Transformative Travel and Geotourism

On 29th February 2024, Destination NSW convened a webinar which focused on the characteristics of both ‘wellness tourism’ and ‘transformative travel’. Wellness travel and transformative travel are both focused on personal growth and well-being, and they have distinct differences in their approaches and goals.

Wellness travel primarily focuses on physical and mental health, with an emphasis on activities and experiences that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and stress relief. It often includes activities such as spa treatments, yoga retreats, meditation sessions, and healthy eating options.

On the other hand, transformative travel focuses on personal growth, self-discovery, and profound change. While it may incorporate elements of wellness, its primary goal is to challenge perspectives, expand horizons, and foster deep insights and transformation.

Geotourism can indeed be considered a form of transformative travel, as it often involves immersion in unique natural environments, cultural experiences, and local communities. https://bit.ly/3O0gs1o

In Australia, we have embraced the inclusive nature of the geotourism concept and have understood the inter-relationship between natural and cultural heritage elements. By focusing on the geology and geomorphology as well as the ecology and culture heritage arising from these geological characteristics, geotourism adds considerable content value to traditional nature-based tourism as well as to cultural tourism, inclusive of Aboriginal tourism.

Geotourism has links with adventure tourism, cultural tourism, ecotourism, wildlife tourism, astrotourism, and agritourism, but is not synonymous with any of these forms of tourism, although in broad terms it embraces them all because it is essentially ‘place based.’ Geotourism is undertaken in all areas, including places used by people (cultural tourism) and where primary industry activities (i.e., agriculture/agritourism, mining, and forestry) are prevalent, and in areas with Aboriginal land tenure or are subject of cultural interest. It is therefore about the place, regardless of its condition.

Transformative travel typically involves experiences that challenge one's perspective, foster personal growth, and deepen cultural understanding. Hence, geotourism fits this description by providing opportunities for travellers to engage with diverse landscapes, learn about the natural and cultural heritage of a region, and connect with local communities in meaningful ways.

Moreover, geotourism encourages sustainable practices and responsible travel behaviours, that can contribute to personal transformation as travellers become more aware of their impact on the environment and local communities.

Overall, geotourism aligns closely with the principles of transformative travel by offering experiences that are not only enjoyable and educational but also have the potential to broaden perspectives and inspire personal growth.