The Relationship Between Individuals’ Perceived Wellness and Life Satisfaction Levels in Thermal Tourism Context: The Case of Ankara

Abstract

Purpose – The main objective of this study is to examine the levels of wellness and life satisfaction perceived by individuals participating in thermal tourism activities. In addition, it aims to determine the relationship between participants’ perceived levels of wellness and life satisfaction and to identify differences based on their demographic characteristics.
Design/methodology/approach – In this quantitative study, the survey technique was used as the data collection tool. The Perceived Wellness Scale and the Satisfaction With Life Scale were used to determine the participants’ perceived wellness and life satisfaction levels. The population of the study consists of individuals residing in Ankara and visiting Ankara's thermal tourism destinations of Kızılcahamam, Beypazarı, and Haymana. A total of 384 usable data points were obtained and analysed. The SPSS statistical package programme was used for data analysis. The analysis included t-tests, ANOVA tests, correlation analysis, and simple and multiple linear regression analyses.
Results – According to the research results, a positive relationship was found between perceived well-being and life satisfaction. The well-being levels of individuals participating in thermal tourism activities did not differ according to the variables of age, marital status and education level, but differed according to the variables of gender and participation status. Participants’ life satisfaction levels, on the other hand, vary according to gender, age, marital status, education, and participation status variables.
Discussion – Research results show that participation in thermal tourism activities has an effect on perceived well-being and life satisfaction levels. In this regard, expanding and generalising the conditions for the state to cover treatment services offered in thermal tourism under health insurance and increasing accessibility to thermal tourism services will contribute to the sector.