Measuring authenticity through spatial metaphors: How close are tourists to the back regions?

From a postmodernist point of view, the concept of authenticity varies among tourists, time, and heritage sites, and it cannot be easily measured using traditional scales. This research used the method of spatial metaphors to propose an Inclusion of Authenticity in Experience scale (IAE). Study 1 used a small sample size and a repetitive time measurement. Study 2 expanded the sample size. Study 3 changed the study area. The research tested the scale’s internal-consistency reliability and test–retest reliability, and used relevant scales to test face, concurrent, predictive, and discriminant validity. The end of this paper presents a discussion and a comparison of these three studies with previous studies to show that the IAE has good psychometric qualities.