• Corona Welcomes The World To Visit Its Tropical Paradise, Corona Island

  Today, Corona, the world’s most valuable beer brand[1], officially opens the doors to Corona Island—an eco-protected natural paradise off the coast of Colombia, now available for booking on major travel platforms. Travelers worldwide can secure their stay directly at livecoronaisland.com or through Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com. As a beer brewed with natural ingredients, Corona Island is symbolic of the brand’s dedication to live in harmony with nature. It is more than just a destination; it offers an experience that will inspire travelers to fall in love with the natural world and motivation to protect its resources. Originally debuting in 2021 as an invite-only getaway located 20 km (12 mi) southwest of Cartagena, and accessible only by boat, the island offers guests a chance to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature through curated daytime activities and evening experiences. Corona Island features ten premium waterfront bungalows, each with its own jacuzzi, nestled among lush tropical forests and pristine beaches. The island offers all-inclusive overnight stays for two people per bungalow, alongside a limited number of all-inclusive day trip passes that are also available for purchase. An Eco-Protected Paradise Corona Island is the world’s first and only island to receive Oceanic Global’s three-star plastic-free Blue Seal for eliminating single-use plastics and adopting sustainable operating best practices at scale. Built with eco-tourism at its core, Corona Island integrates those practices into its architecture, hospitality and daily operations, featuring: · Sustainable Design: Structures use solar energy, native plants like guadua, and traditional building techniques such as bahareque. · Fresh, Local Dining: The island serves its food with an emphasis on local ingredients, such as baked goods made with fruits native to the region, which are all included in the price of the visit. Also available for guests to enjoy are the full suite of Corona products, including Corona Extra and Corona Cero. Immersive, Conservation-Focused Experiences Guests can enjoy a variety of relaxation and eco-conscious activities, including: · Yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking for a mindful connection to nature. · Eco-preservation initiatives such as snorkeling to restore coral reefs and mangrove planting for ecosystem reforestation. “At Corona Island, relaxation meets conservation in a natural beachside setting. As the brand born at the beach, and a beer brewed with natural ingredients, we believe that our island serves as a perfect extension of our ethos,” said Clarissa Pantoja, Global VP of Corona. “With breathtaking landscapes, sustainable practices, and immersive outdoor activities, we invite eco-tourists and travel enthusiasts alike to explore this unique setting, where every experience reflects our dedication to preserving the beauty of the natural world.” To view rates and book your experience at the one-of-a-kind, natural eco-paradise, visit www.livecoronaisland.com or search for Corona Island on Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com.

• Global Wellness Summit Releases 10 Wellness Trends for 2025

  The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) has released its much-anticipated Future of Wellness report for 2025. Spanning 130 pages, the report is the most comprehensive annual forecast of trends shaping the health and wellness industry. Last year’s report identified a stark polarization in the wellness market. On one side, a high-tech, medicalized, hyper-optimized, and expensive approach—termed "hardcare"—was on the rise. On the other, a growing demand for simpler, low-tech, socially and emotionally driven wellness, described as "softcare," was taking hold. The 2025 report predicts this divide will only deepen. The Rise of Analog Wellness One of the standout trends is the push toward Analog Wellness. As people grow increasingly weary of the manipulative and overwhelming digital world, they are opting to disconnect and embrace retro, pre-digital, and even pre-industrial lifestyles. Analog hobbies and experiences are becoming synonymous with wellness, and this shift is expected to influence industries from travel to home design and even public policy. Another trend, Sauna Reimagined, highlights the reinvention of the ancient, low-tech tradition of saunas, emphasizing their social and restorative aspects. Similarly, Wellness on the Line explores the surge in creative wellness offerings aboard cruise ships and trains, reflecting a broader yearning for slower, more mindful travel experiences. High-Tech Wellness: The Human-Machine Fusion At the other end of the spectrum, Augmented Biology is redefining the possibilities of wellness through the integration of human bodies with advanced technologies. Once confined to the realm of science fiction, these innovations are now unlocking superhuman physical and cognitive potential. The Supplement Paradox addresses the evolution of the supplement industry, focusing on science-backed, high-tech solutions to restore consumer trust in a market riddled with skepticism. Addressing Social Challenges through Wellness The report also examines how wellness is tackling some of society’s most pressing issues. For example, Teen Wellness addresses the alarming rise in mental health challenges among adolescents, spotlighting new initiatives tailored to their unique needs. Meanwhile, Wellness Tackles Addiction sheds light on a growing category aimed at reducing the stigma around addiction, from sober retreats to luxury rehab programs and harm-reduction products. In response to the global water crisis, Watershed Wellness highlights how spas and wellness destinations are working to conserve and replenish