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Farmhouse Inn Sonoma County Review With Photos

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PS Photography | Lena Felton
PS Photography | Lena Felton

When I was growing up, my dad was a big proponent of the maxim “everything in moderation.” As a Northern California kid, that meant watching the adults in my life pursue healthy lifestyles — jogging after work, camping on the weekends — while also not feeling guilty for indulging in good food . . . and, importantly, good wine.

I’ve very much carried that ethos with me into adulthood. And now that I’m based in San Francisco, not far from where I grew up, I’m able to live it out to its truest extent possible. Take, for example, a recent weekend trip to Farmhouse Inn, a luxurious getaway in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley, about an hour and a half drive from the city.

California’s wine country is storied, and I feel very privileged to live so close. My friends and I usually opt for day trips over weekend stays, given that most of the lodging options aren’t cheap. But when a splurge is in order, there’s nothing quite like Sonoma and Napa’s vineyard-adorned rolling hills, strong sun (and wine), and restorative activities. So when my partner and I were presented with the opportunity to escape San Francisco’s summer fog and check out Farmhouse Inn, of course we jumped at the chance.

From its thoughtful touches — like daily afternoon wine tastings and a s’mores-making station after dinner — to its emphasis on rejuvenation, Farmhouse Inn proved to be the perfect balance of wellness and wine. Here were the highlights from our two-night stay.

About Farmhouse Inn

  • This boutique hotel has 25 rooms, which include a mix of barn suites, cottages, and rooms.
  • Nightly rates start at $588 for the cottage rooms.
  • Onsite dining options include The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn, which is a fine dining restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Farmstand, which offers juices, coffee, pastries, and more.
  • The Wellness Barn offers traditional spa treatments like massages and facials, as well as bathing rituals, flower readings, and more. There’s also a pool and hot tub.
  • Its winery and artisan partners program connects guests with wine country experiences, restaurants, and wineries.

What I Like About Farmhouse Inn

The first thing that struck me about Farmhouse was how quaint it was: stepping into the “lobby” felt more like entering a living room and being greeted by friends. The staff welcomed us with a glass of rosé as they walked us through our personalized stay.

The entire grounds, really, felt like an adulthood version of sleeping over at that friend’s house you coveted as a kid — subtly luxurious, inexplicably comforting, stocked with everything you could want. We were staying in one of the junior barn suites, which was cozy but extremely spacious. We especially loved the indoor-outdoor fireplace and huge patio, which overlooked a chicken coop; the bathroom also boasted extras like tub jets, a steam shower, and heated floors.

PS Photography | Lena Felton

We could’ve hung out in our suite the entire weekend, but for this stay, we wanted that perfect mix of wellness and wine, and that’s exactly what we got. One morning, we opted for a Pilates class and a private meditative sound bowl bath — a unique offering that set the perfect tone (excuse the pun) for the day.

Later, we headed to a wine tasting at Chalk Hill Estate, a nearby winery that’s part of the hotel’s partners program. If you’re not familiar with wine country, take Farmhouse’s recommendations; there are way too many wineries to choose from otherwise. Chalk Hill had beautiful hilltop views, a crisp, creative sauvignon gris, and an excellently appointed cheese plate full of local favorites.

I have to add: the food offerings at Farmhouse itself are excellent. One night, we checked out The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn, which felt intimate, just like the rest of the property — as if you had a Michelin-starred chef as a friend and they offered to whip you up a meal. The freshly baked bread, fresh sungold tomatoes, and wagyu were standouts.

In general, the weather was marvelous — 85 degrees and sunny — so we spent our afternoons by the pool, trying to soak up all the vitamin D the fog had been keeping from us. The property is landscaped beautifully (I seemed to smell rosemary everywhere I went), and we appreciated the quiet.

PS Photography | Lena Felton

Overall, the lowkey nature of Farmhouse really allowed us to soak in the relaxation. On our last night, once the sun went down, I did a moon milk bath, which was laden with freshly picked herbs and the intention of ushering in new beginnings. I wrote down my reflections, sipped on delicious tea, and soaked in gratitude for being able to experience such a beautiful place.

