Wellness travel is booming in the post-pandemic era, with themes like digital detox and rejuvenating getaways gaining traction and moving beyond luxury spa escapes and even nature retreats. Recommend Magazine recently conducted a Wellness Travel Trends Survey "to gain insight on wellness travel bookings."
Overall, it noted that travel advisors are satisfied with the offerings that travel suppliers provide to their wellness-oriented clients. Three-quarters of survey participants rated these providers with a grade of B or higher.
The survey identified these wellness travel trends:
Who's Booking Wellness Travel
Travellers identified booking wellness holidays for mental well-being, recuperation after stress or personal setbacks, and self-reconnection.
Interestingly, the age group most inclined towards such trips is those between 46 and 63. Many prefer travelling in small groups or with friends.
Popular Destinations
Destinations offering a blend of relaxation and wellness activities are the most sought-after.
Ever-popular Caribbean and Mexico, known for their scenic beaches, remain prime choices. Additionally, the U.S., with its diverse range of wellness-centric properties close to home, is a favourite wellness destination.
Wellness travellers are booking classic luxury spa resorts, places that offer many outdoor adventures, and serene nature lodges. Notably, many vacationers look for retreats hosting enrichment programming like masterclasses and workshops.
Two-thirds of respondents say the ideal wellness vacation duration is between four and six nights.
Essential Amenities
For an unforgettable wellness journey, travellers emphasize the importance of diverse, healthy culinary choices and a range of fitness activities, along with spa services. Suppliers who prioritize versatile dietary menus stand out.
On the budget side, travellers, on average, are willing to spend USD $3,000 to USD $5,000 for a week of wellness.
Comprehensive wellness packages are becoming a must-have for cruise aficionados who crave wellness. According to Recommend, many cruise lines are raising the bar in this domain.
Expanding the Definition of Wellness
While personal wellness is paramount, many travellers are also considering the health of the planet. With sustainability moving from a buzzword to a necessity, a decisive factor for many when choosing their vacation.
