Exploring the emotional benefits of nature-based tourism experiences in Montserrat for visitors with emotional distress

Abstract

This study addresses the gap in understanding how nature-based tourism, particularly in spiritually significant locations like Montserrat, can provide emotional benefits for visitors ex-periencing emotional distress. Using a qualitative approach, the research explores the pre-travel emotional states that motivate individuals to seek nature-based experiences, how visitors per-ceive and interpret their time in Montserrat, and the emotional outcomes of these experiences. The findings reveal that nature-based tourism can offer a profound sense of peace, emotional healing, and personal growth, especially for individuals coping with grief, stress, or emotional challenges. Visitors perceive Montserrat as a sanctuary for processing emotions, confronting inner struggles, and reconnecting with spirituality. The implications contribute to the broader discourse on tourism’s potential to foster emotional well-being, suggesting that spiritually and nature-based tourism destinations can play a pivotal role in emotional recovery. Future research should investigate how similar emotional benefits manifest in other nature-based tourism con-texts and explore strategies to enhance the therapeutic value of such experiences

Aquesta Màster Tesi tracta sobre com el turisme en un lloc sagrat com és Montserrat pot proporcionar beneficis emocionals. S'analitza l'estat emocional dels viatgers abans d'anar a Montserrat i quines són les motivacions que els porten a buscar aquesta experiència basada en la natura, i quins són els resultat emocionals en els viatgers després d'aquestes experiències. S'observa que el turisme de natura i emocional pot oferir un profund sentiment de pau, curació emocional i creixement personal, especialment per a aquells que afronten el dol, l'estrès o desafiaments emocionals. Els visitants perceben Montserrat com un santuari per processar emocions, afrontar lluites interiors i reconnectar amb la espiritualitat. Es conclou que és un turisme que aporta grans benefici al viatger