The water was somewhere in the 50s, according to guesses from a smattering of locals doing the same. We submerged to our necks and shivered for as long as I could stand it. We didn’t worry about the exact temperature or how long we stayed, and distracted ourselves with the birds and rhythm of the morning. I’m by no means a regular cold plunger, but this felt truly restorative. More so even than the precisely measured hot-cold cycle in an upscale sauna complex I did with the same friend during his bachelor party in Las Vegas.

The benefits of hot-cold water treatments are a big part of today’s wellness conversation. Travel companies have responded, with hotels and day spas promoting treatments measured to the half-degree, catering to those determined to not let a vacation interrupt their biohacking routines.

Yet what if true wellness requires a more hands-off approach? Something more connected to nature than to what you can keep on a spreadsheet?

These questions resonate with the founders of a Fjord, a new floating sauna and plunge experience in the Richardson Bay, just north of San Francisco in Sausalito. Recently opened, it’s the first floating sauna in the San Francisco area, and Fjord saw an immediate response to their anti-biohacking approach to sauna culture.

Fjord intentionally avoids wellness tropes, instead positioning itself as a recreational and social experience built around thermal activities, co-founder Alex Yenni tells me. Fjord’s approach is “more pure fun and not so hardcoded in body optimization.”

Fjord has access straight into the water and Mount Tamalpais in the distance. It offers a “rare opportunity for people who live in the Bay Area who’ve never swam in the bay,” Yenni says, a “floating destination where it’s just silence and seagulls and sailboats and seals and weird weather patterns and microclimates. It’s a very immersive environment.”

Fjord makes the biohacker’s definition of “optimization” feel far away even here in Silicon Valley, where much of the biohacking tech is developed.

The Global Wellness Institute predicts that “wellness travel” — loosely defined as any travel where a major focus is on improving one’s mental or physical wellbeing — will be a $1.4 trillion industry by 2027. It’s one of the fastest growing travel categories, and hotel programs and companies that cater to tourism have quickly moved to meet the moment. The number of hotels offering wellness programs is growing, even if it doesn’t always make money. That’s led to everything from your standard massage business, to a Six Senses resort with the “latest targeted biohacking tools” (and dog massages, for what it’s worth), to on-site genetic testing.

Within the broad wellness umbrella, an analysis of TripAdvisor reviews, bookings, and recommendations found that one of the biggest subsects of wellness travel revolves around water experiences: cold plunges, thermal spas and hot springs, and wellness cruises.

The places that are most overly coded as wellness getaways often tout precision and science, whether it’s 24/7 tracking of your vitals or hot-cold water treatments timed down to the second. It’s a data-backed approach to answer what biohackers are looking for. Over analyzing can ruin the whole point, however.

“When we’re fixated on timers and exact temperatures, we often miss the profound relaxation and joy that practices like sauna bathing can offer,” says Marcus Coplin, a naturopathic medical doctor and the medical director for The Springs Resort in Colorado and Murrieta Hot Springs Resort in California, both of which are fed by natural flowing, deep-earth geothermal mineral water that’s unique to place. “The most compelling research on sauna benefits comes out of cultures where it’s a social, recreational, or even ritualistic activity, ingrained into daily life. These cultures often use saunas as a way to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with loved ones and community.”

Contrast therapy, or alternating hot and cold exposure, can help with relaxation and clarity, says Tammy Pahel, the vice president of spa and wellness at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort and the chief wellness officer at Alchemy Wellness Resorts. Pahel adds that “perhaps the most compelling aspect of sauna culture today lies beyond the physical. Increasingly, wellness seekers are drawn to thermal rituals not only for their benefits, but for their feeling of a reconnection with self, breath, and presence. There’s an emotional intelligence in these rituals, a capacity to ground us in the body and the moment.”

The benefit of saunas and cold plunges, Coplin adds, is from regularly building your body’s response to low-dose temperature stress (regularity being the key word here). Constant monitoring and rigid routines can negate any positive effects of the practices themselves when sticking to the program becomes a chore.

Big data has its place, but at the end of the day, it’s about feeling well, not just measuring it, Coplin adds.

“The moment wellness becomes about performance rather than presence, you’ve lost the therapeutic benefit,” says Ryan Pomeroy, who leads Pomeroy Lodging, which has Nordic spas in Alaska and Canada.

“You simply can’t replicate what nature provides,” Pomeroy says. “Nature adds elements that can’t be measured or optimized: the sound of wind through trees, the changing seasons, the visual meditation of mountain landscapes and rock formations. These aren’t just nice-to-haves. They’re therapeutic in ways that indoor facilities simply cannot replicate.”

And, importantly, it’s difficult to over optimize in nature where you can’t control the sunrise or the temperature. “The unpredictability forces you into presence rather than performance,” Pomeroy says. “Indoor facilities, no matter how well-designed, become another controlled environment where people can fall back into tracking and measuring.”

