Bathing in the healing waters. A case-study of the development of thermal spas in Greece

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics, the existing drawbacks and the future opportunities of thermal spas in Greece. Using a case study approach, 'Thermae' spa was chosen because of its long-standing establishment and current reputation. The sample included fifty spa visitors and two managers. One-to-one interviews and questionnaires were used to collect the data. Thermal spas in Greece attract mainly older adults who seek alleviation of their medical problems. The medical treatments are of high quality, however, thermal spas need to develop their leisure and recreational image and provide more opportunities for social interaction. Greece, offering an abundance of natural resources with significant healing properties, a great heritage, and a mild climate could be an attractive destination for people who want to take time off to relax and re-energise. The future development of thermal spas in Greece is a feasible option, however, there is need for diversification into different market segments, new state-of the-art infrastructure, and co-operation of the public and the private sector for planning a long-term and viable strategy.

Leisure and quality of life in an international and multicultural context: what are major pathways linking leisure to quality of life?

“…According to Stathi and Avgerinos (2001), health tourism (i.e., travel for health and well-being) is a growing industry world-wide due to an increased interest in and a rising demand for alternative medical treatments. Particularly, Europe is well known for its ''spa baths and the therapeutic power of thermal waters'' where Germany, Italy, and France are the popular destinations in Europe for health tourism (Stathi and Avgerinos, 2001, p. 42).…”

The Contribution of Medical Tourism to the Economic and Regional Development in Greece

“…Infrastructure of a country is a fundamental factor for travellers in deciding their destination. A number of scholars (Burns, 20015;Connell, 2011;Heung et al, 2011;Stathi and Avgerinos, 2001) have cited the physical infrastructure and public facilities of a country contribute to the one of the key determinants of the destination attractiveness. The authorities in Greece have long recognised the significance of infrastructure in promoting tourism development.…”

“…Greece certainly has the potential to further develop its medical tourism credentials. The country offers high-quality and competitive priced medical treatments (Skountridaki, 2015), a great cultural heritage, a mild climate, Mediterranean diet, and an abundance of natural resources suitable for healing and recreation purposes (Stathi and Avgerinos, 2001). In 2014, international arrivals to Greece increased by 23 percent, from 17 million to 22 million visitors (United Nations World Tourism Organisation, 2015).…”

Mode of Operation of Greek Spas and their Effect on the Rehabilitation and Improvement of the Quality of Life of People with Musculoskeletal Problems

“…In addition, the economic impact of the development of therapeutic tourism, both in terms of revenue and the creation of new jobs for specialized personnel, intensifies the need for long-term policies regarding the development of therapeutic tourism in Greece (Stathi & Avgerinos, 2001). Besides, the research shows that up to now Greek Baths do not necessarily employ specialized staff for the specific services they provide.…”

“…Greece, having a long history in thermalism, tries to promote its therapeutic and medicinal form, through traditional but also modern standards, which provide services for medical purposes, for physical condition and well-being, and for recovery and rehabilitation (Stathi and Avgerinos, 2001). It has therefore been linked to the consciousness of most that they visit a Spa when they seek treatment or improvement of their health or simply prevention to avoid future health problems.…”