Emerging Sustainable Themes in Wellness Tourism: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Wellness tourism has witnessed significant growth within the global tourism industry, driven by an increasing interest in physical and mental well-being among travellers. This study investigates the emerging sustainable themes within wellness tourism, with a specific emphasis on spa-based experiences, organic agritourism, and water-related tourism activities. It explores how wellness tourism contributes to destination development by attracting more visitors, thereby boosting local economies, supporting environmental conservation, and enhancing both community engagement and overall community well-being. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) model, focusing on studies published from 2007 to 2024. Research articles were sourced from reputable academic databases, including Emerald, ResearchGate, Springer, and Frontiers. The findings reveal that wellness tourism not only enhances tourists’ quality of life by offering revitalizing and immersive experiences but also strengthens local economies through job creation, increased revenue for small businesses, and infrastructure development. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation by promoting sustainable practices and protecting natural resources. Wellness tourism also contributes to community well-being by preserving traditional healing practices, supporting local cultural activities, and encouraging meaningful cultural exchanges between tourists and host communities. Future research is encouraged to apply the 4Es paradigm: Entertainment, Education, Esthetics, and Escapism to understand better wellness tourism experiences and their long-term implications for sustainable development. Longitudinal studies could offer deeper insights into the sustained impacts of wellness tourism on local communities, ecosystems, and tourist loyalty. Furthermore, examining cross-cultural perspectives and the integration of digital wellness innovations could further enrich this growing field of study.