Wellness

Global Spa & Wellness Trends Forecast for 2016 by Spafinder Wellness 365

Published

9 years ago

January 20, 2016

Spafinder Wellness 365™ today released its 13th annual Global Spa & Wellness Trends Forecast, the definitive guide to the top ten trends poised to shape the wellness, hospitality, travel and spa industries and chart new territory in wellness for consumers in the new year. The 2016 Forecast is unique for taking a detailed look at not just what, but why, where, and how, new directions in wellness will evolve in the year ahead.

This year’s Trends show wellness stepping in to meet the challenges of major societal crises, including a rising generation of children who are stressed, anxious and overwhelmed at unprecedented and alarming levels (“Parenting Well: Serious Spa & Wellness for Kids”), and adults who are suffering the effects of a hyper-connected workplace, demanding hours, and sedentary habits (“Workplace Wellness Wakes Up”). Another emerging issue? Healthy sexuality, as providers eschew the extremes of sensationalism and shame to shape new models for exploring and developing individual sexual wellness and happiness (“Sexual Wellbeing: Taboo No More”).

The Trends also reflect people’s ongoing desire to bring more health and wellness into their current forms of escape, including new hybrid sectors of wellness travel (“Surf’s Up! New Waves in Wellness”; “The Adrenaline and Zen Cocktail: Resetting the Mind & Body”; “Well-Fests: Festivals Shift from Wasted to Wellness”; and “Healthy Cruising: The Ship of Excess Has Set Sail”). And with travelers’ unquenchable thirst for ancient, authentic experiences, Mexico will see renewed attention for its Mayan temazcal rituals (“Temazcal [temas’kal]”).

“The 2016 Trends reveal innovation in and enthusiasm for wellness travel, and how wellness is an integral part of the most fundamental aspects of people’s daily lives: work, family, and love.” said Research Director Beth McGroarty, who steered the research team, along with Susie Ellis, president of Spafinder Wellness, Inc.® “Rather than focus on how “X is the new Y,” we strive to make sense of the sea of forecasts and identify mega-trends that are having, and will continue to have, the most meaningful impact on people’s lives, and on the industry, for years to come.”

The 2016 Spa & Wellness Top 10 Trends:

Surf’s Up! New Waves in Wellness

Surfing (and spinoffs like standup paddle boarding) is fast becoming a new wellness travel genre. It’s rapidly expanding (to women, families, the wealthy—and in 160 countries from the North Shore to the North Sea) and we’re seeing a wide range of offerings: the cool surf + wellness property (blending spa and wellness offerings with surfing/surf classes, at every price point), an explosion of welcoming all-female surf retreats, and a new wave of surf-simulating fitness classes and wave-simulating surfing parks. Leading the trend: Hotel Komune Bali, which marries “destination spa” levels of wellness with surfing and paddle boarding lessons at a famed wave break, and SurfSet Fitness, which has expanded to 250 studios in 20 countries.

Sexual Wellbeing: Taboo No More

Every kind of wellness is now promoted, but sexual wellbeing, in a culture where sex is often about sensationalism and shame, has been left out of the equation. Change is underway: more sophisticated sexual wellbeing and literacy programming at wellness retreats, spas, hospitals and fitness studios, and everything from new high-tech sex fitness trackers and “toys,” to some out there touch therapies, to sex-forward hotels. Leading the trend: The new WOMANOLOGY + RESTORE HIM® clinics at Southern California’s Hoag Memorial Hospitals and Shh Retreats, held in an European estate house, where women take a no-holds-barred dive into every aspect of sexual happiness.

Temazcal (temas’kal)

After thousands of years healing indigenous peoples, the ancient Mexican practice of temazcal (an elaborate ritual in which a trained shaman uses heat, steam, aromatic herbs, and ancient prayers and chants to connect guests with forces of the physical and spiritual world) is the latest manifestation of travelers seeking out native, authentic wellness offerings. Leading the trend: El Dorado Royale, the Rosewood Mayakoba, and The Viceroy—just a few of the luxury resorts dotting the coast of the Maya Riviera that offer authentic temazcal sessions.

Parenting Well: Serious Spa & Wellness for Kids

Poor diets, constant stress, and hours hunched over glowing screens are taking their toll on kids. This year look for more mindfulness and meditation in schools, kid-focused yoga classes, massage for toddlers, wellness-centric family vacations, or just an emphasis on local, organic eating, as parents reveal themselves willing to dedicate considerable time, attention, and, yes, money toward this niche that promises to be one of the industry’s most significant areas of growth. Leading the trend: The David Lynch Foundation’s Quiet Time meditation program and family-friendly and wellness-centric Six Senses resort in Laamu Atoll of the Maldives.