At Fjord, the more relaxed approach has clearly been well received by the city and the community. Reservations are booked out for months. It’s a departure from the lifestyle that Yenni had prior after nearly 20 years in the creative agency world. That line of work left him unfulfilled, he says. It spurred the desire for a reinvention focusing on what can be felt in person rather than transmitted through film sets and streamed videos.

The core mission is to “break people out of their hermetically sealed bubbles” and help them “actually feel something visceral,” Yenni says.

His cofounder at Fjord, Gabe Turner, had a similar motivation at a similar time. Together, they set out to bring a California ethos to the global appreciation of hot and cold experiences at Russian banyas, Finnish saunas, Japanese onsens, and Turkish hammams.

Fjord represents a move “toward something more analog,” Yenni says, offering a “real physical and social connection.” Something different than the lackluster sauna and super-chilled tub in a windowless room that’s familiar in urban hot and cold spots. Without the natural environment, “the third leg of the stool is missing: reconnection and the experience of being in nature.”

While Fjord opened at a time when wellness travel and interest is very much having a moment, Yenni and the Fjord team started planning before the current hype and are intentional about avoiding the typical wellness tropes. Still, it doesn’t hurt that the benefits of hot-cold experiences has gone mainstream. “The work has been done for us that there’s enough critical awareness around the benefits around hot and cold,” Yenni says.

Fjord’s tagline of “feel something” targets an experience that’s not specifically what one would find at a high-tech, data-backed treatment center. It’s more in the lane of a recreational and social experience, with the added benefits of being good for you.

Location may be one of the most important factors in a natural sauna experience, but it’s not always an easy find. Permitting a location with natural beauty was “probably the hardest part about the project” for Fjord, Yenni says. It involved approval from eight different agencies, and a strong commitment to sustainable design. Architect Nick Polansky reused abandoned infrastructure like a decommissioned wave attenuator from the 2013 America’s Cup, repurposed second-hand shipping containers, and utilized sustainable second-growth California redwood for Fjord. Clean electric and no toxic runoff helps Fjord “blend seamlessly into the environment” and be good stewards to the nature around them, Yenni says.

Fjord’s approach clearly resonates with the public just as much as my first plunge in the Bay did years ago. Guests run the gamut in age, background, and culture, from young adopter types to the elderly, Yenni says. It has had to shut down its booking platform a couple of times already due to being book out for months at 100 percent utilization.

Yenni and the Fjord team are “sprinting to figure out how we offer this to more people.” They’re already in talks with the city of San Francisco about potential partnerships for expansion. More saunas as social spaces that embrace their surroundings through thoughtful, sustainable design can only be a good thing. In time, the biohackers may realize that, too.

AMAALA, the ultra-luxury wellness destination on Saudi Arabia’s north-western Red Sea coast, has unveiled its first global campaign – ‘Awaken Life’s Rhythm’ – directed by acclaimed filmmaker Neels Castillon. This cinematic debut, from Dubai-based agency And Us, marks a pivotal moment in realising AMAALA’s bold vision for conscious, purposeful travel.

With a directorial signature rooted in poetry, light, and human movement, Neels brings a distinctive visual language to the campaign. The film opens in the world’s most fast-paced cities – Paris, Tokyo, NYC – and transitions to AMAALA’s serene coastline a sanctuary where time slows, balance returns, and every moment is lived with intention. Neels’ direction brings a dreamlike quality to the film – one that evokes both wonder and serenity.

“I wanted to capture that feeling of arriving in AMAALA – a place where nature overwhelms you and creates space for real human connection. The coral reefs, the sculptural hills, the vast desert… it all feels untouched, almost sacred. The location scouts were epic – the region is still so raw and unspoiled. It was a joy to work with a client and agency who truly cared about craft and were ready to push beyond the conventions of a tourism film to create something poetic and unexpected.” said Neels Castillon.

The visual narrative is elevated by VFX created by RODEO FX, who designed the floating spheres – a symbol of a more harmonious future, one that’s in rhythm with nature and rooted in presence.

Produced by Dubai-based production company Déjà Vu, the campaign is an invitation to rediscover what matters most – not by escaping life, but by reconnecting with it more fully. Developed by Red Sea Global, AMAALA is poised to redefine luxury wellness travel through its diverse range of offerings and experiences, setting a new benchmark for those who travel with intention and curiosity.

Wellness retreats and spa vacations are big business and only getting bigger; in fact, data-gathering giant Statista revealed that the global wellness tourism industry could be worth approximately $1.35 trillion by the time 2028 rolls around, which is an increase of more than 100% from the industry’s market size in 2022 of about $637 billion. Unsurprisingly, with everything going on in the world, more and more people need to disconnect and enjoy a serene experience, highlighting the wellness sector’s booming demand. Sure, there are unique spa experiences all around the world, but some are definitely better than others.

A recent survey by Travel + Leisure has revealed the best spas on both a domestic U.S. level and an international one. So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect wellness weekend or massage-filled recharge, the number one spa destination in the U.S. has you covered. Indeed, it’s located in a classic American town that’s renowned for spirituality, relaxation, and stunning scenery.

