Leisure and tourism activities of international students at Stellenbosch University

Abstract

Study abroad programmes have introduced a complex array of opportunities for host destinations and international visitors. This article investigates and analyses the leisure and tourism activities of international students actively registered at Stellenbosch University in 2012. An online survey of international students assessed the activities of students from four broad regions in the extent of their participation in some of the local leisure and tourism activities. The students’ origins, their demographic characteristics, the key drivers of destination choice and pre-visit information sources contextualised some of the similarities in their participation behaviour. The pre- and post-study perceptions of the students indicated that crime is a primary concern regarding studying in South Africa. It is recommended that role players make more use of electronic information dissemination to promote Stellenbosch University as a study-abroad destination. International students at Stellenbosch University are a vital component of the student body and all stakeholders must ensure they depart after completing their sojourn having positive images and experiences regarding their studies, the institution and the town of Stellenbosch.

Keywords: International students, study abroad, leisure and tourism, pre- and post-perceptions, South Africa.