Wellness Travel
Wellness tourism: Booming travel trend will soon be worth $1.35 trillion – and it’s changing the way we holiday
Twenty years ago, two Aussie brothers established a small thermal bath on a patch of land in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.
It wasn’t anything extravagant, just a humble celebration of outdoor bathing in a grassy paddock.
But now, thanks in part to the phenomenon of ‘wellness travel’, Peninsula Hot Springs has turned into one of the world’s most acclaimed wellness destinations.
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The way we’re travelling has changed. Instead of typical “flop and drop” holidays or city breaks with a packed itinerary, travellers are gravitating toward a more mindful way of taking a trip.
Wellness tourism has seen a huge surge in search interest in the last few years, in part thanks to a post-COVID mindset shift toward prioritising our health.
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The numbers don’t lie: the global wellness tourism industry is predicted to be worth around $1.35 trillion in 2028. That’s more than double what it was just two years ago.
Hotels are jumping on board: offering guided yoga and meditation classes on in-room TVs, sleep tracking, custom dining menus, and a variety of dedicated wellness itineraries.
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Tour company G Adventures has a ‘wellness’ tour category and one hotel in Phuket even offers wellness packages for children, with gentle spa treatments, kid-friendly Muay Thai, junior cooking classes, and sustainability activities.
Wellness travel on a budget
Though ‘wellness tourism’ might conjure images of $1000-a-night retreats and bougie spa experiences, it doesn’t have to be a luxury holiday. DIY digital detoxes, camping trips, and alcohol-free holidays all fall under the wide umbrella of wellness travel.
Gen Z and Millennial travellers in particular are driving demand for mental and emotional reset holidays – the type of trip where you come home feeling refreshed and like you’ve actually had a break.
Holidays are no longer just about checking off tourist destinations: 73 per cent of Gen Z say they plan trips specifically for wellness benefits like relaxation or self-care activities.
Destinations like Bali, Thailand, and Mexico are known for more affordable retreats focusing on yoga, meditation, and detox.
Female-focused wellness retreats
Female-focused retreats are also having a moment, as part of the wider wellness travel trend.
For example: CNN labelled menopause retreats as “the next big thing in wellness”; South Korea’s sanhujoriwon are hotels specifically for postpartum mothers; and there is a retreat in the Philippines designed to boost and nurture fertility.
Closer to home, Aussie wellness leaders are creating their own retreats.
“We all know how easy it is to put our own self-care on the back burner, but a female-focused wellness retreat is your chance to prioritise you,” Sarah Percy, a women’s health physiotherapist who is hosting a wellness retreat on the Gold Coast from August 1, tells 9Travel.
“Wellness travel is a great way to step out of your comfort zone… When we stop and step away from the daily grind, we truly get the chance to tune back in with ourselves.”
ClubMed is also gearing up to host an all-inclusive ‘mumcation’, for new mums to reconnect with themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally postpartum.
The future of wellness travel
Peninsula Hot Springs is perhaps the perfect example of how wellness travel has exploded. What was once just a single pool and café has evolved into a sprawling complex with spa treatment, onsite accommodation, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences for guests.
Experts predict the wellness industry will just keep on growing, as we seek out more experiences to relax and restore ourselves while travelling, and have tapped five destinations set to become leaders in the space.
These five countries are South Korea, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Iceland.
“These countries are redefining relaxation and rejuvenation, setting the stage for a transformative travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary,” said Amy Skelding, FINN’s Managing Partner and UK Travel Lead.
Wellness Travel
Wellness Tourism Continues to Soar by Seven Point Three Precent, 2034: Top Destinations, Key Drivers, and Future Trends
Monday, July 28, 2025
In recent years the wellness tourism industry has seen substantial growth as increasingly more travelers look for experiences that provide more than just relaxation, but rejuvenation and whole body health as well. As we prioritize mental health, physical wellness, and spiritual harmony, wellness tourism is responding by organizing retreats and adventures that feed our body, mind, and soul.