Named as the best domestic spa in America, as voted for by readers, Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona, is a stunning boutique getaway that takes inspiration from the striking red rocks all around it. Sedona has a reputation for spiritual, tranquil getaways, so this makes a lot of sense, but what makes this spa so much better than any others in the country? Where else made the top list, and what were the best spas around the world? Let’s dive in and find out more.

Mii Amo In Sedona Has Been Voted The Best Spa In America

It’s no secret that Sedona has become a hub for people seeking out transformative experiences. The spirituality that comes from the region, filled with inspiring red rocks, has drawn visitors for generations. As a result, there have been beautiful spas and boutique hotels popping up around the town, seeking to aid those looking for a tranquil but energizing experience in Arizona.

What sets Mii Amo apart from the rest on Travel + Leisure’s top list is the fact that the thought goes into your experience long before you arrive. Each visitor is able to create and tailor their own wellness journey. This ranges from spa treatments, sound baths, energizing vortex hikes around Sedona, partner yoga, longevity pilates, and more. This also ties in with the dining plan for your stay for a more holistic approach to wellness. Everything is included, and the produce comes directly from the Chef’s Garden and local suppliers for the freshest, seasonal ingredients.

Throughout your stay, you’ll be led through your experiences by a dedicated “Journey Guide”. They’ll help you get the most out of your experience, no matter what journey vibe you choose. Common options include Longevity, Recharge, Connection, Quiet Quest, and Discovery. Rather than coming away with relaxed muscles from a standard massage, visitors say that they return transformed.

Which Other U.S. Spas Made The Top List?

While Mii Amo took the top spot for the best domestic spa in America, there are still plenty of incredible US spa resorts on the list. The top 15 US spas, as voted by readers, came in as follows:

1. Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona
2. The Ranch Hudson Valley in Sloatsburg, New York
3. Sundara Inn & Spa in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
4. Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in Vista, California
5. The Ranch Malibu in Malibu, California
6. Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa in Lenox, Massachusetts
7. Hilton Head Health in Hilton Head, South Carolina
8. Canyon Ranch Lenox in Lenox, Massachusetts
9. The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, Pennsylvania
10. Civana Wellness Resort & Spa in Carefree, Arizona
11. Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa in Tucson, Arizona
12. The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, North Carolina
13. Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas
14. Canyon Ranch Tucson, in Tucson, Arizona
15. Ten Thousand Waves in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Noticeably, there are a couple of places on the list with multiple branches. Both Miraval and Canyon Ranch had two of their sites in the top 15. Other trends include specific states having a penchant for top-tier spa retreats. Arizona leads the way with four spas in the top 15, including the number one pick. California and Massachusetts aren’t far behind, with two spas apiece on this prestigious list.

Which International Spas Were Highlighted?

While domestic spa retreats are often a great weekend getaway, you can always take it to the next level with an international relaxation vacation. Some of the best spa retreats in the world can be found in areas of outstanding natural beauty, where these eco-friendly elements are woven into the fabric of the spa experience.

The full list of the best international spas, as voted by readers of Travel + Leisure, is a lot shorter than the domestic one. In fact, there’s only a top five for this list, making it that much easier to add these spots to your relaxation bucket list.

The top 5 international spas are:

1. Surf Synergy in Jacó, Costa Rica
2. Schloss Elmau in the Elmau Valley, Germany
3. Amatara Welleisure Resort in Phuket, Thailand
4. Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico
5. BodyHoliday in Cap Estate, St. Lucia

What’s telling about these spa retreats is that they encompass multiple facets of wellbeing. Gone are the days when a spa retreat was a massage and a sauna. Now, the best spa getaways combine with activities like surfing, yoga, mindful hikes, and IV infusions for peak physical wellbeing. This is a new age of wellness that covers all bases.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Mii Amo?

If you’re thinking about booking a stay at Mii Amo in Sedona, consider booking a stay in either spring or fall. Summers in Arizona are notoriously hot and humid, and this isn’t really conducive to relaxation (unless you’re in a sauna, of course!). Even though the altitude of Sedona means it’s slightly cooler, three-digit temperatures are common during summer.

Instead, opt for spring or fall when you can see the changing flora and fauna outside the resort. The wildflowers in spring are a sight to behold, and the cooler temperatures in fall are ideal for mindful hikes and outside wellness ceremonies. Also, the produce from the Chef’s Garden in spring and fall is going to be spectacular, considering these are key cultivation seasons.

You can visit in the winter months as well. The snowfall creates a winter wonderland with little peeks of red rock shining through. Given that many people opt for wellness and transformation in the New Year, this is a popular time for people to visit Mii Amo.

So, if you’re in need of some serious pampering, the best spa in the US is Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona. With tailored packages and Journey Guides that take you through every part of the experience, it’s a transformative vacation that you won’t forget in a hurry.