More travelers than ever before are looking to recharge, rejuvenate, and recalibrate their bodies, minds, and spirits. Whether it’s mastering mindful meditation, a peaceful Savasana, shedding some quarantine pounds, or simply unplugging from the day-to-day grind. A wellness vacation could be exactly what the doctor (and your travel advisor) ordered! Here are some ideas for the best wellness vacations across the globe.
Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand
This legendary and award-winning wellness retreat boasts its own private stretch of beach in Koh Samui. Thailand itself is believed to hold healing properties. For centuries, Buddhist monks have proclaimed Koh Samui as containing energy that enriches and enlightens their spiritual path. This healing hotel aims to deliver just that.
Programs offered focus on detox, stress, burnout, optimizing fitness, weight control, emotional balance, and yoga. The international set of staff includes naturopaths for optional personalized wellness consultations, personal trainers, nutritionists, and massage therapists. Depending on the program chosen, guests receive treatments integrating both eastern and western elements, medicines, and beliefs. The cuisine at Kamalaya focuses on fresh, tropical, and organic where possible. There are options for vegetarian, vegan, and detox-inspired meals.
Five elements, Bali, Indonesia
Embracing a holistic approach to wellness, Five elements provides personalized wellness retreats to individuals and couples. Located in a lush tropical setting, their signature program offers an integrated approach. Designed to tune in and realign the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Each program includes morning yoga and healing massages. Depending on the length of your stay, other options may be included. Such as a Balinese fire blessing ritual, guided jungle walk, visiting a holy water spring, guided mindfulness sessions, and more.
Villa Stephanie at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany
The town of Baden-Baden in Germany is a well-known escape for many. With a mild climate and natural-occurring hot springs. Visitors to Baden Baden who want to double down on their wellness activities head straight to Villa Stephanie. A 15-room villa set within Brenners Park Hotel, dedicated to health, wellness, fitness, and beauty.
The spa itself spans over 16,000 square feet. It features an enormous 1640 square foot sauna, an indoor swimming pool, plunge pool, private gym, and ladies sauna. Guests have access to personal trainers, nutritionists, physiotherapists, and medical professionals, all in the lap of luxury.
Connected to the spa is Haus Julius. Visitors can opt for additional services such as aesthetics (including stem cell rejuvenation therapies), gynecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry. The hotel even has a laboratory and an institute for preventive medicine.
While spa services are offered a la carte, many guests commit to a more comprehensive multi-day program. Choosing from Weight Loss, Detox, Stay Fit Stay Healthy, The Kings Way (weight loss and intense detoxification), or Bespoke retreats. As part of these programs, participants receive a full blood panel, ultrasound, body scans, and cancer screenings. Each stay comes with an optional digital detox. Rooms that can be free of ‘e-smog’ (electromagnetic fields from electrical devices).
Golden Door, San Marcos, California, United States
The mother of all spa retreats, the Golden Door. Set on 600-acres of rolling hills and is a mere 40-minute drive from San Diego. A favorite among Hollywood A-listers. It is said that after experiencing their 7-day program you will leave a very different person. The focus is on transforming the mind, body, and spirit. A total reboot is the name of the game (and the goal for every guest). Included are daily spa treatments. Massage, reiki, craniosacral therapy, and watsu) are on the menu. Personal trainers and fitness classes, guided hikes, mindfulness workshops, art classes, and silent meditation walks.
Don’t worry about what to pack, a workout outfit (for daytime) and a Japanese yukata robe (for dinnertime) is provided. An industry leader in bio-intensive farming. The Golden Door’s culinary program delivers guests food that is fresh, sustainably grown, and flavorful. Guests can pick their own veggies. Harvest farm-fresh eggs, or embark on a honeybee tour with the executive chef (and experienced beekeeper). The best part about Golden Door? 100% of their net profits go back into the community, supporting local charities and non-profit initiatives.
These are just a few of the best wellness vacations across the globe. There are others that can be recommended based on your needs.
Do you want to find wellness and get centered through a restorative getaway? I’d love to help you find your zen. Let’s talk!