Wellness has become an integral component of meetings and events. But what does it mean for a property to be truly wellness focused?
From healthy dining to restorative break time, planners are incorporating wellness into all manner of meetings and events these days. And now there’s a way to evaluate hotels in terms of offerings that go beyond the surface to provide meaningful experiences. Two organizations— Wellness in Travel & Tourism (WITT) and the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) have partnered to launch the Core Wellness Standards for Hotels—a framework designed to define what it truly means for a property to be wellness-focused.
The standards were developed with guidance from the WITT Standards Advisory Committee, a global assembly of experts in hospitality, fitness, nutrition, sustainability and travel. They are built around five essential pillars—healthy eating, holistic healing, nature, movement, and local impact. “Wellness travel is no longer a niche—it’s a priority for millions of travelers worldwide,” said Oxana Spivey, VP of Wellness Standards & Development for WITT, in a press statement. “These standards give hotels a clear, credible path to creating experiences that truly support well-being, while establishing a transparent definition of wellness in hospitality and elevating the overall guest experience.”
Details of the core standards include:
• Healthy Eating. Offer nutritious and dietary-inclusive meals, recommend local healthy dining options and supply clean, filtered water throughout the hotel.
• Holistic Healing. Maintain an inviting and clean atmosphere, foster a restful sleep environment and nurture personable and warm service.
• Nature. Integrate elements of biophilic interior design—a design methodology that nurtures the relationship between people and nature—and
facilitate access to green spaces.
• Movement. Provide space and programs for physical activity.
• Local Impact Prioritize local supplies and equipment and celebrate local culture and people.
“This collaboration between the WTA and WITT brings a long-overdue level of clarity to the wellness tourism space,” said Robin Ruiz, Founder & CEO of WITT and President & CEO of the WTA. “It’s about creating a consistent, transparent definition—one that strengthens trust, inspires innovation, and sets a new benchmark for the industry.”
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