The increasing frequency of Saharan Dust Events (SDEs) in Central Europe, especially
in Hungary,
poses significant challenges for the tourism sector, especially for spa hotels. This
study examines
the impact of SDEs on air quality, operating costs and possible guest experiences
in these
accommodations. Dust events lead to reduced air quality and visibility, undermining
the tranquil
environment essential for wellness services, which could ultimately affect guest satisfaction.
In
addition, increased levels of particulate matter can exacerbate health concerns for
sensitive
individuals, potentially reducing bookings during peak dust seasons. Operating costs
rise sharply
as wellness hotels face increased maintenance needs; outdoor facilities require frequent
cleaning
to prevent damage, while HVAC systems must work harder to maintain air quality, increasing
energy consumption. As energy prices have risen sharply in recent years, this can
have a
significant impact on the economic sustainability of hotels. Wellness hotels will
have to change
their philosophy and services to meet the new challenges. Indoor services will become
more
important and special therapies such as cave therapy will play a greater role. In
addition, traffic
disruptions due to reduced visibility during SDEs complicate guest arrivals, leading
to logistical
issues and lower occupancy rates. This research highlights the wider implications
of SDEs for the
economic sustainability of wellness tourism in Hungary. Investment in sustainability
and
infrastructure will be essential to maintain competitiveness in an unpredictable climate.
Keywords: Saharan dust event, wellness hotel, economic sustainability