water resources. Additionally, Longevity Redefines Work explores how the wellness industry can support an aging workforce, as younger employees become scarcer and older workers remain active in the labor market. The Middle East: A New Leader in Wellness One of the report's most surprising revelations is the rise of the Middle East as a global wellness leader. Driven by ambitious national visions in GCC countries, the region is investing heavily in cutting-edge preventive healthcare, sustainable wellness tourism destinations, and innovative sports-meets-wellness concepts. The GWS 2025 report paints a vivid picture of the wellness industry’s evolving landscape. From the nostalgic embrace of analog living to futuristic breakthroughs in augmented biology, these trends underscore the industry’s growing influence on both personal and societal well-being. TEN WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2025: Analog Wellness 2025 Will Be the Pivotal Year for a Great Logging Off, and Analog-ing On The online world's relentless manipulations, marketing and disinformation campaigns—causing general brain and culture rotting—seem to have really gone too far. People are grasping how tech's evilly brilliant AI and algorithms push us toward hate, dissolve the line between real and not real, and keep us addicted to increasingly awful content. If "digital detox" is as old as the Internet, 2025 will be THE year that more people get very intentional about logging off from an online world costing us our minds, focus, humanity, social lives, financial wellness, and political stability. More companies, concepts and destinations will help people disconnect. There's a new era of "calm tech," including evermore creative apps that discipline your social media time. More governments are taking action, from banning devices in schools to passing "right to disconnect" laws that fine companies for hitting employees with after-work calls and texts. The digital detox trend is even impacting real estate and home design: the hyper-connected smart home is being replaced by the minimally connected, tactile "dumb home," where privacy and peace are restored. A great "analog-ing on" is also ahead. Trailblazed by younger gens, there's a growing obsession with retro tech, and analog hobbies and experiences, that restore our attention and the sense of the tactile. Structured, super-social classes and clubs revolving around every type of analog experience are exploding globally: social ceramics studios, old-school game-playing clubs, intellectual "academic bars," reading salons set to live music. These analog clubs and salons are giving fitness studios and pricey "social wellness clubs" competition as new grassroots third spaces. The digital detox and analog experiences trends are also transforming travel. Digital detox cabins in nature (like the UK's Unplugged) or phone-free adventure tours like FLTO's, feel more aspirational than spa palaces. Retro-tech mania (for old-school cameras, vinyl records, and vintage typewriters) is hitting resorts, from "deep listening" vinyl record nights in saunas, to swapping guests' phones for "digital detox kits" that contain Polaroid cameras, paper maps and board games. Wellness resorts are launching sophisticated analog arts programming: painting, ceramics, calligraphy and writing workshops. Travelers are seeking positively pre-industrial experiences: at the new South African 17th-century farm turned wellness resort, Soetmelksvlei, you learn blacksmithing and wheat milling. The digital detox and analog living trends have been percolating for years, but they now feel less like trendy nostalgia and more like social activism fighting to create a sane, human "retro future." If we had to bet on AI-driven or analog wellness, longevity clinics or logging off, we'd take the latter. Sauna Reimagined A Global Renaissance of an Ancient Tradition While saunas have been around for thousands of years, they're currently enjoying an incredible renaissance. From new urban saunas in New York City and Chicago, to rustic waterfront saunas in Oslo or Brighton, to saunas with immersive art installations in Tokyo, today's saunas represent a reinvention of an age-old tradition—and an increasingly younger, hipper crowd is taking notice. A key part of this sauna renaissance is driven by a rise in entertainment in saunas. The Aufguss movement, once the domain of European countries, is gaining momentum worldwide, with new countries like Japan and England taking part in recent years. Sauna design is also getting far more exciting, and stand-alone saunas are accessible, often made for the public, with low entry fees. Even box-style saunas in spas are becoming more experiential, with panoramic glass walls or immersive digital art. Event-sized saunas that fit dozens—or even hundreds—of people are also popping up worldwide. Younger consumers, craving real-life connections beyond bars and clubs, are flocking to these social saunas, which can feature DJs, drag queens, or full-blown concerts. Where saunas were once a sad, dark, lonely box in a basement, today they're lively, social cultural and entertainment hubs, often with fantastic views and in incredible locations, and people just can't get enough. The Supplement Paradox Wellness, Efficacy and the Trust Revolution Supplements are a gigantic, growing $178 billion market that has moved from humble health aid on pharmacy shelves to cultural phenom. With glossy packaging, celebrity endorsements, and price tags now reaching thousands of dollars, supplements mean status as much as health. The industry has been long plagued by lax regulations and "science washing." This trend explores new directions that could help create shifts in the perception of supplements' efficacy and value. Science is meeting premiumization, from hyper-personalized formulations to a focus on