Secondly, the perceptions of these target markets (the classical
and the new ones) were used in order to separate the naïve from
the reevaluated destination image. The research conducted reveals
the positive and negative modifications of the image variables, in
relation to their importance for the visitors, and proves that
experience has an extensive research interest and can guide the
destination marketers.
This innovative approach indicates that the most important
variables for destination choice are the ones modified more negatively:
indeed the emerging target markets have expressed the more
negative comments. This is an issue of great importance since these
segments are the more likely to be targeted by the competition. As a
consequence, destination marketers should combine the marketing
mix variables in order to approach the new segments and satisfy the
evolved demands of the classical clientele. The study offers several
implications for a series of immediate actions which concern
targeted policies in infrastructure, superstructure and projects aimed
to enhance the natural and cultural environment and to strengthen
the offered product. Moreover, it offers guidelines for product
differentiation and suggestions for the best allocation of declining
marketing budgets to effective advertising campaigns.