EVOLUTION OF THERMAL REGISTERS AND EARNINGS: THE CASE OF THE PORTUGUESE MARKET

This study highlights the importance of thermal spas and the reasons that lead individuals towards thermal tourism. Because thermal spas are very important to the economy of the regions where they are located, this study analyses the personnel and frequencies of thermal spas in Portugal using descriptive statistical analysis. The results show the demand for Portuguese thermal spas is developing in a progressive trend and that the frequency of thermal spas is increasing annually despite the decrease during the pandemic due to covid 19. The analysis also shows that the demand for thermal spas is higher for Portuguese inhabitants than foreigners. We can conclude that the importance of thermal tourism in Portugal is very significant and plays a vital role in the local economy.