Metaverse traveler: An expedition beyond reality

Purpose – The aim of this research is to discuss the influence of metaverse platforms on travel experiences and behavioral intention: how much there are inter-relationships between immersion, the technical aspect, and user experience in virtual travel environments. This study proposes and empirically tests a theoretical framework incorporating perceived enjoyment and user curiosity as mediating variables. Methodology/Design/Approach – The sample size used in the present study was 431 undergraduate students from an Indian university. The data collection was done through a controlled experimental design using the drivenlisten platform. Findings – The current study has evidence for significant positive relationships between the technical aspect, user experience, feeling of immersion, and metaverse travel experiences. Evidence of direct influences on travel intentions and indirect influences via perceived enjoyment and user curiosity can be seen in this study. The structural model has shown robust fit indices. The most important predictor of the metaverse travel experience was found to be technical aspects, pointing toward critical technological infrastructure. Originality of the research – This study extends the presence theory by updating knowledge on the influence of virtual environments on travel behavior. The research makes a contribution to the theoretical understanding of how immersive virtual environment technologies mold travel-related decision-making processes