Q: What inspired you to set up Mind & Body Travel?
A: My inspiration came from two pivotal moments. After an intense, fast‑paced corporate career, I hit burnout something all too common in today’s workforce.
Being made redundant was the tipping point, but in hindsight it was a gift. It forced me to step away from a lifestyle that wasn’t sustainable for my health.
At the same time, after 15 years in the travel industry, I’d long been frustrated watching people book the holiday they wanted rather than the holiday they actually needed.
Many travellers who were already exhausted would choose fast, box‑ticking itineraries rather than slower, more meaningful experiences. Mind & Body Travel grew from wanting to change that.
Q: How has the wellness travel scene developed over the last few years?
A: Wellness travel has become increasingly sophisticated. For travellers seeking true transformation, the science and facilities are now incredibly advanced right down to DNA mapping and personalised wellness programs delivered during your stay.
At the same time, nature‑based wellness has surged. Operators are embracing the healing power of the natural world, which I’m thrilled to see becoming an essential part of many retreat offerings.
Q: What trends are you seeing among your clients?
A: The biggest trend is the rise of the modern female traveller. She wants a mix of relaxation, connection, fun, nature, adventure and wellness – often in one thoughtfully designed trip.
We recently crafted a Wellness Week in Vietnam for 14 women that combined daily spa treatments, shopping, dining out, local experiences and plenty of time for connection by the pool.
We’re also seeing a major shift toward comfort when flying. Premium Economy and business class are more popular than ever, as travellers prioritise space and rest so they arrive feeling refreshed rather than depleted.
Q: What does the future of wellness travel look like?
A: While innovation and technology will continue to grow, I believe the future lies in “soft wellness” holidays that blend wellbeing with adventure, nature and fun.
This balanced approach will become the norm as people increasingly seek holidays that replenish rather than exhaust them.
Q: What are your top five picks for a wellness-style holiday?
# TIA Wellness Resort, Da Nang, Vietnam
The perfect soft‑wellness escape. Guests receive 80 minutes of spa treatments every day, plus a beachfront setting, exceptional staff, beautiful facilities and great value. It’s welcoming, unpretentious and ideal for anyone.
# A Long Weekend in Queensland
Never underestimate a three‑day reset. The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast hinterlands offer energising forest surroundings and an ideal quick escape from the everyday.
# Walking Holidays
Walking can be incredibly therapeutic. Nature, movement, fresh air and the sense of achievement create holistic benefits for mind and body.
Top picks include Tasmania’s Overland Track, New Zealand’s Milford Track, hiking in the Dolomites or exploring Tuscany on foot.
# Aro Ha Retreat, New Zealand
Just outside Queenstown, Aro Ha offers a transformative, supportive, ego‑free environment. It’s easy to see why it has won multiple international awards.
# River Cruising with AMA Waterways
A slow, luxurious way to travel with built‑in wellness. Onboard hosts run classes and workshops, active shore excursions encourage movement and healthy dining options, including my go‑to breakfast, the wellness bowl make staying well effortless.
Q: Where is your next trip?
A: I’m celebrating a milestone birthday in Bali and Komodo. We’ll stay at Ayana Komodo Resort in Labuan Bajo for island adventures, including seeing Komodo dragons in the wild and finish at Como Shambhala Estate in Ubud.
It’s my definition of paradise: peaceful jungle surrounds, nourishing food and world‑class wellness facilities.
Q: Any final insights for travellers?
A: Many people are unintentionally turning their holidays into another form of burnout trying to squeeze too much in and returning home exhausted.
With only about 7.7% of the year available as annual leave, we need to use it wisely.
Often less is more: fewer destinations, less moving around and fewer logistics mean more enjoyment, more rejuvenation and a richer more meaningful holiday.
https://mindandbodytravel.com/