cellular longevity, as supplements evolve into more precise tools of lifestyle optimization. Biomarker and genetic testing, and predictive AI, are underwriting hyper-personalized, more adaptive regimens that address risks like (potentially toxic) over-supplementation and inefficacy. Thorne HealthTech's Onegevity platform and InsideTracker analyze biomarkers, genetics and lifestyle data to deliver tailored formulations. Longevity science is creating supplements targeting key aging mechanisms like mitochondrial health, telomere preservation and cellular repair—such as NAD+ boosters and senolytics (that kill "zombie" cells). David Beckham's new IM8 brand, partnering with Prenetics and the University of Oxford, is studying the accelerated aging that happens in space (aboard the International Space Station) to create unique, science-backed longevity supplements. More science-based supplements are targeting precise needs. New GLP-1 companion supplements are formulated to counteract the muscle loss, nutrient imbalances and digestive issues that occur when taking Ozempic, such as Elo Health's GLP-1. More are addressing the unique physiological needs of women, with innovation in targeting hormonal health and fertility. Menopause care is advancing: Morrama Labs' Luma app collects temperature, heart rate stress and sleep data during menopause to customize formulations 3D-printed into monthly pill batches. The trend also covers new detoxification methods removing microplastics, heavy metals and pollutants that can hinder nutrient absorption, and how nanotechnology could enhance supplements' precision by targeting specific tissues or organs, bridging the gap between medical treatment and supplements. Teen Wellness An Opportunity for Greater Inclusion Teenagers today face mounting mental health challenges, fueled by societal crises and social media pressure. While historically, spas and wellness destinations have treated teens as a sidenote or in rather silly ways, with the skyrocketing teen mental health crisis, the industry is finally getting serious about teen wellbeing. A shift is underway as the wellness industry opens up to family and intergenerational wellness programming to help teens and their families deal with unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression and addiction. From off-grid sanctuaries in Bali that help teenagers deal with the overstimulation of the digital age, to surf therapy retreats in the UK and Morocco that combine the mindfulness of surfing with trauma therapy, culture and connection, new programming is using powerful wellness tools like sound therapy, meditation and nature immersion to fight the rising teenage "diseases of despair." The hospitality and spa worlds are taking notice. Hotel brands like Rosewood, One Hotels and Carillon Miami are working on new teen-focused initiatives, and spas are experimenting with things like adapted massage for sports-involved teens and new approaches for sedentary or neurodivergent youth. But it's not just spas that are tackling the issue. A wide range of urban and suburban wellness programs are meeting teens where they are in their local communities to provide accessible experiences that improve mental health, and free apps like Clear Fear and Sorted Teens have been designed specifically to help teens deal with anxiety or foster resilience. The wellness industry has a vital opportunity and responsibility to support this generation and foster healthier, more balanced young lives, and we expect more serious teen wellness solutions will emerge in the coming years. Watershed Wellness Industry Takes a Leadership Role in the Water Crisis As water scarcity becomes a terrible problem worldwide, fueled by climate change, population growth and pollution, the spa and wellness industries must rise up, both collectively and individually, to address the issue. This is the biggest problem that nobody is talking about, affecting millions of people globally. The spa and wellness industries have long been water-hog villains. Consider this: a single drench shower uses up to 40 liters of water per guest, which can add up to 11,000 liters of water daily—or more than four million liters (over ten million gallons) annually. That's just one spa. As our planet heats, and droughts and water shortages become far more commonplace, it will become imperative for wellness establishments to do more to help preserve, replenish, and renew our water supplies, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just selfishly about individual health, but also about the health of the planet. Given the importance of water in spa and wellness businesses and treatments, the industry is in a unique position to lead by example in promoting water conservation and environmental stewardship. Many wellness destinations at the forefront of the movement are adopting sustainable practices to reduce their water usage, or even to implement processes to help with water shortages in their communities. The destination spa Rancho La Puerta in Mexico, for instance, has invested in building a $5 million "water healing plant" that uses anaerobic bio-digesters, constructed wetlands and ozone to treat 27 liters (7+ gallons) of sewage per second in an effort to reverse the water crisis in Tecate. Other wellness destinations are implementing graywater recycling systems, closed-loop water systems, and natural filtration systems for their pools. As more destructive droughts loom, and as the public becomes more aware of water shortage issues, it will become imperative for the spa and wellness industries to change their practices—or risk being seen as an outdated, ethically obsolete model of wellbeing that neglects this rising crisis in planetary wellness. Augmented Biology Unlocking Human Potential Through Advanced Health Optimization As advancements in health technology and genetic