The 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Wellness Tourism
In the age of wellness, travelers are no longer just chasing Instagram-worthy photos; they’re seeking real (and lasting) transformation
Traveling has long been a way to escape the mundane routines of daily life, but more travelers are now booking trips with a focus on improving their health, fitness and overall wellness.
Even before arriving at their final destination, travelers can now find wellness touchpoints at the airport and even above the clouds, with companies such as United and Delta responding to the growing interest in wellness. The wellness tourism market, as a whole, is projected to reach a staggering $1992.2 billion by 2032, according to a new report by Market.us Media.
Here are the five emerging trends set to shape the wellness travel industry in the coming years:
Digital Detox Retreats: At a time when most people have a rather unhealthy relationship with their phone or laptop, digital detox retreats offer a respite from technology and a better environment to meditate and relax without distraction.
Some destinations, such as The Ranch Malibu, offer a technology-free environment with no cell phone reception on the property. However, they provide some flexibility by allowing guests to make phone calls or send emails from their private rooms, ensuring they don’t disturb those seeking a complete digital detox.
Sustainable Wellness Travel: Going green has caught on in everything from foam fitness rollers to activewear, but it’s also reflected in wellness tourism. As Market.us Media points out, travelers opt for eco-friendly destinations that offer organic dining options and ethical wellness practices.
Amaala, a line of luxury wellness destinations on the Red Sea coast, including The Four Seasons Amaala and the upcoming Equinox Amaala, offers water sports and experiences where visitors can learn about sustainability and also enjoy spa therapies and fine dining.
Personalized Wellness Journeys: Just as personalization has become a key driver in the fitness industry, customization has become the core of wellness tourism. With an abundance of experiences now available, travelers can discover (and book) experiences catering to their unique health and wellness goals — or even their athletic ambitions.
Canyon Ranch now offers athlete-inspired health and fitness experiences for guests at select locations of its upscale wellness resorts following a partnership with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). The two have created the NBPA Peak Performance Program, a four-day curated experience covering strength and conditioning, recovery treatments, mindfulness practices and nutrition optimization.
Integrative Wellness Retreats: The rising interest in wellness has made holistic therapies such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, naturopathy, and other forms of energy healing become more prevalent.
The Himalayan Institute, located in Pennsylvania, offers integrative health and therapeutic services, including Ayurvedic treatments, massage therapy and chiropractic care.
Mental Health Focus in Wellness Tourism: Lastly, booking an escape to reduce stress and increase mindfulness has become highly sought after, according to Market.us Media.
Sensei Porcupine Creek offers spa services, golf and tennis, but also one-on-one sessions with Sensei Guides and Mindset Practitioners. Mindset 1:1, an experience offered at Sensei Porcupine Creek, provides visitors a chance to identify thought patterns, learn strategies to better manage stress and strengthen mental resilience.
