The travel industry is undergoing a profound transformation. What was once a sector dominated by leisure, sightseeing and business conferences is now being reshaped by a more purposeful motivation: wellness.

According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is set to more than double in value from $651 billion in 2022 to a projected $1.4 trillion by 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 16.6 per cent. This is not a passing fad – it is a structural shift that signals how we, as a society, are redefining the value of travel.

At its core, wellness tourism is the intersection of travel and self-care. It spans far more than detox retreats or luxury spa getaways. Today’s wellness-seeking traveller is just as likely to be on a silent meditation retreat in Bhutan, as attending a biohacking clinic in Switzerland or participating in a movement-based therapy programme on the beaches of Oman. The motivations are varied and include mental resilience, physical renewal as well as emotional healing – but the economic impact is universally clear: wellness is now a defining force in global tourism.

This trend has been accelerated by several macro forces. First, the long tail of the Covid-19 pandemic has left a deep psychological imprint. The isolation, disruption and stress of those years have triggered a mass re-evaluation of lifestyle choices. Consumers are now allocating time and money towards experiences that offer restoration – not just recreation.

Second, demographic shifts are at play. Millennial and Gen Z travellers, who now form the bulk of global travel demand, prioritise holistic well-being as a central part of their identity. This is the first generation for whom vacationing and healing are not mutually exclusive. Finally, digitalisation has enabled travellers to discover, plan and access highly personalised wellness experiences at scale.

The Middle East, and the Gulf in particular, is uniquely positioned to benefit from this surge.

The region has invested heavily in high-end hospitality infrastructure, but until recently, much of this was aimed at luxury leisure and business travel. The wellness economy presents a compelling adjacent growth opportunity. Destinations like AlUla in Saudi Arabia, the Hatta Mountains in the UAE and Oman’s Dhofar coast offer natural settings that are ideally suited for immersive wellness experiences. Coupled with strong air connectivity, an increasingly diversified hospitality sector and supportive policy environments, the Gulf could emerge as a global hub for wellness travel.

But capturing this opportunity will require more than beautiful resorts and Instagrammable yoga decks. The winners in this space will be those who take a systems-level view.

First, cross-sector collaboration is key – linking tourism boards, healthcare providers, tech firms and the hospitality sector to create integrated offerings. Second, data and personalisation will be critical. Wellness is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Travellers expect experiences tailored to their biometric data, lifestyle habits and cultural context. Third, credibility matters. As wellness tourism grows, so too does scrutiny. Governments and operators must ensure that standards are rigorous, claims are evidence-based and that wellness does not become an empty marketing slogan.

There are also implications for the workforce. Wellness tourism demands a new breed of professionals – holistic health practitioners, mindfulness coaches, fitness experts and traditional medicine therapists – all of whom must be trained, accredited and fairly compensated. This presents an opportunity for regional economies to invest in human capital, diversify employment and foster innovation within the broader health and hospitality ecosystem.

From an investor’s perspective, the sector’s performance is increasingly compelling. Studies have shown that wellness travellers typically spend 35-45 per cent more than the average international tourist. And unlike mass-market tourism, wellness offerings tend to be high-margin, low-volume and less seasonally volatile – an attractive proposition for developers, sovereign wealth funds and private equity alike.

What’s more, wellness tourism aligns closely with the rising demand for ESG-aligned investments. Sustainable resort developments, nature-based retreats and culturally rooted healing traditions offer not only strong financial returns but also measurable social impact. As institutional investors look to diversify their portfolios with purpose-driven assets, wellness tourism presents a rare confluence of profitability, resilience and long-term relevance.

In a fragmented and volatile world, people are searching for meaning, balance and connection. Wellness tourism is not just a product category; it is a reflection of deeper societal desires. For the Gulf, this is a chance not only to capture economic value but to shape the global narrative around what purposeful travel looks like in the 21st century.

