Healthy holidays: 50 best wellness retreats, spas and feel-good destinations

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Healthy holidays: 50 best wellness retreats, spas and feel-good destinations

By Sheriden Rhodes
Reggaelates at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa.

Reggaelates at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa.

We've come a long way since wellness travel involved packing runners in case you could squeeze in an early morning jog, or goggles for a few laps of a chlorine-rich pool. If you were really lucky, perhaps it was a Swedish massage at a rudimentary hotel spa, a gym work out or round of golf.

Now wellness travel is booming, and continues to gather momentum, as those of us living in developed countries seek to calm our nervous systems, eat and sleep better, move more, be mindful and even curb our growing smartphone addiction. "Wellness travel gives a huge dose of what's missing in people's lives, and the inspiration to add wellness into daily life back home," says Amatara Wellness Resort director Phoebe Boonkerd.

Increasingly, travel offers the opportunity to put aside the stress of modern life and try something that makes you feel good. For some that might be a cycle through Sri Lanka's emerald rice fields; for others it's the bliss of an Indian head massage. No matter whether your bent is running through Angkor's temples at sunrise, taking flight with an anti-gravity yoga class, grooving through a reggaelate class (it's a thing) or unleashing your inner Viking on a Norwegian fjord trek, our annual feel good 50 list is bound to make you feel truly alive.

1. TRY AQUA YOGA AT BALI'S LAVISH NEW WELLNESS RETREAT

Aqua Fitmat Yoga at Revivo Bali.

Aqua Fitmat Yoga at Revivo Bali.

The newly-opened Revivo's aqua yoga fitmat class builds strength, deepens flexibility, and improves balance and coordination. An unexpected benefit is its ability to narrow attention down to one thing – making sure you don't fall in. Try it at the lavish new Revivo in the former Amanusa. See revivoresorts.com

2. NEW MOON TREATMENT AT CAPELLA UBUD

The new lunar cycle is a time for renewal and introspection, thus Capella Ubud's signature new moon treatment is designed with rejuvenation in mind. A revitalising seaweed and eucalyptus salt scrub and warming seaweed wrap concludes with a full body massage delivered in heavenly Bill Bensley-designed spa tents. See capellahotels.com/en/capella-ubud

3. BORN TO RUN AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES JACKSON HOLE

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A backdrop of snow-dusted mountains, wildlife and wildflowers entices runners off the treadmill and into the great outdoors at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Renowned running coach Eric Orton leads the resort's running clinics, or book in for a private run through the park's incredible trail network. See fourseasons.com/jacksonhole

4. TRY REGGAELATES IN JAMAICA

Reggaelates, the new fitness craze, at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa.

Reggaelates, the new fitness craze, at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa.

Work up a sweat as you groove your way through the new fitness craze, reggaelates, at Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa. The island-inspired fitness routine is a mash-up of yoga, Pilates and Jamaican dance set to the musical stylings of Bob Marley and other local legends. See jewelgrande.com

5. FEEL LIKE A GODDESS AS YOU TREK LARAPINTA

Harness your inner yogi while taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Tjorita-West MacDonnell Ranges. The three-day, women-only Larapinta Goddess Walk combines morning yoga and meditation to the tune of local birdlife with invigorating walks that take in the beauty of Australia's remote desert trek. See worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking-Guided/Larapinta-Goddess-Walk

6. HIT THE SURF AT THE NEW COMO UMA CANGGU

The great thing about surfing with Como Uma Canggu and Tropicsurf in Bali, is not the expert guides, nor the new equipment – although both are great – but rather the post-surf session at the fabulous Como Beach Club. After surfing one of six surf breaks with Swedish instructor CJ Kimmell, tuck into a carbohydrate-refuelling red rice nasi goreng and freshly squeezed juice poolside. You'll feel incredible. See comohotels.com

7. HORSEBACK RIDE IN THE HIGH SIERRA

Sierra Nevada Mountains, California. Photo: Markus Thomenius / Alamy

Traverse granite staircases, ride dirt tails and take in stunning vistas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains by horseback. Riders can saddle up for mountain treks and alpine meadow excursions in Yosemite National Park from May through to September, just like the country's first settlers. See kennedymeadows.com

8. WALK YOUR WAY ACROSS JAPAN'S WINTER WONDERLAND

Explore the customs, traditions, and barely touched terrain of Japan's lesser-known rural areas as russet autumn colours are blanketed by snow. By day travellers (a maximum group of 12) walk through charming rustic villages and communities steeped in tradition, retiring by night to traditional Japanese inns, or ryokans for authentic regional cuisine and soaks in hot spring baths. See walkjapan.com

9. INDULGE IN DAILY WELLNESS TREATMENTS AT BAWAH RESERVE

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia.

