Luxury Hotels Carve Out Wellness Enclaves For Health-Conscious Travelers

The hassles of travel, whether for business or pleasure, can be taxing on the mind and body. So it’s not surprising that many travelers are seeking ways to stay fit and alleviate stress when they check into hotels, even if only for one night.

In the past, finding a place for an early morning workout—often a subterranean gym without windows—might have been enough. But now, the growing focus on health and wellness has given birth to a new generation of travelers who have upped the ante: They’re willing to pay more for upgraded rooms with extra bells and whistles that promise more relaxation and healthier hotel stays.

To woo these travelers and stand out from the competition, hoteliers are updating guestrooms and public areas. “Owners and managers are selecting healthy designs and materials,” says Bjorn Hanson, an adjunct professor at New York University’s hospitality and tourism center.

He says that these refinements include different flooring, fabrics for draperies and bedding, air purification filters, soundproofing, special lighting, restaurant menus, equipment in fitness centers, health concierges, affiliations with local spas and other health businesses, in-room entertainment content, special events (classes, lectures, etc.), toiletries and even laundry treatments for linens.

Another trend: A number of hotels are carving out exclusive enclaves—whole categories of guestrooms—for the growing number of travelers searching for the proverbial road to wellness.