Wellness tourism: a trend that is increasing worldwide

The wellness tourism market is made up of two types of travellers. Primary wellness travelers are those who choose location based on the wellness offerings of a given destination, while secondary wellness travelers seek wellness activities at any time during their travel plans. Among these, secondary wellness travelers have the largest share of the wellness tourism market and account for 85% to 90% of wellness tourism trips and the spending incurred by secondary wellness travelers is high.

Although domestic wellness trips are on the rise and account for 80-85% of all wellness vacations, the average cost of traveling abroad is much higher than domestic wellness trips. When traveling internationally, the average cost is usually higher because it covers the entire trip. Both domestic and foreign travelers tend to spend more on amenities when traveling for wellness than the average traveler.

In addition, the wellness tourism industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate and attracting a significant population from domestic and foreign markets through permaculture training programs, wellness development programs, spirituality, peace and group wellness retreats.

Global Wellness Tourism Market Outlook 2018 to 2022 Compared to Forecast 2023 to 2033

Wellness tourism is altogether a lifestyle activity, involving travel for empowerment and maintenance of well-being. Wellness tourism over the years has become authentic experiences, stress reduction and disease prevention by controlling bad habits of life. Wellness tourism helps both the physical and mental health of the individual and provides an opportunity to relax and discover the joy that comes from touring various places such as wellness resorts, wellness spas, hospitals and spa therapies, and These activities are aligned with ensuring customer satisfaction.

With the increase in healthcare expenses, there is a great demand for medical tourism and wellness tourism comes as the most popular form of tourism, which has undergone a great transformation in the last decade. Awareness and increasing concern for personal care is driving the growth of the wellness tourism market and the global wellness tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033.

What are the driving factors that drive the target market?
Wellness visit customized package deals with guided tours are gaining popularity

However, many wellness visit programs are tailored to each individual's needs and preferences, and these types of personalized wellness visits are more widespread. Individual or group visits are for wellness purposes. For example, Wellnesstour.com offers specialized wellness tours for various Indian states, or to be more specific, cities, in collaboration with Britannia, Amul, Bajaj, Cipla, BHEL, Infosys, and Mahindra. These excursions include stops in Goa, Pune, Sikkim and other places with wellness facilities and rich cultural heritage.

Also, Funiskool Educational Tours offers customized travel packages, special tours like NASA tour packages as well as tours even in far away places like Kesariya, Odisha, Ranchi, Nalanda etc. These trips are particularly individualized and have rich historical significance. giving everyone taking wellness tours great exposure.

Holistic healing and sustainability on the rise

Regardless of their age or ethnic preferences, people always find being in nature calming and healing. According to the analysis, between 90 and 95 percent of the population agreed that relaxing in nature and traveling made them feel more serene and balanced. We experience the physiological comfort of nature, which also reduces our stress levels.

These days, corporate wellness is as much a part of outdoor holistic treatment as general wellness. Tourists are increasingly aware of the fact that a balanced lifestyle involves the mind, body and soul. Therapies that are popular for holistic holistic health include outdoor yoga and meditation, mud therapy, aromatherapy, and Reiki.

Sustainable travel is becoming more and more popular. By using a ferry or tuk-tuk, for example, in Bangkok, travelers can save money and resources while traveling. People can enjoy themselves more and feel more relaxed with fewer crowds by traveling in the off-season or when there are fantastic prices attached to travel packages.

What initiatives is the Thai government taking to promote wellness tourism?
Government Investment Towards Sustainable Development Through the Bio-Circular-Green Economy Model

Thailand begins its arrival of international tourists, Phuket being the main destination in July, it aims to invest in marketing and promotions, which reflects the sustainability of tourism, in line with Bio-Circular-Green-Economy to generate an increase in growth economic and recovery and through uncertain times by investing in sustainable development and environmental concerns around the world.

In addition, the Thailand Organic Consumers Association (TOCA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have collaborated under the BCG model, to raise awareness of the growing importance of sustainable and organic agriculture and tourism which could alternatively promote the regional economic structure of the country.

How does the Indian government promote the development of wellness tourism?
Govt of India Takes Initiatives for Wellness Tourism Consultation

The tremendous growth of wellness centers is improving the quality of service provided by the wellness industry. The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Health Care Services has developed Very Quick Guidelines for Wellness Centers. This is contributing a lot to the improvement of consultation and services provided to wellness tourism service providers, together with the State Government and other stakeholders.

How is Greece dealing with the crisis in the wellness tourism sector?
Despite current fluctuations, the Greek wellness market continues to grow unhindered

It has been pointed out that tourism contributes between 15% and 17% of the nation's total GDP. Despite the economic downturn last year, there was a 25% to 28% increase in the number of tourists visiting Greece. The government of Greece has undertaken various initiatives to promote wellness tourism in the nation, including ensuring infrastructure development, which will enhance high-quality investments, imply sustainability principles, and improve the nation's aviation route network. , improving accessibility and connectivity. Without a doubt, wellness tourism in Greece is growing in popularity.

Insights by category
What type of tourism has contributed the most to the wellness tourism market?
Meditation retreats concentrate most of the wellness tourism market

There has been increasing interest in meditation as a way to reduce stress, improve focus, and improve general well-being. As a result, more people are seeking meditation retreats as a way to deepen their practice and learn from experienced teachers. Meditation retreats can vary in length, location, and focus, providing a wide range of options for travelers.

Some retreats may focus on silent meditation, while others may incorporate yoga, nature walks, or other mindfulness practices. Many meditation retreats are located in quiet and picturesque locations, providing an immersive and authentic experience for travelers seeking a break from the stresses of daily life.

What age group is most likely to travel for wellness tourism?
The 16-35 working age group is more likely to prefer wellness tourism

This age group tends to prioritize personal well-being and self-care. They are more aware of the importance of physical and mental health and are willing to invest time and money in activities that promote it. The working-age group 16-35 tends to have more flexible hours compared to older adults with more work experience. They may have more time to take longer vacations or extended breaks for wellness activities.

In addition to this, this age group is heavily influenced by social media, which can play a significant role in shaping their travel preferences. They are more likely to follow travel influencers and bloggers who promote wellness travel, which may inspire them to try it for themselves.

Which booking channel do wellness enthusiasts prefer?
The online booking channel is in the most preferred booking channel worldwide

Millennial travel goals are in line with the latest and most anticipated trends. For example, because it has long been the foundation of a rich culture and hospitality, well-being is considered of the utmost importance. To enjoy such experiences, extensive planning is necessary, from the purchase of travel tickets and lodging to complementary services. Here, travel and tourism companies and online reservations facilitate the customer experience with individualized options.

For example, the Figueroa Hotel in Los Angeles, California, has introduced stress-relieving sound baths and mindful yoga courses. Arizona CIVANA Wellness Resort has seen a huge increase in visitor numbers, especially for their wellness-focused program where they provide personalized healing sessions for a relaxing experience.

Post-COVID-19, stocks for detoxification therapy have increased significantly in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Key industry companies such as Accor Hotels, Rosewood Hotels, Radisson Hospitality and Hyatt Hotels, for example, are implementing new plans to enhance wellness offerings to meet growing booking demand.

Competitive Landscape Tour
operators have a head start on wellness tourism planning and are coming up with innovative new ways to enrich the experiences of wellness tourists. For example, Abercrombie & Kent, in 2023, introduced its new wellness-inspired small group tours with options designed to engage the mind, soul and body.