In essence, wellness tourism is not a fad but rather an evolution in the way we travel. Travel used to be about discovery and play, but more and more, it has become a time to make health a priority. The world-wide wellness tourism market was worth $814.6 billion in 2024, with an anticipated annual growth of 7.3%, to reach approximately $1.66 trillion by 2034. This expansion demonstrates the growing popularity of experiences which intertwine rest and relaxation while travelling, with the benefit of natural holistic wellness healing.
What Is Wellness Tourism?
Wellness travel is travel that prioritizes well-being. Unlike standard tourism, which is often rooted in activities such as sight-seeing or relaxation, wellness tourism reaches for the fiber-rejuvenating needs of the tourist. From luxury spa getaways to yoga camps, fitness cruises, detox resorts and everyone in between, the wellness tourism sector encompasses a range of offerings aimed at bettering physical, mental, and even spiritual health.
Wellness tourism can be classified into two ways: Primary wellness tourism and Secondary wellness tourism. Primary wellness tourism is when the purpose of the trip is to concentrate on health and wellness, as you would on a detox escape or during a yoga retreat. Secondary wellness tourism, on the other hand, describes travelers who include wellness experiences as a component of a more general travel experience, such as enjoying a spa day while on a sightseeing vacation.
The growing trend of integrating wellness into travel is a response to increasing awareness about mental health, stress management, and self-care. People are looking for ways to escape the fast pace of modern life and reconnect with themselves through practices that promote a balanced lifestyle.
Wellness Tourism Market Growth and Trends
For one, more folks are realising how important it is to lead a healthy life, and it’s not just about physical health; it goes hand in hand with mental health. Global stress and anxiety levels and mental health issues have never been higher, and wellness retreats are becoming a lot of people’s go-to for stress relief.
Better access to health and wellness facilities and services is also driving the trend. Technology is making it possible for travelers to monitor their journey to wellness through wearables and apps, offering them greater influence over their health while traveling. What’s more, the growth of virtual wellness programs has made it more accessible for people to take part in health and wellness without stepping outside their door. But, physical retreats continue to be all the rage and provide a deeper, more immersive experience.
The demand for personalized wellness experiences is on the rise. Consumers expect wellness providers to offer tailor-made programs that address their specific health concerns, whether it’s fitness training, mindfulness practices, or a customized detox program. This growing expectation for personalized services is shaping how wellness tourism providers operate and design their offerings.
Leading Destinations in Wellness Tourism
Several countries have embraced wellness tourism and are becoming leading destinations for health-conscious travelers. These destinations offer a combination of luxurious facilities, natural beauty, and a focus on sustainability, making them ideal for wellness seekers.
- Bali, Indonesia: Known for its spiritual and calming atmosphere, Bali offers a wide range of wellness retreats focusing on yoga, meditation, and spiritual healing. The island’s lush landscapes and serene beaches provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Thailand: Thailand has long been a top destination for wellness tourism due to its extensive wellness offerings, including traditional Thai massage, detox retreats, and luxury spas. Resorts such as Chiva-Som in Hua Hin provide comprehensive wellness programs that integrate fitness, spa treatments, and nutrition.
- Switzerland: Switzerland’s stunning Alpine landscape provides a serene setting for wellness retreats. The country is home to high-end spas and wellness hotels, with many offering treatments that blend modern medicine and natural healing methods.
- India: India is a historical hub for wellness tourism, particularly in the field of Ayurveda, a traditional healing system that uses herbal medicine and yoga. States like Kerala are famous for their Ayurvedic treatments, with wellness centers offering deep rejuvenation experiences that combine health and spirituality.
- Costa Rica: Known for its biodiversity and lush rainforests, Costa Rica offers wellness retreats that focus on eco-friendly and nature-based therapies. Travelers can immerse themselves in nature while receiving treatments designed to promote physical and mental well-being.
- United States: The U.S. is home to renowned wellness resorts like Canyon Ranch and Miraval, which offer customized health programs, fitness retreats, and holistic healing therapies. These luxury wellness resorts are designed to cater to travelers seeking both relaxation and personal growth.
Factors Driving the Wellness Tourism Boom
The rapid growth of wellness tourism can be attributed to several key factors:
- Health-Conscious Travelers: As health becomes a higher priority for many, people are seeking vacation options that offer more than just relaxation. Wellness retreats provide a way to focus on both mental and physical health while enjoying a vacation.
