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From Yoga Retreats To Digital Detox, The Growing Trend of Wellness Tourism Is Changing The Way We Travel

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In the last few years, the way we look at travel has changed. From usual holidays to now solo travels, road trips, astro travels and wellness travel are gaining populatity. Wellness tourism is one of them. It is a type of travel that aims to improve one’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It entails participating in activities such as yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and healthy eating in calm and tranquil environments and eco-friendly adventures. The goal is to unwind, eliminate stress, and encourage a healthy lifestyle while travelling to new areas.

Recently, Sonakshi Sinha and her actor husband Zahir Khan also posted some photos from their wellness travel in Philippines . Katrina Kaif posted pictures from her calming holiday in Britain after she visited the Maha Kumbh. It is safe to say that while people are now more cautious about their health, these celebrities have placed enough emphasise on wellness travel. When we think of wellness, our minds often go straight to physical health exercise routines, nutritious meals, and staying active. That is undoubtedly a significant component, but wellness encompasses much more than physical well-being. True wellness is about your mental and spiritual well-being, too engaging your mind, feeding your soul, and finding balance in all aspects of life.

This view of wellness is an actively pursued goal for many, influencing how they choose to live, work, and even travel. One of the many ways people embrace this approach is through wellness tourism.

What is Wellness Tourism?

Wellness tourism has emerged as a transforming method to travel in the middle of our fast-paced lifestyles. It is more than just a vacation; it is an intentional pursuit of refreshment, personal growth, physical, mental, emotional and health improvement. Wellness tourism comprises a wide range of experiences that balance the body, mind, and soul, from immersing spa vacations to stimulating fitness escapes. It combines exploration with health-focused activities such as spa treatments, fitness programs, yoga, meditation, eco-friendly adventures, and other therapeutic practices.

Wellness Tourism Activities

  • Hot springs
  • Spas
  • Yoga and meditation
  • Massage
  • Herbal medicine
  • Fitness programs
  • Eco-friendly adventures

Wellness Tourism Destinations In India

Holistic practices, such as Ayurveda and yoga, originated in India, making it a spiritual hub for wellness tourism. You can try Ayurvedic and naturopathic practices, such as ‘Shirodhara’ and ‘Neti’, in popular destinations like Kerala and Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, India, known for its Yoga Study Center among others destinations.

India’s wellness tourism sector offers a blend of traditional healthcare and modern wellness practices. Ministry of Tourism has drafted guideline for wellness tourism. These guidelines address issues regarding making available quality publicity material, training and capacity building for the service providers, participation in international & domestic Wellness related events, etc.

The AYUSH Visa allows international visitors to access Ayurvedic treatments, yoga retreats, and other holistic therapies.

Wellness tourism vs. medical tourism

Wellness tourism is a subset of health tourism. Medical tourism is the practice of traveling to seek healthcare services.

The potential of wellness systems, developed through centuries of wisdom of this ancient civilization would be fully tapped. This is being done by positioning India as a centre of Ayurveda, Yoga, Sidha, Naturopathy, etc. together with the spiritual philosophy that has been integral to the Indian way of life.

New Trends in Wellness Tourism

Burnout Recovery Retreats:

A burnout retreat is a specialised wellness programe which is tailored towards individuals that are struggling from the pressures of high stress environments. With a focus on practices and technologies aimed at helping people recharge, rejuvenate, and heal, the sophisticated implementation of technologies such as wearable devices and apps can now monitor stress levels, sleep quality, and physical activity to optimize downtime.

Personalised Wellness Experiences:

Tailoring retreats and wellness programs to individual health needs, such as personalized diets, fitness plans, and mental health practices.

Mental Wellness Retreats:

Focused on stress management, mindfulness, and mental rejuvenation through meditation, yoga, and digital detoxes.

Nature-Based Wellness:

Destinations offering eco-friendly and nature-immersive experiences, such as forest bathing and nature hikes, are gaining popularity.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel:

Wellness tourists are increasingly seeking eco-conscious resorts and destinations that promote sustainability and environmental protection.

Medical Wellness Tourism:

Combining traditional wellness with medical treatments, such as detox programs, anti-aging therapies, and health diagnostics.

Digital Detox Tourism:

Retreats that promote disconnection from technology to encourage mindfulness and improve mental health.

Types of Wellness Tourism Experiences

  • Spa and Relaxation Retreats
  • Fitness and Adventure Retreats
  • Mindfulness and Meditation Retreats
  • Spiritual and Holistic Retreats
  • Weight Loss and Detox Retreats
  • Healing and Wellness Retreats
  • Cultural and Wellness Immersion
  • Yoga Retreats
  • Wellness Resorts
  • Eco-Wellness Retreats

Benefits of Wellness Tourism

Improved overall well-being:

Wellness tourism does exactly what it was designed to do: enhance overall well-being. It achieves this by focusing on all three aspects of health—the physical, mental, and emotional.

