Leading hotels are increasingly focusing on wellness, as stated by the Global Wellness Institute, providing comprehensive physical and spiritual experiences to draw in travelers who prioritize their health.
As we enter the golden age of wellness tourism – the industry is growing exponentially and will be worth US$1.4 trillion by 2027 according to the Global Wellness Institute – luxury hotel brands are looking to capitalise on the trend by creating next-level wellness experiences to lure in new customers.
“Travelers today are quite knowledgeable, and wellness travelers even more so,” states Trisha Bannister, who serves as the wellness director at the recently launched Layan Life within the Anantara Layan resort.
Phuket
They are seeking locations that offer more than just spas, yoga retreats, or superficial solutions typically available at many hotels.
Previously, individuals focused on their well-being often visited specialized wellness retreats like Thailand’s Chiva-Som or The Farm in the Philippines for advanced medical and spa services. However, these establishments now encounter significant rivalry from high-end hotels providing comprehensive packages that integrate physical fitness, holistic care, and spiritual practices, all while delivering top-notch service and luxurious lodging options.
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“Hotels are enhancing their amenities to compete with wellness resorts, while wellness retreats are adopting strategies from hotels to improve guests’ experiences and overall satisfaction. This trend shows that these previously distinct sectors are becoming more interconnected,” says Cathy Feliciano-Chon, managing partner at marketing firm Finn Partners, which represents brands such as The Mandarin Oriental and Marriott International Luxury Brands.
“Often, they join forces with well-known wellness centers since this is the fastest and most effective method for providing wellness services. After all, hotels primarily focus on guest care. To execute it properly, they must involve wellness specialists,” she explains, giving examples like the Four Seasons Singapore teaming up with Chi Longevity and Six Senses Ibiza collaborating with Rose Bar, spearheaded by renowned wellness authority Dr Mark Hyman.
The current trend involves hotels initiating and managing their own centers, providing top-notch facilities, treatments, and personnel. These centers frequently serve both locals and visitors. For instance, consider Surrenne, a London-based wellness and longevity membership club introduced by Maybourne Hotels at The Emery, which debuted last April. This 2,000-square-meter area focuses exclusively on health and wellbeing and features England’s premier Tracy Anderson Fitness Studio among its offerings.
The Wellness brand Soneva Soul, conceived by Sonu Shivdasani who founded Soneva Resorts, is particularly impressive. This venture integrates traditional therapeutic practices with contemporary technological advancements to offer customized wellness programs encompassing physical activity, restful sleep solutions, healthcare options, and cutting-edge rejuvenating procedures such as stem cell therapy—all accessible during your vacation experience.
The recently launched Layan Life made its debut in September of last year. Situated inside the premises of the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, this medical wellness center occupies a custom-designed building spanning 1,767 square meters, crafted following biophilic concepts. Just a brief stroll away from both the resort’s primary swimming area and dining venues, the impressive setting harmoniously merges modern architectural elements with natural surroundings. Its features include expansive glass panes, soothing earthy hues, spacious interiors flooded with ample sunlight—a sight so captivating it could easily grace the pages of an interior design publication.
On the lower level, accessible to both hotel guests and members, you’ll find a cutting-edge fitness center along with yoga and Pilates studios, meditation spaces, and a hydrotherapy zone equipped with temperature-controlled vitality pools, a Himalayan salt sauna, and a steam room. Upstairs, visitors have access to medical and integrative wellness offerings such as physiotherapy sessions, cosmetic procedures, and intravenous therapies.
cryotherapy
, a hyperbaric chamber and colon hydrotherapy utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
The center is known for its expertise in traditional Thai medicine (TTM) as well. Visitors can consult with certified practitioners, enjoy various distinctive therapies, and purchase customized remedies from the Thai herbal pharmacy.
“Bannister states that Layan Life was established to challenge the limitations often associated with traditional wellness retreats. By providing a more welcoming approach, they cater to individuals regardless of their age or phase of life. Guests have the option to join with friends and family or opt for a solitary experience, which distinguishes them from others. Whether they prefer staying at the resort or nearby locations according to their preferences, we accommodate all choices,” he explains.
Customization and data-driven insights are central to Layan Life’s approach. While prefabricated programs are offered, visitors are motivated to assume control of their wellness objectives by engaging in various diagnostic assessments prior to selecting their therapies. These evaluations include epigenetic screenings through hair samples and heavy metal detection, as well as examinations like skin checks, posture analysis, and full-body scanning.
Everything mentioned above can be experienced alongside the usual amenities of a vacation, whether you’re relaxing at the swimming pool or socializing with pals.
“Our visitors desire to feel comprehended regarding their well-being and requirements, and they expect us to adjust accordingly during their stay, thereby crafting an extremely personalized experience,” explains Bannister.
Notably, certain elements of Layan life have been incorporated into the hotel experience. This includes a custom-designed wellness menu available at the primary dining area and a free daily activities schedule featuring boxing, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Additionally, they plan to introduce programs aimed at addressing specific issues like menopause and improving sleep quality.
“One of our primary measures of success lies in making sure our guests can assimilate their experiences and remain fully engaged—without feeling pressured to check every item off their list or put up a showy front,” Bannister explains.
The dual nature of being at a wellness center as well as a regular resort provides guests with a feeling of familiarity.
4 emerging wellness travel trends for 2025
1. Sexual well-being
– aside from menopause and fertility,
sexual health
is becoming clearer, as more women are finding the courage to assert control over their sexual desires.
2. AI-powered wellness
–
AI
Is revolutionizing our approach to analyzing information, allowing for greater customization of health objectives and plans.
3. Returning to the natural world
– From grounding to forest bathing, establishing a stronger bond with nature has shown benefits for both mental and physical well-being.
4. Longevity
– there are numerous benefits to
biohacking
, featuring programs that include brain health exercises, movement routines, and cognitive tasks, all of which contribute to a longer, more vibrant life span.
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This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the leading news media reporting on China and Asia.
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