Over 60% of travellers prioritise relaxation and stress relief during vacations, according to Destination Analysts. The Global Wellness Institute forecasts significant growth in wellness travel by 2025, particularly in spa services. Boutique hotels are responding by expanding their wellness offerings beyond traditional treatments from personalisation and enhanced technology to customised workshops or experiences.
In recent years, our health and well-being have been significantly impacted. From the persistent worries of COVID exposures for ourselves and loved ones, to the strains of remote work and childcare responsibilities, the pandemic has left many feeling drained and longing for vacations that promise relaxation and recharge.
Wellness tourism aims to reduce stress by focusing on mental, physical and, in some cases, emotional well-being. It’s a chance to unwind and revitalise. In the dynamic hospitality scene, boutique hotels are setting new standards of luxury by prioritising the comprehensive well-being of their guests. As we step into 2024, a new wave of trends is reshaping health and wellness offerings in the boutique hotel space, catering to the growing demand for experiences that nurture the body, mind, and soul.
- Personalised Wellness Experiences
In 2024, boutique hotels are elevating personalised services, with wellness becoming a central focus. Beyond standard spa appointments, anticipate tailored wellness plans featuring fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, nutritional guidance, and bespoke offerings to cater to individual guest preferences. In Islamorada, Florida, at Amara Cay Resort and La Siesta Resort & Villas, travellers can arrange personalised beachside yoga, an oceanfront massage, sound bowl meditation and Reiki all right by the beach. At The Edgewater in Seattle, Washington guests can experience a private sound bath session, “The Silent Hum,” an experience that takes place in a sound-proof room with acoustic resonance to create an intentional contrast from guests busy and overstimulated world.
- Tech-Enhanced Well-Being
Connected fitness has revolutionised exercise, from streamed workouts on smart devices to fitness apps and wearable trackers monitoring physical activity. Advancements in AI/ML and virtual reality are further reshaping the gym experience, seamlessly integrating our wellness objectives with our digital lifestyles. In 2024, connected fitness will be essential for travellers seeking to uphold a balanced and healthy lifestyle while on the go. Boutique hotels are incorporating cutting-edge wellness technology, like virtual fitness classes, in-room meditation apps, and wearable fitness trackers, enabling guests to effortlessly sustain their health routines throughout their stay.
- Culinary Wellness Experiences
In 2024, boutique hotels will maintain their focus on culinary excellence, emphasising fresh and innovative dining experiences. Expect to see investments in culinary wellness, with offerings such as farm-to-table dining, personalised nutrition consultations, and menus catering to diverse dietary preferences, including plant-based and allergen-free options. At Oxford Hotel, and iconic landmark in Denver, Colorado guests can join handcrafted cocktails in the Cruise Room and delicious dining at Urban Farmer, the Oxford’s modern farm-to-table steakhouse.
At 1 Hotel in San Francisco, innovative mixology classes utilise every part of ingredients, like lemons zested and juiced in the kitchen, then roasted in a wood-fired oven to extract extra juices for cocktails like “Little Sea Monster.” The leftover lemons are then incinerated into ash and combined with sea salt for garnishing Z.W. Cocktails. In Washington, DC, Viceroy DC and Hotel Zena offer wellness tea and coffee options in partnership with Good Pharma, featuring Brain Gain for enhanced productivity, Resilience for boosted stamina, No Worries for stress relief, and Rest Assured for restful sleep.
- Fitness Retreats and Workshops
Luxury fitness experiences has expanded beyond exclusive retreats, now becoming a mainstream trend. From fitness retreats set in exotic locales to fitness cruises and upscale fitness festivals, these offerings provide tailored services to meet the diverse needs of guests. Boutique hotels are embracing their roles as wellness hubs by hosting fitness retreats and workshops. Guests can expect immersive experiences spanning from yoga and meditation retreats to specialised fitness workshops led by professional instructors, offering a holistic approach to health and well-being.
The Chaminade Resort & Spa in Santa Cruz offers group workshops like a 45-minute Mindfulness Workshop inclusive of meditation practices and a Holistic Nutrition Workshop covering the mind-body connection through food. For a full day experience, the resort’s “Day of Wellness” package features activities throughout the day infused with energy & vision, including a combination of interactive workshops, yoga sessions and a massage.
- Social Wellness
Acknowledging the significance of social connections for overall well-being, boutique hotels are nurturing a sense of community among guests. In 2024, expect to see an increase in social wellness plans, including group fitness classes, wellness retreats, and communal dining experiences. These efforts aim to encourage guests to connect and support each other’s health journeys. A stay at the Los Angeles Athletic Club occupying the top three floors of a 12-story historic landmark private club building includes exclusive membership to their Historic Private Club for the duration of your stay, which entails access to member-only dining, an award-winning craft cocktail bar, member-only events, and the world-class athletic and fitness facilities, with classes that include aerobic, circuit training, cycling, bootcamp, Pilates, squash, swimming, tai chi and yoga.
- Sustainability Practices and Mindful Design
Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly seeking hotels that share their values. Boutique hotels are meeting this demand by embracing sustainable practices, including energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly amenities. In 2024, wellness will extend beyond personal health but also the health of the planet. Leading the way is 1 Hotel San Francisco, a LEED-certified property with cutting-edge energy-efficient systems, real-time CO2 monitoring and other green initiatives to support the environment.
In boutique hotels, the ambiance plays a crucial role in the wellness journey. Predict a rising trend of integrating biophilic design features like ample natural light, indoor greenery, and eco-friendly materials. These enhancements craft environments fostering calmness and serenity, enhancing the overall relaxation experience. Catbird Hotel in Denver, Colorado, which collaborates with ReRoot plants, a premier plant shop in the city. The hotel features fresh plants throughout its premises and hosts hands-on educational workshops, plant art nights, and plant classes facilitated by ReRoot.
- The Forecast
As we approach 2024, travellers of all ages are placing greater emphasis on wellness, desiring to maintain their well-being routines while away. Boutique hotels are leading this wellness movement, transforming into comprehensive sanctuaries prioritising guest health and vitality. Through personalised services, technological advancements, and mindful design, boutique hotels are revolutionising luxury by providing spaces for rejuvenation and self-discovery. With travellers’ growing interest in meaningful and transformative experiences, the development of health and wellness offerings at boutique hotels will greatly impact the future of hospitality.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 