Travel as a Catalyst of Peak-experiences among Young Filipino Adults

Pages:204-210
Edward Hoffman1, Ahrisue Choi2, and Kristin Mari Bongcaras3 (Department of Psychology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, USA1, Child Mind Institute New York, NY, USA2 and Department of Psychology, University of San Carlos, Cebu, Philippines3)

Growing research shows tourism as a contributor to personality growth. In this study, 217 native Filipino adults (mean age=22.7 years) were prompted to describe experiences of “wonderful happiness” during travel and indicate the travel purpose, when and where their peak-experience occurred, its catalyst and intensity, whether they were alone, and subsequent impact on their view of life. Additionally, they were asked if travel had ever facilitated problem-solving or decision-making and how. Nearly 83% reported a peak-experience involving travel. Peaks involving interpersonal joy were most frequent, followed by nature, personal growth, serenity/mindfulness, culture/aesthetics, culinary delight, skill mastery, external achievement, and materialism. More than 70% reported “very” or “extremely” intense peak-experiences, and 92.8% reported that it impacted their view of life. Over 80% who experienced a peak affirmed that travel aided decision-making. The implications of these findings for understanding growth aspects of travel are discussed, and future avenues of research are highlighted.