Industry experts predict ‘radical shift’ in wellness travel in new report

Experts from across the travel industry have contributed to a new report that highlights travellers’ changing habits around regenerative and wellness tourism.

The report was created in collaboration with sustainable travel company Regenerative Travel and wellness publication Destination Deluxe, and was launched on September 17 during the Destination Deluxe Day at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok.

Contributors, including bosses from Aman Resorts, Soneva and Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, reported a “radical shift” in modern wellness travel, citing an increased demand for innovative treatments that combine longevity protocols and regenerative medicine.

The document also highlights a surge in holistic, purpose-driven travel, with Mexico’s wellness economy growing by 48% between 2019 and 2023 due to a focus on “local culture, community wellbeing and nature immersion”.

Trends driving the popularity of “regenerative” travel include an increased interest in cultural engagement, holistic wellbeing and leaving a positive long-term impact.

The report urges leaders in the wellness space to create experiences that “move from sustaining to regenerating”, bringing positive benefits to ecosystems, people and culture.

Vivienne Tang, founder of Destination Deluxe, said: “Wellness is no longer just about individual health – it’s about our interconnectedness with communities and ecosystems.

“This report shines a light on how travel can be a force for deep healing and regeneration.”

“Amanda Ho, co-founder and chief executive of Regenerative Travel, added: “Regenerative tourism offers an opportunity to redefine success in travel – not by extraction, but by reciprocity. This white paper shows that, when we heal ourselves, we heal the planet.”