Wellness & Sustainability Tourism

In recent years, a growing number of travellers are turning their holiday time into an opportunity to rejuvenate not only themselves but also the planet. Wellness and sustainability tourism has emerged as a beacon of hope for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a holistic approach to travel that benefits both personal health and environmental wellbeing.

Why the Shift Towards Wellness and Sustainability?

The allure of wellness and sustainability tourism lies in its ability to marry the rejuvenation of the mind, body, and spirit with eco-friendly practices. Travellers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices and are opting for travel options that promote ecological conservation and social responsibility. This shift is also propelled by a rising awareness of health, influenced by the global wellness movement that advocates for holistic health practices, including yoga, meditation, and organic diets.

The benefits of choosing wellness and sustainability tourism are manifold. For the individual, it offers a chance to detoxify, relax, and reconnect with nature, often leading to reduced stress and improved mental health. From an environmental perspective, sustainable travel practices help reduce carbon footprints, conserve wildlife, and support local communities, making a significant contribution towards the conservation of our planet.

Global Trends and Statistics

The global demand for wellness and sustainability tourism is on the rise. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness tourism sector is projected to grow at a rate of 7.5% annually, significantly outpacing the overall tourism industry. This burgeoning interest is supported by an increasing number of travellers, especially millennials, who prioritise experiences that promote health and sustainability.

Statistics also show that sustainable travel options are becoming more popular. A recent survey revealed that 72% of travellers are actively choosing more environmentally friendly travel options than they did five years ago. Destinations that offer a combination of wellness and ecological awareness are seeing higher visitor satisfaction rates and repeat visits.

In the Spotlight: Six Senses Samui

A prime example of how luxury and sustainability can coexist is the Six Senses Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand. Known for its spectacular views and exceptional service, the resort has also carved out a niche for itself in the realms of wellness and eco-centricity.

The minute guests step into the resort, they are enveloped in an ethos of sustainability. Its hard to look beyond the crystal blue waters and lush forest surrounds, but when you do, you will start to see evidence of their commitment to the environment. From the use of recycled timber all over the resort to the subtle table decorations that are adorned with recycled glass. Even the outdoor gym has dumbbells made from recycled timber!

The resort's commitment to the environment is also evident in its operational practices and the inclusion of a fulltime Sustainability Manager (say hi to Aorn Sillapasathitwong).

Farm on the Hill

Literally a farm on premises, it plays host to goats, chickens and ducks, as well as sustainable operational practices, minimising the resort’s environmental footprint.

Examples of how circularity is successfully implemented in the hotel operations includes:

• The goats are fed (and hence dispose of) pruning and leaves collected from around the resort. Their droppings are used in the resort’s onsite compost process.

• Black fly lava breakdown food waste. The lava are fed to the farm’s poultry, which in turn produce eggs for the resort’s kitchens. In fact, you can collect your own eggs from the farm in the morning for the chef to cook up your favourite omelette!

• Compost is produced at the farm and the onsite furnace is fed recycled timber producing charcoal used in the resort’s kitchens.

• The farm produces the resort’s own cleaning products and grey water supply.

• The farm boasts an herb garden, mushroom growing house and fruit trees.

• Excess produce from the farm is sold at local Farmer’s Markets, with 10 percent of all profits going directly to local community initiatives.

Precision Air Conditioning (PAC)

PAC is a system that precisely controls the temperature and humidity levels within the resort’s rooms. They absorb hot air and release cool air in return. The absorbed heat is stored and later used to heat the water in the room.

Plastic Free

As plastic has become a worldwide issue, Six Senses Samui launched a plastic banning campaign. Staff carry stainless steel water bottles and cotton bags. On the supplier side, they have drafted a plastic banning policy to avoid single-use plastic and switch to better alternatives such as cloth bags or reusable containers.

Community Engagement & Social Responsibility

Community engagement is the heart of Six Senses Samui. As active members of the community, they continuously support, educate and join in several environmental activities. This includes beach cleaning with Trash Hero's, local school projects (Fix’s & Improvements), community markets, tree planting and much more. In addition, they provide funding and hands to supply hospitals and schools with much needed equipment.

Water conservation measures, waste reduction strategies, natural versus chemical pesticides and the use of renewable energy sources are examples of the resorts operational practices and policies.

Be Well

But it's not just about the environment; wellness is at the core of the Six Senses experience. The resort offers a plethora of wellness activities designed to elevate the physical, mental, and spiritual health of its guests. These include:

• Guided Meditation Sessions

• Yoga Classes

• Bike Rides

• Thai Healing Therapy

• Onsite Gym & Sauna

• Non-Motorised Watersports

• Alchemy Workshop (make your own natural body scrub!)

• Spa Treatments (utilise natural and organic products)

Yum!

The culinary offerings at the resort are also geared towards health, featuring menus that focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients and featuring the resort's own produce from its Farm on the Hill.

Try a Thai Cooking Class or design your own cocktail using ingredients from the resorts farm in the Garden to Glass Workshop.

As we look to the future, wellness and sustainability tourism is not just a trend but a transformative movement that is reshaping the travel industry. Resorts like Six Senses Samui are leading the way, proving that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand. For travellers seeking a holiday that offers relaxation, rejuvenation, and a sense of responsibility towards the planet, wellness and sustainability tourism is the perfect choice!

Date: June 24; Chris Rabba