Exploring Calm-Cation and Wellbeing Retreats: Destinations and Benefits
A video feature titled "Discover your next calm-cation" and an article by Siam Goorwich both highlight the growing appeal of relaxation-focused travel. These pieces focus on quiet luxury spots and wellbeing retreats aimed at helping travelers unwind and refresh.
The video showcases destinations such as Croatia for quiet luxury and Mauritius for spa treatments as examples of calm-cations, intending to inspire viewers on where to go next to relax. It is part of The Guardian's "Start Your Adventure" series and is sponsored content promoting the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card as a helpful tool for reaching these destinations.
Meanwhile, the article argues that wellbeing retreats provide holidays that allow travelers to relax, renew their poise, and return refreshed. It cites data from Abta's 2024-25 Holiday Habits survey showing that 73% of people view holidays as a time to relax, 50% for mental health and wellbeing, and 46% to escape daily pressures.
Specific retreats are mentioned, including the accessible Delta Hotels St Pierre Country Club in Chepstow, Wales, a 14th-century manor set on 400 acres with spa services, and El Mangroove, Autograph Collection in Costa Rica near a Blue Zone region known for longevity. This retreat offers daily yoga, nature bike rides, and a wellness-themed spa. Blue Zone destinations like Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica), Loma Linda (California), Sardinia (Italy), and Ikaria (Greece) are highlighted for their association with health and longevity.
Both features promote the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card, which offers benefits such as 6 points per £1 spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 2 points per £1 on other eligible purchases, a Free Night Award after £25,000 annual spend, complimentary Silver Elite status, 15 Elite Night Credits, and potential upgrades to Gold status.
