A BIT SPECIAL?

At Travel Seen we have our finger on the pulse of all things 5-Star travel, and we want to share that expert insight with you.

For 2025 one of our top travel trends is a healthy holiday or wellbeing break; the kind where you can truly switch off and give yourself some much-needed ‘me time’.

We asked our team of luxury holiday aficionados for their top 5 wellbeing holiday trends for 2025. Here’s what they had to say…

1. Discover a wellbeing community

In a post-pandemic world, many still yearn to be with others and to feel part of a community. Healthy holidays of the past often focussed on isolation, peace and a solitary experience. And while those are still trending (see below), travel forecasters like us are seeing a desire for the opposite too; wellbeing breaks which nurture a sense of community, connection and shared experience.

From a natter in a communal sauna, to finding your feet on a group hike, or dining at an easygoing shared table; wellbeing travellers are seeking out retreats which centre on a feeling of coming together.

 2. Nurture relationships alongside wellbeing

As well as finding a place amongst a group of fellow travellers, tourism businesses like ours are also seeing growing popularity for healthy holidays which give time and space to nurture existing relationships.

Whether it’s a Mother & Daughter programme at a stunning Lake Garda spa hotel, or couples’ float therapy and an in-water massage at the iconic blue Lagoon in Iceland; retreats to enhance your health and wellbeing, whilst also giving you space and time to nurture those special relationships in your life, are tipped to be high on the holiday agenda for luxury travellers in 2025.

 3. Support female-specific health concerns

There has been much in the media recently about the need for us all to put greater investment into the female-specific health concerns experienced by women.

The tourism industry is playing its part with tailored retreats where the focus is on improving the mental and physical state of women going through changes in their life. From fertility support to pelvic floor exercises, menopause to conception, top spas and luxury wellness hotels are creating gender-tailored treatment programmes with women’s health at their heart. Examples include Combe Grove in Bath, which has a programme dedicated to women experiencing the menopause. And hot off the press is London’s first postpartum retreat run by Tenth Wellnessout of the über-luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hyde Park.  

 4. Find peace on a calmcation

Whatever you want to call them – quiet escapes, unplugged getaways or a calmcation – travel specialists like Travel Seen are getting requests from their clients for off-grid, silent travel in destinations with little to no noise pollution, whilst staying in technology-free suites.

Activities might include sound healing and sound baths; forest bathing and sound walks; conscious resting and embodied mindfulness.

Alongside is the rise in popularity of hard-to-reach resorts, where night skies dazzle, in-room tech is limited and softly-spoken staff see to your every whim. Tempted? Try One&Only Moonlight Basin.  

 5. Learn something new on a skillcation

Wellbeing retreats and healthy holidays are a great quick fix for supporting you to reboot and recharge. But as the experts at BodyHoliday in St Lucia note, for long-term health benefits, the skills required to keep the healthy habits going long after you come home are required.

That’s where a skillcation is proving popular. With all the benefits of a luxury wellbeing break – fine dining, plush suite, 5-star spa etc – they also include workshops and classes to teach you new wellbeing tricks too: whether it’s something for your mind like guided meditation or painting; or for your body, such as yoga or paddle boarding.  

Inspired to make your next break a wellbeing holiday? Get in touch with our team for their personal insight and a bespoke quote. 

As the new year begins, it’s the perfect moment to plan your ski getaway. Recent reports highlight excellent snow conditions at several premier ski destinations, promising an unforgettable experience for skiers of all abilities.

Top European ski resorts to consider:

Sölden, Austria: Famous for its high-altitude slopes, Sölden features two glaciers and pistes that rise to 3,340 meters, ensuring reliable snow cover throughout the season.

Val d’Isère and Tignes, France: These linked resorts offer a vast selection of pistes for every skill level, along with a lively après-ski atmosphere.

Zermatt, Switzerland: Nestled beneath the stunning Matterhorn, Zermatt presents extensive terrain for intermediate and advanced skiers, complemented by a charming village setting.

Cervinia, Italy: Boasting breathtaking views and well-maintained intermediate pistes, Cervinia promises an enjoyable skiing experience with consistent snow conditions.

Tips for booking your ski holiday:

Keep an eye on snow reports: stay informed about the latest snow conditions to choose a destination that offers the best skiing during your travel dates.

Be flexible with travel plans: Adjusting your travel dates can help you capitalize on the best snow conditions and potential off-peak discounts.

Accommodation choices: From luxurious hotels to cozy chalets, select accommodations that fit your style and budget. Many resorts provide ski-in/ski-out options for added convenience.