Hike untouched rainforest, kayak or paddle between five islands, and take advantage of inclusive daily spa treatments at this new barefoot luxury eco retreat. Located in the heart of the Indonesian Anambas Archipelago, Bawah offers pristine beaches, crystal lagoons, eco-designed luxury tents, and a holistic wellness centre with yoga, massages and spa treatments factored into the room rate. See bawahreserve.com

10. RUN THROUGH ANGKOR'S JUNGLE-CLAD TEMPLES

Lace up your runners as dawn breaks over Angkor's jungle-clad temples. Starting and ending at Angkor Wat, and winding through the park's most significant historical sites, your run is led by a personal tuk tuk, with hydration and healthy snacks on hand. Afterwards, take a personalised tour of the eighth wonder of the world with Anantara Angkor Resort's resident temple guru. See anantara.com/en/angkor-siem-reap

11. TAKE A CLASS WITH THE MADONNA OF YOGA ATOP ASPEN MOUNTAIN

Upside down with the Madonna of Yoga in Aspen.

Jayne Gottlieb, aka the "Madonna of Yoga", leads outdoor yoga classes atop Aspen Mountain overlooking the beautiful Elk Mountain Range. Classes are offered five days a week throughout summer at the Little Nell's wedding deck (yoga mat provided). Otherwise find Jayne at her studio Aspen Shakti. aspensnowmass.com

12. INDULGE IN SLEEP THERAPY AT 137 PILLARS HOTELS AND RESORTS THAILAND

A good night's sleep fixes everything right? Experience deep, restorative sleep under the guidance of group spa consultant, Roger Moore (aka 00137). The blissful, 90-minute ritual prepares the mind and body for quality sleep. Available at 137's Bangkok and Chiang Mai properties in spa or (for suite guests only) in-room See 137pillarshotels.com

13. UNLIMITED SPA TIME AT FUSION MAIA DANANG RESORT

Fusion Maia Da Nang.

Fusion Maia Da Nang.

The luxe new Fusion Maia Da Nang claims to be the first Asian resort to offer all spa treatments (well, at least two treatments guaranteed per day, per guest) included in the regular room rate. Try a warming coconut wrap, a balancing foot massage or holistic and blissful head therapy. Afterwards unwind by the spa's own swimming pool. See fusionresorts.com/fusionmaiadanang

14. TAI CHI AND TEA IN HONG KONG

Start the day with a tai chi class along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, learn about feng shui, tea making and etiquette while sampling Hong Kong's famous Kung Fu tea. This living culture tour explores how traditional eastern values co-exist in harmony with the city's fast-paced Western influences. See discoverhongkong.com

15. TAKE FLIGHT WITH ANTI-GRAVITY YOGA FOUR SEASONS JIMBARAN

Who knew hanging like a vampire could be so fun? Replicating the hand stands and backflips executed by your anti-gravity yoga instructor looks daunting, but before you know it, you're upside down supported by your strong hammock. Overlooking the calm waters of Jimbaran Bay, the hour-long class gets you out of your comfort zone, is super fun and culminates with a blissful shavasana. See fourseasons.com/jimbaranbay

16. BLISS OUT WITH AN INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE

Anyone who spends hours hunched over a computer, will love this life-changing Ayurvedic massage at Amatara Wellness Resort's phenomenal wellness centre in Phuket. Focusing primarily on releasing tension in the tissues of the head, neck and shoulders, warm oil is massaged into your hair and scalp, releasing mental stress and strain. See amataraphuket.com

17. TAKE A LUXURY SPA BREAK AT THE NEW RETREAT AT BLUE LAGOON ICELAND

Enjoy exclusive access to Iceland's most visited attraction at the luxe new Retreat at Blue Lagoon. Built on ancient lava flow, the 62-suite Retreat offers private access to its own lagoon with geothermal water and secluded lava canyons, as well as the main pool surrounded by moss-covered magma fields. Bathe in a cold well, enjoy a purified hot steam or relax in suspended nest chairs. See bluelagoon.com

