The growing importance of wellness in luxury travel is highlighted by a new survey conducted by the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM), Hyatt Hotels, and Altiant. The study, which surveyed 800 affluent individuals across the UK, US, France, China, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, reveals that 62% consider wellness facilities and services as "very important" or "essential" when selecting a hotel. This reflects a rising trend in wellness tourism, with Greece emerging as a key player in this sector.
Wellness Tourism in Greece
Greece, long celebrated for its natural beauty, Mediterranean lifestyle, and ancient healing traditions, has become a hotspot for wellness tourism. With its combination of pristine beaches, thermal springs, and rich cultural heritage, Greece offers a unique environment for restorative travel experiences.
Thermal Springs and Hydrotherapy Greece boasts numerous natural thermal springs, some dating back to ancient times when they were used for their therapeutic properties. Destinations like Loutraki, Edipsos, and Kamena Vourla are renowned for their mineral-rich waters, which attract visitors seeking relief from ailments or a rejuvenating experience.
Mediterranean Diet and Wellness The Mediterranean diet, often cited as one of the healthiest in the world, is deeply rooted in Greek culture. Wellness retreats in Greece frequently incorporate this dietary philosophy, offering organic, locally sourced meals designed to boost physical and mental well-being. Visitors can partake in cooking classes that focus on the health benefits of Greek staples like olive oil, fresh vegetables, and seafood.
Luxury Wellness Resorts High-end resorts in Greece, such as Euphoria Retreat in Mystras and the Thermae Sylla Spa in Edipsos, cater to wellness travellers with holistic health programmes. These offerings include yoga, meditation, thermal therapies, and personalised wellness plans inspired by ancient Greek practices. Many resorts are nestled in serene locations, providing panoramic views of the Aegean or Ionian Seas to enhance relaxation.
Spiritual and Cultural Healing The country’s ancient history and mythology add a unique cultural dimension to wellness travel. Sites like Epidaurus, the sanctuary of Asclepius, the ancient Greek god of healing, offer travellers an opportunity to connect with the origins of holistic healing traditions. Modern wellness packages often include guided visits to such historical sites.
Adventure and Nature-Based Wellness Greece also appeals to adventure and eco-conscious travellers. From hiking the iconic Samaria Gorge in Crete to exploring the tranquil island of Ikaria—known as a "Blue Zone" where people live significantly longer—Greece offers wellness experiences that integrate physical activity with immersion in nature.
Survey Highlights and Wellness in Greece
The ILTM survey found that wellness vacations are increasingly taken by couples (67%), with family-oriented wellness trips gaining popularity in markets such as China, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. In Greece, this trend is mirrored by family-friendly wellness destinations such as Halkidiki, where resorts offer child-friendly spa services and activities.
Solo wellness travel is also growing, particularly among American travellers (44%), a demographic that frequently visits Greece to unwind and explore its healing traditions in solitude. Greece’s combination of modern luxury and ancient wisdom positions it as an attractive option for wellness seekers globally.
Greece’s Role in the Global Wellness Market
The Global Wellness Institute projects that wellness tourism will reach $1 trillion by the end of 2024, with destinations like Greece contributing significantly to this growth. The country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, combined with its rich cultural and natural resources, ensures it remains a top choice for high-end wellness travellers.
Source: https://greekcitytimes.com/2024/12/06/wellness-tourism-a-priority-for-high-end-travellers-survey-finds/
Published by: Greek City Times