The Adrenaline and Zen Cocktail: Resetting the Mind & Body

More extreme adventure travel is the zeitgeist, and we’re seeing a dizzying proliferation of high-octane adventure topped off with “après-adrenaline” relaxation at spas, resorts and wellness retreats. The medical science reveals why this seemingly paradoxical contrast therapy is addictive: adrenaline rushes followed by “Zen” relaxation uniquely reset and quiet the brain, and result in the most blissed-out relaxation. The new adrenaline + relaxation combos are less a paradox than a destination…and more destinations are serving up this mind-body cocktail. Leading the trend: Costa Rica’s Rio Perdido, with a balance of extreme adventure and spa/hot springs relaxation, or the new CREACTIVE By Cirque du Soleil program at spa resort Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Well-Fests: Festivals Shift from Wasted to Wellness

Move over Burners, ravers, and party animals—the latest festival trend is wellness. Wellness festivals are cropping up all over the globe, celebrating health and wellbeing while still embracing the spirit that makes music festivals so popular (many of which are also adding wellness components to their own lineup). Leading the trend: Wanderlust, which has a roster of festivals spread across a half-dozen countries, or the UK’s Innocent Unplugged, which bans technology and offers only pedal bikes and a giant people-powered hamster wheel to provide power.

On Demand: Uber-izing Spa & Wellness

Apps and on-demand services are revolutionizing dozens of industries, including beauty and wellness. These new on-demand options provide an unprecedented level of flexibility, immediacy, and convenience, and many established industry leaders are also adding or partnering with on-demand services. Leading the trend: Zeel in the U.S. or Urban Massage in the UK, both on-demand massage industry leaders, and manicure service Manicube, recently acquired by famed Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa.

Skin Care Gets Seoul-ful: The Korean Beauty Explosion 2.0

South Korean beauty was an emerging trend in 2015, but that was just the beginning. Whether it’s full-service spas, a seemingly limitless variety of facemasks, or 10-step skin-care routines, Korean beauty, for women and men, is much more than just a fad. Look for South Korea to become the global leader of affordable, innovative, and well-marketed products and more Korean-inspired spas, which combine spa and beauty with fun for the whole family. Leading the trend: Peach & Lilly, a South Korean beauty product distributor, and Korean mega-spa chain, Spa Castle, U.S.

Healthy Cruising: The Ship of Excess Has Set Sail

Wellness is boarding ship, allowing travelers to de-stress and keep healthy while onboard and even once they dock. In 2016, think less cruise ship and more floating retreat as some of the most impressive spa and wellness programming and facilities in the world take to the high seas. Look for everything from yoga sessions on deck to medical beauty treatments to indigenous wellness and adventure activities while docked. Leading the trend: Raison d’Etre’s LivNordic; Canyon Ranch SpaClub aboard the Seven Seas Explorer, set to sail its maiden voyage July 2016; and Carnival Corp.’s Fathom brand, which fuses travel with social responsibility.

Workplace Wellness Wakes Up

The idea of wellness in the workplace has been around since the ‘70s, but it remains a luxury for most global workers. Forward-thinking companies understand that a culture of wellness has a positive impact upon productivity, and narrowly focused programs are metastasizing into an all-encompassing environment that fuses company welfare to employee wellness. In the next five years, expect to see more spa and wellness integrated into the workplace in unique ways. (Think free yoga and meditation classes, financial counseling and mandatory vacations.) Leading the trend: Workplace wellness at Google, Apple and Virgin Group Ltd.

The 2016 Forecast is the result of research by the company’s team of analysts, editors and industry experts, and based on ongoing surveys of, interviews with, and visits to the 25,000-plus spa, wellness and beauty providers in the Spafinder Wellness 365 network. To read the complete version of The 2016 Spa & Wellness Trends Forecast, visit http://www.spafinder.com/trends2016.

Spafinder Wellness, Inc. is the world’s largest marketing, gifting, incentives and rewards company for the wellness industry and the leading consumer resource for feeling good and living well all year round. With now over 25,000 wellness partners worldwide, including wellness travel destinations, fitness, yoga and Pilates studios, spas and salons, plus access to 4,500 massage therapists through Zeel’s on-demand massage services, millions of people find the resources and inspiration to keep well every day via the Spafinder Wellness 365™ brand. The company’s widely distributed gift/wellness cards are available online and at 40,000-plus retailers worldwide, as well as through corporate incentive/rewards programs. Learn more at spafinder.com, spafinder.co.uk and spafinder.ca.