18. BECOME A YOGA TEACHER DURING A MONTH-LONG STAY AT SONEVA KIRI

Could this be the ultimate way to gain your yoga teacher credentials? Soneva Kiri, on the unspoiled Thai island of Koh Kood, is offering a 28-night yoga teacher training program at its Six Senses Spa this November. The package includes teacher training qualifications, private room and en suite bathroom in luxe shared accommodation, half board and butler service. See soneva.com/soneva-kiri

19. CONNECT WITH THE SEA AT CELEBRITY EDGE'S NEW SPA

Experience new heights of relaxation in Celebrity Edge's lavish new 2000-square-metre spa. Launching in December, the Kelly Hoppen-designed spa aims to connect passengers with the sea, and will include a crystalarium, ocean spa wave massage, sea thermal suite, hammam, salt room and more. See celebritycruises.com/edge/spa

20. HIKE SIX MOUNTAINS IN A DAY ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Not for the faint-hearted, this challenging experience takes on six peaks (over 10 hours). The mountains include Mount Cooroora – home to the annual "King of the mountain" – through to the chiselled rock staircase of Mount Coolum. Your calves will burn; your sense of accomplishment will soar. See experientiasunshinecoast.com.au

21. EMBARK ON THE GREAT TASMANIAN TRAVERSE

Traverse the entire length of the Apple Isle on this epic wilderness expedition covering some of the world's most remote and beautiful wilderness. Raft the Franklin River, trek Tasmania's pristine world heritage regions, and take a scenic flight over the West Coast. Designed for experienced hikers, the 39-day adventure is guided by specialist walking operator Tasmanian Expeditions. See greattasmaniantraverse.com

22. EAT CHOCOLATE AND BURN IT OFF WHILE CYCLING SWITZERLAND

Research confirms that chocolate is good for the heart, circulation and brain, while cycling is good for mental and physical health. Combine the two and you have an adventure Willy Wonka could not have planned better himself. Cycle quiet country roads, past ethereal lakes and through magical forests on this self-guided tour that visits two Swiss chocolate factories. You even get to create your own chocolate bar. See utracks.com

23. GO WITH THE FLOW OVERLOOKING THE NOOSA RIVER

Practise Pilates in a dreamy all-white space overlooking the Noosa River. This boutique studio is owned and run by Claire Toone, who formerly instructed in London, Paris, Zermatt and New York. State-of-the-art reformer beds and small-size classes make it ideal for everyone from beginners to Pilates junkies. See noosaflow.com

24. JOIN A MOUNTAIN BIKE SAFARI IN ESWATINI

Forego the traditional 4x4 safari and discover the phenomenal Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) by pedal power. The half-day bike safari takes riders through the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary as part of an overland camping tour from the bushveld of Kruger to the beaches of Kwazulu Natal. Cyclists take in mountainous landscapes and wildlife ranging from hippo, wildebeest, and the rare Suni antelope. See acacia-africa.com

25. MEDITATE IN BHUTAN

Join a meditation session in a spectacular temple in Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom set in peaceful seclusion amid the mighty Himalayas. Here prayer flags flutter in crisp alpine winds, ancient Buddhist temples hug dramatic cliffs and red-robed monks live simply as they have for centuries. See boundlessjourneys.com/asia/bhutan/

26. CRUISE A SACRED RIVER AND SPA AT THE FOOT OF THE HIMALAYAS

Immerse yourself in India's ancient wellness and wellbeing principals on this new fly-cruise-spa package, departing Australia in November. Highlights include a cruise along the sacred Brahmaputra River, a week-long stay at a luxury spa at the foot of the Himalayas, a safari in search of the single-horned Indian rhino, and a trek to Kunjapuri mountain – one of India's most revered, ancient sites. See cruisetraveller.com.au/mahabaahu

27. ONSEN HOP IN A JAPANESE HOT SPRING TOWN

Onsen hop to your heart's desire in Kinosaki Onsen, one of Japan's best hot spring towns. Built around the sacred natural hot springs, the quaint town offers seven public bathhouses, including cave baths and ice saunas. Best of all they're all within walking distance of each other, and if you're staying in local ryokans you can access all seven baths for free. See visitkinosaki.com

