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This paper presents the findings of a research intended to develop a reliable and
valid measurement instrument for memorable tourism experiences from the
perspectives of more regular and typical leisure-oriented travellers. The exploratory;
stage involved data analysis 6f 100 travel blog narratives and 35 in-depth interviews;
and the subsequent quantitative stage gathered data through a survey of 700;
respondents who had visited some of the major tourist sites in Australia. The study
confirmed a reliable and valid MTE instrument having 34 items across the tern
experiential dimensions: authentic local experiences; novel experiences; selfbeneficial experiences; significant travel experiences; serendipitous and surprising
experiences; local hospitality; social interactions; impressive local guides and tour [
operators; fulfilment of personal travel interests and affective emotions. However, the \
relative importance of these dimensions can differ according to the destinations and •
travellers’ demographic characteristics. The results provide important managerial
implications for destination marketing efforts.
