Business travel and events have made much faster recoveries than predicted, and as people begin going again, many are seeking out destinations and experiences that address wellness holistically. In fact, according to a recent Hilton survey of U.S. travelers, an overwhelming 98 percent of respondents say they are now prioritizing wellness activities while on vacation. 
And, with 81 percent of events this year offering in-person elements, meeting professionals have built-in opportunities to connect clients with venues offering wellness components woven directly into event experiences. When researching optimal sites for your next meeting or event, look for a venue that can deliver in one or more of the five following areas:
Intentional focus on the holistic health of attendees.
As an event professional, you work to curate events that make it easy for attendees to bring health and wellness routines from home to the road—and you also strive to welcome participants into environments that help them feel engaged, uplifted and at ease. Events implementing holistic approaches to attendees’ physical, mental and emotional well-being demonstrate measurable increases in attention span, session attendance and overall engagement. For example, thoughtful menu selections are powerful tools to combat travel-induced changes to your participants’ diet and sleep patterns. Explore lighter meals featuring local, seasonal ingredients, plus snacks with natural energy supplements to help attendees stay focused during day-long sessions.
Breathtaking views in a serene setting.
Sometimes the road to wellness is just a breath of fresh air away. For travelers in search of tropical destinations, Hawaii presents the perfect balance of adrenaline-inducing adventure, laid-back outdoor experiences and opportunities to engage in local traditions, such as surfing and ti-leaf lei-making. Venues located near national parks, mountain ranges or hiking trails also provide excellent backdrops for meetings or retreats rooted in wellness. At Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona, for example, groups can experience restorative activities ranging from rock-climbing excursions to scenic hikes highlighting local plants and geology.
Meaningful opportunities for physical activity, day or night.
Make it easier than ever for participants to stick to their wellness routines on the road by creating active itineraries with engaging breaks throughout the day, rather than for early risers only. While yoga, swimming and hiking are popular options among travelers, consider booking your events at properties that offer more exotic and exciting activities, ranging from scuba diving and salsa dancing to pickleball and paddle-boarding. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, Mexico, offers yoga classes on the beach palapa, moonlit meditation and a Moonstone Flow, plus hiking, beach boot camps and more. And for groups staying at a participating Hilton property, encourage travelers to check out the revolutionary Five Feet to Fitness program—an in-room wellness concept empowering guests to maintain their fitness routines using 11 different pieces of equipment and accessory options within 5 feet of their beds.
Opportunities for mindfulness and self-care (beyond traditional spa treatments).
Massages and facials are wonderful self-care, but many modern travelers are seeking wellness experiences beyond the traditional. For example, venues in Sedona, Arizona—the “Spiritual Mecca of the Southwest”—offer mindfulness and meditation opportunities drawing on the unique energy associated with Sedona’s famed red rocks. Guests staying at Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock can take part in rituals such as sound bowl therapy, numerology, palm reading, tarot card reading, smudging ceremonies and more. Your clients might also enjoy partnering with local charitable organizations for team-building activities supporting worthy causes. Other easy ways to create essential spaces for participants include scheduling time to video-chat with family members or adding “work email check-in” breaks to itineraries.
Integration of the five senses for a truly memorable experience.
Delight your attendees with immersive events catering to all five senses. Tantalize the tastebuds with chef-prepared, locally sourced meals that are nourishing, energizing and delicious, and consider including signature cocktails or mocktails with meals or as in-room gifts to welcome attendees and invoke their senses of smell. Play soft or invigorating music to set the tone, and incorporate soothing textures and patterns into your event aesthetics for design schemes that are pleasing to the eye and the touch. Factor in plenty of time for attendees to take in fresh air on walks around the properties. A brief walk can rejuvenate each of the five senses, restore focus and prompt a greater attention span.
Whether your attendees are seeking to maintain wellness routines while traveling or simply looking for inspiration and grounding to round out professional growth opportunities, contact your Hilton Worldwide Sales representative to explore a wellness-centric experience for your next meeting or event!
Be inspired when you review the Hilton Event Ready Playbook wellness section for other ideas as you plan your next event.
