A new partnership gives travelers access to gyms, group classes and personal trainers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain
Wellness tourism is quickly evolving from spa days into a fully integrated experience embedded in every stage of travel.
Dragonpass, a global platform for premium travel services, has teamed up with Boddy, a travel-tech startup specializing in wellness experiences, to offer travelers access to full-service gyms, personal trainers and group fitness classes at more than 150 fitness clubs across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain.
The new feature is now live across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Europe, North America and Asia, with plans to expand further in the near future.
“At Dragonpass, we believe wellness should be a natural part of the travel experience,” Dragonpass chief marketing officer Andrew Harrison-Chinn said. “Through our partnership with Boddy, we’re enabling travelers across the GCC to prioritize their health without compromising convenience or flexibility.”
The partnership brings together Dragonpass’ travel expertise and Boddy’s wellness platform to meet rising demand for health-focused options on the go.
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“Wellness should travel with you,” Boddy CEO Hannes Boller said. “Whether you’re landing in Dubai, Riyadh or Doha, travelers can now book a class, access a gym, feel like a local and keep up with a healthy lifestyle. This partnership turns Dragonpass into a seamless gateway to one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness networks.”
Dragonpass and Boddy aren’t the only ones tapping into fitness-focused solutions for travelers. Matrix Fitness, a commercial equipment leader, recently appointed Clint Judd as strategic account manager for hospitality to strengthen its presence in the luxury travel space.
Already, East Sussex National Hotel Resort, a luxury property, has unveiled a revamped health club in partnership with Matrix Fitness, featuring 50 stations outfitted with the brand’s latest Endurance Cardio and Ultra strength equipment. The upgrade also includes a refreshed spin studio with 15 Matrix CXP bikes and the launch of a dedicated Hyrox Studio.
Home»LUXURY TRAVEL» Via Shinsegae Launches Luxury Travel Packages: Global Adventures And Wellness Escapes
Friday, July 18, 2025
In a stunning case of crossing over between retail and high-end travel, Shinsegae, a leading South Korean department store brand, is launching a play in luxury travel, even as online retail and luxury travel continue to converge and mingle. Aug. 5, Shinsegae will introduce Via Shinsegae, a new travel platform that offers “start-to-finish luxury” experiences to sophisticated travelers. But this service is more than a flight-and-hotel booking portal; it brings travelers curated, high-end travel experiences focused on cultural immersion, wellness and bespoke adventures in some of the most coveted corners of the world.
Via Shinsegae launches with two distinct product tiers designed to cater to travelers with a wide range of interests and preferences. The first tier, “Masterpiece,” offers exclusive, bucket-list experiences that promise rare encounters and unforgettable moments. Meanwhile, the second tier, “Origin,” focuses on deep cultural immersion, offering wellness retreats and lifestyle-focused trips, including programs designed by the renowned Korean doctor, Jung Hee-won, who is currently a leading figure in the slow-aging movement in Korea.
Curated Luxury Experiences for Every Traveler
Shinsegae’s entry into the world of luxury travel combines its expert curation skills from the retail space with the desire to deliver refined, high-end experiences. With Via Shinsegae, the company is not just offering a typical vacation package but an entirely elevated travel journey that blends adventure with tranquility, culture with luxury.
For those who seek the thrill of rare and luxurious experiences, the “Masterpiece” tier delivers some of the world’s most coveted opportunities. One standout offering is a motorsport event in Abu Dhabi, where travelers can immerse themselves in the adrenaline-pumping world of Formula 1 racing. For those with a taste for extreme adventure, the Arctic expedition aboard an icebreaker with famed explorer James Hooper is another experience that exemplifies the level of exclusivity Via Shinsegae aims to provide. These offerings are designed to be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that create unforgettable memories for those who wish to go beyond typical travel itineraries.
On the other hand, the “Origin” tier brings a more serene yet equally refined experience. For wellness seekers, Via Shinsegae has partnered with the celebrated Jung Hee-won to create tailored wellness programs in New Zealand and Greece. These programs are designed to rejuvenate and restore the body, offering travelers the chance to immerse themselves in holistic health practices while exploring the beauty of these destinations. The focus on well-being will attract travelers seeking balance and healing through carefully crafted wellness routines in idyllic locations.
