THE DEVELOPMENT AND CONCEPTUALIZATION OF WELLNESS TOURISM: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GLOBAL AND CHINESE PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

As a sub-market of health tourism, wellness tourism is rapidly developing globally. This study reviews the history of development and definitions of wellness tourism abroad and in China. Internationally, wellness tourism has evolved through three stages: spas, therapeutic tourism, and modern wellness tourism. In China, wellness tourism reflects changes in the business system since the founding of New China. Despite different origins, the global purpose of wellness tourism is to satisfy the health and relaxation needs of the body, mind, and spirit. In defining wellness tourism, international perspectives offer broad and narrow definitions, focusing on various wellness activities and luxury services. In China, definitions are approached from motivational, content, and distinguishing perspectives. This study aims to clarify the concept of wellness tourism, providing a comprehensive understanding to guide future research and development in this rapidly expanding field.