Setting the Standard for Wellness in Travel and Hospitality
The Core Wellness Standards for Hotels is a new global framework created by the Wellness Tourism Association in partnership with WITT (Wellness in Travel & Tourism). Designed to bring clarity and credibility to the fast-growing wellness travel sector, these standards set out the essential practices that define an authentic wellness hotel experience.
Drawing on WITT’s Five Pillars of Wellness — Healthy Eating, Holistic Healing, Nature, Movement, and Local Impact — the framework gives hotels a practical foundation to develop and strengthen their wellness offerings.
For WTA members and the wider industry, the Core Wellness Standards represent a shared reference point, helping hotels meet traveler expectations, guiding travel advisors in their recommendations, and building confidence for wellness-minded guests across the globe.
The Path to Authentic Wellness
Whether a hotel is just beginning to focus on wellness or building on existing practices, the Core Wellness Standards offer a clear roadmap for growth. For operators, they provide practical steps to strengthen wellness offerings and stand out in a competitive market. For guests, they create confidence that the hotel is meeting independently developed benchmarks for authentic wellness travel.
Healthy Eating: Promote guest health and well-being through mindful food offerings and local culinary experiences. Ensure guests can maintain their dietary preferences while enjoying meals that support overall wellness.
Holistic Healing: Create a supportive environment for rejuvenation and restful sleep, complemented by knowledgeable staff and personalized experiences designed to optimize wellness.
Nature: Strengthen guests’ bond with nature through eco-friendly activities, nature-inspired design, and access to natural surroundings that enhance relaxation and well-being.
Movement: Support guest well-being and energy with opportunities for movement, supporting a balanced and active lifestyle throughout their stay.
Local Impact: Protect and support local communities and environment through engagement, sustainable practices, and responsible sourcing to foster long-term well-being.
Unlock the Full Potential of a Hotel's Wellness Offerings
Healthy Eating
Offer nutritious and dietary-inclusive meals
Healthy Eating
Recommend local wellness-aligned dining options
Healthy Eating
Supply clean, filtered water throughout the property
Holistic Healing
Maintain an inviting and clean atmosphere
Holistic Healing
Nurture personable and warm service
Holistic Healing
Foster a restful sleep environment in rooms
Local Impact
Offer nutritious and dietary-inclusive meals
Local Impact
Celebrate local culture and people from all backgrounds
Local Impact
Prioritize local supplies and equipment
Nature
Integrate elements of biophilic design indoors
Nature
Facilitate access to green spaces
Movement
Provide space and programs for physical activity
CORE WELLNESS STANDARDS Benefits
- Enhanced Guest Experience: Authentic, high-quality wellness experiences that promote relaxation and well-being
- Increased Market Appeal: Attract wellness-focused travelers and stand out in a growing market
- Stronger Brand Reputation: Demonstrate commitment to wellness, sustainability, and responsible hospitality
- Higher Revenue Potential: Tap into wellness tourism to boost occupancy and guest spending
- Improved Guest Loyalty: Build lasting relationships with wellness-conscious guests
- Operational Excellence: Streamline wellness initiatives for consistent quality
- Positive Environmental & Social Impact: Support sustainability and local culture
- Competitive Advantage: Stay ahead by adopting globally recognized standards
- Employee Well-being & Retention: Foster a healthier, more engaged workforce
- Pathway to WITT Certification: Lay the groundwork for earning WITT Certified seal
