of
climate change on visitation to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National
Park is one appropriate means of assessing potential modifications
to tourists’ travel patterns and preferences, particularly at specific
times or at individual locations.