Physical Benefits:

Wellness tourism improves physical health through various activities. Yoga sessions and stretching exercises, for example, help with flexibility. They increase the range of motion in muscles and joints, making the body more agile and less prone to injury.

The more active types of activities like hiking, Pilates, or fitness classes strengthen the body by building muscle and improving overall physical fitness. Combining them with nutritious food can also help reduce stress and boost the immune system.

Mental Benefits:

Wellness tourism also promotes mental clarity, focus, relaxation, and many other mental benefits. Through guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and opportunities to disconnect from daily stressors, travellers can calm their minds, reduce anxiety, and experience a mental reset that enhances cognitive function and provides peace of mind.

Emotional Benefits:

Emotional benefits can also be traced along, and in some instances, because of the physical and mental benefits of travelling for wellness. The overall experience promotes emotional balance and relieves stress. Such retreats provide a supportive environment for individuals to recharge, reconnect with themselves, and heal from emotional exhaustion.

Long-term health improvements:

Travellers also benefit from wellness tourism’s potential for lasting impact. Unlike a standard holiday that might leave you feeling refreshed temporarily, wellness retreats can equip you with habits and practices you can take home. Relaxation is a benefit of this type of tourism but not the main focus. The focus for many is on learning to lead a healthier, more balanced life.

Wellness Tourism During The Summer Season

During the summer, wellness tourism focuses on outdoor activities and rejuvenating experiences in nature, with destinations like mountain resorts or coastal areas offering hiking, yoga, and spa treatments to promote well-being.

Outdoor Adventures:

Summer is ideal for activities like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, and exploring natural landscapes.

Yoga and Meditation:

Many wellness retreats and resorts offer yoga and meditation sessions in scenic locations, promoting relaxation and mindfulness.

Spa and Wellness Treatments:

Summer is a great time to enjoy spa treatments, massages, and other wellness therapies, often incorporating local ingredients and traditions.

Healthy Eating:

Summer allows for enjoying fresh, seasonal foods and adopting a healthy eating plan.

Cultural Immersion:

Many wellness tourism experiences include opportunities to learn about local cultures and traditions, such as participating in cooking classes or visiting local markets.

Reconnecting with Nature:

Spending time in nature is a key aspect of summer wellness tourism, with opportunities to reconnect with oneself and the environment.

Fitness and Sports:

Many wellness tourism destinations offer fitness classes, sports activities, and opportunities to stay active during the summer months.

Contribution to Local Economies

Wellness tourism has also been shown to contribute to local economies. It stimulates economic growth by driving demand for local services, including accommodations, restaurants, and wellness facilities. Because of this, businesses catering to wellness travellers often see substantial revenue increases, which helps the local economy.

The influx of visitors also creates numerous job opportunities, providing employment for local residents in roles such as hospitality staff, wellness practitioners, and retail vendors.

Locals benefit from the multiplier effect of wellness tourism as farmers, artisans, and suppliers provide goods and services to wellness centres and their guests. This interconnected economic activity can strengthen the community’s financial stability and create a sense of pride and connection among residents.

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Why Istanbul is becoming the ultimate luxury wellness escape

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Over recent years Istanbul, the dazzling metropolis straddling Europe and Asia, has emerged as a global beacon for luxury wellness, where cutting-edge medical expertise meets cultural indulgence. For the discerning traveller seeking transformative self-care, the city offers a seamless blend of world-class cosmetic surgeries, opulent accommodations, and a vibrant lifestyle scene that caters to those with a taste for the extraordinary – and from rejuvenating treatments to curated experiences, Istanbul redefines wellness tourism with sophistication and allure.

The city’s allure lies in its ability to intertwine wellness with opulence. Affordable yet luxurious, it offers five-star experiences at a fraction of European prices, spanning everything from flights to fine dining. Not only that, but it’s also famous for its advanced healthcare sector and luxurious private facilities – and has made a name for itself as one of the top places in the world to visit for medical tourism, and in particular, hair transplant procedures.

Here, we take a closer look at why Istanbul is becoming irresistible to the luxury wellness traveller – and why you should add it to your 2025 trip list.

Istanbul is becoming irresistible to the luxury wellness traveller. Image credit: Halit-Sadik/Bigstock.com

Where to stay

For the ultimate stay, the nearby Istanbul Marriott Hotel, a five-star haven boasting a state-of-the-art spa where guests can unwind with tailored massages and rejuvenating therapies, alongside a pristine tennis court for those who blend fitness with leisure, serves as the perfect base for a wellness-themed escape. Its modern, minimalistic design and panoramic city views make it a perfect retreat after a day of pampering, exploring Istanbul’s historic hammams, such as the opulent Çemberlitaş Hamamı, where centuries-old rituals cleanse body and soul in a setting of marble elegance.

