Allocentric and psychocentric, tourism

Coined by tourism researcher Plog (1974), these terms describe two types of personality. Psychocentric tourists are self-inhibiting, nervous, and non-adventurous; they often refuse to travel by air for psychological reasons rather than financial or other practical concerns. In comparison, allocentric tourists are outgoing, self-confident, and adventurous. Sometimes psychocentrics are also referred to as dependables and allocentrics as venturers (Plog 2001).

Psychocentric tourists prefer destinations which they can reach by car and select familiar destinations equipped with well-developed tourism amenities, such as hotels, family-type restaurants, and shops. They like comprehensive tour package with well-organized schedules; they expect foreigners to speak their home languages, and they have the habit of purchasing souvenirs. In contrast, allocentrics frequently and often fly to destinations. They prefer less-developed spots to crowded and typical places. They do not pay special...