28. SWIM IN SACRED POOLS AT COMO SHAMBHALA ESTATE

Even if you're not staying at this revered holistic retreat overlooking the Ayung River, you can still experience its sublime spa and natural pools. After a spa treatment, descend the 300 steps for a dip in the retreat's own sacred springs that look out over the fast-flowing river and dense jungle. The ascent is hard going, but worth every single step. See comohotels.com

29. TRY A THERMAL INFUSION FACIAL AT ANCHORAGE PORT STEPHENS

Facials are far from run of the mill at the Anchorage Port Stephen's luxe Spa Lucca. Arrive early, don an Italian linen robe and take full advantage of the hydro suite that includes a jacuzzi and steam room. The signature thermal infusion facial incorporates a guided meditation and heated Sodashi natural clay and mineral salt mask. Afterwards sip herbal tea on the deck of the relaxation lounge feeling born again. spalucca.com.au

30. CYCLE AND SOAK IN HOT TUBS ALONG THE ALPS2OCEAN

Hot tubs, snowcapped mountains, ethereal lakes and star gazing await on this phenomenal 301-kilometre cycle trail. Cycle sections of the trail, stopping for lunch by shimmering lakes with a backdrop of snow-dusted alps. At day's end soak weary legs in hot tubs filled with glacier water and stay in accommodation designed for star gazing. See alps2ocean.com

31. SNOGA AT VICTORIA'S FALL CREEK

This hybrid skiing (or snowboarding) yoga retreat next month will leave you feeling energised and sleeping like a log. Start the day with vinyasa yoga by the wood fire, tuck into healthy and hearty food, hit Fall's Creeks beautiful ski trails, and end the day with a restorative yin practice. A week in the fresh mountain air will leave you feeling fabulous. See trackers.com.au/yoga-retreats-falls-creek

32. INDULGE IN A 24-CARAT GOLD FACIAL IN DUBAI

Dubai, well known for its extravagant shows of wealth, is also home to the 24-carat gold mask, possibly the world's most extravagant facial. Applied and absorbed completely by the skin with two special serums, you'll feel like Cleopatra. See biolitedubai.com/our-services/skin/24-karat-gold/

33. CYCLE SRI LANKA'S RICE PADDY FIELDS

Cycle through verdant rice fields, stop for a fresh coconut juice and finish with a cooling swim. This two-and-a-half hour guided tour takes you off the beaten track, learning about Sri Lanka's agriculture, religion and culture; refuelling halfway with a thambili (coconut). End with a dip and a celebratory cocktail at either Kahanda Kanda or KK Beach hotel, just outside of Galle Fort. See kkcollection.com

34. SALUTE THE SUN ONBOARD MEKONG KINGDOMS GYPSY AS YOU SAIL THE MIGHTY MEKONG

Practise yoga at the boat's bow, or on a private sand bank as you sail between the ancient Laos capital of Luang Prabang and Thailand's Golden Triangle. Afterwards recline on a bamboo daybed with a fresh coconut juice aboard Mekong Kingdoms' sumptuous new, 41-metre, two-cabin Gypsy, in partnership with luxury hotel brand Anantara. See mekongkingdoms.com/gypsy-detail

35. EXPERIENCE A FRANKINCENSE RITUAL

Steeped in ancient myths and fringed with pristine beaches, shady palm trees and sun-kissed waters, Oman's luxurious new Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara invites guests to experience a "frankincense ritual". Delivered by two therapists in the resort's luxe spa, the 90-minute treatment uses the distinctive essence in the massage oil, scent burners and even an infused tea. See anantara.com/en/al-baleed-salalah

36. EMBARK ON A DESERT DREAM

Walk, dance, stretch and meditate in the cool morning air while watching an unforgettable sunrise over Uluru. Connect with nature during this new week-long Desert Dreaming yoga retreat held at Ayers Rock Resort and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Other highlights include al fresco desert dining, massage and spa therapies. See ayersrockresort.com.au/events/detail/desert-dreaming-yoga-retreat

37. EXPERIENCE REEF AND RAINFOREST WHILE GAINING YOUR PADI DIVE CERTIFICATION

This new scuba retreat teaches participants all about effective breathing – the foundation for both scuba and yoga. Guests stay at the Cassowary, set in verdant rainforest behind Port Douglas, eat healthy cuisine and practise daily yoga. They also gain PADI certification while learning to dive on the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, aboard their own private vessel. See facebook.com/luxurygonegreen