Luxury experiences

For the luxury traveller, Istanbul is a destination where the senses are thoroughly indulged; a private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, dotted with Ottoman palaces and modern mansions like the waterfront Sait Halim Pasha Mansion, a symbol of Istanbul’s grandeur. Dining at Michelin-starred Nicole, perched above the Bosphorus, where innovative Turkish cuisine meets global sophistication, or indulging in cocktails at The Roof at The Ritz-Carlton, a hotspot for the city’s elite, are both musts.

If you’re craving exclusivity, Nişantaşı’s high-end boutiques offer bespoke Turkish designs, from silk kaftans to artisanal jewellery, perfect for curating a polished wardrobe.

Medical tourism

The Istanbul Marriott works alongside two of the most famous cosmetic clinics in Europe: Dr. Serkan Aygin’s Clinic and Doku Medical. The Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic received the Best Hair Transplant in Europe award at the Paris Ritz Hotel in 2019, and is considered by far the best option for getting a hair transplant in Turkey. Doku Medical, which places a focus on dermatology, skin rejuvenation and cosmetic surgery, is its sister clinic, and a lush private facility offering a holistic approach to beauty and wellness that resonates with luxury seekers.

The Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic received the Best Hair Transplant in Europe award at the Paris Ritz Hotel in 2019

Nightlife and entertainment

Istanbul is becoming increasingly fashionable for its vibrant clubs and nightlife scene too, only comparable in energy and flamboyancy to Berlin or Barcelona. Socialites will find in the vibrant Taksim district a contemporary edge, with its queer-friendly bars and upscale cafes along Istiklal Avenue. Here, Istanbul’s progressive spirit shines, rooted in a history of fluid identities, and this cultural depth, paired with modern inclusivity, makes the city a welcoming haven for all.

Cultural heritage

Much has been discussed about the city’s cultural heritage. While Istanbul’s past is certainly dazzling, its modern art scene has nothing to envy of the New York’s MoMA or London’s Tate Modern. Curated experiences through the Pera Museum or the contemporary Istanbul Modern showcase Ottoman miniatures and avant-garde installations, guided by expert curators for a bespoke journey with these tours, often paired with private access to historic sites like the Topkapi Palace, certain to appeal to the cultured traveller who values rarity and refinement.

Food and drink

Istanbul is also amongst the main cities in Europe in the number of Michelin restaurants located within it. Beyond Nicole, Sunset Grill and Bar in Ulus serves up exquisite sushi and Turkish fusion dishes with panoramic views, and is frequented by the city’s elite – while for an intimate experience, book a table at Tugra, located in the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, where Ottoman-inspired cuisine is served in a setting of gilded opulence. These venues elevate Istanbul’s culinary scene to a global stage, and are more than enough reason to visit alone for self-confessed foodies.

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is the oldest covered market in the world, built at the beginning of the 15th century. Image credit: Gilmanshin/Bigstock.com

Luxury shopping

Shopping aficionados will find in the Grand Bazaar’s hidden ateliers 100-year old Patek Philippe collections, among all sorts of other true wonders and unimaginable gems. In Bağdat Avenue’s designer boutiques, rivalling Bond Street for exclusivity, master artisans craft handwoven carpets worth tens of thousands.

The bottom line

Istanbul’s magic lies in its ability to cater to the sophisticated traveller’s every desire, from the serenity of a hammam to the thrill of a Bosphorus yacht. If you’re looking for a luxurious city break with a difference in 2025, then look no further, because it ticks all the boxes for a visit that is memorable for all the right reasons.



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India’s New Strategy Promises To Revolutionize Medical And Wellness Tourism Worldwide

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Friday, July 18, 2025

Dworked international medical and wellness is to become India’s calling card, as a new national strategy to raise the country’s status in global healthcare was unveiled. FHRAI, in association with KPMG in India, released a path-breaking report, “Heal in India: Catalysing Medical and Wellness Tourism for a Healthier Global Future”. The future of India as the world’s most preferred destination for MVT is reliant on its strategic approach, such as those outlined in this report, which was unveiled at the Heal in India 2025 Medical & Wellness Tourism Summit.

The summit opened with a welcoming speech from Shri Suman Billa, IAS, Additional Secretary & Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, emphasizing India’s robust competence to emerge as the leader of medical tourism. Representatives from the healthcare, wellness, tourism, and hospitality sectors participated. Mr. Billa underlined the need for cooperation between all players and said that India’s quest to become a global healthcare destination will be successful only if it connects hospitals, tourism service providers, and hospitality providers.

