Crossing the Finnmark plateau is an Extraordinary Experience: Important elements that need to be in place for skiers to immerse in the experience

Abstract

Since the 1960s, there has been an increased focus in tourism research related to the study of the phenomenon of tourism experiences. Understanding this phenomenon is of great value to the tourism industry, since it might help tourism providers offer memorable tourism experiences, create positive word of mouth, and generate potential return visitors. To that end, this Master’s thesis reports on a case study, which investigated skiers’ extraordinary experiences while crossing the Finnmark plateau. The study was conducted using qualitative research methods including individual semi-structured interviews with 11 participants and thematic analysis.

To date, most studies of extraordinary experiences are with a guide, in a secluded environment, at an event, or cause-related, where participants often engage with others. The uniqueness of this study is that participants engaged in the experience on their own, that is, without a guide. They planned, prepared, and took all the risks themselves. As a consequence, this study sought to understand if there were different factors involved for people, who choose to enjoy and immerse themselves in the experience of skiing across Finnmark plateau by doing it alone.

During thematic analysis, three phases emerged as important. These were preparation and planning, perceived risk involved and safety, and physical exercise. The findings further suggest that immersion can be divided into shorter and longer moments, specifically, shorter and stronger moments, and longer and more meditative moments.

Keywords: The Finnmark plateau, skiing, extraordinary experience, preparations and planning, risk and safety, physical exercise, immersion.