Wellness or Woo-Woo? The Trending Experiences Everyone's Trying

"Some experiences promise deep relaxation, others a spiritual jolt, and many are just delightfully woo-woo. From crystal-lined therapy rooms and cacao ceremonies, the modern wellness world, now valued at around $1 trillion and growing, is a fascinating mix of science, ritual, and imagination. Whether you're a seasoned wellness traveler or simply curious, these are the trending experiences that deserve a spot on your radar."

"Mayan temazcals - also known as sweat lodges - involve a shaman pouring infused water on heated rocks, causing steam to engulf the dome-like hut. The experience lasts up to three hours, all in near darkness; singing, chanting, and crying is common. Think: sauna on acid. Hotels across Mexico - Chablé, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, and Amanvari, which is set to open in 2026 - have refined versions."

"As skincare gets ever-more technical, top hotels are bringing leading facialists inhouse: Teresa Tarmey and her arsenal of tools have a residency at Claridge's, and Iván Pol was just at Chenot Palace Weggis. The idea has taken to the skies, too: VistaJet has partnered with Dr Barbara Sturm. Calmcations An evolution of 'fly and flop,' calmcations encourage travelers to switch off: no itineraries, no rules, no stress. Try Four Seasons Resorts Bali or Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for a proper dose of relaxation."

Wellness travel mixes ancient rituals, technical skincare, and relaxation-first retreats across globally branded properties. Temazcals replicate Mayan sweat-lodge ceremonies with shaman-led steam rituals and prolonged near-darkness sessions at resorts including Chablé, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, and Amanvari. Top hotels host facialist residencies—Teresa Tarmey at Claridge's and Iván Pol at Chenot Palace Weggis—and private aviation services partner with clinicians such as Dr Barbara Sturm. Calmcations promote unstructured, screen-free rest at properties like Four Seasons Resorts Bali and Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Cacao ceremonies center handcrafted cacao by sacred cenotes. Clinics offer intimacy programs using hormone analysis, genetics, and physiotherapy, while equine therapy harnesses horses' calming presence.

Read at Elite Traveler