What to Consider Before Booking Farmhouse Inn

While its intimate size was something we really appreciated, the pool area and grounds were fitting for the limited number of guests. For bigger families looking for more space to spread out, there might be better options in the area.

Who Farmhouse Inn Is Best For

After we got back from our trip, we learned that our friends had stayed at Farmhouse a year before and also had an amazing time. It really does feel like a perfect getaway for folks who want to prioritize wellness, relaxation, and proximity to wineries (and nearby Russian River). Out-of-towners and Bay Area residents alike will appreciate the intimate feel of the grounds, the excellent food and wine offerings, and its very balanced take on what wellness in the wine country is all about.

Rating

★★★★★

Lena Felton (she/her) is a senior director of special projects at Popsugar, where she oversees sponsored packages, tentpole projects, and editorial partnerships. Previously, she was an editor at The Washington Post, where she led a team covering issues of gender and identity. She has been working in journalism since 2017, during which time her focus has been feature writing and editing and elevating historically underrepresented voices. Lena has worked for The Atlantic, InStyle, So It Goes, and more.



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Bahrain Is Silently Rising as the Powerhouse in Medical and Wellness Tourism: A Blend of Innovation and Relaxation

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Published on
August 12, 2025 |

Bahrain is emerging as a major player in medical and wellness tourism. With its state-of-the-art healthcare facilities and a growing commitment to well-being, the island nation is becoming an attractive destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and advanced medical care. Recent efforts to enhance its healthcare system have earned Bahrain international recognition. From cutting-edge medical treatments, like CRISPR gene editing, to the creation of Healthy Governorates, Bahrain is creating an environment that supports healthy living while offering high-quality medical services. As more people look to travel for wellness and medical treatments, Bahrain is positioning itself as a top choice. Its blend of innovation, expert care, and wellness-focused urban spaces is attracting tourists seeking top-notch health services and rejuvenating experiences. With a focus on creating safe, people-centered environments, Bahrain is making its mark in the competitive medical tourism industry.

Bahrain’s Healthcare Excellence: A Blend of Innovation and Comfort

Bahrain’s healthcare infrastructure is rapidly evolving. During her visit, Dr. Balkhy toured a variety of medical facilities, from state-of-the-art hospitals to primary care centers, each providing high-quality services that cater to both residents and tourists. The highlight of her visit was a groundbreaking medical achievement at the Bahrain Oncology Centre, where CRISPR-based gene editing was used to treat a patient with sickle cell disease, marking a historic milestone in the region’s healthcare development.

In addition to such advanced medical technologies, the role of Bahrain’s primary care centers, which are designed to offer seamless, people-centered health services, is truly commendable. The integration of technology with personal care is crucial for visitors who may need medical attention while traveling. Whether it’s a routine check-up or urgent care, Bahrain offers a comprehensive and patient-friendly experience.

Healthy Cities: Bahrain’s Commitment to Wellbeing

Bahrain is not just focusing on medical treatments but also on creating healthy environments for its residents and visitors. The WHO recently designated Bahrain’s Northern and Muharraq governorates as “Healthy Governorates,” joining the Capital Governorate. The designation reflects improvements in urban planning, public spaces, air quality, and active lifestyle programs. These efforts are part of the country’s broader wellness agenda, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for tourists seeking wellness retreats, fitness-focused vacations, and leisure travel.

For visitors, this means access to cleaner streets, more green spaces, and neighborhoods designed to encourage walking and outdoor activities. As wellness tourism continues to grow globally, Bahrain’s commitment to providing healthy living environments offers significant potential for attracting a wide range of travelers.

A Strong Foundation for Primary Care

Bahrain’s National Health Plan is driving a major upgrade to its primary care system, which serves as the cornerstone of the country’s healthcare offerings. Investments are being made to develop a highly skilled workforce and incorporate technology at every stage of the healthcare process. For tourists, this translates into fast and efficient medical services, from routine check-ups to more specialized treatments, ensuring peace of mind throughout their stay.

