According to a recent presentation given by the Global Wellness Institute, there’s a macro shift from experiential to transformative wellness travel, with travelers seeking more emotional, life-changing wellness journeys rather than a series of treatments and classes.
“The buzzword in travel today is ‘transformative,’ and while it can never be precisely defined and often gets misused, for the wellness travel sector it’s the very brand and promise,” said Susie Ellis, chairman and CEO, Global Wellness Institute. “Wellness travelers increasingly demand true brain, body and soul shake-ups — intense personal growth rather than just pampering — and destinations are creatively heeding the call.”
The organization noted seven major trends in wellness travel due to this shift. Destinations are creating immersive, story-based, epic wellness journeys, such as a multi-property, multi-stage itinerary based on a promised spiritual transformation.
More performance, music and art is incorporated into wellness, for example, with resorts offering calligraphy classes in addition to spa treatments, or even performances to enjoy from the comfort of a hot springs.
Hyper-personalized wellness based on DNA is on the rise, using deep-view testing to recommend health, diet, fitness and skincare regimens, as are “brain hacks,” a focus on optimizing one’s brain power for better health.
Transformative travel also takes fitness to a more extreme level, with mind-over-matter challenges (extreme ice/cold experiences are popular).
Happiness travel is a part of the transformational trend, particularly at resorts that focus on social connections and tech disconnections.
Lastly, there is a new focus on all-women wellness travel, for a part-female empowerment, part-wellness focus.
The Global Wellness Institute also touched on the growing wellness tourism industry in the MENA region, as more lifestyle travelers flock to the region and its ultra-luxury properties. Wellness resorts and hot springs resorts are popping up from Qatar to Morocco, Algeria to Dubai.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Mar 26, 2024Study Discovers Destinations Where Hotels are Cheaper Than Home Rentals
For the longest time, travelers touted home rentals as an affordable alternative to hotels. However, is that really the case? Do you really get more for your money when you book an Airbnb versus a hotel room?
Sponsored Content
Experience Ireland’s
Wild Atlantic Way
From the windy tip of Malin Head in County Donegal to the colorful harbor town of Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way amazes at every turn. Feel the blast of fresh sea air with a lighthouse walk. Get up close to history, grab a fireside seat at a traditional music session, experience the world-famous Irish hospitality and explore some of Ireland's most exhilarating coastal scenery. It is a place that inspired dreamers and travelers, poets and painters with a landscape filled with stone walls, thatched cottages, deserted beaches and breathtaking views. Charming towns and villages, 1,500 miles of soaring cliffs, incredible landscapes and unique experiences await.
Slideshow
Mar 26, 20245 Must-See Sites in Tallinn, Estonia
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are five must-see sites in Tallinn, Estonia.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024A Trendy Lifestyle Hotel Opens in Downtown Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee, is now home to a new trendy hotel, located half a block from Broadway and steps from shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Tempo by Hilton Nashville marks the second property to open nationally from Hilton’s stylish new brand. The hotel, which officially opened its doors Feb. 15, features 306 rooms across 16 floors.
Sponsored Content
Discover Nashville Neighborhoods
Whether you are interested in music, art, history, food, sports or fashion, Music City has something for everyone to sing about. Nashville is accessible, friendly and authentic, with diverse neighborhoods, a storied musical heritage and a creative culture that energizes the city.
Destinations / North America
Mar 25, 2024What to Expect at the 2024 Beachlife Festival
If you’re planning to attend Beachlife Festival 2024, May 3–5 in Redondo Beach, California, you have a lot to look forward to. The three-day event offers a packed schedule of music, art and culinary fun.
ShareThis