Wellness

Hear the benefits, choose the right retreat!

Discover the world of wellness travel with a panel of experts in two independent information nights, 5 and 6 April 2017. Hosting the first event is Aurora Travel from 7- 9pm PM on Wednesday 5th of April at the Aurora Travel HQ and the latter by Journeys By Design, 6:30 - 8:30 on Thursday 6th April at West Beach Bathers Pavilion.

With more Australians than ever ditching their typical fly-and-flop holidays for health enhancing retreats, Health and Fitness Travel, the leading specialists in wellness holidays worldwide, has seen demand more than triple since their launch in 2014.

The global wellness industry is now worth $4.2 trillion with wellness tourism experiencing a 6.5% annual growth; more than double the growth rate for overall tourism. Forecasting the next big trends in wellness travel for 2019, we live up to our reputation as the wellness holiday specialists. From tough and transformative travel, to grief retreats and wellness mumcations, discover the hottest new trends that will influence the wellness travel world in 2019.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world. It treats patients by inserting thin needles into acupuncture points in the skin and is based upon the same belief as reflexology; that energy, or Qi, flows through the body in channels, called meridians, and if disrupted can cause illness. When the needles are inserted into the appropriate points it is said that one's flow of energy starts to be brought back into balance and therefore relieves the patient of their illness. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of health conditions but is also used as a more general healing method.

The idea of a luxury spa holiday is always a particularly attractive one but which type of spa is for you? At Health and Fitness Travel we have many different types of spa holiday, ranging from Ayurvedic spa breaks to medical spa retreats.

Booking a holiday can appear intimidating, there are so many factors to consider; travel costs, accommodation, activities when there, the ease of travelling around destination and more – especially when you’re booking every element of your holiday by yourself. With this in mind we wanted to explore what travellers think of tailor-made travel companies like ourselves. 

Before we dive into what a gratitude journal is, let’s us first tackle the science behind gratitude. A study conducted by the University of Kentucky reveals participants who practiced gratitude showed more empathy and sensitivity to those around them. Furthermore, they displayed empathy in situations when the feelings were not returned. Gratitude had improved their emotional well-being so they were able to adjust their reactions in less than desirable situations.

It is so often that we hear of people taking “mental health” days or breaks - but what does this actually mean? For some, this can mean a relaxing day on the couch or a simple day off! At Health and Fitness Travel, ourwellness holidays are structured and are multi-faceted. The purpose of a mental health retreat is to detoxify the mind and body of stress and tension, and each element of our retreats has a significant effect on your mental health.  

Shiatsu is a physical therapy that originated in Japan and dates back over 100 years. It is based on holistic Chinese medicinal practices that aim to correct imbalances of energy flow in the body. The word itself translates as 'finger pressure', which explains why Shiatsu is sometimes described as a 'finger pressing massage'. Therapists use finger and palm pressure to improve the flow of energy around the body. It is designed to relieve pain, alleviate stress and improve circulation.

You’ve chosen and booked your dream yoga retreat, but now the stressful question arises; what to pack? A yoga retreat requires a little more thought than the regular beach bather holidays, with a fine line between over-packing and under-packing as you juggle for various indoor, outdoor and exploration fitness activities. You want to make sure you have what you need without lugging around stuff you have no use for whilst you’re away.

You’ve chosen and booked your dream yoga retreat, but now the stressful question arises; what to pack? A yoga retreat requires a little more thought than the regular beach bather holidays, with a fine line between over-packing and under-packing as you juggle for various indoor, outdoor and exploration fitness activities. You want to make sure you have what you need without lugging around stuff you have no use for whilst you’re away.

To coincide with its third anniversary, the award winning SHA Wellness Clinic is proud to reveal its new look after an extensive expansion and renovation.

Relying once again on the talents of prestigious designers Elvira Blanco Montenegro and Francisco Palacios to enhance the distinct style of the complex, they more than deliver, using their unique classic minimalist style to create a space where peace and serenity reign. From the moment you step into the spa the prevailing black and white, continual light and modern undulating wall design enhances your experience. Each treatment room is personalised with different finishes and details.

