Wellness: time for a reset?

Buahan Banyan Tree Escape, Indonesia. Image courtesy of property

As 2025 winds down, we start craving one thing: a reset. Last January, wellness trips spiked, which is why I want to put this on your radar now.

We can either plan ahead of the rush, or you can start dreaming during the holidays and we can hit the ground running (no pun intended) in January. Today’s wellness journeys are about more than just green juice and yoga. Picture meaningful rest, mindful adventure, and travel as a path to reconnection. 

Beyond the annual “New Year, new me” mindset, society is collectively craving more balance. In the last few years, work, technology, and daily life have all sped up. We’re more connected than ever, but also more overstimulated, which takes a toll on our mental and physical health. When thinking about vacation, travelers like you are prioritizing rest, meaningful connection, and experiences that help them slow down. Resorts and destinations have responded with: 

• Elevated spas

• Healthy, intentional cuisine

• Mindful activities and programming

• Outdoor immersion

• Thoughtfully curated slow-travel experiences and even digital-free days

• Sleep and longevity programs 

  There’s a destination for every kind of wellness traveler, whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or something in between. 

Image courtesy of One&Only Portonovi

Luxury

For high-end travelers who appreciate design-forward stays and top-tier services…

• Mii Amo (Arizona): Sedona’s luxury spa retreat, reopened in 2023 after a $40M renovation

• Hôtel Les Sources de Caudalie (France): Set in Bordeaux vineyards,known for vinotherapy, French gastronomy, and an exceptional spa

• One&Only Portonovi (Montenegro): Spa resort on the Adriatic with a Chenot medical-wellness partnership, on-site doctors on and weeklong wellness programs

• Four Seasons Sensei Lanai (Hawaii): Science-driven, precision wellness with stunning treatment rooms in a rainforest setting, plus reciprocity with the Four Seasons Beach Resort. 

Image courtesy of Chiva Som, Thailand

Health-focused
If you’re seeking more of a medical or longevity-informed getaway:
 

• Chiva-Som (Flagship Thailand): One of the world’s leading holistic medical wellness resorts

• SHA Wellness Clinic Mexico (Cancun): SHA’s newest outpost, founded on the benefits of an adequate diet, natural therapies and western medicine

• Clinique La Prairie (Switzerland): Pioneer of the boutique longevity and vitality health clinic since 1931

• Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa (Germany): Historic grand hotel with a well-respected medical spa

Spiritual
Maybe you’re soul searching, realigning or just need a mindful reset:

• Ananda in the Himalayas (North India): Traditional Indian wellness regimes of Ayurveda, Yoga and Vedanta.

• Palmaïa – The House of AïA (Mexico): Plant-forward, ritual and wellness-led all-inclusive resort

• Kamalaya (Thailand): Unique approach to detox, stress reduction, and emotional balance with ancient Eastern healing traditions and Western medical research

• The Ashram (California): Immersive, transformative retreat focused on discipline and renewal

Image courtesy of The Ranch Malibu

Fitness-forward
If your focus is movement, physical challenge, or athletic programming:

• The Ranch (Malibu, CA): Fitness-forward, structured residential program

• BodyHoliday (St. Lucia): “Give us your body for a week, and we’ll give you back your mind.”

• Forestis Dolomites (Italy): Forest bathing, hiking, spa, and fresh Alpine air.

• Equinox Hotel (New York City): Urban retreat with state-of-the-art Equinox-branded health club and a Sleep Lab

Adventure
For nature lovers and travelers seeking immersive experiences:

• Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape (Indonesia): A “no walls, no doors” concept in the Balinese jungle.

• Gorakadan (Japan): Traditional ryokan with natural hot springs

• The Retreat Costa Rica: Hilltop resort with eco-friendly vibe and luxury spa

• Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa (Costa Rica): World-famous thermal springs in the lush rainforest.

Image courtesy of Schloss Elmau

Honeymoon
For newlyweds who are craving a bit of pampering:

• Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul (South Korea): Chic, urban wellness retreat

• Schloss Elmau (Germany): Ultra-luxury spa with cultural programming

• Six Senses Douro Valley (Portugal): Wine country wellness with sound healing and river views

• Burgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa (Switzerland): Modern Swiss luxury, panoramic alpine views, a world-class spa, and restorative mountain air above Lake Lucerne

I’m here to help you choose the right destination and design a trip that leaves you feeling refreshed, centered, and inspired. If that’s on your wish list for the New Year, let’s start planning. Here’s to traveling into the next year with clarity and intention!