Affective triggers of authenticity and place attachment at heritage sites and consequences for destinations

Based on the affective information processing framework, we evaluate whether discrete emotions of gratitude and regret can influence authenticity perceptions at heritage sites and the consequences for destination image, place attachment, and revisit intentions. Altogether, these concepts highlight how emotional triggers at heritage sites have positive consequences for destinations. Data collected from 500 visitors at a heritage site in Sardinia, Italy, reveal positive pathways between gratitude and tourists positive revisit intentions via authenticity perceptions, place attachment, and overall image. The findings have both implications for theory and practice, where destination management can activate specific positive emotions at heritage sites to achieve future patronage of the destination.