Department of Tourism, University of Otago, 4th Floor, Commerce Building, PO Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand; Tel: + 64 3 479 8520; Fax: + 64 3 479 9034; E-mail: ncarr@business.otago.ac.nz

Received 7 November 2005.

Abstract

This paper provides an analysis of the under-researched and under-valued holiday motivations of adolescents and their parents. This work is required for the formulation of effective marketing strategies and product development plans. The data for this paper were gathered in Brisbane, Australia, during 2002 from a convenience sample of 54 parents and 66 adolescents using two questionnaire surveys.

The results show that the types of holiday experiences likely to result in satisfaction for the parents and adolescents often differ. Within the context of the tourism industry the results suggest the need for more focused attention on the holiday needs and desires of adolescents, both in their own right and as part of the family unit.