engineering unfold, a new paradigm is taking shape in which health is not merely sustained, but actively optimized and extended, enabling people to unlock their full neural, physiological, and psychological potential. A fundamental redefining of the nature of human capability is underway and a new fusion of body and machine that once seemed like the stuff of science fiction is pushing the potential of people's brains and bodies to superhuman levels. Breakthroughs include performance-enhancing brain-computer interfaces, neurocell wellness, nth-level extreme performance fitness, and wearable robotics with exoskeletons that help athletes endure intense exertion. Neurable's smart headphones are integrated with brain-computer interface technology to help people gain deep insight into their cognitive health and manage burnout. Augmented mobility inventions include the MO/GO trousers, with wearable robotics that provide a 40% boost to leg muscle strength and knee support, so people can move powerfully and freely in physically demanding environments like the wilderness. AI-integrated wearable health devices are transitioning from simple trackers to active systems that respond to individual needs, while advancements in genetic engineering, neuroplasticity and personalized preventative medicine are becoming more viable—meaning tailored interventions for hyper-optimization will go mainstream. Rising consumer demand for wellness solutions that optimize cognitive, emotional and physical states will see the idea of unlocking untapped human potential become a reality. We're on the cusp of a new era where we're beginning to not only understand our biology more deeply, but also take active control in improving it, and we're pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human—unlocking radically new possibilities for health, brain power, longevity and performance. The future will not be defined by our limitations, but by our endless capacity for growth and improvement. Longevity Redefines Work Wellness Industry Opportunities Arise to Support the Expanding 65+ Workforce An age bomb is coming, and it will radically reconfigure the workspace. All over the world, the number of young workers is dramatically decreasing as the over-65 employee demographic explodes in an age of longevity. It's hard to believe, but the fastest-growing workforce age group globally are now the over-75s. Many forces are driving people to work longer: the vast knowledge resources they hold, their financial needs, the desperate need for labor, and the 4% GDP boost available to countries for every one year of increased work participation. This trend explores the many seismic changes coming to work: what roles we'll fill, how long we'll stay, and how we'll adapt. It will all come down to maintaining the health and wellness of older workers and creating work policies that address how our responsibilities, needs and goals change with age. While most workplaces are lagging in solving for this, some are taking action. We'll see more flexi-work adopted by corporations like the UK's HSBC, as flexibility over locations and hours can be non-negotiable for older employees. This could mean part-time schedules, or consulting roles offering more autonomy. Companies, like Siemens in Germany, will create more mentorship programs, as older workers value sharing their deep experience. Reverse mentoring will rise, as it has at multinationals like Estee Lauder and General Electric, where senior employees are mentored by younger ones, to create intergenerational communication and stay ahead of tech and trends. In an ever-changing skills-based world, with the need to constantly be upskilling ourselves, under-utilized educational institutions could become centers for re-schooling and up-schooling the older worker. Companies like India's Tata Consultancy Services focus on continuous learning programs for older employees. Singapore is the shining example in policy for an aging workforce: they raised the re-employment age, provide wage offsets for companies hiring older workers, offer skills development programs for older employees, and crucially, the most accessible, affordable healthcare system. If we don't create solutions that put workers on a path of longevity, our economies will fail. The wellness industry will have a huge role here, and expect new advisors specializing in the wellness of the very valuable corporate older worker. Wellness Tackles Addiction Wellness Moves into Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment This trend identifies a new wellness category, with the wellness space poised to further topple taboos and offer innovative products around addiction, just as it has for sexual wellness and menopause. Wellness practices are increasingly being integrated into all manner of addiction treatment—from alcohol to illicit drugs to technology—and wellness companies are enthusiastically entering the harm-reduction space. As drug use climbs around the world and alcohol is named a Class 1 carcinogen, creative, judgement-free options are needed. Cool-kids-approved brands aimed at harm reduction are going viral. Blip and Jones are bringing smoking cessation into the modern day with slick packaging, innovative products, and online support. New ingestibles, like GreenOut ("the epipen of cannabis") or Soft Landing Chocolate ("a reverse edible"), will help people come down fast and safely if they get too high on THC. There are more health dupes, like Puff Herbals' herbal wellness "cigarettes" that help with sleep or focus. New apps and wearable tech are supporting people with addictions, as are new "habit" coaching platforms, like Zabit. The line between a luxury wellness resort and a medical addiction treatment center is blurring as more treatment centers realize that many wellness approaches are proving incredibly helpful in supporting