Leisure consumption post Covid-19. Case study: urban Quito - Metropolitan District of Quito

Abstract

Social spaces and activities dedicated to leisure were directly impacted by mobility restrictions and biosecurity conditions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic, with greater incidence in urban areas. In 2023, with the official declaration of the end of the health emergency, it is imperative to assess the state of leisure activities. This article aims to identify leisure consumption in the urban area of the Metropolitan District of Quito (DMQ) in the post-Covid-19 scenario. To identify the recreational behavior of residents and their relationship with leisure spaces, as well as consumption trends with a generational focus, frequency, and duration, an on-site questionnaire was applied, consisting of 18 questions that provided demographic data and specific consumption trends using motivations and activities related to tourism and leisure. The results obtained through the aforementioned methodology, supported by statistics and cartographic analysis, show that residents of urban Quito spend an average of 2 to 4 days a week, with up to 4 hours dedicated to leisure activities in the company of family, friends, and/or partners. Factors such as safety, infrastructure and service determine the selection of leisure spaces. The movement flows (both public and private transportation) reflect a trend towards spaces close to their residence. There is a predominant use of outdoor public spaces, such as metropolitan parks, where recreational, sports and social activities are highlighted. Additionally, there is a significant enjoyment of free time through visits to the city’s shopping centers. Consequently, the study reveals that the DMQ stands out for its varied offer for leisure activities in public-private spaces, demonstrating territory’s capacity to cover the different market niches.