Experts Offer Tips to Find the Best Wellness Retreat

Wellness travel continues to surge, but not all retreats are created equal, say industry leaders.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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As the wellness travel industry grows, experts advise travelers to look beyond just spa treatments and amenities when choosing a wellness retreat. They recommend finding retreats that thoughtfully integrate wellness throughout the entire guest experience, with flexibility to choose from both active and restorative activities. Factors like the retreat's environment, quality of therapists, and personalized approach are also key to a meaningful wellness getaway.

Why it matters

Wellness retreats have become increasingly popular, but with so many options, it can be challenging for travelers to find one that truly meets their needs. These expert tips can help consumers navigate the wellness travel landscape and identify retreats that will provide a truly restorative experience.

The details

Experts say the best wellness retreats don't just offer a spa menu, but thoughtfully integrate wellness throughout the entire guest experience. This can include opportunities for movement, rest, and indulgence, as well as personalized guidance from skilled therapists. Retreats should also consider the environment, with features like open air, natural landscapes, and quiet spaces to enhance relaxation. Quality indicators like thermal experiences and a retreat's ability to adapt to guests' needs in the moment are also important.

  • The wellness travel industry has seen significant growth in recent years.

The players

Amaury Piedra

Vice president of operations and managing director of Caribe Royale Orlando Resort in Florida.

Ashley Quarles

Director of guest experience and wellness at Hotel Viata in Austin, Texas.

Thomas Inasu

Hotel manager of the Marriott Marquis Houston.

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What they’re saying

“When choosing a wellness retreat, travelers should look beyond a single spa treatment and consider how wellness is woven into the entire stay. The best hotels for wellness getaways offer flexibility—spaces and experiences that balance movement, rest, and indulgence.”

— Amaury Piedra, Vice president of operations and managing director of Caribe Royale Orlando Resort (Newsweek)

“Travelers should look for intention first. The best wellness retreats aren't defined by the number of amenities offered, but by how thoughtfully those experiences are curated to support restoration. A meaningful retreat creates space to slow down, reset, and feel cared for, rather than overwhelming guests with programming.”

— Ashley Quarles, Director of guest experience and wellness at Hotel Viata (Newsweek)

“Effective personalization means meeting guests where they are, then guiding them toward activities that support both immediate restoration and long‑term well‑being.”

— Thomas Inasu, Hotel manager of the Marriott Marquis Houston (Newsweek)

The takeaway

As the wellness travel industry continues to grow, these expert tips can help consumers identify retreats that will provide a truly restorative experience, beyond just amenities and spa treatments. The best wellness retreats thoughtfully integrate wellness throughout the entire guest stay, with flexibility, personalization, and a focus on both immediate and long-term well-being.