people through recovery. Carrara in California marries medical treatment with EMDR therapy, somatic experiences, yoga, tai chi, TCM, spa treatments, and mandatory hyperbaric oxygen chamber sessions. At Zurich's Paracelsus Recovery, cutting-edge medical advancements (from full-body MRIs to epigenetic testing) are integrated with acupuncture, shiatsu, and equine and art therapy. Even if your bad habits don't require a two-week medical stay, with the rise of the "sober curious" movement, more hotels and wellness resorts are hosting wellness-focused sobriety retreats to help people cut down on everything from booze to tech, such as Gill Tietz's Sober Powered Nervous System Reboot Retreat in Mexico. The trend also examines a new wave of med-tech innovations to treat addictions, like Spark Biomedical's neuro-stimulating earpiece easing opioid withdrawal symptoms, as well the new ways psychedelic drugs are being used to treat drug addiction. Wellness on the Line Cruise and Rail Journeys Navigate to Wellness Travel Fueled by a desire for slower, more relaxed travel, both cruises and train travel are surging in popularity. Increasingly, they're also exploring itineraries with a host of holistic wellness programs, resort-level facilities, on-board health experts, and wellness-focused excursions. From dedicated Dior spa carriages on Belmond's fleet of luxury trains, to a boom in wellness retreats at sea—sometimes with a celebrity twist—wellness is playing an important role in offering unique programming that helps users differentiate in a crowded marketplace. Wellness brands like COMO Hotels are jumping into the cruise market. Their first "Journey into the Arctic" combines adventurous excursions with COMO Shambhala wellness treatments. Established cruise lines are partnering with celebrities from Gwyneth Paltrow to Deepak Chopra and Dr. Andrew Weil to help them navigate their wellness experiences. Rail journeys are celebrating their natural mindful qualities. Commuter trains are highlighting the opportunity for knitting or meditation during Mental Health Awareness Week. A new generation of train travelers is discovering Europe's historic thermal towns—all accessible by rail—and visiting the bathhouses, grand hotels and promenades that set the scene for 19th-century wellness journeys. Wellness-focused excursions for both train and cruise travelers increasingly offer guests the opportunity to explore local wellness traditions, from wild swimming in Scandinavia, to gathering medicinal plants with a Mayan shaman in Mexico, to soaking in onsens in Japan. As astrotourism, silent tourism and "calmcations" grow in popularity, rail and ship travel—which can transport guests far away from light and noise pollution—will capitalize on these trends. Cruises are focusing on everything from longevity programming to more "scientific citizen" expeditions. And residential cruise real estate is also emerging. Next year, Blue World Voyages plans to launch its first ship, entirely dedicated to sports and wellness, and featuring advanced technology like air and water purification systems, circadian lighting and vitamin-C infused showers—the kinds of amenities seen in the most sophisticated wellness real estate projects on land. With both cruises and trains offering travel where the journey can be the destination, and with slowing down exactly the kind of wellbeing we most need, expect to see more wellness on cruise lines and rail lines moving forward. The Middle East's Wellness Ambitions From Desert Retreats to High-Tech Wellness, the Region Embraces Holistic Wellbeing The Middle East is emerging as a global wellness leader, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation and sustainability, fueled by national strategies and vast new developments. Wellness is touching every part of Middle Eastern society, from innovative health solutions to religious gatherings, and as oil-dependent countries seek new revenue streams, wellness is emerging as a prime sector. Several Middle Eastern countries have articulated national visions that emphasize wellness and preventive healthcare as integral components of their development strategies, understanding that wellbeing is vital to economic diversification and population health. The UAE's Vision 2030 invests in prevention and AI-enhanced clinical care; Oman's Vision 2040 emphasizes preventive health and the creation of a genomic database targeting genetic diseases; and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 funds public health campaigns targeting chronic illness and has gone big on wellness tourism. Large-scale travel destinations like Red Sea Global's AMAALA in Saudi Arabia—which will include an unprecedented 30 world-class wellness destinations when complete, with the first eight opening this year—highlight the region's ambitious moves into wellness tourism. Elsewhere, Arabic wellness traditions and dramatic landscapes are creating authentic experiences that highlight the region's beauty and heritage. For instance, in Jordan, guests connect with local Bedouin culture while stargazing and hiking. The region is pioneering new intersections between sports and wellness, with destinations like Qatar's Aspire Academy and Saudi Arabia's Sports Boulevard. Digital innovation is transforming healthcare in the Middle East, especially within the GCC countries, with major investments in artificial intelligence, robotics, genomic medicine and digital healthcare infrastructure. The market for beauty products celebrating Middle Eastern heritage is growing, with products like Asteri Beauty's vegan, "desert-proof" collection, or MZN Bodycare's line, inspired by the plants of Saudi Arabia. Extremely ambitious investment in preventative healthcare, sports, and wellness infrastructure and tourism, are creating a new global hub for wellbeing—one that once seemed unlikely.

