Center for Adirondack Spirit
Wellness continues to grow – and it can be for all of us…
The Global Wellness Institute published the “Global Wellness Tourism Economy” prepared by SRI
International, October 2013.” This report is a “landmark study” and is the “very first study to benchmark and analyze one of the fastest-growing global tourism segments: wellness tourism.”
SRI International defines “wellness tourism” according to this report as “all travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal wellbeing.” It is an “explosive new travel category” that includes the “$2-trillion wellness economy and the $3.2-trillion global tourism industry.”
Susie Ellis Chairman & CEO of Global Wellness Institute believes “every government, every tourism board and every travel -related business should sit up and take notice.” It is noted that “Wellness tourism is already a $439-billion market—or more than ONE in SEVEN of all tourist dollars” and it is “directly responsible for 11.7 million global jobs,” has a “$1.3 trillion in global economic impact” and “wellness tourists spend, on average, 130 percent more than the average global tourist!”
Wellness travel includes the elements of “healthy living,” “rejuvenation & relaxation,” “meaning & connection,” “authentic experiences,” and “disease prevention & management.” It is further refined by the “Primary Purpose Wellness Traveler” where “Wellness is the sole purpose or motivating factor for their trip & destination choice,” and the “Secondary Purpose Wellness Traveler” who seeks to “maintain wellness while taking any type of trip.”
In essence, the interest in being well has led to being more proactive and to Adirondack Spirit speaks to the very essence to what the Adirondack experience can be for not only visitors but targeted
populations such as veterans, those dealing with obesity, stress and illness. Wellness is also something that is part of our history and the very nature of our “healing woods.”
And the new wellness can include so many of our industries.
It is so much more than just tourism.
It can also include our medical industry, outdoor recreation, health and wellness organizations, the arts, caregivers, the military, and culture.
What they are Seeking
The “Global Wellness Tourism Economy” Executive Summary report lists targeted areas of what wellness travelers “seek” including “Environmental,” “Physical,” “Emotional,” “Spiritual,” “Mental,” and “Social.”
What they Like to “Do”
Among others:
* “Eco & Adventure”
This includes hiking, biking and “nature visits.”
* “Spiritual & Connection”
Included are time with your family and time alone.
* “Personal Growth”
Areas include dealing with stress, retreats, and the arts.
* “Health”
“Integrative medicine” and “chronic condition management” are several listed.
* “Healthy Eating”
Included here are nutrition, “detox” and culinary experiences
* “Mind-body”
Categories here include massage, “bathing” and body treatments
Where they “Visit”
Finally, they like to “visit” parks, wellness retreats, fitness centers, organic and natural restaurants, “integrative health centers,” yoga studios and “healthy hotels” among many others.
There is so much more about in the “Global Wellness Tourism Report” prepared by SRI International about this “explosive new travel category.” We urge you to look over the executive summary of this report which can be found at SRI