EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF VOLUNTEER TOURISM AND WELLNESS TOURISM: A NOVEL APPROACH TO ENHANCING INDIVIDUAL WELL-BEING
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35814/1gfd9g33Keywords:
Volunteer Tourism, Wellness Tourism, Traveling and TeachingAbstract
This study explores the intersection of volunteer tourism and wellness tourism, highlighting their shared motivations and benefits. Volunteer tourism became an emerging trend wherein individuals engage in meaningful activities that benefit local communities while traveling. In-depth interviews was conducted with 17 participants in the volunteer tourism program titled “Traveling and Teaching”. The motivations and impacts of volunteer tourism are examined, revealing a strong connection with wellness tourism, which prioritizes individual health and well-being. The research finds that volunteer tourism participants are driven by a desire to explore new places, make a positive impact, form friendships, and escape daily routines, aligning with the principles of wellness tourism. The experiences gained during volunteer tourism activities, such as social interactions, cultural immersion, and physical engagement, enhance participants' mental and emotional well-being, gratitude, and life satisfaction. The study concludes that the combination of social contributions and travel experiences can create a holistic and fulfilling experience for individuals, fostering a deeper sense of well-being. This novel approach highlights the potential for volunteer tourism to be pursued as a form of wellness tourism, promoting a more responsible and sustainable form of travel that benefits both individuals and local communities.
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