THE ART OFWELLNESSTOURISM
By Tomisin Juliet Faoye
W
hile tourism has always been a favoured means of relaxation, fun and adventure, the art of traveling for leisure is taking on a whole new meaning.
The last couple of years have seen the rise of a brand of tourism that goes beyond sight-seeing and globetrotting. The focus is now shifting to one of the most vital aspects of human life; health. Wellness tourism is travel aimed at maintaining or improving one's personal well being mentally, emotionally and physically. This form of tourism shifts the attention away from where the tourist goes, to why he or she goes there. Travelers choose locations, establishments and activities that suit their specific emotional and physical welfare needs, focusing on proactive health, relaxation and rejuvenation rather than the more traditional tourist itineraries.
Activities usually include Yoga, spa treatments, meditation, healthy eating, and spending time in nature. This form of tourism differs from medical tourism in that while medical tourism aims to treat illnesses, wellness tourism is largely preventive and restorative.
The wellness tourism industry is rapidly expanding as healthy living is becoming a major trend in today's social landscape. Wellness tourists usually add activities such as long hikes in nature, digital detoxes, healthy cooking classes, gym time and physical fitness training to their itinerary. While we have seen a significant rise in wellness tourism in recent times, it is not necessarily a novel practice. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, places called sanatoriums were famous for treating illnesses that had no cure. People diagnosed with respiratory illnesses like tuberculosis often checked into these medical institutions for long term stay; weeks, months, or sometimes even years.
These sanatoriums were often situated in mountainous areas, or a rural seaside, to provide fresh air and isolation from urban germs. While no exact medication was administered, the fresh mountain or sea air, strict rest routine, and a highly nutritious diet often proved to be enough to rejuvenate the patient's health. Wellness tourism tows these same lines,
however it is not restricted to only those who have taken ill. Many physically healthy people take these trips to refresh their minds and improve emotional health.
By choosing locations and activities that help them step back from the hustle and bustle of city life and detox from overbearing technology, they connect with their inner selves and refresh their minds. Today, some of the top locations people consider for wellness tourism include Bali, Thailand, Switzerland, Costa Rica, Sedona, and Greece. In Africa, favoured locations include: Capetown in South Africa, Marrakech in Morocco, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mauritius and Seychelles.
These locations are chosen for their unique natural landscapes, holistic spa experiences, waterfront resorts and luxurious establishments where guests' physical and emotional well being is prioritized. Whether you're looking to travel within or outside Africa, or even to stay within Nigeria, there are unique places all over the world that offer these refreshing services.
So the next time you're thinking of taking a trip, or feeling overwhelmed by the bustle of city life, a wellness tour might just be what you need to feel like yourself again.
