Top Wellness Destinations in 2022

The past couple of years have not exactly been the best ones in terms of travel. As we continue to spend the majority of our time in one place, our restlessness for packing our suitcases and falling off the face of the earth for a couple of weeks only grows. As tourism slowly bounces back from the slump and opportunities to explore the world multiply, the demand for wellness holidays will skyrocket. It’s never too early to get some inspiration and plan your holiday so that you can get on the move as soon as travel restrictions are lifted. Here are some of the top wellness destinations worth considering this year.

Relaxing beach walks in the Algarve, Portugal

The first destination to consider for a wellness trip that will recharge your soul is the southernmost region of Portugal, the Algarve. While the Algarve is rather popular, especially among Europeans looking for a relaxing beach holiday, it still manages to retain its authenticity and immense beauty. Well-known for its abundance of breathtaking beaches, you will always be able to find a secluded spot and spend a moment enjoying the sound of waves. For those looking for an active holiday to energize themselves, Algarve also has a number of walking and cycling paths that will show you around. And, of course, we must mention another notable appeal of visiting this sunny coastline: wellness centers and spas will make your stay a true delight.

Experience authentic culture in Kanagawa, Japan

Kanagawa prefecture in Japan may bring forth pictures of metropolises like Yokohama, but the fact of the matter is that this region offers the perfect place for quiet relaxation. Amply close to the capital (just an hour’s trip from Tokyo), you can marvel at mountain views, explore Zen temples and Shinto shrines, and, naturally, soak at an authentic onsen. Head to Hakone Yumoto for some of the best hot springs of the country: you can check out Yoshiike Ryokan for a magnificent Japanese garden that will channel real tranquility. 

Get lost in the lush greenery of Costa Rica

If, rather than the balanced tranquility of Japanese Zen, relaxation for you means the unruly depths of nature, buy your tickets to Costa Rica. This island in Central America has fought for its status as one of the best wellness destinations in the world, combining lush, untouched nature with the utmost luxury of spa resorts, letting you experience the best of both worlds. Yoga enthusiasts can get lost in the canopies at Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort while those who want to immerse themselves in nature and endless sea views may book their stay at El Silencio Lodge and Spa. During your holiday, don’t miss out on getting close to the amazing fauna of this island by visiting some of the best animal sanctuaries 

Explore a different world in Iceland

If soaking is still your favorite way of relaxing, another destination you can consider adding to your bucket list is certainly Iceland. Iceland is not simply a country with beautiful nature. Its black sand beaches and colorful night skies are almost otherworldly and a visit to this place can easily become a life-changing experience. It offers a chance both to sit back in steaming hot water and get pampered with massages afterward, and a chance to live a real adventure hiking dramatic landscapes and exploring volcanoes and waterfalls. Forgetting about your phone and doing a total digital detox, which is one of the biggest wellness travel trends of today, will not be difficult here. You don’t even have to go far from the capital for breathtaking views: the newly opened Blue Lagoon spa resort is just a couple of minutes from Reykjavik. 

Explore the ocean’s wonders in Western Australia

The natural world around us is nothing short of incredible and simply taking some time to really look at it and experience it can put a lot of things into perspective. The continent of Australia is a perfect place to restore your sense of wonder as it has a truly unique and diverse fauna you won’t find anywhere else in the world! But skip the cities and crowded zoos and instead, head to Western Australia and explore the wonders of the southern coastline. This is a premium location for getting up-close with some of the most amazing creatures of the world through blood-pumping whale watching tours, but there are also plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy good wine in the nearby wine region of Margaret River. You will likely see a variety of dry-land animals along the way, too!

Connect with your spirituality in Bali, Indonesia

Finally, this list would simply not be complete without this quintessential wellness travel destination, where rainforests teeming with ancient temples and yoga retreats offer you a way back to your inner self. Bali, one of Indonesia’s most popular provinces in the eyes of tourists, is more than just a surf paradise; it’s a spiritual experience in and of itself. Pick an eco-conscious resort, like Fiveelements, and connect with yourself and nature while meditating and indulging in healing treatments. No matter how comfortable your accommodation is, don’t hesitate to go out and explore the island, though. Green rice terraces and colorful underwater flora and fauna await every curious traveler.

After such a both mentally and physically tiring time as this one, we all need some time to focus on our well-being and simply turn off for a while. A wellness destination can be the perfect place for this. Experience rejuvenation at an all-inclusive spa resort or get lost in the beauty of nature while moving your muscles. One thing is certain: you cannot go wrong with any of the aforementioned destinations.