Wheels of Escape: Seeking Nature, Well-Being and Gratitude on the Road

Abstract

This study examines individuals' motivations for escaping and seeking in the context of nature-oriented sightseeing travel, with a specific focus on bus travel as the primary mode of transportation. While literature often examines these motivations through individual psychological processes or destination-related evaluations, limited attention has been given to the role of transportation, particularly bus travel, in shaping travel motivations and well-being outcomes. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with individuals who had participated in bus-based sightseeing tours. The findings reveal that participants’ connection to the natural environment is not solely based on personal preferences but emerges from a complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental influences. A key outcome of nature-oriented sightseeing travel was the expression of gratitude, which played a central role in participants' well-being. Moreover, the structure of bus tours, which enables scenic observation and collective experiences, was found to support emotional and psychological engagement. These insights underscore that transportation is not merely a logistical element but an experiential component that significantly contributes to overall well-being. This study offers a novel perspective by emphasizing how the mode of travel itself can shape the depth and quality of the nature-oriented sightseeing travel experience, thereby enriching individuals’ psychological outcomes.