Abstract
Thermal tourism has gained importance in the last two decades, due to an aging global population and deteriorating human health. Today, specific thermal destinations attract thermal tourists through their thermal resources. In this setting, thermal hotels distinguish themselves through thermal units and personalized services. Notably, thermal hotels are more labor-intensive, so they require a more specialized workforce. Hence, the HR strategy of thermal hotels must include an appropriate staffing policy that maximizes productivity. Thus, thermal hotels in low-density areas are inevitably dependent on local employment. Accordingly, this study focuses on determining the local employment level and perspectives of relevant stakeholders. Using a qualitative methodology, the research utilizes semi-structured interviews with stakeholders. The findings underscore that thermal hotels are a critical component of local employment in Afyon. Specifically, internship programs and university-hotel collaborations emerge as the critical mechanisms that stimulate local hiring and workforce integration