Features of animation services in sanatorium and resort facilities
Authors: Polova  L.  , Klapchuk V. , Chorna L. 
Published: July 2024

Modern tourism strives for a variety of services and a personalized approach to each client. Although some resorts and sanatoriums require modernization and investment, there is a growing interest from the private sector in developing resort infrastructure. However, the modernization of society and changing lifestyles are driving the search for new forms of leisure during vacation, which can be provided by animation activities. Health resorts are forced to look for new ways to attract customers, and animation services can be an additional advantage over competitors. In sanatoriums, the first half of the day is allocated for wellness procedures, and the second half for rest and leisure. Therefore, the time free from sleeping, eating and treatment should be filled with organized leisure. Hotel animation services are one of the most effective means of attracting guests to a hotel, influencing the tourist's positive assessment of the hotel's overall performance. These are a kind of additional services to the hotel client that allow them to be occupied in such a way as to awaken positive emotions, feel satisfied with their stay at the hotel and encourage them to return to this hotel again. In general, animation in the hospitality industry refers to entertainment, leisure, and interactive communication with guests of hotels, resorts, campsites, etc. Specialists in this field are animators who create an atmosphere of fun and provide a variety of activities for guests. Currently, animation activities in resorts are taking on new forms. Leisure activities are developed and planned with a clear focus primarily on different age groups: children, teenagers, young people, as well as tourists from 24 to 35 years old, from 35 to 59 years old, from 60 and older. Physical abilities, intellectual training, national peculiarities and traditions, language and other features typical for groups of tourists are taken into account. Properly organized animation can increase customer satisfaction, promote relaxation and psychological recovery. Animation programs can be used to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and other good habits. However, animators in sanatoriums face a special challenge, as the animation program must be consistent with the treatment of underlying diseases and the regimen of procedures. Therefore, the purpose of animation in health resorts is specific - to promote the full recovery of physical strength without disturbing the peace and not interfering with rest. In this regard, the organization of leisure activities for vacationers, the organization of animation services at resort hotels is a special task. The development of exclusive programs that cannot be found in other facilities can create a unique brand for any health resort. When developing cultural and leisure activities, it is necessary to take into account the following factors that affect the perception of the program by recreationists: age, gender, nationality, level of education, income, professional interests, hobbies. In Ukraine, the animation sector in the tourism industry is only gaining momentum and adapting to the requirements of the modern tourism market. The development of animation services in sanatoriums and resorts is important not only in terms of additional services, but also in terms of the socio-cultural development of guests, improving their leisure and recreation. After all, the length of stay in these facilities is at least 10-14 days. Animation services are becoming a key element in creating a positive hotel image. Animators not only give the establishment a unique character, but also establish a close connection with visitors, encouraging them to make repeat visits. Thanks to the animation team, the hotel has a friendly, pleasant and comfortable atmosphere that satisfies the desire of tourists to receive emotional recharge, spiritual and physical growth.