Healthcare Industry in India and Global Increase in Demand

India has been known for its prestigious health care centers for years, especially in Tier 1 cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. But “The new approach consists in taking such high-quality medical care to smaller cities, and the need of smaller towns for good healthcare looks promising, as this trend looks promising because in these smaller cities and regions too, international patients will find the same excellent health care that draws millions to the top-of-the-line hospitals. The biggest issue, says Mr. Billa, however, isn’t about increasing the size of the market; it’s about ensuring that growth in the sector has a real impact on the nation as well. That translates to driving GDP growth, generating employment, and enhancing forex inflows, along with establishing a reputation with overseas patients.

India has had international patients travelling from the United States, Canada, the UK, Bangladesh, and Iraq over the years, who have come down to the country due to the low-cost, high-quality health care it offers. The fresh figures indicate that more than 2 million medical travelers make their way to India every year, availing varying types of services such as complex surgeries, dental treatments, and traditional recovery therapies such as Ayurveda and Yoga.

Ayurveda and Wellness: The Healing Advantage of India’s Traditional Medicine

The “Heal in India” campaign likewise brings out India’s heritage in Ayurveda and wellness therapies. Dr. Manoj Nesari, a senior official at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, identified India’s centuries-old healing tradition as driving the interest in medical tourism to the country. In a world increasingly keen on alternative medicine, the country’s ancient healing traditions are coming more and more to be seen as viable and effective alternatives to Western cures.

There has been a growing effort by the government to make Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma more visible on the world map, of late.” These ancient treatments are becoming popular as people increasingly look for holistic and preventative treatments, making India the destination for wellness tourism. Combining Ayurveda and Yoga with modern medicine has made it a more attractive and holistic practice to those who are looking at techniques to promote healthy living and to offer remedies to people.

Releasing India: Unlocking the Potential of Our Medical and Wellness Tourism Industry

Besides bettering India’s medical quotient, the Heal in India initiative is concentrating on creating an ecosystem that interests global patients to come to the country for their treatment. As the article points out, India’s medical tourism market is projected to jump from $18.2 billion in 2025 to $58.2 billion in 2035, increasing at 12.3% each year. To achieve this growth, we will need the public and private sectors working together, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and nurturing the healthcare talent of the future, enabled by digital tools that make healthcare easier and more effective.

Apart from augmenting the healthcare infrastructure, the government is thinking of setting up specialised wellness clusters in states such as Kerala, which is known for its Ayurveda, and Maharashtra, which has multispecialty hospitals. These clusters will offer a single stop for the tourists to get their medical treatment as well as wellness therapies, ensuring that the treatment is complete in all respects.

World Core Protection Selling The Planet: Global Brands Go The Strategic Marketing Library

The report also gives several strategic suggestions, including having national and state-level ‘Heal in India’ missions to bring coordination of all efforts from all sides. The government also plans to use global branding campaigns via embassies, expos, and digital media to promote India as a top spot for medical and wellness tourism.

Additionally, with the adoption of technology, like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), there can be operational efficiency in healthcare and a superior patient experience. These tools will be part of what will help to foster trust, in which patients can access their medical records, make informed choices, and have virtual visits with their provider.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

But, buoyant as it India’s prospects may be, the country’s medical tourism industry has its headwinds. There is a fundamental issue, and that is around QA (Quality Assurance) & PS (Patient Safety) throughout the entire healthcare VC (Value Chain). The government will work to overcome these challenges by enhancing infrastructure, developing human resources to global standards, and introducing multilingual hospitality services to serve foreign tourists.

One member of the “Heal in India 2025 Summit” stressed that services need to be high-quality in order to meet international standards. India seeks to make for itself a brand on the foundation of clinical excellence coupled with compassion, not just medical therapies, but healing experiences that make patients feel valued and safe.

Conclusion: Emergence of India as a World Health Superpower

India is poised to become a global leader in medical and wellness tourism. With the rollout of the “Heal in India” initiative, the country has pledged to deliver holistic healthcare solutions that integrate modern clinical knowledge with traditional healing. With the growing demand in the world for cost-effective, high-quality, and holistic healthcare options, India’s status as a favourite destination for medical tourists will only expand.

Given adequate policy encouragement, infrastructure investment, and global engagement, India is to be the world’s healing capital. The ‘Heal in India’ is the first of its kind global healthcare diplomacy, redefining how health and wellness are experienced throughout the world, a confluence of the country’s rich medical history and innovative modern medicine and technology.

(Source: Government of India, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, FHRAI, KPMG India)



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Via Shinsegae Launches Luxury Travel Packages: Global Adventures And Wellness Escapes

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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.



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