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This paper systematically reviews and maps the evolution of wellness tourism experiences (WTE) literature, employing bibliometric techniques such as performance analysis and science mapping through VOS (Visualization of Similarities) viewer and Bibliometrix – R. The study outlines the structure and development of knowledge in the field, highlighting contemporary trends and future research directions in WTE and related domains by analysing 145 journal articles published between 2005 and 2023 in Scopus. It proposes a research agenda for WTEs grounded in thematic mapping, using descriptive analysis, RPYS, and co-citation analysis to identify key authors, influential journals, notable articles, leading countries, major research themes, and five research peaks. Findings reveal a gradual evolution of WTE literature, organised around four themes: conceptualisation and types of WTE; antecedents; impacts; and behavioural intentions of wellness tourists. The study identifies gaps concerning sustainability, stakeholder perspectives, and tourist motivations. It also highlights challenges in delivering holistic WTEs, particularly the integration of corporate responsibility. The research emphasises the importance of exploring emerging trends such as digital wellness and eco-consciousness, focusing on their influence on loyalty. Finally, it advocates stronger stakeholder collaboration and advanced methodologies to better understand the holistic nature and wider implications of WTEs.
N et al. (Fri,) studied this question.