The biggest wellness travel trends have been revealed, and according to Google trend data obtained exclusively by the accommodation finder brand Bluepillow, the UK is swapping ‘stay and lay’, vacations for those that improve physical and mental wellbeing. Recent years have seen that the well-being arena is no longer a niche market that appeals to a selected few but instead, a notion that appeals to the masses.
Here, wellness expert Michelle Tole has analyzed Google trend data to determine the biggest travel wellness trends of 2022 so far, revealing a new era of travel.
UK Wellness Retreats – 410% increase in searches
The boom in searches with regards to UK wellness retreats reflects the continuation of the staycation movement combined with the population striving to achieve once allusive work-life balance. A 410% uplift in searches showcases that once saved for the famous in LA, wellness retreats are pushing their way through to the mainstream.
Opinions of a wellness retreat often spark thoughts of new age eccentricity however, modern retreats now feature activities such as yoga, sound baths and meditation. A retreat can be as short as a day to a week. As the UK continues to realize the importance of wellbeing, the popularity of UK retreats is only set to grow.
Yoga Holidays – 412.50% increase in searches
Many begin the practice of yoga to carve some time out for themselves however, often it evolves into a lifestyle that fast becomes a part of everyday life. Just 5 minutes of yoga can release GABA, Serotonin, endorphins, and Dopamine, all of which improve mood and alleviate anxiety. It’s no surprise that the UK wishes to commit full-time to Yoga by participating in a yoga retreat.
Villa with spa – 242.47% increase in searches
Holiday villas have been popular amongst holidaymakers for several years however, a 242.47% uplift in the search term, villa with spa suggests that vacationers want to elevate their experience with total chill-out areas within the accommodation itself. Hosting a spa within the accommodation opens the gates to a full chill-out experience without leaving the comfort of the villa.
Alcohol free holiday – 238.70% increase in searches
Once upon a holiday, vacations were all about letting off steam at an all-inclusive however, a 238.70% uplift in the search term alcohol free holiday demonstrates that the UK is seeking breaks that encourage them to reflect with the brain power to fully focus on themselves. Forgoing alcohol-soaked schedules presents the opportunity to experience a mindful retreat that truly recharges.
Spa breaks – 141.61% increase in searches
Spa breaks used to consist of one or two nights away however, much of the UK is forgoing the traditional summer break for up to 7 nights in a spa. The holiday objectives of the UK are changing, transitioning towards experiences that will boost their physical and mental wellbeing. Experiencing a prolonged spa break is a true indulgence and participants often feel that it has tangible benefits that a traditional vacation doesn’t.
Huge holiday – 660% increase in searches
The term ‘Huge holidays’, is referring to once in a lifetime trips that at one time, would be saved to celebrate milestones such as marriage, ‘big’ birthdays, or anniversaries. However, as travel was off the cards for several months, a lift in restrictions is resulting in the UK seizing the opportunity to experience places that were off the table.
UK luxury retreat – 314.43% increase in searches
A 315.43% uplift in the term UK luxury retreat suggests that the population wishes to elevate their staycation experience. Luxury stays in Air B&Bs, lodges and spas are set to stand the test of time as the UK strives to avoid airport chaos in favor of at-home stays.
Ibiza Wellness – 190.25% increase in searches
Ibiza often ignites thoughts of partying until the early hours however, as the term Ibiza wellness receives a 190.25% uplift in searches, it’s evident that the UK is aware of its the island’s growing wellness community.
‘Ibiza is evolving into a wellness hub’, says Tole. ‘There is a growing number of fitness boot camps, retreats that specialize in mindfulness, crystal shops and juice bars. Ibiza is fast becoming the affordable ‘LA wellness destination’, for Brits, attracting a wellness community and celebrities.
Solo Backpacking – 396% increase in searches
‘Backpacking has always been a popular activity for gap year students however, all age groups are beginning to take up this means of traveling, whether it be for a couple of weeks or several months. The pandemic shined a light on the importance of wellness along with the benefits of spending time alone. Such an increase in searches for the term solo backpacking shows that the UK is embracing spending time on their own and no longer waiting for someone to agree to the holiday of a lifetime with them; they can simply go and enjoy their own company.