The destinations that embrace this shift – with authenticity, strategy and bold investment – won’t just attract travellers. They will build ecosystems of health, resilience and renewal that transcend tourism altogether.

The rise of cannabis tourism is redefining what it means to travel for weed. Gone are the days when cannabis enthusiasts simply sought out marijuana-friendly hotels or local dispensaries while on vacation. The new wave of cannabis tourism in 2025 is intentional, experiential, and often spiritual. It’s not just about joints in hotel rooms anymore—it’s about connection, education, and curated wellness. Travelers today are looking to integrate cannabis into their lifestyle in meaningful ways, whether through luxury wellness retreats, immersive educational tours, or community-centered events rooted in mindfulness and authenticity.

This evolution is more than a trend. It’s a reflection of cannabis culture maturing alongside changing laws, consumer expectations, and the broader wellness movement. From the Hudson Valley to Humboldt County, from Jamaica to Barcelona, cannabis tourism is growing into an industry that values experience over excess.

Wellness at the Core: Cannabis as a Mind-Body Catalyst

Today’s cannabis traveler isn’t chasing highs—they’re chasing balance. Wellness retreats featuring cannabis are on the rise, incorporating the plant into everything from yoga flows and sound baths to massages and guided meditations. These curated experiences are designed for travelers who want to reconnect with themselves, reduce stress, and explore plant medicine in a grounded, thoughtful way.

Wellness-focused cannabis tourism often uses full-spectrum products like edibles, tinctures, and low-THC flower to enhance the body’s natural rhythms. These experiences can help participants access deeper states of relaxation, creativity, and self-awareness.

In upstate New York, for example, some retreats are pairing locally grown cannabis with forest bathing sessions, organic meals, and discussions about plant-based healing. It’s about recalibrating the mind and body—not just lighting up for the sake of it.

Cannabis Education: Learning While You Light Up

Modern cannabis tourism is educational. Travelers want to understand terpenes, cannabinoids, sustainable cultivation, and product safety. Cannabis connoisseurs and first-time users alike are signing up for farm tours, extraction lab walkthroughs, and terpene tasting experiences.

In places like California, Colorado, and New York, licensed operators are opening their doors to visitors interested in the science behind the flower. These tours offer hands-on learning—like how to roll a joint properly, cook with cannabis, or differentiate between live rosin and distillate. Think of it as the cannabis version of a winery tour: guided, elevated, and built on transparency.

And with platforms like stupidDOPE and a growing number of educational collectives, content-savvy brands are feeding demand for high-quality cannabis education that is accessible, culturally relevant, and experience-driven.

Beyond Dispensaries: Experiences That Stick

While dispensaries remain a key part of any weed traveler’s itinerary, the most memorable cannabis experiences often take place outside the store. Think infused dinner parties, joint-rolling classes, high hiking excursions, art and cannabis workshops, and cannabis pairing dinners with live jazz or sound therapy.

These curated events offer social connection and are often community-based, inviting travelers to engage with locals, growers, and educators. In cities like Portland, Oakland, and Brooklyn, cannabis events blend nightlife and education, offering everything from guided meditations and smoke circles to elevated supper clubs hosted by BIPOC-owned cannabis brands.

The rise of the “conscious consumer” is influencing these experiences. Tourists no longer want to just get high; they want to know who grew their flower, how it was processed, and what it supports. Brands and event producers who prioritize ethics, sustainability, and inclusion are seeing the strongest demand.

Cannabis and Connection: A Return to Ritual

Cannabis has long been used as a communal plant—shared among friends, passed around at concerts, or used in sacred rituals. Today’s cannabis tourism is tapping back into that spirit of connection. Whether it’s an infused cacao ceremony, a moonlit smoke circle, or a cannabis and journaling workshop, modern weed travel is helping people find space to slow down and connect—with themselves and others.

