A typology of Australian tourism-based condominiums

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a typology of the organisational forms comprising the Australian condominium tourism accommodation sector. Design/methodology/approach – A total of 34 exploratory interviews were conducted with interviewees representing a cross-section of interests in condominium tourism accommodation operations. Findings – An original hierarchical typology is developed. The structuring criteria employed for the hierarchy include: whether a condominium complex is in a hotel or apartment complex, whether it is branded and whether the condominiums are serviced. Research limitations/implications – The findings reported will greatly advance the capacity to provide a meaningful commentary on the nature of condominium tourism accommodation complexes and to understand key issues associated with different forms of condominium tourism accommodation services provided. Practical limitations – The study suffers from the normal limitations associated with the subjective interpretation of qualitative data. In addition, the fast evolving nature of the condominium tourism accommodation sector signifies that the typology advanced should be viewed as somewhat time-specific. Originality/value – Despite the huge growth in condominium-based tourism accommodation worldwide, there has been a scarcity of research directed to the phenomenon. The study can thus be seen to be highly original.