The urban public transport experience of Chinese tourists in Melbourne

Previous studies have found that public transport is important to tourism destinations, as successful public transport for tourists may increase the attractiveness of destinations, and create competitive advantages. This paper explores the use and experience of using urban public transport by international tourists in Melbourne via short intercept surveys and follow on interviews among Chinese tourists. The intercept surveys and interviews were conducted mainly in Federation Square during October and December of 2014. 443 questionnaires were collected, and 52 follow on interviews have been recorded. Results help in understanding Chinese tourists’ usage of public transport during their stay in Melbourne. The follow on interview identifies areas of good performance and service gaps perceived by Chinese tourists in Melbourne.