28 Feature WELLNESS TOURISM


A healthy outlook The future is bright for the region’s spa and wellness providers


One idea that features in almost all aspects of modern travel is the notion of time well spent. As the pace of life gets ever faster and time itself becomes a commodity, visitors are increasingly seeking out meaningful experi- ences. It’s against this backdrop that opportu- nities to switch off, unplug and relax are highly valued, as spa and wellness tourism continues to be one of the most lucrative sectors in the global travel industry. Throughout the region, spa and wellness


providers are perfectly placed to capitalise on the demand for healthy holidays. The value of the worldwide spa market is tipped to reach a staggering US$104 billion (AED382 billion) by 2020, according to a Global Wellness Insti- tute report, while the international wellness industry is now a US$3.72 trillion (AED13.66 trillion) market. In the MENA region, the UAE is the top performer with a spa market value expected to reach AED1.85 billion (US$500 million) by 2020.


Recognising the importance of this thriv-


ing sector, ATM 2017 returns this year with the dedicated Wellness & Spa Lounge. More than 35 exhibitors representing


world-renowned health and wellness desti- nations are taking part in the two-day special event, which kicked off on Tuesday. As the market goes from strength to strength, key trends are emerging that are set to see the sector soar in the years to come.


WELL TRAVELLED One recurring trend within wellness is to connect a sense of place with the experi- ences offered. At Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, a group renowned for its spa expertise, a distinct cultural feel flows throughout its holistic programme, whether incorporating elements from the local landscape and way of life, or Anantara’s own Thai roots. “Wellness as an initiative is core to Anantara and we are driving this for all of our bigger


properties in the region. Eastern Mangroves Anantara in Abu Dhabi is looking to launch wellness in Ramadan, while in Salalah, we will be offering destination programming, with celebrity trainers and wellness gurus, special- ity classes such as full moon yoga and Tibetan singing bowl meditation in the desert,” says Esmerelda Van der Westhuizen, Spa Manager, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. She adds: “The increasing focus and inter-


est in wellness is a global one – with a greater focus on living well and feeling good both inside and out. The key offers we have at all our properties are centred around detox, de-stress and weight management with a truly holistic approach that involves healing treatments, food and exercise. “Travellers living in cities with stressful


schedules are yearning for the outdoors. They are looking for a break to challenge themselves, meet like-minded people and to explore a new culture. The laid back culture of Salalah, where


our hotel is based, makes an ideal destination for quiet retreats.” Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort,


another of Anantara’s signature properties in Oman, also makes the most of the local envi- ronment in its spa and wellness delivery. The highest five-star resort in the Middle East, the property is perched on the edge of a gorge in the spectacular setting of the Al Hajar moun- tain range. The spa menu makes full use of the unique surroundings with treatments using ingredients harvested from nearby pomegran- ate trees, rose terraces and frankincense plan- tations. Treatments are complemented by a choice of exercises such as mountaintop yoga, trail walking and summit biking, taking advan- tage of the mountain landscape. Adding to the dynamic offering are healthy cooking classes and the option to work out in the privacy of guest rooms with Anantara’s gym kit service. Van der Westhuizen says: “The physical benefits of spa and wellness activities have


1


2


3


1 & 3 Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara 2, 4 & 5 Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort


4


5


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40