Recent research by Audley Travel reveals that wellness retreats and digital detox holidays are gaining significant traction among travellers.
The data, sourced from platforms like TripAdvisor and NationMaster, points to a growing interest in destinations where people can switch off from the demands of modern technology and focus on personal wellbeing.
The Shift Toward Wellness Travel
The demand for these types of holidays has surged in recent years as people begin to prioritise their mental and physical health over the traditional “sightseeing” holiday. According to Audley Travel, more travellers are choosing destinations that focus on mindfulness, relaxation, and activities that help them escape the stressors of everyday life.
Why the shift? The increased time spent online, particularly since the pandemic, has made many people realise the importance of taking a break from their devices. Now, more than ever, the appeal of wellness retreats is growing because they offer something many of us struggle to find: balance.
Thailand
Among the many destinations offering a break from digital overload, Thailand consistently ranks at the top. Known for its rich history in wellness, Thailand has become a go-to destination for travellers seeking to combine luxury with mindfulness.
According to Audley Travel, Thailand’s reputation as the “wellness capital of Asia” is well-earned. Its luxury spa hotels and wellness resorts provide a calming environment perfect for those looking to disconnect. Six Senses Yao Noi and Chiva-Som are just two examples of the kinds of retreats that offer not only digital detoxes but also personalised wellness plans, yoga, and holistic treatments.
USA
Not every digital detox needs to involve a spa or wellness retreat. Many travellers are opting for more active escapes, where hiking and outdoor adventures help them to disconnect from their screens. The USA, with its vast and varied landscapes, has become a top choice for those seeking an adventure-filled digital detox.
From the canyons of Utah to the forests of the Pacific Northwest, the USA offers numerous hiking destinations that are perfect for travellers wanting to trade their phones for a pair of hiking boots. Audley Travel highlights that the diversity of the landscape in the USA means every trip can offer something different. Whether you’re snowshoeing through the Rockies or hiking in the desert, there’s a range of outdoor experiences designed to keep you active and unplugged.
Audley Travel provides a range of resources to help travellers explore these digital detox destinations, offering personalised recommendations on where to stay and what to do. With their expert knowledge, travellers can confidently plan their perfect getaway, knowing they’re supported in their quest for a tech-free holiday.
Japan
Japan is another destination seeing a significant rise in demand for wellness and digital detox holidays. Its deep-rooted cultural traditions, including Zen practices and artisanal crafts, provide travellers with an opportunity to slow down and refocus their minds in meaningful ways.
For a deeper digital detox, visitors can head to accommodations like Hakujukan, which are tied to Zen Buddhism. Located in a peaceful temple setting, this lodging offers meditation sessions and traditional Japanese meals, helping travellers disconnect from their hectic lives and find calm through ancient practices.
Australia
Australia’s vast wilderness areas have long been a draw for travellers looking to get away from it all. With an impressive number of national parks and protected areas, Australia offers the ideal setting for a digital detox getaway.
According to Audley Travel, Australia’s national parks provide an unbeatable mix of landscapes and activities that make it easy to forget about your devices. From the rainforests of Queensland to the dramatic coastlines of Tasmania, these parks offer a variety of experiences for nature lovers. Stargazing in Freycinet National Park, birdwatching in the Blue Mountains, or swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Cape Range National Park are just some of the unique activities that await those looking to switch off.
