The Importance of Natural Geothermal Resources in Tourism

Abstract

The use of geothermal or hot springs dates back several thousands of years. Thermal bathing facilities exist in many countries and have a significant and longstanding reputation for successful health and wellness treatments based on the use of geothermal waters sourced from natural hot springs. Over time hot spring spas and resorts have come and gone, but since the wellness movement has taken a firm hold in the late 20th Century, many hot spring spas, some after years of decline, have undergone modernisation and redevelopment of their facilities. Today health and wellness spa tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of world tourism. The recreational use of geothermal springs in resorts and water parks combined with access to medical thermalism significantly adds to the standard attractions offered by many holiday destinations. Associated geothermal phenomena such as boiling lakes, mud ponds, and erupting geysers have also fascinated people wherever they occur and many have been developed into unique tourist destinations with a high visual impact.