- Increased Stress and Mental Health Awareness: With rising levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, wellness tourism offers individuals a chance to reset and recover. Many wellness resorts provide programs specifically tailored to stress management and mental well-being.
- Technology Integration: The incorporation of technology, such as fitness apps and wearables, has made it easier for people to track their wellness journey. These innovations have made wellness tourism more accessible, allowing travelers to monitor their progress even during their vacation.
- Sustainability and Eco-Consciousness: More travelers are seeking destinations that prioritize environmental sustainability. Wellness tourism providers are responding by offering eco-friendly accommodations, using natural and organic products, and focusing on sustainable practices.
- Personalized Wellness Services: The demand for personalized wellness experiences has surged. More wellness providers are offering customized programs that cater to the individual needs of travelers, ensuring that each guest’s experience is unique.
Challenges in Wellness Tourism
The wellness tourism industry is growing, but there are hurdles to keep in mind. A big problem is that wellness retreats tend to be expensive, putting this kind of experience off limits to some people. And, there is no standard in wellness services which can confuse the consumer seeking consistent quality.
But it is robust enough to do so. With many resort operations, the focus is on trying to bring their products to market at better prices and in more accessible form, but still at the same high service levels and quality level. The industry’s embrace of sustainability and eco-tourism has also been helping the industry to combat accusations of overconsumption and environmental harm.
The Future of Wellness Tourism
As wellness tourism continues to grow, it will undoubtedly shape the future of the travel industry. With increasing interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling, more destinations will invest in wellness tourism facilities. Personalized wellness experiences, technological advancements, and a greater focus on sustainability will define the future of the industry.
The wellness tourism market’s expansion reflects a broader societal shift towards self-care, preventative health, and stress management. This growing interest in holistic well-being will likely drive the demand for wellness-focused travel experiences even higher in the years to come.
Conclusion
Wellness tourism is now a key component of the world’s travel and tourism ecosystem and is giving travelers the chance to not only relax, but also take control of their health and wellness. As consumers now demand not just wellness but experiences wherever they travel, destinations and resorts across the globe are taking note, adapting to and even leading this movement by providing customized, immersive wellness experiences that support mind, body and spirit. For users who want to regenerate and re-energize, wellness tourism provides the perfect confluence of travel and holistic health, and it seems likely to flourish as an increasing number of people prioritize self-care on their travels.
Wellness Travel
The Future of Luxury Travel: Melia’s All-Inclusive Resorts with Wellness and Cultural Focus
Monday, July 28, 2025
Melia Hotels Gets Luxe Makeovers: Redefining the All Inclusive With Wellness and Cultural Immersion
Melia Hotels International, the Spanish based hotel group, is transforming the experience at all inclusive resorts with new wellness programs, cultural immersion and sustainability. As the company broadens its offerings across all markets, such as its Paradisus and ZEL brands, are becoming important players for the luxury tourism plans. The trend is being influenced by passengers’ evolving preferences, as they seek increasingly personalized and more authentic vacation experiences.
The Paradisus Brand: The Destination Inclusive Concept
They are leading the way with a concept they refer to as “Destination Inclusive” at their Paradisus by Melia luxury all inclusive brand. This fresh concept weaves in local culture, culinary exploration, and wellness activities, providing visitors with a one-of-a-kind holiday. The idea is to bring passengers closer to their destination by providing local experiences, including local art workshops, cooking classes with local cuisine, and cultural tours exploring local culture and heritage.
Beyond the cultural immersion, Paradisus resorts also feature a culinary program that encourages a better quality diet through healthy, sustainable dining. The brand’s flagship dining destinations feature culinary experiences that are authentic to each destination, serving up local ingredients and traditional flavors so that guests can enjoy the taste of the place they are visiting even when dining at one of the brand’s world-class restaurants. These details, when expertly interwoven, enhance the all-encompassing experience from Paradisus, offering a holiday that is fuller, more authentic and reflects more than a mere beach resort getaway.
