From restoration to transformation in tourism experience

Unearthing the critical roles of motivation and reflection

Bibliographic Data

ID11235548
AuthorsMacaicuo Bai, Ming Bai (0000-0001-9197-5900, Sichuan Tourism University), Songshan Huang (0000-0003-4990-2788, Edith Cowan University), Songshan Sam Huang, Zhiyong Li (0000-0003-3237-4317, Sichuan Tourism University, corresponding author), Zhilong Si (Sichuan Tourism University), Rui Cui (0000-0003-3578-9892, Sichuan Tourism University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume115
Pages104032
Publication date2025-11-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAnnals of Tourism Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0160-7383 • E-ISSN: 1873-7722
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.annals.2025.104032
OpenAlexW4414679496
LanguageEN
Citations received6
References cited63

Tourism can offer restorative and transformative experiences that enhance people's well-being. However, the process of translating travel-related restoration into transformation is unclear. This study employed a grounded theory approach to explore the socio-psychological mechanisms of tourists experiencing a transition from restoration to transformation. We analyzed 35 in-depth interviews with domestic tourists visiting Tibet, a destination with rich natural and cultural endowments. Both nature-based and culture-based restorative qualities were identified; authenticity and awe represent novel additions to the literature. Tourists' motivations and reflection played critical roles in the restoration–transformation transition: while motivations primarily determined restorative perceptions, reflection served as a gateway to transformation. • Identifies authenticity and awe as additional destination restorative qualities • Reveals the links between motivations and restorative experiences • Identifies reflection as the gateway from restoration to transformation • Reveals the joint role of natural and cultural environments in restorative experiences

Critical reflection · Gateway (web page · Natural (archaeology · Reflection (computer programming · Tourism · Transformative learning · Diverse Aspects of Tourism Research · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Urban Green Space and Health

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