38. HAVE A GOOD HAIR DAY AT THE FAMED LE SALON A PARIS

It's not often Nobel Prize and hair salon are seen in the same sentence. Step inside David Mallett's famed Parisian salon, ascend the opulent staircase and submit your tresses for the much hyped Tokyo treatment. The 60-minute, four-step, deep-hair treatment uses a Nobel Prize-winning molecule ''Fullerene", that will allegedly change your life. Or at least your hair's life, and that's kind of the same thing. See david-mallett.com

39. WALK THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION

Go against the tide (literally, we're talking 300,000 pilgrims) and walk the famed Way of Saint James from south to north. The 100-kilometre scenic Camino Mozarabe traces the ancient route taken by Christians that lived under Islamic rule in Al-Andalus. Walkers stay in boutique hotels and farmhouse accommodation, experiencing wonderful Andalucian meals and authentic experiences enroute. See tomaandcoe.com

40. SLEEP IN AN ENERGY POD AT KATA ROCKS PHUKET

Step into the futuristic looking Energy Pod, a chair-helmet contraption, and leave the world behind. After being lulled to sleep (or at least into a comatose state) by soothing sounds, Thai spa therapists deliver a foot therapy treatment using acupressure points, energising immune and circulatory systems, as well as reducing water retention and puffiness. See katarocks.com

41. SPA FROM DUSK TO DAWN AT SHANGRI-LA'S FIJIAN RESORT AND SPA

Is this the ultimate sleepover for adults? The 3000-square-metre "Chi" spa at Shangri-La's the Fijian Resort, offers the remarkable ''Dusk till Dawn" package. Start with Himalayan bath therapy under the stars, followed by a skin polish and traditional Bobo massage before drifting off to sleep in your beachfront spa bure. When you wake the next morning, you'll be served a light breakfast before a customised facial. See shangri-la.com/yanucaisland/fijianresort/

42. GET WELL ON WORLD HERITAGE-LISTED LORD HOWE ISLAND

Yogi to the stars Charlotte Dodson leads wellness weeks at the historic Pinetrees Lodge, including daily yoga, aerobic fitness classes, low-calorie cooking and organic gardening classes. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing, walking and biking are also on the menu, along with all meals, organic wine tasting and a chance to digitally disconnect (the island has no mobile phone reception). See pinetrees.com.au

43. RELEASE YOUR INNER VIKING ON A NORWEGIAN FJORD TREK

Unleash your inner viking on this Norwegian fjord trek. Highlights include a heart-pumping trek along the Buerdalen Valley and a technical hike across the frozen landscape of the Buer Glacier. The final day involves a challenging hike up Norway's most famous (and Instagrammable) rock formation – the Trolltunga, or the "Troll's Tongue". Head past waterfalls, steep mountain ridges and lush greenery for more than 1000 metres before taking in inspiring views over the Hardangerfjord. See gadventures.co.uk/trips/norwegian-fjord-trekking

44. HIKE A SECTION OF THE VIA FRANCIGENA IN ITALY'S PIEDMONT REGION

Hike a section of the Via Francigena along little-used trails for stunning Alpine vistas in Italy's Piedmont region. Enjoy mountain hiking, alpine flowers and wildlife, exploring ancient monasteries and abbeys and lakeside picnics of locally-produced cheeses, meats and salads. Sundown gives way to gastronomic dinners accompanied by the region's best wines and stays in charming family-owned hotels. Sampler weekends are run in Victoria's north-east over summer.

See hedonistichiking.com

45. EXPERIENCE AN ANCIENT HEALING PRACTICE AT ONE&ONLY PALMILLA

Enter the womb-like space of the Temazcal, a circular steam bath heated using volcanic rocks gathered from Baja California Sur. Inspired by the ancient healing practices of local tribesman, the Temazcals of Mesoamerica, the ancient ritual uses traditional medicinal herbs, heat, steam, indigenous music and copal incense to detoxify the body and purify the mind. See oneandonlypalmilla.com

46. YOGA AND CYCLE THE BACKROADS OF NORTH-WEST IRELAND

Explore the quiet backroads of north-west Ireland on this guided cycle holiday combining incredible landscapes, daily yoga and Irish hospitality.

