The rise of wellness tourism
The concept of wellness tourism has been evolving rapidly, reshaping how people travel and experience their getaways. According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), wellness tourism is defined as “travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal well-being.” Since GWI first measured this sector in 2013, wellness tourism has seen explosive growth, transforming nearly every aspect of travel.
In the latest data from GWI’s Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2023, wellness tourism peaked at $720 billion in 2019 before plummeting to $351 billion in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the sector has been steadily recovering, reaching $651 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow by 16.6% annually, hitting $1.4 trillion by 2027.
The glamping boom
The trend towards wellness tourism aligns perfectly with the rise of glamping, a luxurious and comfortable way to experience the outdoors. The Australian glamping market, valued at USD 90.1 million in 2020, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.0% from 2021 to 2028. This growth is driven by an increasing number of concerts, music festivals, and a general desire for unique, comfortable outdoor experiences.
The perfect combination: wellness and glamping
Combining wellness with glamping is a key to success. As people seek authentic luxury outdoor experiences post-pandemic, integrating wellness elements can significantly enhance the appeal of glamping accommodations. This integration doesn’t always require a massive investment. For example, adding an ice bath or a wellness overlay with a larger deck to the Woody Junior can transform a simple glamping tent into a serene wellness retreat.
Introducing the Woody Junior
Our Woody Junior, the smallest canvas hotel room in nature, is designed to let guests experience a deep connection with nature. This compact, cosy tent is perfect for adding extra accommodation to your retreat. It focuses on wellness with its outdoor deck space, offering a low investment with high return on investment and quick installation time. It provides private rooms for larger groups, allowing you to create an instant resort in combination with our luxury amenity Glamtainer.
Versatility and wellness
The versatility of the Woody Junior makes it ideal for enhancing wellness retreats. By adding larger decks, you can incorporate two baths or a private sauna, or even create a separate bathing area. This has been successfully implemented at places like Metung Hot Springs and Inverloch Glamping, where the combination of glamping and wellness has proven to be a hit.
Five reasons to add glamping to a wellness retreat
- Enhanced Guest Experience: Glamping offers a unique blend of luxury and nature, providing guests with an unforgettable experience that complements the wellness aspect of your retreat.
- Increased Revenue Opportunities: Glamping can attract a wider audience, including those seeking luxury and comfort in their outdoor experiences, leading to increased bookings and higher revenue.
- Quick and Flexible Installation: Glamping structures like the Woody Junior are quick to install and can be easily customised to fit your specific needs, making it a cost-effective way to expand your accommodation options.
- Appeal to Modern Travellers: Today’s travellers are looking for unique and immersive experiences. Glamping meets this demand by offering a comfortable and stylish way to connect with nature.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness: Glamping accommodations often use sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices, aligning with the values of wellness and responsible tourism.
A path to prosperity
In conclusion, the future of travel lies in experiences that combine comfort, luxury, and wellness. By leveraging the growing trends in wellness tourism and glamping, you can create unique, memorable experiences for your guests, ensuring high returns on your investment. With the Woody Junior, you have a versatile, low-cost option to tap into this lucrative market, transforming your venue into a sought-after wellness retreat.
For more insights into the wellness tourism sector, refer to the Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2023 by GWI. And to explore the glamping market in Australia, check out the latest market reports and trends. Together, wellness and glamping offer a pathway to a prosperous and sustainable future in the hospitality industry.