Wondering where you should go on your next healthy holiday? We introduce the hottest holiday destinations for 2014 to whet your travel appetite. From new Caribbean health and fitness holidays to Asian well-being retreats and everything in between, our list highlights the most exciting resorts to visit in the coming year.

Feeling stressed and need a break to take your mind off of things? Take this opportunity to re-energize yourself by escaping on one of our holistic hideaways where you can focus on re-balancing your body, mind and soul. From Thailand to Spain, choose from our great range of healthy holiday destinations which offer a variety of holistic wellness activities, in addition to tailored spa therapies suited to your personal needs.

Unsure of where to go on your active and wellness holiday this year? Don't panic, as we present you with our month-by-month guide to this year's top holiday experiences and destinations. From the Austrian Alps to the jungles of Bali, there's a holiday for every season.

Undecided about where you want to escape to on your next healthy holiday? We present our month by month guide to the best health and fitness holidays in 2014, from luxury spa safaris in South Africa to surf and yoga retreats in Costa Rica. Be inspired by our recommendations of where to go; whether you'd prefer to get an adrenaline burst skiing down the Swiss slopes, indulge yourself with spa treatments in Thailand or get fit in Croatia, discover our recommended healthy holidays for 2014.

With travellers increasingly seeking health-enhancing wellness experiences around the world, our month-by-month guide of the best wellness holidays for 2015, offers a years’ worth of inspiration for the hottest trend in travel. From yoga in Morocco and losing weight in Spain, to scuba diving in the Maldives and Ayurvedic spa breaks in India, discover your dream healthy holiday with destinations and activities suitable for singles, couples, groups and families.

With travellers increasingly seeking health-enhancing wellness experiences around the world, our month-by-month guide of the best wellness holidays for 2015, offers a years’ worth of inspiration for the hottest trend in travel. From yoga in Morocco and losing weight in Spain, to scuba diving in the Maldives and Ayurvedic spa breaks in India, discover your dream healthy holiday with destinations and activities suitable for singles, couples, groups and families.

Offering a years’ worth of inspiration in health-enhancing wellness experiences around the world, be whisked away by our month-by-month guide of the best wellness holidays for 2016. From a spa & yoga spring break in Miami and the Caribbean, to shaping up for summer on a Cretan bootcamp and escaping to Costa Rica for a dose of winter wellness, make 2016 the year to nourish your mind, body and soul.

As the Earth completes another successful orbit around the sun,we present our annual month-by-month guide to the most sought-afterluxurywellness retreats for 2026.From rebalancingmindfulnessretreats in January to fitness retreats in December,our bespoke healthy holidays encourage physical and mental wellness every month of the year. Guests are invited to enjoy health-focused escapes in luxurious global destinations, offering the perfect opportunity to refresh andcultivate theirbestselves.  

JANUARY: Your New Year Awakening WithRebalancing Bliss at Santani Wellness Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka 

Kick off 2026 with intention at Santani Wellness Resort & Spa, where spiritual and holistic wellness come together in Sri Lanka’s profound tropical landscape. Flourishing amongst verdant greenery, Santani harmoniously combines indoor comfort with outdoor serenity, creating a sanctuary of phenomenal restorative power. Rebalance mind and body with healing therapies, yoga sessions, thermal salt pools and scenic hikes designed to counter the effects of festive-season fatigue. Depart from one of ourspiritual and holistic retreats refreshed, re-energised and ready to embrace 2026 with renewed clarity, focus and motivation.  

