Perceived health benefits of nature-based tourism : the influences of tourists' involvement, restorative environment and health consciousness

Abstract

This study examines the influences of tourists' involvement, perceived restorative environments and health consciousness on their perceived physical, mental and social health benefits. The proposed model was empirically tested using a sample of 595 tourists who travelled to mountain sites after the strict lockdown in China. Tourists' perception of a restorative environment mediates the relationship between their involvement and perceived health benefits. Individual health consciousness positively moderates the effect of the restorative environment on perceived health benefits. This research connects tourist involvement, attention restoration theory and the health and wellness outcomes of nature-based tourism.