From restoration to transformation in tourism experience: Unearthing the critical roles of motivation and reflection
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Songshan (Sam) Huang: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4990-2788
Abstract
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.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
11-1-2025
Volume
115
Publication Title
Annals of Tourism Research
Publisher
Elsevier
School
School of Business and Law
RAS ID
84245
Funders
National Social Science Foundation of China (22BJY158) / Post-Funding Program of the National Social Science Foundation of China (24FGLB024-BG) / Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program (2019QZKK0404) / Sichuan Provincial Social Science Foundation (SCJI24ND246) / Sichuan Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2024NSFSC1040) / Sichuan Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2024NSFSC1040) / Central Universities Basic Research Operating Expenses of Sichuan University (20827044E0040, 20827041H4018)
Copyright
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Comments
Bai, M., Huang, S., Li, Z., Si, Z., & Cui, R. (2025). From restoration to transformation in tourism experience: Unearthing the critical roles of motivation and reflection. Annals of Tourism Research, 115, 104032. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annals.2025.104032