Explore local attractions: Enrich your trip by delving into local culture, savouring the cuisine, and participating in off-slope activities like spa treatments, snowshoeing, or sightseeing tours.

With favourable snow conditions and a wide range of outstanding resorts available, now is the ideal time to book your ski holiday and embark on an unforgettable alpine adventure.

The holiday season is an ideal opportunity to discover new locations. Whether you envision soaking up the sun or delighting in snowy

landscapes, there’s a perfect Christmas getaway for everyone. Here are our top choices for both sunny and snowy destinations to make your festive season truly memorable.

Sunny Christmas Getaways

Maldives

Trade in your Christmas sweater for swimwear in the Maldives. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater villas, this spot is a dreamy choice for a warm holiday retreat.

Cape Town, South Africa

Celebrate Christmas with the breathtaking view of Table Mountain and sun-kissed vineyards. Cape Town offers a blend of beach relaxation, scenic hikes, and festive markets, creating a unique holiday experience.

Sydney, Australia

Savor a barbecue on Bondi Beach or immerse yourself in the Christmas celebrations in Sydney’s lively streets. December is summer in Australia, making it an ideal sunny escape.

Snowy Christmas Destinations

Lapland, Finland

Discover the enchantment of Christmas in the land of Santa Claus. From husky sledding to sleeping in glass igloos beneath the Northern Lights, Lapland is the ultimate snowy getaway.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt transforms into a winter wonderland with its snow-laden chalets and some of the finest skiing in the Alps. Be sure to visit the festive Christmas markets for a sprinkle of magic.

Aspen, Colorado, USA

A snowy paradise for ski lovers, Aspen features breathtaking slopes, luxurious lodges, and twinkling lights that create a picture-perfect Christmas atmosphere.

Holidays have a remarkable ability to rejuvenate both mind and body. A change of scenery, a slower pace, and a digital detox can work wonders for wellbeing. Post-Covid-19, many of us have sought wellness retreats or relaxing getaways, and Travel Seen hotels are dedicated to enhancing guest experiences with wellbeing-focused travel.

The Sea’s Healing Powers in the Maldives

At LUX* South Ari Atoll, wellness meets the ocean. Guests staying five nights or more can enjoy “The Sea’s Healing Powers” experience, featuring a marine salt scrub, Maldivian sand poultice massage, Tibetan Singing Bowl therapy on a Dhoni boat, coral planting, paddleboarding, and plant-based cooking with the chef. It’s a holistic retreat designed to relax and recharge.

Feeling Good in Turkey

Hillside Beach Club places wellness at the core of its offerings. With a treetop spa, yoga on Silent Beach (a phone-free zone), and activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports, wellbeing is front and centre. Twice a year, “Feel Good Week” adds extra wellness programs, including fitness workshops, exclusive spa treatments, and mindful dining experiences.

Bespoke Wellness in Antigua

At Carlisle Bay in Antigua, wellness is personalised. Tailored retreats include consultations with practitioners, daily yoga, meditation, and holistic treatments. With yoga mats in every room, an outdoor gym, and ESPA treatments at CARA Organic Beauty Spa, Carlisle Bay is a tranquil escape for total relaxation.

Summer is the ideal opportunity to unwind, bask in the sun, and immerse yourself in engaging podcasts. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, hitting the road, or enjoying a serene evening outdoors, these top summer podcasts will keep you both entertained and inspired.

Beach Reads and Beyond

A must-listen for book enthusiasts, this podcast delves into the most popular summer reads through a combination of author interviews and spoiler-free reviews. Covering genres from romance to thrillers, it serves as your ultimate guide to curating the perfect beach bag full of must-reads.

The Travel Diaries

Ignite your wanderlust with captivating stories from travellers sharing their unforgettable journeys. You’ll find a mix of travel advice, must-visit destinations, and heartwarming cultural exchanges—perfect for planning your next summer adventure.

Sunshine and True Crime

If you enjoy a blend of mystery and summer vibes, this podcast features true crime tales with a fascinating twist. Set against sunny backdrops, each episode reveals gripping stories while maintaining the spirit of a beach day.

Feel Good Fridays

Boost your week with positive stories, self-care strategies, and inspiring interviews. This podcast offers a bright escape for anyone seeking to refresh their mind and spirit.

The Great Outdoors Podcast Embrace the season with episodes designed to inspire a love for nature. Discover hiking trails, outdoor activities, and eco-friendly travel tips to fully enjoy your summer.