As travellers seek more meaningful experiences, wellness vacations have evolved to encompass not just relaxation or detox, but a true reset for mind, body, and spirit. To answer this expanded vision, from October 20-21, The Wellness Summit held at the Crystalbrook Resort, Byron Bay, will bring together Australian and international spa, wellness and wellness tourism leaders to explore the latest trends redefining travel. Curated by Kris Abbey, a pioneer in wellness and longevity tourism, the summit reveals what the modern traveller craves most—from eco-friendly escapes to immersive longevity retreats. With wellness now central to the travel experience, these insights showcase the transformational power of a thoughtfully crafted journey.
“Wellness travel has grown enormously in recent years and now spans a wider range of experiences than ever before, incorporating physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Wellness vacations range from luxury and thermal spa experiences to digital detox retreats or hiking themed holidays.” Kris Abbey
These are the top wellness vacation trends for the modern traveller:
1. Longevity-Focused Retreats
People are searching for retreats that focus on longevity and anti-ageing to improve the quality of their life. Sought after retreats are those that offer programs that incorporate nutritional, fitness and mindfulness practices as well as medical wellness.
2. Eco-Friendly Wellness Escapes
Eco-conscious designs, organic treatments, and farm-to-table dining experiences are all popular. Travellers are seeking eco-friendly wellness escapes that also support environmental sustainability.
3. Digital Detox Retreats
More and more people are looking to escape from their devices on holidays. Digital detox vacations are a trend, where properties or destinations assist guests to disconnect from technology and reconnect to mindfulness.
4. Personalised Wellness Journeys
Bespoke wellness programs are another trend, with guests seeking more personalised guidance for their own health goals. These can span from tailored fitness programs and nutritional guidance through to customised mental and emotional support services.
5. Wellness and Adventure Fusion
Combining physical adventure and relaxation is highly appealing to travellers right now. Popular destinations are those that integrate holistic wellness with outdoor activities – such as mountain hikes or surfing.
6. Mindfulness and Mental Wellness
More wellness destinations are incorporating meditation, breathwork, and sound healing to promote mental clarity and reduce stress. This follows an increasing awareness of mental health and prioritising our mental wellbeing.
7. Wellness Gastronomy
Eating is a big part of travel and being on vacation, and wellness gastronomy is on the rise. Travellers are seeking out destinations that offer healthy, nutritious, and sustainable dining experiences.
8. Thermal and Hot Springs Destinations
The healing benefits of mineral-rich waters are attracting guests to destinations that offer thermal and hot springs for their soothing, rejuvenating and therapeutic properties.
9. Bathing and Hydrotherapy Boom
Hydrotherapy and bathhouses are another consumer trend, with guests seeking out these water based therapies for their restorative and detoxifying benefits.
10. Hotels Are Adding Wellness Experiences
State-of-the-art wellness facilities within hotels are another trend. From high tech gyms and comprehensive wellness suites to hydrotherapy pools and mediation rooms, guests are wanting a dose of holistic wellness with their hotel stay.
With wellness travel evolving to offer bespoke experiences that span adventure, relaxation, and rejuvenation, the industry is answering travellers’ growing need for holistic health experiences that extend beyond the spa. As Kris Abbey highlights, “ the future of wellness travel is immersive, sustainable, and profoundly personal”. If you would like to learn more about trends in wellness and wellness vacations, visit https://www.wellnesssummit.com.au/summit2024 . Industry delegates are encouraged to purchase the final release tickets now.
