Our Favorite Health & Wellness Travel Experiences to Restart Your New Year

As we enter the new year together, there are so many of us who want to invest in our health and well-being. But what if, instead of the usual dieting goals, you embarked on a transformative travel experience that nourishes your mind, body, and soul?

Health and wellness travel is booming, offering everything from tranquil retreats to active adventures. “The travel brand has seen a 30% increase in demand for wellness breaks between 2021 and 2022 and found that almost half (46%) of global travelers are more open to wellness breaks than ever before.’ says National Geographic.

This burgeoning sector of the travel industry offers a diverse array of experiences, from tranquil yoga and meditation retreats nestled in serene natural settings to active adventures that challenge your body and invigorate your spirit. Whether you seek inner peace, physical rejuvenation, or a deeper connection with nature, there's a wellness travel experience waiting to transform your new year.

To help you navigate this exciting world of possibilities, our expert travel advisors have curated a collection of their favorite health and wellness-focused escapes. These hand-picked experiences are designed to help you reset, recharge, and embrace a healthier, happier you in 2025.

Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa. Photo credit: Virtuoso

1. A Traditional Spa Getaway

Sometimes, the classics are best. A traditional spa vacation is the perfect way to indulge in some much-needed pampering and relaxation. Take a long weekend and escape to a serene sanctuary where you can unwind with massages, facials, and body treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. Many spas also offer wellness programs that incorporate healthy cuisine, fitness classes, and mindfulness practices. Whether you take a solo spa journey or make it a trip with friends or family, It's an ideal way to de-stress, cultivate inner peace, and re-energize yourself for the upcoming year.

One of Our Favorite Spa Stays: Cala Del Mar Resort & Spa, Ixtapa

This luxurious resort offers 59 spacious suites, each featuring a private terrace with a plunge pool and breathtaking ocean views. The spa, a haven of tranquility spanning 4,000 square feet, provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Indulge in therapies inspired by local traditions, utilizing native herbs and ingredients, in serene treatment areas that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Equinox Hotel, NYC. Photo credit: Virtuoso

2. A Fitness-Focused Stay

If your New Year's resolutions involve getting active and achieving your fitness goals, consider a stay at a property dedicated to an active lifestyle. So many properties are now offering a variety of fitness classes, from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training and outdoor adventures. Expert trainers, state-of- the-art facilities, and personalized programs will help you reach your full potential. Combine invigorating workouts with healthy meals, spa treatments, and opportunities to explore the surrounding nature, making it a holistic and rewarding experience that sets you up for success upon your return.

One of Our Favorite Fitness-Focused Properties: Equinox Hotel, New York City

The new flagship Equinox Hotel is a highlight of Manhattan's Hudson Yards, offering 212 luxurious rooms with a focus on fitness and well-being. Guests enjoy a 60,000 sq ft Equinox fitness club, pools, a spa, and renowned dining options. The hotel's location provides access to over 100 shops, 28 restaurants, and the High Line.

Ananda in the Himalayas, India. Photo credit: Virtuoso.

3. A Journey of Mindfulness & Meditation

For those seeking a more calming and introspective experience, a mindfulness and meditation retreat can be profoundly transformative. Learn techniques to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and cultivate inner peace from experienced instructors. These retreats often take place in serene settings, such as tranquil mountains or peaceful coastal areas, enhancing the sense of tranquility. Immerse yourself in meditation practices, yoga sessions, and mindful walks, returning home with a renewed sense of clarity and focus.

One of Our Favorite Properties for a Mindful Stay: Ananda in the Himalayas

Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, this wellness retreat offers a tranquil escape amidst breathtaking mountain vistas and the spiritual aura of the Ganges River. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, the retreat integrates Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedanta philosophies with contemporary wellness practices. Guests can experience personalized programs focused on rejuvenation, weight management, and detoxification within a sprawling 25,000 sq. ft. spa. Expert therapists provide tailored consultations and treatments, creating a holistic journey toward well-being and inner peace.

Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape, Ubud, Indonesia. Photo credit: Virtuoso.

4. An Eco-Lodge ExperienceIf you find solace in nature, an eco-lodge escape might be your perfect wellness retreat. These sustainable accommodations are often nestled in breathtaking natural environments, allowing you to reconnect with the earth while minimizing your environmental impact. Hike through lush rainforests, kayak on pristine lakes, or simply unwind amidst the tranquility of nature. Eco-lodges often offer wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and spa treatments, creating a holistic experience that nourishes both body and soul.

One of Our Favorite Eco-Focused Properties: Buahan, A Banyan Tree EscapeThis resort's unique design philosophy emphasizes openness and connection with the surrounding natural beauty. Each of the 16 private villas features a pool and incorporates natural materials, creating a harmonious blend with the environment. The restaurant showcases a zero-waste menu with an emphasis on plant-based, locally sourced cuisine. The spa, overlooking the lush landscape, offers a variety of treatments inspired by local traditions and designed to enhance your connection with nature.


Winvian Farm, Morris, CT. Photo credit: Virtuoso.

5. A Health-Focused Foodie JourneyFor the culinary enthusiast seeking a healthier approach to food in the new year, embark on a health-focused foodie journey. Explore destinations like the Mediterranean, renowned for their fresh, local cuisine, and learn about sustainable farming practices. Participate in cooking classes that emphasize nutritious ingredients and healthy cooking techniques. Indulge in farm-to-table meals, explore vibrant markets, and savor delicious dishes that nourish your body while satisfying your taste buds.

One of Our Favorite Farm-to-Table Properties: Winvian FarmThis unique destination offers an array of captivating accommodations, each designed to spark delight and wonder. Imagine staying in a cozy treehouse nestled amongst the branches or surrounded by towering walls of books in a whimsical library suite. Beyond the extraordinary lodgings, guests can explore the beautiful natural surroundings through activities like hiking, biking, and snowshoeing. The culinary experience is equally exceptional, with a renowned chef and their team crafting fresh, flavorful cuisine that has earned prestigious recognition. “Savor the fresh, flavorful cuisine created by chef Eddy and his team as they demonstrate why the restaurant has earned the AAA Five Diamond award,” says Winvian.

This year, why not ditch the restrictive resolutions and embrace a journey of holistic well-being through transformative travel? Whether you seek the serenity of a spa escape, the invigoration of a fitness-focused adventure, the tranquility of mindfulness and meditation, the connection with nature at an eco-lodge, or the nourishment of a health-focused culinary journey, there's an experience waiting to revitalize you.