Spafinder Wellness 365, a media and marketing company for the spa and wellness industry, has announced the winners of the Global Wellness Travel Awards, which were presented at the World Travel Market (London). The awards reflect the significance of the $494 billion worldwide wellness tourism market and recognize destination spas, hotels, resorts, and retreats around the world dedicated to offering healthy experiences. A panel of wellness industry journalists and experts nominated 373 locations for the awards, and consumers across the globe cast votes for the nominees. “We are honored to recognize the importance of wellness tourism to consumers worldwide who are seeking healthy travel options, whether they are in St. Petersburg on business or enjoying a rejuvenating vacation in New Zealand,” says Mia Kyricos, chief brand officer of Spafinder Wellness. “As a company that has been in this business for nearly 30 years, it’s gratifying to see so many engaged by this awards program, and it is just the beginning.” Spafinder Wellness 365 defines wellness travel “as vacations, getaways, and business trips that help travelers stay (or get) healthy by offering unique options, such as healthy cuisine or programs that allow guests to relax and rejuvenate.” Crystal Awards were given to the top wellness travel destinations on six continents. Four Seasons properties won Crystal Awards in both Asia and Europe.
Africa: La Mamounia (Marrakech, Morocco)
Asia: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (Bali, Indonesia)
Australia: Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat (Queensland, Australia)
Europe: George V Paris Four Seasons (Paris, France)
North America: Canyon Ranch (Brand-Wide, U.S.)
South America: Lapinha Spa (Lapa, Brazil)
In addition to the Crystal Awards, consumers voted for their favorite wellness travel destinations in 41 countries. Four Seasons properties won awards in Argentina, Egypt, France, India, Malaysia, the Maldives, Morocco, and Russia. The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel (Essex) won awards for the UK, and Ste. Anne’s Spa (Grafton, Ontario) won the Country Award for Canada. “The awards are an industry accolade and an important consumer guide,” said Kyricos. “And these winners are just a few of the thousands of wellness destinations that are dedicated to providing healthy travel experiences for every budget and every interest. Keeping well differs for everyone, and the awards reflect the many paths to wellness that are offered around the globe.”
For the full list of the Wellness Travel Award winners, visit www.spafinder.com, www.spafinder.co.uk, and www.spafinder.ca.