• Thailand to Host ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025

  Thailand, known as the “spa capital” of Asia, is set to become a global hub for the pool and spa industry. The ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025 will take place from September 2 to 4, 2025, at the IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Bangkok. Organized by the prestigious Asia Pool & Spa Expo, often referred to as the “Oscar” of the global pool and spa industry, the event aims to provide an efficient trade platform for promoting Asian products worldwide and facilitating international brands' entry into the Asian market. Co-located with TAAPE Expo The expo will be held alongside TAAPE (Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo), Thailand’s only exhibition dedicated to water parks and attractions. The 2019 TAAPE Expo saw participation from global exhibitors representing over 20 countries, including White Water from Canada, Polin Waterpark and Polgun Waterparks from Turkey, Synergy Waterpark from India, and Lanchao and Dalang from China. Rapid Growth in Pool & Spa Market The pool market in Thailand is expanding rapidly, driven by a growing expatriate population, a thriving tourism sector, and rising living standards. The expo aims to showcase the latest innovations and services while fostering collaboration among industry professionals. For more information, visit the official website at www.aseanpoolspaexpo.com.

• Corona Welcomes The World To Visit Its Tropical Paradise, Corona Island

  Today, Corona, the world’s most valuable beer brand[1], officially opens the doors to Corona Island—an eco-protected natural paradise off the coast of Colombia, now available for booking on major travel platforms. Travelers worldwide can secure their stay directly at livecoronaisland.com or through Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com. As a beer brewed with natural ingredients, Corona Island is symbolic of the brand’s dedication to live in harmony with nature. It is more than just a destination; it offers an experience that will inspire travelers to fall in love with the natural world and motivation to protect its resources. Originally debuting in 2021 as an invite-only getaway located 20 km (12 mi) southwest of Cartagena, and accessible only by boat, the island offers guests a chance to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature through curated daytime activities and evening experiences. Corona Island features ten premium waterfront bungalows, each with its own jacuzzi, nestled among lush tropical forests and pristine beaches. The island offers all-inclusive overnight stays for two people per bungalow, alongside a limited number of all-inclusive day trip passes that are also available for purchase. An Eco-Protected Paradise Corona Island is the world’s first and only island to receive Oceanic Global’s three-star plastic-free Blue Seal for eliminating single-use plastics and adopting sustainable operating best practices at scale. Built with eco-tourism at its core, Corona Island integrates those practices into its architecture, hospitality and daily operations, featuring: · Sustainable Design: Structures use solar energy, native plants like guadua, and traditional building techniques such as bahareque. · Fresh, Local Dining: The island serves its food with an emphasis on local ingredients, such as baked goods made with fruits native to the region, which are all included in the price of the visit. Also available for guests to enjoy are the full suite of Corona products, including Corona Extra and Corona Cero. Immersive, Conservation-Focused Experiences Guests can enjoy a variety of relaxation and eco-conscious activities, including: · Yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking for a mindful connection to nature. · Eco-preservation initiatives such as snorkeling to restore coral reefs and mangrove planting for ecosystem reforestation. “At Corona Island, relaxation meets conservation in a natural beachside setting. As the brand born at the beach, and a beer brewed with natural ingredients, we believe that our island serves as a perfect extension of our ethos,” said Clarissa Pantoja, Global VP of Corona. “With breathtaking landscapes, sustainable practices, and immersive outdoor activities, we invite eco-tourists and travel enthusiasts alike to explore this unique setting, where every experience reflects our dedication to preserving the beauty of the natural world.” To view rates and book your experience at the one-of-a-kind, natural eco-paradise, visit www.livecoronaisland.com or search for Corona Island on Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2025-03-19

• Global Wellness Summit Releases 10 Wellness Trends for 2025

