What is Wellness Travel?
In pursuit of healthier living, the desire to enhance and maintain wellness practices are going beyond the boundaries of our day to day. We’ve seen the allure of wellness tourism take on many different forms — from exclusive retreats in serene mountain landscapes to health-conscious practices integrated into already established journeys. Whether participating in an intensive yoga training, or an indigenous plant medicine retreat, these health-forward getaways have become a leading travel attraction.
Wellness travel has been steadily growing since the Covid-19 pandemic, with approximately 21% of travelers worldwide prioritizing trips that put an emphasis on both their physical and mental well-being. The numbers only seem to be increasing and hotels have been answering the demand by offering more bespoke health focused experiences.
The Rise of Wellness Travel
Over the past few years, the landscape of wellness has expanded beyond the realms of diet and exercise. A more holistic approach to health has taken center stage, allowing us to dive deep into various facets of our lives and redefine what it really means to live well. It should come as no surprise then, that the wellness trend has reached travel. This year, wellness is predicted to be at the forefront of the industry, with a variety of transformative trends and destinations promising to elevate our health and well-being.
So what are these experiences and why are they so appealing? Read on to find out.
Spotlight on Sleep
The quest for improved sleep hygiene has become a top priority for resorts worldwide. Dedicated suites with AI-powered smart beds, such as those at Mission Pacific Hotel and Malibu Beach Inn, ensure guests enjoy a restful night's sleep. Innovative treatments and technologies redefine the sleep experience, enhancing relaxation and rejuvenation.
Biohacking Blue Zones
Perhaps inspired by our obsession with maintaining the fountain of youth, The Blue Zones (Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Icaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California) are slated to see an increase in wellness tourism. These destinations are thought to hold the secrets of longevity in their local diets and lifestyle habits. Costa Rica’s Andaz Costa Rica and Kamalaya in Thailand, are leading the Blue-Zone wellness space with retreats providing insights and resources into plant-based diets and lifestyle habits.
Beach Trips for Longevity
Many travelers are rethinking classic destinations for new reasons. Beach vacations are no longer just about sun and sand; they also serve as tools to live longer and better. Beachfront resorts like 1 Hotels Hanalei Bay in Kauai and Susurros Del Corazón in Mexico have introduced cutting-edge biohacks to enhance our overall well-being - from vitamin B12 shots to in-room IV infusions.
Grief Therapy
Acknowledging the heaviness of recent years, wellness retreats are now addressing grief with specialized programs. New Life Portugal combines meditation and yoga, offering workshops on transitions and wonder while Carillon Miami Wellness Resort hosts hypnotherapy for those less comfortable sharing their feelings in a group setting. In Chile's Patagonia region, Hotel Las Torres has introduced grief-relieving massages, providing a unique approach to emotional healing.
Family Getaways
Relationships and connectivity go hand in hand with wellness. Family bonding is a high priority for many, and hotels find themselves helping families connect and create lasting memories. Amanpuri in Phuket, Thailand is leading the way with their Family Escape, a three-night retreat that includes activities like cooking classes, paddle boarding, and access to the Eco Beach Discovery Centre’s nature and science activities. Interested in your own wellness getaway? Reach out today to plan your next wellness experience.
Ready to embark on your dream vacation? Speak to one of our expert travel advisors today!
