Leading hotels are increasingly focusing on wellness, as reported 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.
“Modern travelers are quite knowledgeable, and wellness tourists particularly so,” states Trisha Bannister, who serves as the wellness director at the recently launched Layan Life within the Anantara Layan resort.
Phuket
They are searching for locations that offer more than just spas, yoga retreats, or superficial solutions typically available at many hotels.
Previously, individuals focused on maintaining their well-being often visited specialized wellness retreats like Thailand’s Chiva-Som or The Farm in the Philippines for advanced medical and wellness services. However, these establishments now encounter strong rivalry from high-end hotels that provide comprehensive packages integrating physical care, holistic practices, and spiritual elements, all while delivering top-notch service and luxurious lodging options.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our updated platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our acclaimed team.
“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. These once distinct sectors are becoming more intertwined,” 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, these hotels team up with well-known wellness centers since this is the fastest and most effective method for them to provide wellness services. After all, hotels focus on hospitality. To execute this properly, they must incorporate expertise from wellness professionals,” she explains, pointing out instances like the Four Seasons Singapore working alongside Chi Longevity and Six Senses Ibiza joining forces with Rose Bar, spearheaded by renowned wellness authority Dr Mark Hyman.
The current trend involves hotels establishing and running their own centers that provide top-notch facilities, treatments, and personnel. These centers frequently serve both locals and visitors alike. For instance, consider Surrenne, a London-based wellness and longevity members’ club initiated by Maybourne Hotels at The Emery, which debuted last April. This 2,000 square-meter area is solely dedicated to health and wellbeing and features the nation’s premier studio from international fitness icon Tracy Anderson.
The Wellness Brand Soneva Soul, conceived by Soneva Resorts’ creator Sonu Shivdasani, stands out remarkably. This venture integrates traditional therapeutic practices with contemporary technological advancements to craft customized wellness journeys encompassing exercise routines, restorative sleep programs, healthcare solutions, and cutting-edge regeneration therapies such as stem cell treatments—all tailored for guests enjoying their vacations.
Recently introduced to the area is Layan Life, which commenced operations last September. Situated within the premises of the Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, this medical wellness center occupies a custom-designed building spanning an impressive 1,767 square meters, incorporating elements inspired by biophilia. Just a brief stroll away from the resort’s principal swimming pool and dining venue, the striking interior seamlessly merges modern architectural aesthetics with natural surroundings. Its features include expansive glass panels, soothing earthy hues, spacious areas flooded with plenty of daylight—a setting so exquisite it could easily grace the pages of a high-end design publication.
The ground level, accessible to both hotel residents and members, includes a cutting-edge fitness center, yoga and Pilates studios, meditation spaces, and a hydrotherapy zone equipped with temperature-controlled vitality pools, a Himalayan salt sauna, and a steam room. On the top floor, visitors have access to advanced medical and integrative therapies such as physiotherapy, cosmetic treatments, and intravenous procedures.
cryotherapy
, a hyperbaric chamber and colon hydrotherapy utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
The center also excels in traditional Thai medicine (TTM). Visitors can consult with a certified professional, try various distinctive therapies, and purchase customized remedies from the Thai herbal pharmacy.
Bannister states that Layan Life was established to debunk the limitations often associated with traditional wellness retreats. We achieve this by providing a welcoming environment for all our guests regardless of their age or phase of life. Guests have the option to join with friends and family or opt for a solitary getaway, which distinguishes us from others. Our visitors can reside at our resort or find accommodation nearby according to their preferences.
Customization and data-driven insights form the foundation of Layan Life. While prefabricated programs are offered, visitors are motivated to assume control over 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 checks, along with examinations of skin condition, posture, and full-body scans.
Everything mentioned above can be experienced alongside the usual pleasures of a vacation, whether 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 tailor our services accordingly during their stay, thus providing an extremely personalized experience,” explains Bannister.
Notably, certain elements of Layan life have been incorporated into the hotel experience. This ranges from the bespoke wellness offerings available at the primary dining area to a free daily schedule featuring activities like boxing, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Additionally, they intend to introduce programs aimed at addressing prevalent issues such as menopause and improving sleep quality.
“One of our primary measures of success is making sure that our guests can absorb their experiences fully and remain present—without feeling pressured to check every box or engage in a performance-driven encounter,” Bannister explains.
The dual nature of being at a wellness facility as well as an everyday retreat gives guests a feeling of routine continuity.
4 trending wellness travel ideas for 2025
1. Sexual well-being
– aside from menopause and fertility,
sexual health
is becoming clearer, as more women feel emboldened to take control of their sexual desires.
2. AI-powered wellness
–
AI
Is revolutionizing the way we analyze data, allowing for greater customization of our health objectives and plans.
3. Returning to the natural world
– From grounding to forest bathing, deepening one’s connection 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 training, along with mobility and cognitive exercises, which contribute to a longer, more healthy life.
More Articles from SCMP
Thai authorities initiate a search operation for a delivery person suspected of robbing a gold shop.
Meet Gary Barlow’s daughters and towering son: so far, they’ve preferred staying out of the spotlight to focus on their studies and health – with eldest child Dan easily overshadowing his renowned father.
‘Two Sessions’ 2025: Can China Enhance Its Investment Story with AI Improving Economic Prospects?
The United States is poised to impose additional tariffs on China. What will be Beijing’s reaction?
The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.