Written by Juergen T Steinmetz
In July 2019, the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) unveiled a nine-point list of assets and attributes that geographic regions of the world should possess before being marketed as Wellness Destinations
Now, the Wellnweaa Tourism Association (WTA) will officially acknowledge and recognize select geographic regions (including towns, provinces, states, and even small countries) of the world that meet set criteria and wish to be officially acknowledged and recognized.
Having met the WTA’s list of requirements, the first destination to be recognized by the WTA is the twin-island country of Antigua & Barbuda. Colin C. James, Chief Executive
Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority says, “We are immensely proud and thrilled with this recognition from the Wellness Tourism Association. Antigua and Barbuda, with our pristine beaches and lush landscapes, offer a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil environments. Coupled with a unique array of wellness activities tailored by professional wellness service providers, our offerings are designed to rejuvenate the body and mind.
Meeting the WTA’s criteria allows us to position Antigua and Barbuda as a premier Wellness Destination.”
With this announcement, the WTA hopes to create a special distinction that recognizes the geographic regions of the world that possess the assets and attributes the association considers to be so important when branded as Wellness Destinations.
Interested tourism boards, CVBs, and DMOs can contact the WTA directly for more information.In the WTA Glossary of Industry Terminology, unveiled in 2018 when the association first launched, a Wellness Destination is defined as a geographical area that fosters and promotes wellness as an integral part of life within the community and economy of the region.
The WTA’s nine-point list of assets and attributes that geographic regions should possess as they look to market themselves to consumers as Wellness Destinations is as follows:
Safe/secure environment in both perception and reality
Acleanandsanitary infrastructure for both locals and visitors
A quality of life for locals who benefit from tourism dollars– e.g. the creation of jobs within the industry and the creation of a market for locally made produce/products/services
Natural assets such as hot springs/mountains/bodies of water/forests/resources for thalassotherapy or other natural assets within the confines of the destination and easily accessible to visitors
Since Wellness Tourism and Wellness Travel encompass wellness for the planet, the destination must have substantial sustainability policies and practices in place
The availability and accessibility of a wide range of wellness professionals and practitioners, including those who offer holistic and alternative modalities.
A selection of hotel restaurants and independent restaurants offering healthful cuisine prepared by chefs committed to clean eating and who work in partnership with local growers
Availability of a range of fitness-based activities and tours– e.g. yoga, hiking, cycling, fitness classes, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding
A physical environment that is somewhat removed from the noise that has become “daily life” in the 21st century.
Anne Dimon, President/CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, says:
“It is vital to the continued growth of wellness tourism that consumers know what awaits them on their travels. WTA sees the nine-point criteria as a necessary foundation for any region of the world, proclaiming itself a ‘Wellness Destination.’”