"I'm here for recovery": the eudaimonic wellness experiences at the Le Monastère des Augustines Wellness hotel. Issue 8 (13th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Bona; Yang, xiaotao
• Is Part Of: Journal of travel & tourism marketing. Volume 38:Issue 8(2021)
• Page Start: 802
• Page End: 818
• Publication Date: 2021-10-13
• Subjects: Experience marketing -- experience transformation -- eudaimonic experience -- wellness hotel motivations -- transformative process -- healing seeker -- wellness lifestyle -- restorative environment -- holistic wellness hotel -- heritage hotel (10); Tourism -- Periodicals; 338.47910688
• DOI: 10.1080/10548408.2021.1921093
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1054-8408

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study uses Le Monastère des Augustines Wellness Hotel to explore healing seekers' eudaimonic wellness experiences and how such experiences are conceptualized in alignment with their underlying transformative process in a restorative environment. Using participant observation, secondary data, and thirteen in-depth interviews with eight participants, four key elements regarding wellness hotel experience were identified: 1) the museum and its inspiring reflections; 2) the historical facilities and the power of quietness; 3) the wellness lifestyle and its lasting impacts; and 4) the religious encounters, caring staff, and feeling of being cared for. We further construct a four-stage transformative process of wellness experience: realization, involvement, transformation and appreciation.