Glamping: An exploration of emotional energy and flow experiences in interaction rituals

Glamping, a popular niche in the outdoor hospitality industry, caters to individuals who enjoy nature-based tourism. This study explored the process mechanisms and outcomes of interaction rituals in glamping. Empirical research was conducted on glamping participants (n = 18) and campsite managers (n = 8) through two studies using visual ethnography, focus-group interviews, and in-depth interviews. Using five-factor narrative analysis, the sources of interaction ritual dynamics in glamping were found to be flow experience and emotional energy, with generation paths identified as long-and short-interaction cycle rituals. Interaction ritual movement as influenced by emotional energy and flow experience was also established. An inner dynamic mechanism of interaction rituals in glamping was identified based on the perspectives of people, places, and things. This study also presents theoretical and practical insights into the interaction ritual chains in glamping, and practical suggestions for campsite managers and glamping companies to develop interaction rituals.