Impact of local wisdom on travelling: perspective of elderly tourists’

Purpose This study sought to understand the impact of local wisdom on travel experiences of elderly tourists. The focus is on current knowledge gaps in tourist perspectives on the incorporation of local wisdom to enhance travel experiences of elderly tourists and includes both the advantages and challenges encountered. Design/methodology/approach Driven by an interpretivist approach, this study used in-depth face-to-face interviews and observations to understand the experience of elderly tourists aged 60 years and above travelling in Bali, Indonesia. Findings Local wisdom was found to play an important role in providing valuable experiences for elderly tourists. Apart from being an attraction in tourist destinations, local wisdom influences emotional impact, health and wellness of elderly tourists. Originality/value This paper provides original insights into the scope of local wisdom in current and future tourism destinations from the perspective of elderly tourists. A positive significant consequence of continuing to maintain the uniqueness of local people, their culture and nature is that the tourism industry is aligned towards achieving the awareness needed to provide an equal travel experience for all. By recognising and promoting local wisdom, the tourism industry can create a more enriching and fulfilling travel experience, which ultimately benefits both the tourists and the destinations.