Journal of Tourism and Development

Journal of Tourism and Development

Guests' stay experience in boutique hotels: A mixed approach of the service-dominant logic and dual processing theory

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Maryam Ameri
Mohammad Sharifi-Tehrani
Zahed Shafiei
Department of Museum and Tourism, Faculty of Research Excellence in Art and Entrepreneurship, Art University of Isfahan
10.22034/jtd.2025.497573.3008
Abstract
In the present research, we aim to make an analysis of different dimensions of guests’ perceived experiences in the context of boutique hotels, employing semi-structured interviews with managers and industry experts. To this end, a total of 17 interviews were conducted and coded utilizing MAXQDA by two independent researchers, one of whom served as the interviewer, according to the thematic analysis methodology and the five-step process delineated by Braun & Clark (2006). Through the analysis of code frequency, four predominant themes were identified in the following order: 1) architecture and design, 2) relations with guests, 3) guest delight, and 4) emotions and feelings. The qualitative investigation was further substantiated by the theoretical frameworks of the service-dominant logic and dual processing theory. The findings relevant to the main themes underscore that creating quality experiences for guests necessitates appropriate relationships between employees and guests on the one hand, and appropriate relationships between employees and managers/employees on the other. The findings offer significant insights towards the enhancement of services and experiences within the context of boutique hotels.
Keywords
Experience
Service-dominant logic
Dual processing theory
Qualitative approach
Journal of Tourism and Development

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 23 May 2025