In the ever-evolving travel landscape, wellness tourism has emerged as the most significant trend of the decade. More and more travellers prioritize their health and well-being, seeking experiences that align with their lifestyle choices – and when it comes to choosing accommodations, they have unique considerations that go beyond the standard amenities.
But what do Wellness Travelers really care about when choosing a hotel? Let’s take a closer look.
Wellness Travellers pay attention to their Hotel’s Location and Surroundings
These health-focused guests are looking for peaceful environments. They value the proximity to nature, parks and trails, and easy access to beautiful landscapes.
When staying in cities, they prioritize hotels offering outdoor spaces to work out, do yoga, meditate or simply take a walk.
If outdoors aren’t an option for your hotel because of the heat or pollution, consider bringing nature inside, and creating quiet, nature-inspired indoor spaces.
Wellness Travellers expect Healthy Dining Options
As Wellness travellers are often very nutrition-savvy, your restaurant needs Nutrient-rich menus with options for balanced meals.
Catering to dietary preferences such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or plant-based diets is also key, as they will look at it when booking.
Finally, make sure to use as many organic and locally-sourced ingredients as possible – healthier, they are also a way to give back to the local community, which Wellness Travellers appreciate.
Wellness travellers value Quality Wellness Facilities and Activities
Of course, Wellness travellers expect to find well-equipped, functional fitness centres and yoga spaces to train and relax.
They also appreciate guided wellness activities like meditation sessions, wellness workshops, and regular fitness classes.
Not sure what would be the most suitable option for your hotel? Book your free consultation with us today!
Finally, clean Spa facilities, offering treatments using natural and organic products, with a focus on rejuvenation, are a great addition to your offering, if you wish to target more affluent wellness travellers.
Wellness Travelers cherish the Quality of their Sleep
Wellness travellers value their rest and recovery far more than other patrons.
They will pay attention to the quality of the mattress and bedding, and expect blackout curtains for optimal sleep.
If you are currently planning or optimizing the room design, prefer natural materials and soothing colours to create a quiet atmosphere conducive to restful sleep.
Wellness Travellers are sensitive to initiatives around Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Wellness isn’t only about personal health – it extends to broader topics, and wellness travellers are very appreciative of eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient appliances, water conservation efforts, the use of non-toxic cleaning products and sustainable amenities.
If you can, think about applying for Green certifications and show your commitment to minimizing the hotel’s environmental footprint.
Holistic Wellness Services are a Must for Wellness Travellers
On top of wellness workshops, consider adding holistic therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and sound healing to your offering.
Integrating mindfulness practices like guided journaling, gratitude exercises, and mindfulness meditation, with or without facilitators, is also an affordable way to connect with their philosophy.
You can also partner with local wellness practitioners or even consider hosting retreats, to brand your establishment as a wellness-focused venue.
Wellness Travellers are often seeking disconnection from their busy lives
The concept of “Digital Detox” is growing, and if you can, creating designated areas for unplugging and disconnecting from digital devices is a great value add.
If you want to implement technology to improve the guest experience, ensure it is as discreet as possible, and don’t involve as few screen interactions as possible.
Wellness Travellers are seeking (authentic) Cultural and Local Immersion
Outside of wellness-focused activities, wellness travellers appreciate opportunities to engage in cultural experiences and local traditions – but they won’t take part in any tours they deem too touristy or fake.
By providing guided tours, nature walks, or workshops that connect them with the local community and foster a sense of connection with the destination, you will show that your establishment is ready to go the extra mile for its guests – which will be highly appreciated.
Wellness travellers are not simply looking for a place to stay; they seek new experiences that align with their health-conscious values.
As hotels become more aware of the unique needs of this growing demographic, they can tailor their offerings to provide more holistic services to support their guests in their wellness journey.
If you are a hotel looking to shift towards Wellness Tourism, check out our dedicated program, or reach out today for a free consultation.