Exploring transformative tourism experiences among young adult solo travelers
Lindelöf, Emilia (2026)
2026
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2026052818406
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2026052818406
Tiivistelmä
Transformative tourism has become an increasingly important area of research, reflecting a growing demand for meaningful and experience-driven travel. Solo travel, particularly among young adults, has gained popularity. However, there is still limited understanding of how solo travel functions as a context for transformation. This study focuses on three core themes: solo travel, young adults and transformative tourism, examining how solo travel experiences contribute to transformative outcomes or changes among young adults. Transformative tourism is understood as travel that triggers some form of change within the individual, whether psychological, social, or behavioral.
The aim of this thesis was to explore the motivations behind solo travel and to investigate how transformative experiences emerge during such journeys. A qualitative research approach was applied, and primary data were collected through semi‑structured interviews with 11 young adult solo travelers. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key motivations, transformation triggers, and outcomes.
The findings of the study revealed that solo travel is primarily driven by internal motivations, such as the desire for self‑development, autonomy, and exploration. Several key transformation triggers were identified, including cultural immersion, interaction with nature, facing challenges, periods of solitude, and social interaction. Moreover, they indicate that transformative tourism experiences can stimulate reflection on personal values and contribute to increased self‑confidence and independence. By focusing on young adults, the study provides insight into how travel during formative life stages can influence identity development, social relationships, and perspectives. Overall, the findings contribute to the theoretical development of transformative tourism by highlighting solo travel as a significant context for personal transformation.
The aim of this thesis was to explore the motivations behind solo travel and to investigate how transformative experiences emerge during such journeys. A qualitative research approach was applied, and primary data were collected through semi‑structured interviews with 11 young adult solo travelers. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key motivations, transformation triggers, and outcomes.
The findings of the study revealed that solo travel is primarily driven by internal motivations, such as the desire for self‑development, autonomy, and exploration. Several key transformation triggers were identified, including cultural immersion, interaction with nature, facing challenges, periods of solitude, and social interaction. Moreover, they indicate that transformative tourism experiences can stimulate reflection on personal values and contribute to increased self‑confidence and independence. By focusing on young adults, the study provides insight into how travel during formative life stages can influence identity development, social relationships, and perspectives. Overall, the findings contribute to the theoretical development of transformative tourism by highlighting solo travel as a significant context for personal transformation.