Abstract
This study aims to investigate the differences between first-time and repeat tourists in terms of emotional involvement, satisfaction and loyalty constructs. Quantitative methodology was employed, consisting of a self-administered questionnaire that involved inviting a convenience sample of 400 tourists visiting the Sarein hot spring of Ardebil in Iran. The collected data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, factor analysis, pearson's correlation analysis and multiple regression. The results indicate that there were no significant differences between first-timers and repeat visitors for demographic characteristics, emotional involvement, satisfaction and loyalty. Based on the research findings, repeat visitors were found to be slightly more satisfied, involved and loyal compared to the first-timers.
Abbreviations: DMO: Destination marketing organizations; WHO: World Health Organization; ISPA: International Spa Association; EFA: Exploratory Factor Analyses