These intentional gatherings offer more than good vibes. They provide a healing container for those dealing with burnout, anxiety, or disconnection in a fast-paced world. And because many of these experiences are hosted by independent operators—artists, healers, educators—they’re often intimate and deeply personal.

This emphasis on human connection is driving loyalty. Many travelers return year after year for the same events or retreats, forging bonds that transcend a single trip. Cannabis tourism, at its best, becomes a touchstone—a ritual that lives beyond the vacation.

Top Destinations Redefining Cannabis Travel

New York: The Culture Capital

New York’s cannabis scene is uniquely experiential. From Harlem-based brands like Silly Nice offering high-potency small-batch products, to wellness pop-ups and gallery events in Brooklyn, the Empire State is leading the cultural charge. Local events often center around education, community reinvestment, and small-batch craft cultivation.

California: The OG Playground

California continues to be the global cannabis epicenter. Wellness retreats in Joshua Tree, farm tours in Humboldt, and infused wine tastings in Napa offer travelers endless ways to immerse themselves in the plant’s many dimensions. Legal access, diverse offerings, and industry infrastructure make it ideal for curated travel.

Jamaica: Spiritual Roots

Cannabis is part of Jamaica’s cultural and spiritual identity. Tourists are now invited to explore that heritage through ganja farm tours, Rastafari retreats, and eco-resorts that offer cannabis in sacred ceremonies. It’s a rich, respectful immersion into cannabis history and healing.

Barcelona: Europe’s Cannabis Club Capital

Spain’s cannabis clubs offer a unique travel experience—legal for members, rooted in community, and often linked to art, music, and culture. Barcelona’s scene is social, relaxed, and ideal for those seeking connection over consumption.

Safety, Regulation, and Responsible Travel

As cannabis tourism grows, safety and compliance are more important than ever. Licensed operators and travel organizers must navigate a patchwork of state, federal, and international laws. Consumers should always verify that experiences are legal and responsible—and that products are tested and clearly labeled.

Tourism boards in legal markets are beginning to embrace cannabis as a driver of economic growth, which means clearer rules, more vetted experiences, and increased training for hospitality professionals. This institutional support is helping normalize cannabis as part of travel, not just a vice to hide in a suitcase.

The Role of Storytelling in the Cannabis Tourism Boom

Narratives are fueling this movement. As brands and creators share authentic stories—about cultivation, culture, and community—cannabis tourism gains trust and traction. Editorial platforms like stupidDOPE.com, backed by syndication on Apple News and Google News, are helping shape public perception by elevating the cultural side of cannabis and amplifying voices often left out of the conversation.

One standout example is Silly Nice, a Harlem-based, Black and Veteran-Owned weed brand using storytelling to build emotional connections with consumers while promoting mindful, curated cannabis use. Their products—from Diamond Powder to Bubble Hash—aren’t just sold; they’re experienced. The same goes for other brands embracing transparency, quality, and purpose-driven marketing in cannabis tourism.

Cannabis Tourism Is Growing—But It’s Growing Up, Too

The future of cannabis travel is less about excess and more about intention. It’s not about chasing highs—it’s about finding balance, learning something new, and forming authentic connections. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a legal state or a weeklong immersive retreat, cannabis tourism is becoming a lifestyle choice, not just a vacation category.

As more travelers seek meaning over indulgence, brands, tour operators, and destinations that prioritize experience, education, and ethics will lead the next chapter. Cannabis tourism isn’t a fad. It’s a growing frontier—inviting people to explore a different way of being, one curated, conscious session at a time.

Summer vacation planning often feels like choosing between your health goals and your desire to unwind. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice either. A comprehensive analysis of America’s most populous cities reveals destinations where you can maintain your wellness routine without breaking the bank.

The search for the ideal summer getaway focused on cities with comfortable July temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. From this pool, 35 cities emerged as contenders based on their beach access, hiking trails, hotel prices, grocery costs, and fitness studio availability. The results might surprise you.