  The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) has released its much-anticipated Future of Wellness report for 2025. Spanning 130 pages, the report is the most comprehensive annual forecast of trends shaping the health and wellness industry. Last year’s report identified a stark polarization in the wellness market. On one side, a high-tech, medicalized, hyper-optimized, and expensive approach—termed "hardcare"—was on the rise. On the other, a growing demand for simpler, low-tech, socially and emotionally driven wellness, described as "softcare," was taking hold. The 2025 report predicts this divide will only deepen. The Rise of Analog Wellness One of the standout trends is the push toward Analog Wellness. As people grow increasingly weary of the manipulative and overwhelming digital world, they are opting to disconnect and embrace retro, pre-digital, and even pre-industrial lifestyles. Analog hobbies and experiences are becoming synonymous with wellness, and this shift is expected to influence industries from travel to home design and even public policy. Another trend, Sauna Reimagined, highlights the reinvention of the ancient, low-tech tradition of saunas, emphasizing their social and restorative aspects. Similarly, Wellness on the Line explores the surge in creative wellness offerings aboard cruise ships and trains, reflecting a broader yearning for slower, more mindful travel experiences. High-Tech Wellness: The Human-Machine Fusion At the other end of the spectrum, Augmented Biology is redefining the possibilities of wellness through the integration of human bodies with advanced technologies. Once confined to the realm of science fiction, these innovations are now unlocking superhuman physical and cognitive potential. The Supplement Paradox addresses the evolution of the supplement industry, focusing on science-backed, high-tech solutions to restore consumer trust in a market riddled with skepticism. Addressing Social Challenges through Wellness The report also examines how wellness is tackling some of society’s most pressing issues. For example, Teen Wellness addresses the alarming rise in mental health challenges among adolescents, spotlighting new initiatives tailored to their unique needs. Meanwhile, Wellness Tackles Addiction sheds light on a growing category aimed at reducing the stigma around addiction, from sober retreats to luxury rehab programs and harm-reduction products. In response to the global water crisis, Watershed Wellness highlights how spas and wellness destinations are working to conserve and replenish water resources. Additionally, Longevity Redefines Work explores how the wellness industry can support an aging workforce, as younger employees become scarcer and older workers remain active in the labor market. The Middle East: A New Leader in Wellness One of the report's most surprising revelations is the rise of the Middle East as a global wellness leader. Driven by ambitious national visions in GCC countries, the region is investing heavily in cutting-edge preventive healthcare, sustainable wellness tourism destinations, and innovative sports-meets-wellness concepts. The GWS 2025 report paints a vivid picture of the wellness industry’s evolving landscape. From the nostalgic embrace of analog living to futuristic breakthroughs in augmented biology, these trends underscore the industry’s growing influence on both personal and societal well-being. TEN WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2025: Analog Wellness 2025 Will Be the Pivotal Year for a Great Logging Off, and Analog-ing On The online world's relentless manipulations, marketing and disinformation campaigns—causing general brain and culture rotting—seem to have really gone too far. People are grasping how tech's evilly brilliant AI and algorithms push us toward hate, dissolve the line between real and not real, and keep us addicted to increasingly awful content. If "digital detox" is as old as the Internet, 2025 will be THE year that more people get very intentional about logging off from an online world costing us our minds, focus, humanity, social lives, financial wellness, and political stability. More companies, concepts and destinations will help people disconnect. There's a new era of "calm tech," including evermore creative apps that discipline your social media time. More governments are taking action, from banning devices in schools to passing "right to disconnect" laws that fine companies for hitting employees with after-work calls and texts. The digital detox trend is even impacting real estate and home design: the hyper-connected smart home is being replaced by the minimally connected, tactile "dumb home," where privacy and peace are restored. A great "analog-ing on" is also ahead. Trailblazed by younger gens, there's a growing obsession with retro tech, and analog hobbies and experiences, that restore our attention and the sense of the tactile. Structured, super-social classes and clubs revolving around every type of analog experience are exploding globally: social ceramics studios, old-school game-playing clubs, intellectual "academic bars," reading salons set to live music. These analog clubs and salons are giving fitness studios and pricey "social wellness clubs" competition as new grassroots third spaces. The digital detox and analog experiences trends are also transforming travel. Digital detox cabins in nature (like the UK's Unplugged) or phone-free adventure tours like FLTO's, feel more aspirational than spa palaces. Retro-tech mania (for old-school cameras, vinyl records, and vintage typewriters) is hitting resorts, from "deep listening" vinyl record nights in saunas, to swapping guests' phones for "digital detox kits" that contain Polaroid cameras, paper maps and board games. Wellness resorts are launching sophisticated analog arts programming: painting, ceramics, calligraphy and writing workshops. Travelers are seeking positively pre-industrial experiences: at the new South African 17th-century farm turned wellness resort, Soetmelksvlei, you learn blacksmithing and wheat milling. The digital detox and analog living trends have been percolating for years, but they now feel less like trendy nostalgia and more like social activism fighting to create a sane, human "retro future." If we had to bet on AI-driven or analog wellness, longevity clinics or logging off, we'd take