5 Amazing Resorts for Wellness Travel — From Digital Detoxes to Art Therapy

As a travel advisor who specializes in wellness, I see how stress can affect the body. Now, more and more travelers are seeking wellness retreats during their time off. Below, some reasons to travel for wellness, and the best hotels that deliver.

Why Travel for Wellness?

Mental Clarity and Emotional Healing

By stepping away from daily stressors and immersing yourself in a serene environment, you can achieve mental clarity and emotional healing through practices like meditation, mindfulness, and art therapy.

Physical Health

Wellness retreats often incorporate physical activities such as yoga, hiking, and fitness sessions. These activities not only enhance physical health, but also promote a sense of accomplishment and well-being.

Spiritual Growth

Many wellness retreats focus on spiritual practices by providing an opportunity to explore your spirituality and connect with your inner self. This spiritual growth can lead to a more profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Digital Detoxing

In a world dominated by electronic devices, a break from digital screens is a must. Wellness travel encourages participants to unplug, stimulating meaningful real-world connections and experiences.

Digital Detoxes and Silent Retreats

Wellness retreats in remote destinations have gained in popularity. Jack’s Camp, in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi salt pans, is home to an exclusive tented camp that harkens back to old-world safaris. With no Wi-Fi or cell service, I found myself sinking into a state of deep relaxation by listening to the sounds of nature, reading, exploring the on-site natural history museum, and swimming in the pool pavilion. A highlight of my stay was visiting nearby Kubu Island to see the ancient baobab trees, an African keystone species and legacy of the forests. 

The Aerial BVI is a private, all-inclusive beach resort on Buck Island, just a short boat ride from Tortola. It offers several types of retreats, including the Elevate Presence Summit, which focuses on the importance of connecting to your inner self in silence.

Holistic Rejuvenation

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som in Qatar offers retreats that blend traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine with holistic health in a stunning desert oasis. The property also encourages no cell phone use. One of my favorite experiences is the on-site apothecary, which features custom herb blends, and the Tea House, which has more than 120 teas from around the world. 

Joali Being in the Maldives is an award-winning resort with programs designed for mental and physical well-being. What I loved most is the “we provide everything” concept, where you can essentially show up with a tote bag and be set. Comfortable outfits you can wear anywhere, including the dining area, are provided for your entire stay. Plus, there’s a Watsu spa treatment, a transcending and deeply relaxing experience.

Art Therapy

If you’re unfamiliar with art therapy, you’re in for a treat. Combining the healing power of art with inspiring locations, it aims to improve mental health and gives a unique way to explore emotion and self-discovery.

One of the best practices is at Oasyhotel, located atop Tuscany’s mountains in the Dynamo Oasis nature reserve. Focus on connecting with nature as you paint beautiful landscapes and explore creative outlets.

Tiffany Layne is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in wellness trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Layne by contacting her at hello@lavonprivateluxury.com.