For more information and booking:Santani Wellness Resort & Spa 

FEBRUARY: Fuse Culture With Wellness atDiscover Recover™ Vietnam  

Experience the ultimate mixture of adventure and relaxation on our exclusive Discover Recover™ retreat to Vietnam this February. With your wellness goals in mind, our Wellness Specialists are here to curate a detailed itinerary of personalised excursions. Hike through national parks, visit floating markets and explore enigmatic cities by moped. After discovering Vietnam’s wonders, recover with recuperating healing massages and holistic spa activities at prestigious resorts. If this tickles your fancy, explore our array ofDiscover Recover™ retreats in exciting locations that perfectly fuse cultural exploration with the uplift of a luxury wellness break.  

For more information and booking:Discover Recover™ Vietnam  

MARCH: Cleanse from the Inside Out at Longevity Senses Cascais Boutique Hotel & Clinic, Portugal 

Reset with aluxury detox retreat as you welcome springtime atLongevity Senses, embraced by the regions scenic Guincho beach and coastal town of Cascais. Reset with the Art of Detox retreat, featuring comprehensive lab diagnostics, personalised nutrient-rich meal plans and full access to spa and fitness facilities to cleanse your gastrointestinal, lymphatic, and metabolic systems. Boost your spa experience with lymphatic drainage massages, detox seaweed wraps, and revitalising IV therapies that tone your core, restore gut health and leave the body and mind with a cleansed renewal. By the end of your stay, you’ll emerge lighter, and more confident to step into the new season. 

For more information and booking: Longevity Senses Cascais Hotel & Clinic 

APRIL: Springtime is Blooming, and So Can You WithIntegrated Wellness at Preidlhof, Italy  

As April blooms, embrace renewal at Preidlholf’s Integrated Wellness Retreat, a transformative experience designed to inspire a positive perspective on daily life. Perched between two national nature parks, this rural Dolomite escape provides the perfect backdrop for ameditation holiday. Each day features daily healing treatments with Master Therapists complemented by holistic classes such as Hatha Yoga and Walking Meditation. These restorative experiences help to replenish energy and dispel the sluggishness of winter, leaving you refreshed and revitalised for the warmer months ahead. 

For more information and booking: Preidlhof 

MAY: Personalise Your Fitness Retreat at ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea, Spain: Fusion Fitness™ 

Personalise your luxury wellness retreat in the heart of the Mediterranean, where time slows and spirits lift. Bathed in natural light, enjoy our signature Fusion Fitness™ retreat, a tailored experience designed for everyone. Choose from ‘Cardio’, ‘Mind & Body,’ ‘Strength & Sport’ and ‘Renewal’ elements to personalise this truly bespoke wellness holiday. Practice mindfulness, play Padel tennis and indulge in deep tissue massages, then unwind at the world-class ZEM Spa, completing a day immersed in pure luxury. If this personalised approach to fitness calls you, discover more of ourtop ten Fusion Fitness™ holidays in 2026. 

For more information and booking: ZEM Wellness Clinic 

JUNE: Redefine the Future of Wellness at Buff Medical Resort, Germany  

Discover the future of self-care at BUFF Medical Resort, located in the peaceful Büdingen area of Germany, where high-tech medicine meets humancentric wellness. Explore our range ofmedical spa holidays, where dedicated teams of doctors, experts, trainers and therapists work seamlessly to provide guests with first-class care designed to support lasting health and well-being. This BuffMed Classic Light programme promotes longevity, digestive and metabolic health to sustainably increase your vitality. Combining Mayr’s therapeutic fasting with holistic, science-backed treatments, experience a truly transformative lifestyle change that lasts.  

For more information and booking: Buff Medical Resort 

JULY: Bask in Spanish Sunshine at Las Terrazas de Abama Suites 

Replenish your serenity at the Inner Calm retreat, set within the luxurious resort of Las Terrazas de Abama Suites. July is the perfect time to escape to the Spanish Canary Islands, where the golden sun bathes upon thousands of wind-swaying palm trees. The pace of everyday life gently slows to an undisturbed pause, whilst you enjoy soothing massages and premium skin treatments. This luxury wellness retreat is designed to bring out radiance from within as you achieve total calm.Discover the majesty of Spanish wellness as we reveal what truly makes it an excellent wellness destination. 

