As many people begin traveling again, they are seeking out experiences and places that address wellness holistically. In a recent Hilton survey of US travelers*, an overwhelming 98% of respondents said they are now prioritizing wellness activities while on vacation.
“We’re finding that travelers are in search of more wellness-centric moments that expand beyond the gym and spa,” said Matt Schuyler, chief brand officer, Hilton. “Today’s guests are looking to connect the mind, body and spirit throughout their entire travel journey, and Hilton is providing unique experiences to fulfill those needs – from expert-led nature excursions to immersive yoga and meditation retreats.”
Whether guests have a hard time maintaining a wellness routine while traveling or simply are looking for inspiration and grounding, the following Hilton properties will help deliver that much-needed balance in their travels.
For the Nature Lover Interested in Local Immersion and Activities
Sometimes the road to wellness is just a breath of fresh air away. For travelers in search of a tropical destination, Hawaii presents the perfect balance between adrenaline-inducing adventure and laidback outdoor experiences. At Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Maui, guests can tour the grounds and gardens with the head of landscaping to learn more about Maui’s flora, as well as the local plants and fruits that are used in the property’s restaurants. Grand Wailea also offers leaf weaving classes – like coconut weaving and ti-leaf lei making – so guests can learn more about and engage in local traditions.
Nature and adventure become a thrilling duo at Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, where guests can embark on a rock-climbing excursion with an expert guide. If that’s a little too daring, the property’s scenic guided hike combines exercise with mini lessons in history, geology and local plants.
For the fitness enthusiast looking for unique ways to sweat it out in the sun
Scuba diving is one of the best ways to connect with nature while having a thrilling adventure. Hilton La Romana, an All-Inclusive Resort is located in Bayahibe, one of the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular diving locations. Guests of the resort can book experiences with ScubaCaribe, a PADI 5 Star Dive and Water Sports Center, located on the property’s stunning beach.
Those who can’t get enough of the dance floor can put their moves to the test at Hilton Playa Del Carmen, which offers salsa and meringue classes. The all-inclusive resort also features multiple pools, a full-service spa, and 13 restaurants and bars for guests to enjoy.
In addition, a new fitness obsession, pickleball, is the fastest growing sport in the United States, and it’s easy for guests at La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton to get acquainted with the game. The property boasts eight pickleball courts, and there are certified professionals on staff to help guests learn the rules and game play technique.
For the Seafood-Loving Foodie in Search of Locally Inspired Culinary Adventures
There are few greater joys for the seafood lover than enjoying the day’s fresh catch right on the beach. At The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton, guests can book an intimate dinner on the property’s private sand beach with the Tide to Table experience. Travelers can enjoy a four-course meal – complete with an amuse and intermezzo – that includes creative dishes like diver scallops with sunchoke escabeche and lemon oil.
At Conrad Punta de Mita, comfortable guest rooms with modern coastal décor and locally inspired, chef-driven cuisine highlight the surrounding tropical oasis. Food lovers can relish in the Zarandeado experience, where a whole fresh fish is grilled over hot coals by a chef team from the nearby village of La Cruz Huanacaxtle. Guests can sip a cold drink while the chefs prepare this traditional Nayarit dish, as well as a la minute ceviches and other Mexican delicacies.
For a hands-on experience, Dock to Dish at Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo lets resort guests become the fishermen to fully immerse themselves in the property’s sustainable practices. A local expert guides participants through the experience as they fish for the day’s catch, pick herbs to accompany the fish and guests can enjoy a seaside dinner for two when the hard work is done.
For the Yogi Looking for Immersive and Meditative Moments
Dedicated yogis should book the yoga getaway at Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in Mexico, a program that includes two private yoga classes on the beach palapa, moon night meditation and a moonstone flow. The property also features authentic Mexican cuisine from Chef Gustavo Pinet and activities like hiking and beach boot camps.
Yogis who want to try something new should get acquainted with the hanging silks in the aerial yoga class at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club. In addition to more than 40 weekly fitness classes, the property also features a private beach club where you can paddle board, surf or simply soak up the sun. At Hotel Del Coronado, guests don’t have to choose between yoga and pool time. Held at the sparkling Cabana Pool, Paddleboard Yoga builds strength, deepens flexibility, and improves balance and coordination. The class is suitable for all fitness levels and is the perfect way to catch some rays while working out.
For the Spa Enthusiast Looking for Non-Traditional Treatments and Services
Massages and facials are wonderful, but there is more to the spa experience than traditional treatments. At Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa, guests can experience the only salt-cave spa in the area. After indulging in a salt stone massage, enter the cave for an inhalation session to experience the mineral-filled microclimate. Waldorf Astoria Orlando boasts the first full-service resort spa in Florida with its own Himalayan Salt Room. After indulging in a therapy session and salt stone massage, guests can relax by the pool or enjoy a cocktail at Peacock Alley.
Many consider Sedona, Arizona the “Spiritual Mecca of the Southwest,” with unique energy believed to come from its famed red rocks. Guests at Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock can tap into their inner spirituality with transformative treatments at eforea spa. Led by the resort’s own energy specialist, Christina Gaglio, the spa includes rituals like sound bowl therapy, numerology, lines of life palm reading, tarot card reading, smudging ceremonies and more.
For more information on the new survey findings and to learn more about what travelers are looking for in 2022, visit stories.hilton.com/summertrends.
Travel Experiences that Connect the Mind, Body and Spirit
Below you’ll find links to additional inspiration for and reading on wellness-focused getaways:
*The Hilton Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 Nationally Representative US Adults Ages 18+, between March 11th and March 16th, 2022, using an email invitation and an online survey. The data was weighted to ensure an accurate representation of US adults ages 18+.