A Seamless Start-to-Finish Luxury Experience
The hallmark of Via Shinsegae’s offerings is its promise of a seamless luxury experience from beginning to end. Travelers will be treated to personalized services before their trip even begins. The journey starts with pre-trip lectures, allowing travelers to learn about their destination and prepare for the cultural experiences that await them. For those who prefer convenience, customized amenities will be provided, ensuring that every detail of their journey is taken care of.
Private sedan transfers to and from the airport are also included, ensuring a smooth, stress-free transition from home to their destination. Once travelers arrive, they will be treated to high-end accommodations, exclusive excursions, and fine dining experiences that reflect the destination’s local culture while maintaining the elevated standards of luxury that Shinsegae is known for.
After their trip, Via Shinsegae’s services don’t stop. Post-trip offerings include exclusive fine dining experiences and visits to exhibitions, turning the entire journey into an all-encompassing lifestyle experience. This approach ensures that travelers are not just visiting a place, but are fully immersed in the essence of it, both during and after their trip.
Integrating Shinsegae’s Premium Ecosystem
Via Shinsegae goes beyond travel by integrating Shinsegae’s broader premium ecosystem into its offerings. Travel purchases made through the platform will contribute to a customer’s VIP spending at Shinsegae, creating a seamless connection between the retailer’s luxurious department store experiences and its travel services. This is a clever way to build a sense of exclusivity, offering travel packages to customers who are already familiar with Shinsegae’s reputation for quality and luxury.
Shinsegae’s expansion into luxury travel follows the success of its “Local is Shinsegae” campaign, launched in 2023, which highlighted regional destinations within South Korea. Through curated food and cultural tours, Shinsegae tapped into the growing trend of domestic travel, offering unique experiences that highlighted the richness of Korea’s local culture. These domestic packages eventually evolved into full-fledged travel products earlier this year, showcasing Shinsegae’s ability to adapt its retail expertise to the travel sector.
Looking Ahead: Shinsegae’s Future in Travel
As Via Shinsegae officially launches on August 5, the retailer is setting the stage for a new era of luxury travel experiences that go beyond simple tourism. With its focus on curated adventures, wellness, and cultural immersion, Shinsegae aims to redefine what it means to travel in style.
“We plan to bring Shinsegae’s curatorial strengths into the travel space through Via Shinsegae,” said Lee Sung-hwan, executive vice president of sales strategy at Shinsegae Department Store. “We’ll continue to offer customers refined experiences and premium service.”
Shinsegae’s move into travel aligns with a broader movement among upscale retailers into lifestyle services. As the platform grows, travelers can look forward to increasingly original packages that combine adventure, relaxation, culture and wellness, all in the top of the range style that Shinsegae is well reputed for. Whether searching for adventure in the Arctic or needing a wellness retreat, Via Shinsegae, is poised to be the top address for those who will settle for nothing less than luxury travel at its finest.
Home»TRAVEL NEWS» Greece Emerges As The Ultimate Wellness And Fitness Destination As Tourists Opt For High-Impact Travel Experiences That Nourish The Body And Mind
Friday, July 18, 2025
Greece has already established itself as the high-profile wellness and fitness destination, a trend that is bringing a growing wave of visitors to transform themselves holistically through healthy holidays. Greece This Mediterranean paradise has it all stunning landscapes, peaceful retreats, and state-of-the-art spas that combine relaxation and rejuvenation. More and more, visitors can find themselves engaging in spa treatments, practicing yoga by the sea or engaging in holistic health programs — all popular diversions in Greece, which has come to be known not just for its antiquities and culture but for the high-impact experiences it delivers with names and aims that facilitate physical well-being and mental clarity.
As modern life accelerates and mental fatigue rises, Greek travelers are shifting toward vacations that focus on wellness, nature, and physical activity. With a growing desire to recharge both body and mind, many Greeks now seek getaways that offer opportunities for relaxation, outdoor exploration, and fitness activities. A recent survey conducted in May 2025 sheds light on this trend, revealing that the Greek tourism market is increasingly prioritizing health-conscious travel choices.
The survey, which involved 1,000 Greek consumers, found that 67.5% of respondents have a positive or very positive view of vacations centered on physical activity. In addition, 52.5% expressed interest in wellness-focused trips that offer relaxation, rejuvenation, or even better sleep. These findings show a clear shift towards travel experiences that promote both mental and physical well-being.
