Wellness travel in 2026heres whats trending - National Geographic

Summary

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

If 2025 was the year of longevity retreats and digital detoxing, 2026 is all about returning to the elements. That could mean plunging into glacial waters, swapping spa hotels for cabins in the woods, taking on outdoor endurance chall…

Source: National Geographic

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Q1: What are the major trends in wellness travel for 2026 according to National Geographic?

A1: National Geographic highlights that wellness travel in 2026 is focusing on 'returning to the elements,' which includes activities like plunging into glacial waters, swapping spa hotels for cabins in the woods, and participating in outdoor endurance challenges. There's also a rise in 'glow-cations' where travelers visit places like Seoul, Korea, for advanced skincare treatments. Additionally, wellness through community engagement is trending, with travelers seeking experiences that connect them with local cultures and ancient healing practices.

Q2: What is 'glow-cation' and how is it shaping wellness travel?

A2: 'Glow-cation' refers to travel focused on skincare and aesthetic treatments. This trend is gaining popularity with travelers heading to destinations known for cutting-edge beauty treatments, such as Seoul, South Korea. This form of travel is not only about relaxation but also about achieving specific beauty goals like 'glass skin' facials and personalized skincare plans, integrating beauty with travel experiences.

Q3: How is wellness tourism contributing to global market growth?

A3: Wellness tourism is a significant contributor to the global market growth by promoting health and well-being through activities like meditation, yoga, and both conventional and alternative treatments. This sector addresses stress reduction and healthy lifestyle promotion, which are increasingly in demand, thus expanding the wellness economy.

Q4: What role do community and cultural engagement play in wellness travel?

A4: Community and cultural engagement play a crucial role in modern wellness travel by offering immersive experiences. Travelers are increasingly interested in learning about and participating in traditional wellness practices and ceremonies, like Mexico's temazcal rituals. These experiences not only promote well-being but also enrich travelers' understanding of the cultures they visit.

Q5: What scientific insights are available on the environmental impact of travel?

A5: Recent studies emphasize minimizing the environmental impact of travel through tools like travel footprint calculators. These tools help in estimating and reducing carbon emissions associated with travel by encouraging the use of alternative transport options and selecting meeting locations that minimize travel distance and impact.

Q6: What are some emerging wellness travel experiences that incorporate nature?

A6: Emerging wellness travel experiences include forest bathing, particularly in Japan's Kii Peninsula, where travelers engage with nature to reduce stress and enhance well-being. These experiences highlight the growing trend of integrating natural environments into wellness tourism, offering restorative and spiritual benefits.

Q7: How is wellness travel adapting to family needs?

A7: Wellness travel is increasingly accommodating family needs by offering retreats and experiences that cater to adults, children, and teenagers. These family-friendly retreats focus on emotional well-being, incorporating functional nutrition and mindfulness practices to provide holistic support for all family members during travel.