Wellness travel isn’t just a fleeting trend – it’s a movement that reflects a major shift in how we prioritise our health and wellbeing.
People today are craving a break that doesn’t just give them a change of scenery but offers a profound reset.
Above: Faye James
With wellness tourism predicted to grow by an impressive 21% annually, it’s clear that more and more travellers are turning to health-focused getaways.
Whether for managing stress, boosting mental health, or navigating life changes like menopause, wellness travel provides a unique way to recharge, grow and build sustainable habits.
Why Wellness Travel? The Desire for Balance and Wellbeing
For many of us, daily life is a whirlwind of deadlines, responsibilities and digital distractions. We’re always on, always connected and it’s taking a toll on our health.
Wellness travel provides a much-needed pause – a break from the everyday that allows us to focus on physical and mental health in a structured, nurturing environment.
What’s fuelling this growth? According to the Finn Partners Wellness Report, people are increasingly valuing mental wellness, which has become as significant as physical health.
We’re recognising that stress impacts everything from sleep to immunity and people want more than just a quick escape; they’re looking for ways to reset, build resilience and gain tools they can bring home.
I see this trend firsthand at my Menopause Reset Retreat, where women are looking for more than relaxation – they want information, connection and strategies that help them navigate a complex life transition.
The need for wellness is becoming universal and retreats are providing a space for this deeply personal journey.
Top Wellness Destinations: Where Are People Going?
With wellness tourism booming, there are a few destinations leading the way.
Thailand, especially locations like Phuket, has become a wellness hotspot thanks to its luxurious spa resorts, peaceful natural landscapes and emphasis on holistic health practices.
I’m excited to host my Menopause Reset Retreat at Amatara Wellness Resort in Phuket, where guests will experience everything from nourishing cuisine to hormone-supportive workshops in a tranquil, tropical setting.
Bali remains a top choice for travellers seeking the healing practices of yoga, meditation and plant-based cuisine, while Costa Rica attracts nature lovers who find peace and renewal in the lush rainforests.
The Mediterranean, known for its longevity-promoting lifestyle, draws those who value a slower pace, fresh food and a deep connection to community.
Data from Finn Partners highlights Japan as another rising star in wellness tourism, particularly for those interested in longevity practices found in Okinawa.
This Blue Zone region emphasises plant-based diets, community bonds and a sense of purpose, all of which contribute to a longer, healthier life.
What Are Wellness Travellers Looking For?
The trend in wellness travel isn’t about indulgent pampering; it’s about seeking transformation. People want a structured approach that combines yoga, meditation, fitness and nutrition workshops, and they’re drawn to wellness retreats that address specific health needs or life stages.
A remarkable 76% of people are looking for wellness programs that emphasise mental health and emotional resilience, as reported by Finn Partners.
Guests at my menopause retreat, for example, are often navigating both the physical symptoms and emotional changes of menopause. They want guidance, community and practical strategies to support this transition.
Who’s Going? Not Just Women Anymore
Wellness travel has traditionally been popular with women, but today, men and even families are increasingly joining the movement.
According to Finn Partners, wellness travel among men has grown by 12% in recent years as more men recognise the benefits of stress management, mental wellness and physical fitness within a structured retreat environment.
Male-focused retreats might include a balance of physical activities like strength training and emotional resilience workshops, but the core goal remains the same: holistic health.
Families are also exploring wellness travel together. Family-friendly retreats offer activities for all ages, from nature walks to group yoga, and emphasise wellness as a family value.
This is especially important in a world where even young children are experiencing the negative effects of screen time and digital stress.
The Growing Appeal of Wellness Travel
The appeal of wellness travel reflects our changing values. People are no longer seeing wellness as a luxury; they’re embracing it as a necessity.
Another key insight from Finn Partners reveals that 67% of travellers say they would rather spend on experiences that boost health than material items.
Wellness travel meets that desire by offering a chance to learn, grow and make meaningful lifestyle changes that last well beyond the trip.
Another significant factor is the sense of community. At wellness retreats guests often feel validated and understood for the first time in their wellness journey.
The chance to connect with others facing similar challenges, whether it’s menopause, work stress, or family life, is incredibly powerful. People come for personal growth, but they also leave with friendships and a supportive network that can last a lifetime.
The Future of Wellness Travel
Looking ahead, wellness travel is set to continue evolving. The industry is already embracing the concept of “wellness for all,” offering more inclusive retreats that cater to diverse needs and lifestyles.
Eco-conscious retreats are on the rise too, with travellers increasingly seeking wellness experiences that are not only sustainable but give back to the local communities they visit.
As the wellness tourism market is projected to hit $1.2 trillion by 2027, the options for health-centred travel will continue to expand.
We’re already seeing retreats for specific needs like digital detoxes, menopause support and even wellness travel for families. This growth underscores an essential message: our health and wellbeing are worth investing in.
So, if you’re planning a break, consider wellness travel. Whether it’s a yoga retreat in Bali, a Blue Zone experience in Japan, or joining me for the Menopause Reset Retreat in Phuket, wellness travel offers a unique and meaningful way to connect with yourself and others.
It’s more than just a vacation – it’s an opportunity to rejuvenate, reset and bring home lasting change.
Faye James is an accredited nutritionist, member of the Australian Menopause Society, author of The Menopause Diet and senior editor for HELLO! magazine
Pure Health Travel curates transformative retreats that educate, motivate and entertain. Expert hosts share wellness insights, inspire lifestyle changes, and engage with humour, ensuring participants leave empowered and rejuvenated. They also offer travel agents 4% commission.
