There's always a good reason to travel. Some people are looking for natural wonders, others for history and tradition, and there are also those who travel to watch sports. However, a new kind of tourism is rising: wellness tourism. Learn more about it here. 

A Feel-Good Journey

It's scientifically proven that travelling can improve health in general, but results can be even better if that's the primary goal of the journey. This tourism includes activities like meditation, yoga, spas, and immersion in nature. Whether on treatment chairs, yoga mats, or into the wild, these travellers look for experiences that improve their physical, mental, and emotional health.

This holistic approach to well-being involves activities to help with stress management, reducing anxiety, and improving mental clarity. Indeed, it goes way beyond White-Lotus-like luxury spas, though it's within the realm of possibilities. For instance, there are yoga and meditation retreats where guests try multiple styles of yoga paired with a healthy diet and guided meditation sessions. India and Costa Rica are the most famous destinations for such retreats. 

There are still those retreats where guests focus mostly on healthy eating, where visitors do much more than keep their mouths full. They can also learn about culinary, with options that range from vegan to ayurvedic, and have classes about nutritional education. Suggestively, these retreats were named “healthy eating breaks.”

Where To Go

The list of paradise-like getaways worldwide is endless. The number of people travelling domestically or abroad to visit spas spikes, creating an industry growing at a CAGR of 12.42% since 2023. However, when travelling for wellness, most people prefer the destinations below. 

Bali

Bali, Indonesia, is a globally famous wellness destination for its heavenly nature, delicious cuisine, and slow-paced lifestyle. Not by coincidence, there are countless spa retreats in the region. Besides white-sanded crystalline beaches, Bali also has hot and cold springs, some of which are considered sacred by the Hindu tradition. Indeed, Bali has plenty of Hindu temples worth visiting for their spiritual importance. 

Nha Trang

Regarding lavish nature immersions, Nha Trang, Vietnam, offers a unique experience with its mud and mineral baths, with swimming pools right next to them. Nha Trang also has a gorgeous coastline, surrounded by palm trees and top-notch seafood restaurants. Indeed, the city is nicknamed “the seafood capital of Vietnam.” The most famous beach in the region is Tran Phu, but there are 19 islands to explore, some requiring a day trip.

Reykjavik

The tiny island in the Arctic Circle, Iceland, is famous for its hot springs, long winter nights, and long summer days. Main attractions for those looking for hot springs include the Sky Lagoon, which has ocean views, and the Blue Lagoon, the country's most famous destination. 

The Dolomites

On the Italian side of the Alps are the Dolomites, a mountain range so beautiful and so full of history that it's considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Saunas, thermal waters, and external swimming pools are the main attractions in this snow-capped corner of paradise.