Riders set off from the laid-back surfing village of Strandhill to explore the Coolera peninsula, home to countless megalithic sites, sandy beaches and challenging climbs and descents in the Ox Mountains. Rest up overnight at charming hotels and B&Bs and start the day with early morning yoga. See wildernessireland.com

47. HAVE A ROUND OF GOLF AND A BIRDIE MASSAGE AT THE LUXURIOUS KINLOCH CLUB, NZ

Enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus course at the Kinloch Club – one of New Zealand's best courses – with its far reaching vistas of Lake Taupo, and rugged rural farmland. Golfers staying at the luxurious Lodge at the Kinloch Club can literally roll down the hill for a round, or lesson with pro Tom Long. Afterwards ensure tight muscles don't impact your swing with a "Birdie" treatment, a massage dedicated to golfers using deep pressure applied through heated stones. See thekinlochclub.com

48 SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS AND ARCTIC BATHE IN A SWEDISH FLOATING HOTEL AND SPA

Why stay in an ordinary hotel when you can float? The extraordinary Arctic Bath Hotel, brought to you by the creators of the quirky Tree House, opens on the Lule River in Swedish Lapland this year offering six Scandi-style guest rooms, four saunas, a spa treatment room and a central, open-air plunge bath. Free floating in summer, and frozen into place in winter, the Arctic Bath will offer superlative viewing of the aurora borealis. See arcticbath.se

49 EXPERIENCE YOGA AND BOLLYWOOD DANCING IN NORTHERN INDIA

Zen out in Rishikesh, the "yoga capital of the world", and get the heart rate pumping with a Bollywood dance session on this yogi-focused tour through Northern India. Highlights include an early morning yoga class in the Himalayas besides the Ganges River, a Bollywood dance lesson and film screening at Jaipur's famous Raj Mandir cinema hall, plus time to explore one of the world's most spiritual cities. See intrepidtravel.com

50. FIND INNER WELLBEING AT HOBART'S NEW URBAN RETREAT

The Apple Isle's newest urban retreat, Alceme, offers four levels devoted to wellbeing. A majestic hall with high ceilings, white walls and timber floorboards spilt with sunlight is where yoga, meditation and dance classes are held. Afterwards enjoy a goodness bowl in the Kitchen, with its wholesome, seasonal menu, or a treatment in the wellness spa. See alceme.com

FIVE FEEL GOOD TRENDS TO WATCH

DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT

Travellers seeking to connect with themselves and others, while also improving sleep habits, are switching off in growing numbers in an attempt to curb smartphone addiction.

FOOD AS MEDICINE

Whole foods, "super" foods, plant-based and vegan diets are part of a move towards treating ailments with nutrients rather than drugs.

HOLIDAYS THAT COUNT

Time poor but want to feel better? Wellness holidays that deliver results in an efficient, professional and easy to comprehend manner are increasingly sought after to offset stressful, busy lives.

WELLNESS ENVIRONMENTS

"Living" buildings, mindful guest rooms, energising light to reset the sleep cycle, organic snacks in the mini bar, exercise equipment and classes in-room are all on offer as travellers seek environments that foster a healthier mindset.

SPACE TRAVEL

Is gravity getting you down? Travellers will be able to experience zero gravity, fly freely and contemplate the beauty of the northern and southern auroras when the world's first luxury space hotel opens in 2022.

FIVE MORE FEEL-GOOD DESTINATIONS

UBUD, BALI

Verdant rice fields, rushing rivers, dense jungle-filled valleys and more yoga studios than you can poke a stick at, make it easy to feel good in Bali's spiritual heart.

SWEDISH LAPLAND

Ice yoga, arctic bathing, star gazing and snow shoeing amid the striking beauty of northern Sweden and the frozen Baltic is sure to leave you inspired.

THE SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND

Fresh mountain air, ethereal blue lakes, snow-dusted mountains and eye-popping beauty ups the feel good factor on New Zealand's South Island.

RISHIKESH, INDIA

The sacred Ganges River, ashrams, temples and a backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas makes Rishikesh one of the world's most spiritual cities.

ASPEN, UNITED STATES

The Aspen idea, where man "can profit by healthy, physical recreation, with facilities at hand for his enjoyment of art, music and education" is fully realised in this Colorado ski resort town. Skiing, snowboarding, mountain-top yoga, hiking Aspen lined trails, and a rich arts and cultural scene makes it good for mind, body and soul.

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