ZEL Punta Cana: A New Mediterranean Inspired Lifestyle Brand
Another Meliá luxury brand, ZEL Punta Cana, continues the company’s transition to a more Mediterranean lifestyle product. ZEL Punta Cana was cofounded by tennis star Rafael Nadal, and the club focuses on wellness, sustainability and local culture. This resort from the Dominican Republic has sustainable design, promotes wellness, and offers a wide array of both rest and adventure-friendly activities.
Guests of ZEL Punta Cana will have access to a selection of wellness programming such as yoga, fitness workouts and biohacking experiences that will support physical well being and mental wellness. The spirit of the Mediterranean pervades the resort, from its gastronomy to its approach to wellbeing and lifestyle experiences. ZEL’s green consciousness extends to its design, featuring the integration of local materials into its structure, as well as integration of green practices in its day to day operations.
Wellness Tourism: A Growing Focus
Wellness tourism is fuller embraced by Melia, and it is well-represented throughout the Paradisus and ZEL resorts. These include spa treatments, fitness classes, and healthy dining options, all to rejuvenate and help guests focus on wellness. Biohacking programmes have also been implemented in certain Melia properties to help guests maximise their well-being with cutting edge practices designed for longevity and health.
These health-centric offerings gel with worldwide travel trends in which more and more travelers are looking for wellness- and well-being-focused experiences. Melia’s ventures in wellness tourism reflect the seriousness of the brand to cater to the new demands of modern-day enigmatic travelers who are no longer satisfied with luxury abodes.
Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Tourism
Sustainability is at the heart of Melia Hotels offering and the company integrates a number of eco-friendly initiatives across all of its hotels. For example, it is related to the use of sustainable materials for building, the application of energy efficient technologies, and to responsible tourism. Melia sustainability goes beyond the building and includes local and organic produce used in the food and beverage offering of the properties. Our pursuit of a responsible, sustainable resort means letting visitors take a luxurious vacation without leaving a big carbon footprint.
Paradisus and ZEL resorts will both have sustainable touches in their designs with solar panels and waste-reduction systems, along with green building certification. These initiatives dovetail with the rising interest among tourists in ‘green’ travel, or travel that takes into consideration environmental costs.
Expansion International Melia portfolio around the world
Melia Hotels International continues its growth in major global tourism destinations, such as in the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. The company’s commitment to broadening its all-inclusive luxury offering means that it continues to be a leader within the high-end tourism market. Melia’s continued investment in new builds and upgrades, solidify the brand’s commitment to delivering luxury all-inclusive vacation experiences.
In the Caribbean, Meliá’s Paradisus resorts already have a presence in multiple destinations, including the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Cuba. The brand’s recent inclusions, including Paradisus Playa del Carmen in Mexico, are examples of its strategy of combining upscale lodging with local personality and the ZEL brand is growing, too: More properties are opening in the next few years, taking that Mediterranean-influenced formula to more places.
Along with the Caribbean, Melia has built a presence in Europe with hotels in popular destinations in Spain, Portugal and Italy. These resorts cater to the European traveler looking for luxury, all inclusive options in the Mediterranean and beyond.
Tourism and Economic Impact
The all-inclusive luxury market is responsible for a significant amount of travel to a number of Caribbean and Latin American countries and helps support many regional economies. Melia’s hotels draw tourists from all over the globe, which means the areas where they are based economically benefit. It is in this process of construction that these resorts provide, in the first place, job opportunities such as in hospitality, food services, well being and entertainment Industry, and, secondarily, they give an impetus to demand of local produce and products.
As global tourism recovers, Melia Hotels International’s emphasis on luxury, wellness and cultural immersion ensures the company is well prepared to cater to changing traveler tastes.
Conclusion
MELIA HOTELS INTERNATIONAL is revolutionizing the all inclusive resort concept with our new Paradisus and ZEL brands. Melia is tapping into the modern traveler who’s after luxury and experience in equal measure through wellness programs, cultural immersion, and sustainability incorporated into their offerings.
(Source: Melia Hotels.)