For more information and booking: Las Terrazas de Abama Suites 

AUGUST: Experience Swiss Vitality at Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland 

Soak up the crisp Swiss mountain air as an invigorating accompaniment to your wellness journey at Chenot Palace Weggis, a world-class medical spa dedicated to total homeostasis. The Prevention & Ageing Well programme is thoughtfully designed with clinically proven treatments to enhance vitality and prevent ill-health. Guests can participate in Cryotherapy and energy-balancing massages to optimise performance, complemented by a detoxifying diet that restores inner glow, making this luxury wellness retreat the perfect way to unwind as summer draws to a close. Make healthy ageing your forte with one of ourluxury spa holidays this year. 

For more information and booking: Chenot Palace Weggis 

SEPTEMBER: De-stress & Re-charge at L’Albereta Relais & Châteaux, Italy  

Prolong your summer glow at L’Albereta Relais & Châteaux as you stroll through the majesty of Franciacorta’s vineyards and its rolling hills. Situated in a 19th-century villa, the Chenot Espace Spa combines traditional Chinese practices with Western medicine to support the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Unwind with the De-stress & Recharge experience, where guests can expect a wellness plan of energy-enhancing therapies from Hydro-Aromatherapy treatments to Biofeedback Training. Learn from Maureen Cromey about thepower of Chinese medicine in combating stress and burnout, and draw on this wisdom as you reawaken your senses in this Italian home of wellbeing. 

For more information and booking: L’Albereta Relais &Châteaux 

OCTOBER: Trade Autumn Showers for Warm Skies WithYoga and Mindfulness at Euphoria Retreat, Greece 

Skip the rain this October and escape to Greece, where the temperatures remain pleasantly warm, without the intense summer heat. Overlooking Mount Taygetos and within a private pine forest, Euphoria Retreat exudes tranquillity and natural charm, making it a perfect backdrop for a luxuryyoga holiday. Unwind with the Yoga and Mindfulness experience, combining private yoga sessions in maintained gardens with Euphoria Relaxing Aroma massages to reconnect your body and mind. This wellness hideaway provides the perfect balance of movement, breathwork and mindful replenishment. You’ll leave with a heightened spiritual lift, excited to incorporate newfound wellness techniques in daily life. 

For more information and booking:Euphoria Retreat 

NOVEMBER: Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Awaits atShanti Maurice, Mauritius 

Before the festive period gets hectic, take a step back with the Ayurveda Rejuvenation retreat at Shanti Maurice. This programme harnesses the power of nature through Ayurvedic treatments, holistic classes and personal health and fitness consultations to restore the body from head to toe! Indulge in innovative beachside dining, from private fish shack gastronomy to cocktails in the iconic Rum Shed. Your Mauritian escape promises to satisfy all the senses with an oasis devoted entirely to your well-being and pleasure. Learn more about theprinciples of Ayurveda and its benefits, to make 2026 a year of total wellness. 

For more information and booking:Shanti Maurice 

DECEMBER: Fitness, Adventure, and Renewal atThe Retreat, Costa Rica 

Put the spring back in your step at The Retreat Costa Rica, a private estate perched hillside of a quartz mountain. This award-winning wellness facility offers transformative programmes tailored to your goals. The results-driven Fitness Reboot & Fat Burning retreat speaks for itself; guests are paired with globally recognised personal trainers creating customised plans for fat loss and muscle building. Beyond the gym, enjoy guided hikes, boat trips and zip-lining adventures, completing an energising holiday. As the year comes to a close, take time to plan your next wellness adventure by exploring ourweight loss holidays to unveil your best self. 

For more information and booking:The Retreat Costa Rica 

As you look ahead to 2026, ensure you carve out worthwhile time to focus on yourself, embrace self-care techniques and remain active.  

Consider combining these on one of our bespoke luxury wellness retreats and speak to one of our Wellness Travel Specialists today on0203 397 8891 or contact us here to discuss tailor-making your perfect wellness holiday.