Leisure travel by default is a feel-good exercise, but when it comes to travelling with wellness specifically in mind, there are ways to approach the planning to ensure you come away not only rested and relaxed, but arguably healthier too.

Deciding where to go depends on a few different things – whether you enjoy the outdoors and adventure, or want a slower pace; what kind of weather you prefer; whether you’re more of an inward-looking or action-oriented person; and most importantly, your wellness concerns. Once you’ve narrowed down your needs, you can get planning.

The nature factor

When considering escapes that will help restore wellbeing on all levels, remember that location plays a big role. Nature has been proven to have a direct and literal effect on our physical, and mental wellbeing.

Proximity to trees, water, fresh air and sunshine have been shown to almost immediately affect markers of wellbeing. By lowering blood pressure and stress hormones, boosting the immune system through sunlight and airborne plant compounds, encouraging physical activity, leading to better heart and bone health, and improving sleep quality.

Destinations in nature, that focus on wellness as part of their programming further amplify the wellness benefit to on guests – physically, mentally and emotionally.

Apart from the obvious (fitness facilities and a spa), do some digging into what wellness offerings are available. Culinary programmes that favour a farm-to-table food philosophy for example, or a holistic programme that includes anything from meditation, outdoor activities, cold plunge and sauna, to sleep wellness and natural healing treatments are all things to keep an eye out for. As are a general sustainable approach to operational practices and outdoor spaces.

Extra points for programmes that personalise your wellness journey following a one-on-one consultation based on your particular needs. Hotels and resorts are increasingly providing a varying combination of such services to ensure guests leave feeling better than ever.

Venturing beyond the hotel boundaries

It’s not just what’s offered at the hotel that matters though. The larger context and what’s offered outside the hotel’s walls offer room for a truly transformative trip.

Again, here location, climate and environment play a role. A place like Mauritius offers incredible hiking, watersports and beaches; Kenya, soul-filling safari and unspoilt coastlines; Namibia – the peace of endless wide-open space; Rwanda, restorative climate and transformative encounters with mountain gorillas, birds and trees; and South Africa all of the above. The list goes on.

Curate your wellness escape

Choosing well comes down to knowing what each destination offers. Here’s where our expertise matters – we can help craft an itinerary that speaks to your needs and leaves you restored and ready to return to everyday life.