Abstract:

The paper considers a sketch map technique as a supplementary method that in a complex with structured surveys captures the components of a destination image from the visitors’ point of view. The scope of research is the sketch map technique used to define the tourist image of Tomsk among Tomsk polytechnic university (TPU) international students. The paper reports on the results of the top named landmarks, paths and districts of Tomsk in the sketch maps and the questionnaires filled by the international students. The results of the sketch maps of the city and the questionnaires indicated that Tomsk is perceived as “friendly”, “pleasant”, “dynamic”, “favorable”, “fresh” city whereas the campus area of the TPU is students’ personal downtown of Tomsk.