Abstract

Purpose: The main objective of this research is to encourage the increase of local MSME businesses through the sustainable tourism sector in South Sulawesi by proposing a research model that focuses on increasing revisit intention. This, in turn, is expected to stimulate local trade and strengthen tourism attractiveness. Research design, data and methodology: A quantitative research method involving 190 domestic tourist respondents was employed, utilizing a questionnaire for data collection. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis through AMOS software was applied, and the Sobel test to assess indirect effects. Results: The research findings indicate that memorable customer experiences and travel motivations significantly influence destination image. However, travel motivation does not significantly affect revisit intention. Furthermore, memorable customer experiences and destination image significantly impact revisit intention. Notably, destination image plays a significant mediating role in the relationship between travel motivation and increased revisit intention. Conclusions: Memorable customer experiences and travel motivations directly contribute to the formation of a more positive destination image. Furthermore, memorable customer experiences drive the revisit intention, but travel motivation is not significant. Memorable customer experiences only influence revisit intention through the formed destination image. Additionally, the improvement of memorable customer experience and destination image increased revisit intention.