The expansion of primary care facilities, coupled with ongoing workforce training, means that medical services in Bahrain will continue to meet international standards. Visitors can be assured that if health issues arise, they will have access to high-quality care with minimal delays.

Medical Tourism and Global Recognition

Bahrain is also gaining recognition on the global stage as a reliable and safe destination for medical tourists. The country’s proactive approach to improving healthcare has earned it numerous awards for health promotion, disease prevention, and sustainability. With initiatives like the Bahrain Declaration, adopted at the 2024 Arab League Summit, Bahrain is also setting the standard for healthcare in conflict-affected regions, working to expand vaccine production and improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

This growing international recognition is a strong selling point for medical tourists, who prioritize safety and quality when selecting treatment destinations. As more travelers look for reliable healthcare options while abroad, Bahrain’s impressive track record in public health and disease prevention is helping to strengthen its image as a trusted destination for medical services.

Bahrain: A Safe and Wellness-Oriented Destination for Tourists

The health and wellness initiatives in Bahrain go beyond providing medical treatments; they reflect a broader effort to create a tourism environment that prioritizes well-being. Whether it’s enjoying leisure activities in a clean and healthy urban environment, participating in wellness retreats, or accessing high-quality medical care, Bahrain is positioning itself as a key player in the competitive world of medical tourism.

For visitors, the combination of modern healthcare infrastructure, wellness-focused urban development, and professional expertise creates an attractive, reliable destination. Bahrain is not only becoming known for its luxurious hotels and vibrant cultural heritage but also for its outstanding healthcare services, ensuring that medical tourists can enjoy peace of mind during their stay.

Looking to the Future: Bahrain’s Medical Tourism Growth

As the medical tourism industry continues to grow, Bahrain’s focus on innovation, wellness, and patient-centered care will be pivotal to its success. The combination of world-class medical treatments, beautiful surroundings, and a commitment to public health gives Bahrain a unique advantage in attracting international medical tourists.

Bahrain’s future in medical tourism looks promising, with more efforts to enhance healthcare services, build healthier cities, and expand its role in the global health arena. As travelers increasingly seek destinations that combine relaxation with top-tier medical care, Bahrain stands poised to become a major player in the global medical and wellness tourism market.

Conclusion: A Wellness Destination Like No Other

Bahrain’s growing focus on healthcare innovation and wellness tourism positions it as an emerging leader in the region’s medical tourism sector. With modern facilities, an emphasis on healthy lifestyles, and world-class healthcare professionals, Bahrain is not only catering to the needs of patients but also offering tourists a holistic experience that blends relaxation and cutting-edge treatments. As the country continues to expand its healthcare offerings, the future for Bahrain’s medical and wellness tourism looks incredibly bright.



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Explora Journeys Announces Ocean Wellness Retreats for Grand Voyages

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by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:30 PM ET, Mon August 11, 2025

Explora Journeys is offering a series of immersive, one-day wellness programs on Grand Journeys aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Called Ocean Wellness Retreats, the experiences include holistic wellness practices inspired by both Eastern and Western traditions.

Each retreat is designed to promote inner peace and emotional renewal, combining yoga, breathwork, sound sessions and introspective techniques. Guests can enjoy practices like Surya Shakti Yoga, pranayama, sound healing, Gong Baths under the stars and guided reflection, and they are invited to attend multiple retreats throughout the voyage.

The retreats “exemplify how travel can nurture the mind, body and soul,” says Julanda Marais, head of ocean wellness for Explora Journeys. “These retreats invite guests to slow down and reconnect—within themselves, and with the vast, calming energy of the sea.”

Each retreat includes a bespoke guided program by top wellness experts, a 100 percent cotton yoga tote bag, an organic hemp and cotton lavender-infused eye pillow, an Ocean Wellness booklet with insights and wellbeing practices and a turndown amenity.

The experiences are available on:

  • A Grand Journey of European Gems and Tropical Idylls aboard EXPLORA I, October 18 through November 12, from Fusina (Venice) to Miami.
  • A Grand Journey between Sweet Mint Tea & Lava Caves aboard EXPLORA II, November 11-22, departing from Barcelona and ending in Bridgetown, Barbados, with stops in Tangier, Gran Canaria and other ports.

