Writing in this space has given me ample opportunity to expand my horizons and acquaint myself with many of the world’s most luxurious resorts. I’ve experienced a bird’s eye view of some of the most breathtaking vistas and spend time relaxing with friends on pristine beaches, which are two experiences that I won’t soon forget. So, when I was recently asked what the difference between a mental health retreat and luxury resort is, I thought hard about the years of writing I’ve done on the subject and came up with what I believe to be eight key terms every traveler should know.
- Destination: A wellness retreat is typically found in a remote location, far away from city life. That’s why it’s considered a “getaway” or “escape.
- Season: Typically, wellness retreats are located in the winter or the warmer months of the year when temperatures are generally cooler and more serene. Resorts typically operate year-round.
- Cost: Resorts cost more because they are often located in more luxurious and exotic areas.
- Timing: Resorts typically offer more flexible options, such as choosing to stay between three to six nights. They also offer longer stay packages, which allow guests to enjoy their vacation for up to six weeks or longer if desired.
- Dining: Wellness retreats tend not to have on-site dining, but rather guests will dine with fellow guests at a nearby restaurant or café. Resorts, on the other hand, have their own dining options.
- Amenities: Resorts offer a resort’s seasonal spa and fitness center. There may also be a restaurant or café on-site, which typically serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Staff: While some wellness retreats are run by a single owner or operator while others may be managed by a private organization, a majority of them operate as an independent operation staffed with other professionals who are specialized in the field of wellness and wellness-related activities. This can include massage therapists, spa and fitness instructors, life coaches, nutritionists and other specialists.
- Activities: Some retreats offer yoga classes, meditation sessions or a variety of retreat classes such as cooking, drawing or gardening. Resorts tend to focus on activities that take advantage of the facility’s location and guests’ interests. Many offer hiking and biking trails, which often allow guests to experience the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
There are countless numbers of wellness retreats and resorts scattered across the planet. But while they may be “different,” they’re actually not all that different. So, we put together this blog post to detail the eight terms that define what a wellness resort is.
Though wellness resorts generally come with a one-to-one ownership ratio, some do offer co-ownership—where two or more people can legally operate a facility under a single name. It’s an attractive proposition because it makes the operation more attractive to potential investors.
You may have heard about wellness resorts or wellness retreats and wondered what’s the difference. For starters, it’s a misnomer to call one a “resort,” because a resort is generally used for relaxation, whereas these places are meant to be a healthful escape from everyday life. They differ in terms of luxury options and price points, but each will offer you an opportunity to take care of your mind and body within their walls.