News

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives recognised as finalist in prestigious SPA Star Awards 2025

Published

1 week ago

April 18, 2025

m@ldives

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has announced that it has been recognised as a finalist in the prestigious SPA Star Awards 2025 in the International Category. This esteemed recognition celebrates outstanding achievements, innovative offerings, and pioneering wellness concepts in the global spa and wellness industry.

A panel of industry experts has carefully selected Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives as one of the standout finalists, recognizing its commitment to exceptional spa experiences and holistic wellness. The winners of the SPA Star Awards 2025 will be officially announced during the highly anticipated FORUM SPA inside gala evening on June 2, 2025.

This recognition further cements Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives as a premier wellness destination, offering world-class spa experiences that blend luxury with tranquillity. The nomination not only underscores the resort’s dedication to excellence but also provides a platform to showcase its unique approach to wellness to a global audience.

Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, Kuda Villingili Resort is a luxurious island retreat that seamlessly combines contemporary elegance with authentic Maldivian charm. Its world-class spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, featuring an array of holistic therapies, rejuvenating treatments, and serene overwater treatment villas designed to promote total well-being. With expert therapists, time-honoured wellness programs, and a peaceful ambiance, the spa at Kuda Villingili offers guests an unparalleled escape into rejuvenation and self-care.

“We are truly humbled and honoured to be a finalist in the prestigious SPA Star Awards 2025. At Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, wellness is at the core of everything we do— offering our guests a sanctuary where they can reconnect, rejuvenate, and find balance in the beauty of nature. This nomination is a celebration of our passion for holistic well-being, heartfelt hospitality, and the transformative power of meaningful spa experiences,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives.

The SPA Star Awards 2025 is a premier event that celebrates excellence in spa and wellness. The awards ceremony, held during the FORUM SPA inside gala evening, will offer networking opportunities, expert discussions, and recognition of the industry’s most innovative spa concepts.

From mid-April, all nominees, including Kuda Villingili, will be featured on the official SPA Star Awards website, on FORUM SPA inside social media platforms, and in the May/June issue of SPA inside magazine. Readers, guests, and wellness enthusiasts will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite spa and wellness destination until mid of May for the Audience Award.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites its valued guests, partners, and supporters to join this exciting journey and cast their votes in support of this remarkable achievement.

To vote for your favourite resort, simply send an email to vote-spastar@redspa.de with “Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives” as the subject line. Every vote counts—and as a bonus, all participants will be entered into an exciting prize draw.

The Prize includes a luxurious four-day wellness holiday for two at one of the Best Alpine Wellness Hotels in Austria and South Tyrol.

Voting is open until 11 May 2025, so don’t miss the chance to support your favourite island wellness sanctuary and win an unforgettable escape to the Alps.

Fitness

‘F45 Festival’ added to 2025 event line-up at Kandooma Maldives

Published

1 week ago

April 16, 2025

m@ldives

The private island Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives welcomes the return of Active Escapes fitness retreats 27 April to 4 May, with the 2025 F45 Festival added to the annual event line-up. Running 22-29 September 2025, the F45 Festival at Kandooma Maldives is a highlight on the Active Escapes event calendar, and perfect for those who like to combine fitness with their vacation.

“Everyone’s idea of the perfect holiday is different. For some of our guests, it’s all about soaking up the sun, taking ocean dips, and sipping cocktails until sunset – and that sounds pretty amazing. But for others, it is about staying active, trying new things and connecting with like-minded people. That’s where Active Escapes shine – creating unforgettable getaways tailored for those who want more than just a holiday in the sun. We are thrilled to welcome Active Escapes back to Kandooma again this year offering the ultimate balance of fitness, adventure and relaxation in our tropical island paradise.” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.

Active Escapes curates experiences that cater to diverse preferences. From water-based activities like snorkelling and kayaking to scuba-diving and more. Beyond the aqua-centric pursuits, there is time for holistic well-being too. Think yoga sessions against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunrise or sunset. A visit to the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala in the resort gardens or just taking a moment to breathe and reflect by the beach with the sounds of the waves enveloping you. Active Escapes emphasises not only the thrill of leisure pursuits and group fitness activities but also the tranquillity and grounding that can be attained by embracing nature’s beauty and being in the present at this island paradise.