Market Overview
Wellness Tourism Market is transforming global travel, as more individuals seek not just leisure but rejuvenation, healing, and holistic health experiences. Unlike traditional tourism, wellness tourism is deeply rooted in purpose-offering experiences that focus on mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. From luxury spa retreats and yoga camps to detox resorts and fitness cruises, the market caters to a diverse audience keen on improving their quality of life while traveling. This trend reflects a broader societal shift toward preventive healthcare and stress management, driven by rising awareness of self-care and mental health.
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Market Size, Share & Demand Analysis
Valued at $814.6 billion in 2024, the Wellness Tourism Market is projected to reach $1.66 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.3%. The market welcomed around 935 million travelers in 2024 and is expected to surpass 1.2 billion by 2028. This surge in demand highlights the market’s resilience and adaptability across both primary wellness tourism-where health is the main reason for travel-and secondary wellness tourism, where travelers integrate wellness into their broader itinerary. With primary wellness tourism accounting for 55% of the market, it is evident that travelers are prioritizing well-being as a central part of their journeys.
Market Dynamics
Several factors are propelling the Wellness Tourism Market forward. First and foremost is the rising consumer inclination toward health-conscious lifestyles. Travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer wellness amenities such as meditation, fitness programs, nutritional counseling, and holistic treatments. The demand for personalized wellness experiences is also on the rise, with consumers expecting customized programs that align with their unique health goals. Technology is another major influencer, with apps, wearables, and virtual health consultations enhancing the wellness journey.
On the flip side, challenges persist. High service costs often make wellness travel inaccessible to broader populations, especially in emerging economies. The lack of standardization and quality control in services further complicates consumer trust. Moreover, global economic uncertainties and travel hesitations can temporarily curb growth.
Key Players Analysis
Leading players in the Wellness Tourism Market include renowned names such as Canyon Ranch, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, and the Miraval Group. These pioneers are recognized for their holistic programs, luxurious offerings, and customized health packages. Other prominent players like Ananda in the Himalayas, Lanserhof Tegernsee, and SHA Wellness Clinic contribute to market development through traditional healing practices blended with modern wellness science.
Emerging brands such as Serenity Escapes, Vitality Ventures, and Zenith Wellness are rapidly making a mark by targeting niche demographics with budget-friendly, eco-conscious, or culturally immersive wellness packages. Their innovation lies in crafting unique experiences that combine local traditions with global wellness trends.
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Regional Analysis
North America continues to dominate the Wellness Tourism Market, with the United States leading due to its advanced infrastructure, high disposable incomes, and growing interest in preventive care. Europe is close behind, leveraging its historic spa culture and an increasing focus on stress management. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK offer a compelling mix of traditional and modern wellness services.
The Asia-Pacific region is a rising star, with Thailand, India, and Indonesia offering deeply rooted healing traditions and affordable wellness solutions. Latin America is catching up quickly, as Brazil and Costa Rica gain popularity for their biodiverse, nature-infused wellness experiences. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa are investing in wellness infrastructure, with the UAE and South Africa emerging as promising destinations.
Recent News & Developments
The Wellness Tourism Market is seeing significant developments, especially in personalization and digital innovation. Providers are integrating AI to develop tailor-made health programs, while virtual reality is enhancing meditative and relaxation experiences. Collaborations between tech firms and wellness retreats are yielding smart wellness packages that track health metrics and provide real-time feedback.
There’s also a shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly travel, with consumers demanding responsible tourism that respects nature and local communities. Regulatory frameworks are tightening, with governments setting standards to ensure safety, quality, and ethical practices in wellness tourism offerings.
Scope of the Report
This report offers a comprehensive analysis of the Wellness Tourism Market, covering key segments such as domestic and international travel, wellness resorts, spa treatments, digital wellness tools, and traveler types-from solo adventurers to corporate groups. It explores critical factors including market growth patterns, competitive strategies, regional dynamics, and emerging opportunities.
With detailed insights into market drivers, restraints, and trends, stakeholders can make informed decisions to capitalize on this expanding sector. The report also assesses the competitive landscape, forecasting tools, and potential regulatory impacts to guide businesses in aligning with the evolving wellness travel ecosystem.
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