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The Retreat Costa Rica Invests $4M in Wellness Resort Expansion

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In Latin America’s booming wellness corridor, The Retreat Costa Rica’s multi-million-dollar expansion adds Pacific-view luxury lofts, jungle-view dining and an upgraded fitness hub

The Retreat Costa Rica, a luxury wellness boutique resort and spa, has just completed a $4 million expansion, adding a 16,500-square-foot open-air clubhouse, two new restaurants and 10 luxury lofts.

Founder Diana Stobo, a celebrity chef-turned-wellness entrepreneur, says the project was designed around the Sanskrit concept of santosha, which translates to contentment and acceptance, with spaces built to reflect Costa Rica’s lush green terrain and to encourage peace, relaxation and connection.

It is a move in step with the broader wellness tourism market, which the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) projects will reach $1.35 trillion by 2028, bringing travelers who are looking for more than just massages. For its part, Costa Rica is part of a fast-growing wellness tourism corridor with Colombia and Panama, drawing travelers seeking restorative retreats as well as those pairing their stay with advanced medical care.

GWI’s recent Wellness Micro-Trends report highlights similar growth areas, from the integration of medical care with wellness programming, particularly for post-surgery recovery and chronic health management in nature-rich environments, to the rise of mental health–focused retreats that blend evidence-based therapies with holistic practices.

credit: The Retreat Costa Rica

It’s a combination that plays directly into Costa Rica’s strengths as a destination for restorative, nature-rich travel — aspects that The Retreat has embedded in its approach. The property’s latest expansion complements existing facilities that include the Vida Mia Healing Center and Spa, a farm-to-table organic restaurant, two saline swimming pools, a yoga studio, a meditation deck, organic gardens, a coffee plantation and hiking trails with views of the Gulf of Nicoya.

The 16,500-square-foot Santosha Clubhouse houses a 5-by-50-foot single-lane lap pool, a 1,600-square-foot yoga shala and a 1,600-square-foot fitness studio. The gym is outfitted with cardio and strength equipment, while the shala features natural finishes and can accommodate up to 50 people in group classes.

Beyond its new facilities, The Retreat Costa Rica offers wellness programs ranging from adrenal recovery and emotional healing to menopause support, Ayurvedic detox and fitness reboot intensives.

credit: The Retreat Costa Rica

“With increasing numbers of people looking to detox from our frenetic, digitally oriented society, the demand for our wellness services is growing quickly, with guests increasingly looking for more holistic and luxurious experiences,” Stobo tells Athletech News. “Wellness is deeply personal – there is no one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why I chose to invest in a larger gym and wellness club to create a space that honors every path to vitality. From classic strength training to somatic movement, body confidence practices, and outdoor fitness immersed in nature, we’ve designed an environment where every stretch is meaningful and every breath is strong.”

Stobo says The Retreat Costa Rica selected fitness equipment from True Fitness and Evergy for the clubhouse.

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“We chose True because of its smooth biomechanics, sleek design and reputation for reliability in the most demanding environments and Evergy because their equipment elevates the training experience with efficiency and a sleek design,” she says.

credit: The Retreat Costa Rica

The 945-square-foot Santosha Lofts were built to face unobstructed western views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Pacific Ocean and embrace feng shui principles to optimize the wellness experience. In a nod to the surge of wellness real estate, the design incorporates natural materials, including wicker light fixtures, natural teak wood furnishings, handcrafted stone wall accents and artisan-crafted details.

Two dining venues sit atop the clubhouse: Mystique, a 1,000-square-foot coastal-inspired restaurant, and La Diosa, a 1,250-square-foot rooftop lounge terrace serving small plates and artisanal cocktails in an open-air setting overlooking the surrounding jungle.

“Our guests have consistently trusted us to guide their well-being, and in return, we’ve chosen to invest in them – expanding not just our space, but our shared commitment to growth, resilience and transformation,” Stobo says.





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