What Is Wellness Tourism?
Travelers Are Putting Wellness First
Travel can be an opportunity for many things. Sometimes a trip is about work, other times, the goal is education or even adventure. Sometimes, traveling is about personal restoration. That’s where “wellness tourism” comes in – a current trend in the hospitality and travel landscape. Travelers “made 819.4 million international and domestic wellness trips in 2022” according to the Global Wellness Institute.
Read along as we determine what is wellness tourism and show you how to cater to guests who crave greater wellbeing.
Defining Wellness Tourism
Some people consider any type of trip to be a form of self-care. Others may have something specific in mind when it comes to wellness tourism.
According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is defined as “travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal wellbeing.” This differs from traditional travel in that it puts physical and mental health above tourism, work, or even a desire for adventure.
The broad definition of wellness tourism means that different travelers may seek different amenities and ways to experience wellness tourism. However, there are several standout accommodations you can make, to put yourself on the self-care travel map.
Designing Wellness-Focused Amenities
While you don’t have to go full wellness retreat, you can bring a little more of the wellness tourism atmosphere and activities into your operation. For example, a few updates of existing amenities can transform parts of your property into a wellbeing-centered space. Here are some ideas specifically for hotels and resorts:
Plan group fitness events in or near your gym.
Add amenities like hot tubs and cold pools to your pool area.
Update menus to include healthier options for all mealtimes.
Rework your spa’s offerings to include health-focused treatments.
Create dedicated rooms for meditation and mindfulness exercises.
These updates may cater directly to wellness travelers, but they can also be seen as a draw for other travelers, as well.
Collaborating With Industry Professionals
If you’re asking, “what is wellness tourism,” you may want to turn to a professional to better understand the world of health and wellness. One great way to appeal to wellbeing-focused travelers and learn more about this trend, is to team up with local health and wellness experts.
Finding a health and wellness professional to team up with things like retreats, fitness classes, or special promotions can create exposure for your operation with a new audience, while helping you establish a reputation as a wellness-focused venue.
If you’re looking for ways to identify these professionals, start with local business owners in relevant industries. You can also draw on your staff’s own networks of wellness professionals. For example, maybe one of your chefs knows a nutritionist or your spa aesthetician has a yoga instructor contact.
Attract Wellness Travelers in 2024
Wellness tourism represents a significant and growing segment within the hospitality and travel industry. As travelers increasingly prioritize their health and well-being, hotels and resorts have a unique opportunity to cater to this demand by offering wellness-focused amenities and experiences.
Interested in changing your sourcing strategy to better support wellness tourism? Become a Member with Foodbuy Hospitality today.