F45 workouts combine elements of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), circuit training, and functional training aiming to achieve real and noticeable change. An F45 workout can burn 400-600 calories, delivering an amazing, post-workout euphoria, in 45-minutes.

Joining an Active Escapes Retreat or the F45 Festival isn’t about going without. Guests are welcomed with mouthwatering cuisine crafted by the resort’s culinary team led by Chef Eddie Ng complemented by an impressive selection of drinks. The philosophy is simple: train hard by day while having fun and indulge guilt-free at night.

The Active Escapes getaways are all about having fun with other like-minded people from around the globe. It’s a welcoming environment where the hope is you will leave a bit fitter than when you arrived in the Maldives, but the ultimate decision is yours. You can participate in everything and go hard-core or pick and choose. There are varying degrees of difficulty in the programme to ensure those seeking to work out super hard feel challenged and those who need to be a little less intense in their workouts feel well catered for.

Active Escapes are particularly popular with solo-travellers, who make up half of their bookings globally. The main age-group is 20-40 years, however on occasion there have been guests in their late 50s.

The seven-night Active Escapes F45 Festival 2025 hosts have been confirmed as Alice Evans, Cristina Chan and John Karpathakis.

Packages start from US$2,800 per person twin share (excluding flights) and US$3,700 for a single room. Packages include:

7 Nights accommodation
Day 1 is arrival day and boat transfers are included at any time from Male Airport
Brunch and dinner included daily (except arrival day)
All fitness workouts
Yoga sessions
Choose your activity (Surfing, SUP, Shark Snorkeling)
Snorkel Maldives Reef Boat Trip
Free scuba diving
Breath work and Ice baths
Live music and DJ’s
Open Mic Night
Themed Party Day
Reverse Raffle – Lots of prizes to be won!
Photo Package
Active Escapes Welcome Pack

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has a variety of different room types. Ask about upgrading to a Beach House or Overwater Villa – upgrade charges apply. Payment plans are also available taking the US$400 deposit now and the remaining amount split into regular payments up until the retreat. Note that package prices quoted are likely to increase as the event draws closer. All prices are quoted in US dollars and subject to local taxes and Maldives mandatory green fees.

Active Escapes operates fitness retreats year-round in locations all over the world – Bali, Maldives, Noosa, Byron Bay, South Africa, Greece, Thailand, New Zealand and more!

Featured

Emiliana Pappalardi’s exclusive wellness residency at The St. Regis Maldives

Published

2 weeks ago

April 9, 2025

m@ldives

In a harmonious blend of serenity and expertise, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is set to host renowned visiting practitioner Emiliana Pappalardi for a limited-time residency from April 12 to 28. This exclusive offering promises a bespoke wellness experience designed to redefine the journey toward holistic renewal.

Emiliana Pappalardi, a distinguished multidisciplinary therapist with over 15 years of experience at some of the world’s most esteemed wellness sanctuaries, brings a unique fusion of ancient healing practices and contemporary therapeutic techniques. Her sessions incorporate a diverse range of modalities, including Ayurveda, sound healing, Reiki, Yoga Nidra, and Naad Yoga. Each treatment is deeply personalised, intuitive, and transformative, offering guests a restorative journey that goes beyond traditional relaxation.

Emiliana’s holistic approach seeks to realign the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being. Her treatments are immersive and integrative, harmonising Eastern wisdom with Western innovation. Each session creates a sacred space for renewal, where vital energy is restored and the senses are fully awakened.

Set within the breathtaking surroundings of the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides a stunning stage for Emiliana’s residency. The Iridium Spa, perched above the turquoise waters, features six overwater treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean—an ideal sanctuary for transformative healing.

For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the resort offers premium villa accommodations. The John Jacob Astor Estate, the largest overwater villa in the Maldives, spans an expansive 1,725 square meters and features a private infinity pool, spa suites, and panoramic ocean vistas. The Caroline Astor Estate, nestled along the beach, offers a spacious private pool, elegantly appointed master bedrooms, and a secluded terrace for peaceful retreat. Both estates embody refined comfort and come with the hallmark St. Regis Butler service. Whether enjoying a sunset from an overwater deck or strolling the pristine shoreline, these villas provide an exquisite setting for rest and rejuvenation.

Earlier this month, the resort welcomed guests to experience The Healing Hour with Mariko Hiyama, featuring her celebrated facial reflexology and holistic therapies. Her residency concluded on April 4, leaving behind a trail of revitalised guests.