Reinterpreting activity space in tourism by mapping tourist-resident interactions in populated cities

This study draws upon the concept of ‘activity space’ rooted in human geography and applies it in a contemporary urban context–Macao. Noting the growing trend of urbanisation and the blurring boundary of tourist-resident spaces, this research systematically analyses the mapping and structure of tourist and resident activity spaces, and interprets the tourist-resident interactions through their spatial–temporal behaviours. Global Positioning System data were consolidated to present the results in a visual way. This study contributes to the pool of knowledge by reinforcing the concept of activity space in tourism research. The practical insights can benefit destination planning where tourists and residents co-share spaces in a harmonious setting.