Americans are dreaming of rest, relaxation and wellness as they travel — at least, that’s what recent data from Skyscanner indicates. According to its latest survey, wellness travel is right on trend for 2022, with top destinations ranging from U.S. locations such as California to international locales including Costa Rica.
Wellness Travel Trends for 2022
The Skyscanner report — which polled more than 1,000 Americans in April— found that 33% of American travelers are dreaming of taking an “ultimate relaxation” trip in 2022, with another third of respondents (29%) wishing for a “wellness holiday.” What’s more, 24% of Americans indicate that travel has a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being.
"It's clear that the pandemic, and its associated lockdowns, continue to have a ripple effect on how travelers want to spend their holidays, with relaxation [being] the activity highest on the agenda for 33% of American travelers,” said Naomi Hahn, vice president of strategy for Skyscanner.
In addition to relaxation, travelers are interested in cultural exploration (21%) and food (18%) on their vacations.
Top Wellness Travel Destinations
According to Skyscanner, top destinations for wellness travel include tranquil locations that are trending above pre-pandemic levels. In the U.S., California is seeing a rise in interest for 2022, particularly when it comes to Santa Barbara and Santa Monica. Sedona, Ariz., is another top choice.
Skyscanner also notes that the increased demand for these destinations is most likely the result of a pandemic-related rise in interest in domestic travel, paired with attributes such as serene landscapes and an abundance of restorative opportunities to improve spiritual, physical and mental well-being.
Internationally, wellness-seekers are currently showing strong interest in Costa Rica, thanks to its natural landscapes and laidback lifestyle. Athens, Greece, is also on trend as a jumping off point for the country’s diverse offerings — including its famed islands, which boast plenty of options for restoration in nature and top-notch wellness resorts.
"The holistic benefits of travel are well documented, with 36% of American respondents sharing that travel had a positive impact on both their mental and emotional well-being,” Hahn said. “The destinations trending for American travelers in 2022 — the likes of Costa Rica, Greece and domestic wellness hotspots California and Arizona — reflect that heightened demand for destinations with relaxation at heart.”
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