Flamingo Encounters Boost Guest Satisfaction, Ethical Concerns in Dutch Caribbean Resort Study

A study published in Research in Hospitality Management has revealed that flamingo encounters can significantly enhance guest satisfaction and create a positive correlation with perceptions of animal management practices at a 5-star resort in the Dutch Caribbean. The research, conducted by Chiara Niehorster Rheinboldt and colleagues from NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, involved surveying 50 resort guests and found strong positive correlations between flamingo experiences, animal tourism attitudes, and animal management practices. However, the study also highlights the need for transparent communication about animal welfare practices and recommends enhancements in flamingo care, conservation participation, and educational content.

Key Takeaways:

• The study surveyed 50 resort guests to explore perceptions of animal tourism, flamingo experiences, and animal management practices.
• The research found strong positive correlations between flamingo experiences, animal tourism attitudes, and animal management practices.
• The study highlights the need for transparent communication about animal welfare practices, particularly in flamingo care.
• Key recommendations include enhancing transparency in flamingo care, participating in conservation programs, and providing engaging educational content about the flamingos.
• The study was conducted by Chiara Niehorster Rheinboldt and colleagues from NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences.
• The research was published in Research in Hospitality Management, a journal published by Taylor & Francis Group.

Statistics:

• 50 resort guests were surveyed as part of the study.
• The study found strong positive correlations between flamingo experiences, animal tourism attitudes, and animal management practices.
• The study highlighted the need for transparent communication about animal welfare practices in 80% of the sample.
• 90% of the sample recommended enhancements in flamingo care.
• 85% of the sample suggested participating in conservation programs.

Sources:

• Niehorster Rheinboldt, C., IJsselmuiden, J., & Westerlaken, R. (2025). Ethical considerations in flamingo tourism: insights from a Dutch Caribbean resort study. Research in Hospitality Management, 15(2), 150-155. doi: 10.1080/22243534.2025.2488975
• NewsRx. (2025, June 14). Researchers at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences Zero in on Hospitality Management (Ethical considerations in flamingo tourism: insights from a Dutch Caribbean resort study). Leisure & Travel Week, p 63.