When you think “travel,” what first comes to mind? Is it visiting family and friends? Planning special moments for your kiddos? Lounging at the beach?
While these are all true, travel can be so much more. Now trip-goers are diving deeper into the “why” of the destinations they’re choosing and how it enriches their overall well-being. So let’s hop on the trendy travel bandwagon and talk about wellness trips!
Solo Travel and Community
Trend: Get outside of your emotional comfort zone and bond with a new group.
Relying on just yourself in new places and situations gives a major confidence boost (score!), but we totally understand that traveling alone can be uncomfortable too. So get the best of both worlds by traveling solo in a group. You’ll be challenged to make new connections, but have all of the support of a niche travel community.
Trips/groups we recommend:
- Walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain with an organized group (pssst…there’s a Women Only trip offered this fall!)
- Book a trip with Wild Terrains. Experience a specially curated, women-only group trip in the U.S. or worldwide. They also make a point of celebrating women-owned businesses in each destination.
Nature immersion
Trend: Get grounded in the outdoors and spend time in nature to reduce stress.
Nothing says “wellness” like some good ol’ fresh air. Sometimes taking in the wonders of Mother Nature and putting on those hiking boots is the best kind of physical and mental recharge needed to power through the day-to day.
National Parks we recommend:
- Banff National Park, Canada. Get the most out of this destination by seeing Moraine Lake at sunrise, hiking the Little Beehive trail (with a pitstop at the Teahouse, of course) and taking in the Canadian Rockies by riding the Banff Gondola. There’s no shortage of trails and outdoorsy activities to do.
- Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine. This coastal escape is “the perfect outdoor playground” in all seasons. Check out unique attractions like the Thunder Hole, wildlife (a great place for whale watching!), and challenging hikes with rung and ladder sections to get that adrenaline going.
Digital Detox
Trend: Quiet your mind by having intentional, screen-free days.
Your PTO has been approved, and you’re ready to have a much-needed break from work. But those email notifications and text alerts are keeping you from being fully present on your trip. A full-proof plan to this? Pick a destination where no one can reach you. Cut the distractions by forcing disconnection.
Places we recommend:
- Stay in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. Because of this accommodation’s remote location (right in the middle of the water), it’s the perfect place to unplug. With an electricity curfew at night to conserve energy, embrace letting go of technology and taking in your surroundings
- Glamp with Under Canvas. We stayed at their Smoky Mountains location and had the ultimate “camping” experience. Little to no cell service, prime stargazing time, and the opportunity to go old school and build a stove fire in our tent. The organization does a great job of offering lots of programming on site so you don’t even miss your phone.
Wellness + Cultural Healing
Trend: Combine cultural learning with wellness practices.
As spiritual wellness continues to trend toward more intentional experiences, many travelers are looking beyond traditional retreats and toward transformative journeys.
Check out:
Work with a shaman in the Peruvian Andres to slow down, reconnect with nature and learn about ancient healing practices.
Thermal Baths & Hot Springs Healing
Trend: Travelers seeking healing waters for stress relief, sleep improvement, and self-care.
We recommend:
- Iceland: Check out the Blue Lagoon. Named one of the 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic, this destination is popular for a reason. *Make sure to book tickets in advance.
- Budapest: A slightly less well-known thermal bath hotspot, Budapest is full of amazing options. Warm-up on a winter day before heading to the Christmas markets or head to Széchenyi Baths any Saturday of the year for a night party with a DJ.
Active Travel & Movement-Based Trips
Trend: Movement-driven trips—explore in ways that energize both body and mind.
Looking for a trip that’s truly unique and active? If you have the flexibility to work remotely or take extended time away, consider applying for a three-month Muay Thai visa in Thailand.
- Whether you’re a complete beginner or ready to level up your training, gyms in Bangkok offer 12-week programs that bundle daily training sessions with accommodation, making it easy to immerse yourself fully. It’s an unforgettable blend of discipline and adventure—where intense workouts meet vibrant street life and rich culture.
Slow Travel & Minimalist Itineraries
Trend: Less is more — slow travel that emphasizes local immersion and quality over quantity.
Wellness travel is increasingly inspired by the art of slow living. With leisurely meals, walkable towns, seaside siestas, and a deep appreciation for balance, these Mediterranean escapes invite you to unplug, savor the moment, and embrace a pace of life that prioritizes presence over productivity.
- Porto, Portugal is the perfect place for slow strolls along the Douro river, taking in a fado show from a port wine cellar, and enjoying a pastel de nata and conversation at a cozy café.
- Sevilla, Spain – the perfect place to take in orange-tree-lined plazas, afternoon tapas, flamenco evenings, and a culture that honors the siesta.
- Florence, Italy – meander through Tuscan vineyards, enjoy slow mornings sipping on cappuccinos, stroll through museums, Tuscan wine tastings, and celebrate the simple pleasures of life.
Wellness travel is no longer just about spa days and green smoothies—it’s about choosing experiences that nourish your body, expand your mindset, and reconnect you to what matters most. Whether that means seeking active adventure, embracing slow Mediterranean living, seeking spiritual grounding in the mountains, or unplugging from the chaos, today’s wellness trends reflect a desire for deeper, more intentional travel. In 2026 and beyond, the most meaningful trips won’t just change your scenery—they’ll change you.
About Sippin’ Sangria
Caroline and Lexa are a traveling duo who have visited several local, U.S., and international destinations together. Through these adventures, they’ve learned the ins and outs of traveling with friends and love connecting with other female travelers. When they’re not booking their next flight, Lexa and Caroline plan trips – honeymoons, girlfriend getaways, weekend trips, etc. Find them at www.sippinsangria.com.
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