Destination Authenticity Scale

What it measures

Measures three forms of authenticity in tourism: object-based (genuineness of cultural/historical objects), intrapersonal existential (feeling true to oneself during the experience), and interpersonal existential (authentic social connections during travel). Wang's existential authenticity framework shifts focus from authentic objects to authentic self-experiences.

Representative items

• The cultural performances here are genuine and original. (Object-Based)
• The traditions demonstrated here represent the real local culture. (Object-Based)
• During this experience, I feel true to myself. (Existential-Intrapersonal)
• This experience helps me express my real self. (Existential-Intrapersonal)
• During this experience, I feel a genuine bond with my travel companions. (Existential-Interpersonal)

Citation

Wang, N. (1999). Rethinking authenticity in tourism experience. Annals of Tourism Research, 26(2), 349–370.