*2.2.5. Cognitive perception of the tourist destination: hedonic benefit perceived*

It has been argued that, when it comes to consumers who look for an experience (high levels of stimulation), there is a close link between cognitive perception and hedonic benefit [57]. As a matter of fact, even though the hedonic benefit is attained through the consumer's experience of the most intangible features of the product and/or service, it is a consequence of the cognitive perception of the most tangible elements associated to the experience [58]. From this perspective, good cognitive perception will stimulate the hedonic benefit of the consumer in a positive manner [59]. In this regard, the following hypothesis is presented within the context of tourist destinations:

**H5.** The cognitive perception of a tourist destination has a direct positive effect on the hedonic benefit perceived by the tourist.

#### *2.2.6. Cognitive perception of the tourist destination: symbolic benefit perceived*

Based on the assessment of its qualities, a good cognitive perception of the destination is very important to have a positive effect on the symbolic benefit for the tourist. Literature shows that the symbolic benefit perceived by the customer can be cognitive in nature [19]. In this regard, each representation of self-concept will depend on the tourist's cognitive perception of the place [60], in order to be able to recreate such self-concept through what is already known, and also what is not yet known [61]. So, good cognitive perception of the place by the tourist will stimulate the symbolic benefit expected. From this perspective, the following hypothesis is formulated within the context of tourist destinations:

**H6.** The cognitive perception of a tourist destination has a direct positive effect on the symbolic benefit perceived by the tourist.