Hiking Emerges as the Top Choice
Among the various fitness-related activities that Greek travelers pursue, hiking has emerged as the most popular option. The survey reveals that 41% of participants are most likely to engage in hiking during their next fitness-focused vacation. This highlights a growing preference for experiences that blend physical activity with immersion in nature. Hiking allows travelers to explore scenic landscapes while benefiting from the physical exertion that boosts both health and well-being.
Cycling follows closely behind as a popular fitness activity, with 14.2% of respondents likely to embark on cycling tours. Skiing and climbing are also popular, with 12.6% and 11.2% of respondents, respectively, expressing interest in these activities. These preferences indicate a broader trend: Greek travelers want to combine movement with immersion in the natural environment, creating a harmonious balance between adventure and wellness. Such activities are no longer just about fitness; they serve as means for travelers to connect with nature, gain mental clarity, and escape the pressures of modern life.
Growing Demand for Wellness Travel
Wellness tourism is also gaining momentum among Greek travelers, as the demand for trips focused on relaxation and mental health continues to rise. When asked about their wellness travel preferences, 37.2% of respondents cited trips that connect them to nature as a top priority. These trips often involve tranquil surroundings, such as mountains, forests, or coastal retreats, providing the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation.
Additionally, 25.9% of Greek travelers indicated that stress relief is a key factor in their decision to book wellness vacations. This shows that many Greeks are now looking for ways to unplug from their busy lives and decompress during their holidays. A significant portion of the survey participants, 17.6%, also expressed interest in trips designed specifically to support mental health, further highlighting the growing trend toward holistic wellness. This shift reflects a broader societal change, where travelers are increasingly prioritizing their emotional and psychological well-being, not just their physical health.
Balancing Wellness with Budget
Despite the growing interest in wellness and fitness-focused travel, cost remains a critical factor for many Greek consumers. The survey shows that most travelers remain cautious when it comes to spending on these types of vacations. A majority of respondents, 69.4%, indicated that they would spend no more than 500 euros on a fitness-centered getaway. Similarly, 63.3% said they would allocate the same amount for a wellness-focused trip. This suggests that while the demand for these types of vacations is increasing, many Greeks are still budget-conscious when planning their travel.
Interestingly, only a small percentage of respondents—between 2% and 5%—expressed willingness to spend over 1,000 euros on a trip that focuses on health, wellness, or fitness. This reflects a strong desire for fitness and wellness vacations, but it also shows that Greek travelers are balancing their aspirations for relaxation and physical activity with financial considerations. Many prefer more affordable options that still offer meaningful experiences without breaking the bank.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Health-Focused Travel
As Greece and the world recover from the pressures of the pandemic, wellness and fitness travel are set to become key pillars of the tourism industry. The growing popularity of hiking, cycling, skiing, and wellness retreats signals a shift toward more mindful and health-conscious travel choices. This trend reflects a broader societal movement where people are becoming more aware of the importance of mental and physical health.
In the coming years, we can expect the demand for nature-based and wellness travel to continue rising. Greek travelers, in particular, are embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes balance, relaxation, and fitness. As a result, destinations that offer both scenic beauty and wellness-focused amenities will likely see a significant increase in visitors. Moreover, wellness and fitness tourism could become a major driver for Greece’s tourism sector, with more travelers seeking meaningful, health-conscious experiences.
The challenge for the travel industry will be to provide options that cater to this growing market while keeping costs within reach. By offering a variety of budget-friendly wellness and fitness options, the tourism sector can attract a wider range of travelers who want to invest in their well-being without overspending.
Greece has become the ultimate wellness and fitness destination, offering tourists transformative travel experiences that combine stunning landscapes with world-class wellness programs, promoting both physical well-being and mental clarity.
In summary, the growing demand for wellness and fitness travel on the part of the Greek consumer is showing that destination choice is changing significantly. With travelers increasingly looking to restore fitness and wellness in one fell swoop, Greece is situated to provide a host of experiences that appeal to this expanding sector. Here, Greek citizens are reimagining what it means to take a vacation by immersing themselves in nature, activity and relaxation, with an emphasis on health, wellness and equilibrium.
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