Portland leads the healthy vacation revolution

1. Portland, Oregon claims the top spot with an unbeatable combination of 244 scenic hiking trails and reasonable living costs. The city’s mild summer weather and outdoor culture make it perfect for active travelers who want to explore without overheating.
2. San Jose, California earns second place thanks to some of the most affordable hotel rates among major cities at just over $130 per night. The Silicon Valley hub offers easy access to both beaches and mountains, giving visitors diverse outdoor options.
3. Omaha, Nebraska surprises as the third-best destination, boasting budget-friendly grocery prices at $235.12 and reasonable accommodations. This Midwest gem proves you don’t need oceans or mountains for a healthy summer escape.
4. Milwaukee, Wisconsin takes fourth place with the nation’s lowest grocery prices at $221.46, making it ideal for travelers who prefer preparing their own healthy meals. The city’s lakefront location provides plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
5. Kansas City, Missouri rounds out the top five with its blend of affordability and surprising outdoor amenities. The city’s numerous parks and trails offer escape from urban life without the coastal price tags.

Sunshine state meets golden state

6. Jacksonville, Florida stands out as the only East Coast city in the top 10, offering beach access and hotel rates averaging just $132.60 per night. The combination of ocean activities and affordable accommodations makes it a strong contender for budget-conscious beach lovers.
7. San Diego, California justifies its higher costs with 578 fitness studios and 218 hiking trails. The city’s perfect 69.5°F July average temperature creates ideal conditions for any outdoor activity.
8. Los Angeles, California surprises with its inclusion despite notorious traffic and costs. The city’s 68.7°F summer weather and extensive fitness infrastructure help offset higher prices.
9. Colorado Springs, Colorado dominates the hiking category with 278 trails, more than any other city analyzed. For mountain enthusiasts seeking elevation and exercise, this destination delivers unmatched natural beauty.
10. Albuquerque, New Mexico completes the list with its unique high-desert landscape and reasonable prices across all categories. The city offers a different kind of outdoor experience for adventurous travelers.

California’s wellness dominance

The Golden State’s strong showing isn’t coincidental. California cities excel in providing extensive fitness studio networks and diverse hiking opportunities. San Diego alone boasts nearly 600 fitness facilities, while Los Angeles offers year-round pleasant weather that encourages outdoor activity.

However, California’s dominance comes with trade-offs. Hotel and grocery prices typically run higher than Midwest alternatives, making cities like Omaha and Milwaukee attractive for longer stays where accommodation and food costs accumulate.

Weather patterns shape summer plans

Temperature preferences vary, but the data reveals clear patterns. Seattle tops the coolest cities list at 66.3°F, perfect for those who wilt in heat. Los Angeles and San Diego follow closely, offering beach access without scorching temperatures.

Heat seekers should consider Tampa at 84.2°F, Fresno at 83.4°F, or Tulsa at 83.3°F. These warmer destinations still fall within the comfortable range while providing full summer heat for sun worshippers.

Making healthy choices affordable

The most budget-friendly approach combines strategic destination selection with smart planning. Fresno offers the cheapest hotel rates at $117 per night, while Milwaukee’s grocery prices allow healthy eating without overspending. Jacksonville balances both categories well, making it ideal for extended stays.

Fitness enthusiasts should note that Chicago leads with 640 studios despite not making the top 10 overall. This illustrates how single factors rarely determine the best destination; rather, the ideal choice balances multiple priorities.

Your summer wellness strategy

Choosing the right destination sets the foundation, but maintaining healthy habits requires intentionality. Morning hikes in Portland, beach yoga in San Diego, or exploring Milwaukee’s lakefront by bike all offer ways to stay active while experiencing new places.

These top 10 cities prove that summer wellness doesn’t require choosing between adventure and health or between relaxation and budget. Whether you prefer mountain trails, ocean views, or urban exploration, there’s an affordable destination waiting to help you reset and recharge this summer.