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What ‘Wellness’ Really Means Now — And Why Travel Is Leading the Shift

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Today’s wellness travellers are seeking deep rest, personal meaning, and intentional connection. Once viewed as a luxury, wellness travel is being redefined as a form of self-preservation. 

In a world driven by algorithms, agendas, and endless alerts, wellness travel has become a quiet rebellion — a way to pause without apology. 

It’s not just anecdotal — the numbers prove it. 

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According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is projected to reach US$1.4 trillion globally by 2027, nearly doubling in value from 2022. North America remains one of the top regional markets, with a growing emphasis on mental well-being, local escapes, and sustainable, values-driven travel.

“People want to feel like they’ve travelled without the hassle.” (Photo Credit: The Pearle Hotel & Spa)

Purposeful Pampering

In a 2024 Wellness Tourism Association report, over 80% of travellers said their top reason for a wellness-focused trip was “to return home feeling better than when they left.” 

For many, that now includes emotional rejuvenation as much as physical care.

Tavia Wilson, spa director at The Pearle Hotel & Spa in Burlington, Ontario, who helped build the spa from the ground up during the pandemic, says the very idea of what it means to “get away” has evolved. 

Tavia Wilson, spa director at The Pearle Hotel & Spa (Photo Credit: LinkedIn)

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“People want to feel like they’ve travelled without the hassle.”

A Shift in Mindset Post-Pandemic

The pandemic didn’t just pause travel — it pushed travellers to reconsider how and why they go anywhere at all. For many, “wellness” used to mean a trip to the gym or a salad on the go. Now, it’s a deeper need.

“I do feel like the word wellness or well-being has definitely changed in everybody’s mind since the pandemic,” Wilson told TravelPulse Canada. 

The Pearle Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection (Photo Credit: The Pearle Hotel & Spa)

“People have a higher sense of needing more wellness — whether that’s full body care or just mental health self-care.”

RELATED: Paul Gauguin Cruises Announces Yoga and Wellness Voyage

That shift is showing up in traveller behaviour. A Virtuoso 2024 trend report revealed that wellness travel was among the fastest-growing luxury sectors, especially among Millennial and Gen Z travellers seeking more purposeful, self-nurturing experiences.

 

“That word ‘wellness’ has taken on a life of its own, and it means something different to every single person.”— Tavia Wilson

Redefining Ritual

Wilson says guests often drift off during treatments — not from boredom, but from a rare moment of stillness. 

“We want you to really relax. And when you do, your body naturally lets go.”

RELATED: 20 Destinations Proven To Boost Your Mood and Well-Being

The spa’s signature treatments include opening and closing rituals designed to engage the heart chakra, sound bowls to ground the mind, and acupressure techniques that target both emotional and physical stress points.

The Pearle Hotel & Spa pool (Photo Credit: Pearle Hotel & Spa)

Wellness Without the Filter

A growing frustration in wellness tourism is the gap between what’s marketed and what’s delivered. “Sustainability,” for example, is a buzzword — but often one without substance.

“I agree some businesses aren’t able to follow through,” Wilson said. “But we’re seeing that consumer desire for more intentional choices is real. And it’s pushing us to be more conscious.”

The Pearle, like many Canadian properties, is leaning into sustainability — sourcing spa products from Canadian makers, reducing cross-border shipments, and offering wellness packages that reduce the need for long-haul travel.

RELATED: Renew, Refresh, Recharge: Goway Launches Wellness Line

This resonates with data from a 2024 GlobalData Travel and Tourism survey, which found that over 60% of wellness travellers factor sustainability into their booking decisions, from carbon footprint to ethical sourcing.

On-site restaurants, like Pearle’s Isabelle, focus on healthy, seasonal cuisine — some of it from the hotel’s own farm.

“There’s a smaller carbon footprint when people stay local,” Wilson noted. “That in itself can be a more sustainable choice — for the planet and the person.”

On-site restaurants, like Pearle’s “Isabelle,” focus on healthy, seasonal cuisine — some of it from the hotel’s own farm. (Photo Credit: Natasha Lair-McKenty/TravelPulse Canada)

Wellness as Connection

But there’s another kind of sustainability that matters just as much in this space: the emotional kind.

Wilson tells the story of a guest who’s returned repeatedly for massages — not because of habit, but because of a connection she formed with a single therapist. “She said, ‘I feel like she’s family,’” Wilson recalled. “That’s what wellness is too — being seen, heard, cared for.”

RELATED: AmaWaterways Launches New Celebration of Wellness River Cruises

From the valet to the waterfront trail that borders the property, those touches matter. They’re the reason guests stay well past checkout, lingering by the lake or grabbing one more tea from the café. Not because they have to — but because their mind isn’t quite ready to rejoin the world.

“That’s what wellness is too — being seen, heard, cared for.” (Photo Credit: Natasha Lair-McKenty/TravelPulse Canada)

5 Signs a Retreat Actually Prioritizes Wellness

1. Rituals with Purpose: “We have rituals for a reason,” Wilson said. “They’re not just special. They’re essential.” Look for treatments that include intentional opening and closing elements (like sound therapy, grounding oils, or breathwork). These are often the mark of a true wellness philosophy.

2. Trained, Trauma-Informed Staff: “There’s no need for strict etiquette; simply arrive ready to relax.” A spa that prioritizes mental and emotional wellness invests in ongoing staff training — not just technique, but human connection and empathy.

3. Local, Sustainable Products: “It’s about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit [while] dedicated to providing an environment where that can truly flourish.” From oils to scrubs to snacks, spas that source locally and transparently are thinking about wellness beyond aesthetics.

4. Community Involvement: Ask how the spa connects with its neighbourhood — from supporting local artists to using regional farms. Wellness and community go hand in hand.

5. Encouragement to Disconnect: If the spa encourages you to ditch your phone and embrace stillness, you’re in the right place. 

“Leave your phone behind,” Wilson suggests. “In the locker, in your room, wherever. Just don’t bring it in with you.”

She adds that real rest comes when we allow space — and resist the urge to post about it while it’s happening.

True wellness isn’t designed for Instagram.

 

 

This story is part of an ongoing TravelPulse Canada series exploring the growing world of wellness travel—watch for more features in the weeks ahead.


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Wellness Travel

Greece Emerges As The Ultimate Wellness And Fitness Destination As Tourists Opt For High-Impact Travel Experiences That Nourish The Body And Mind

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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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Wellness series premieres at regional properties under Marriott’s Luxury Group

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Travel and hospitality

July 17, 2025

The company is attempting to meet local demand for wellness travel. Image credit: Marriott International

 

Hotel group Marriott International’s luxury division is introducing new holistic programming in Asia Pacific.

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Wellness Travel

Wellness Hospitality Series : Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025

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Marriott International’s Luxury Group will launch the ‘Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025’ this August, a transformative hospitality initiative set across prominent Asian destinations.

Designed to meet the growing demand for immersive wellness travel, the series “moves beyond traditional pampering to embrace a holistic approach centered on three core pillars: Sleep, Nutrition, and Physical & Mental Well-being.” The experience unfolds across a trio of culturally rich and naturally serene locations—Bali, the Maldives, and Goa—with participating properties including Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and The St. Regis Goa Resort.

Each resort will offer a bespoke wellness program tailored to its environment, combining expert-led sessions, locally inspired therapies, and curated rituals. This series reimagines luxury travel as a meaningful path toward personal renewal, aligning physical vitality and mental clarity with regional authenticity. Overall, the initiative underscores Asia’s prominence as a wellness destination and Marriott’s continued leadership in luxury hospitality innovation.

Image Credit: Luxury Group by Marriott International



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