the latter. Sauna Reimagined A Global Renaissance of an Ancient Tradition While saunas have been around for thousands of years, they're currently enjoying an incredible renaissance. From new urban saunas in New York City and Chicago, to rustic waterfront saunas in Oslo or Brighton, to saunas with immersive art installations in Tokyo, today's saunas represent a reinvention of an age-old tradition—and an increasingly younger, hipper crowd is taking notice. A key part of this sauna renaissance is driven by a rise in entertainment in saunas. The Aufguss movement, once the domain of European countries, is gaining momentum worldwide, with new countries like Japan and England taking part in recent years. Sauna design is also getting far more exciting, and stand-alone saunas are accessible, often made for the public, with low entry fees. Even box-style saunas in spas are becoming more experiential, with panoramic glass walls or immersive digital art. Event-sized saunas that fit dozens—or even hundreds—of people are also popping up worldwide. Younger consumers, craving real-life connections beyond bars and clubs, are flocking to these social saunas, which can feature DJs, drag queens, or full-blown concerts. Where saunas were once a sad, dark, lonely box in a basement, today they're lively, social cultural and entertainment hubs, often with fantastic views and in incredible locations, and people just can't get enough. The Supplement Paradox Wellness, Efficacy and the Trust Revolution Supplements are a gigantic, growing $178 billion market that has moved from humble health aid on pharmacy shelves to cultural phenom. With glossy packaging, celebrity endorsements, and price tags now reaching thousands of dollars, supplements mean status as much as health. The industry has been long plagued by lax regulations and "science washing." This trend explores new directions that could help create shifts in the perception of supplements' efficacy and value. Science is meeting premiumization, from hyper-personalized formulations to a focus on cellular longevity, as supplements evolve into more precise tools of lifestyle optimization. Biomarker and genetic testing, and predictive AI, are underwriting hyper-personalized, more adaptive regimens that address risks like (potentially toxic) over-supplementation and inefficacy. Thorne HealthTech's Onegevity platform and InsideTracker analyze biomarkers, genetics and lifestyle data to deliver tailored formulations. Longevity science is creating supplements targeting key aging mechanisms like mitochondrial health, telomere preservation and cellular repair—such as NAD+ boosters and senolytics (that kill "zombie" cells). David Beckham's new IM8 brand, partnering with Prenetics and the University of Oxford, is studying the accelerated aging that happens in space (aboard the International Space Station) to create unique, science-backed longevity supplements. More science-based supplements are targeting precise needs. New GLP-1 companion supplements are formulated to counteract the muscle loss, nutrient imbalances and digestive issues that occur when taking Ozempic, such as Elo Health's GLP-1. More are addressing the unique physiological needs of women, with innovation in targeting hormonal health and fertility. Menopause care is advancing: Morrama Labs' Luma app collects temperature, heart rate stress and sleep data during menopause to customize formulations 3D-printed into monthly pill batches. The trend also covers new detoxification methods removing microplastics, heavy metals and pollutants that can hinder nutrient absorption, and how nanotechnology could enhance supplements' precision by targeting specific tissues or organs, bridging the gap between medical treatment and supplements. Teen Wellness An Opportunity for Greater Inclusion Teenagers today face mounting mental health challenges, fueled by societal crises and social media pressure. While historically, spas and wellness destinations have treated teens as a sidenote or in rather silly ways, with the skyrocketing teen mental health crisis, the industry is finally getting serious about teen wellbeing. A shift is underway as the wellness industry opens up to family and intergenerational wellness programming to help teens and their families deal with unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression and addiction. From off-grid sanctuaries in Bali that help teenagers deal with the overstimulation of the digital age, to surf therapy retreats in the UK and Morocco that combine the mindfulness of surfing with trauma therapy, culture and connection, new programming is using powerful wellness tools like sound therapy, meditation and nature immersion to fight the rising teenage "diseases of despair." The hospitality and spa worlds are taking notice. Hotel brands like Rosewood, One Hotels and Carillon Miami are working on new teen-focused initiatives, and spas are experimenting with things like adapted massage for sports-involved teens and new approaches for sedentary or neurodivergent youth. But it's not just spas that are tackling the issue. A wide range of urban and suburban wellness programs are meeting teens where they are in their local communities to provide accessible experiences that improve mental health, and free apps like Clear Fear and Sorted Teens have been designed specifically to help teens deal with anxiety or foster resilience. The wellness industry has a vital opportunity and responsibility to support this generation and foster healthier, more balanced young lives, and we expect more serious teen wellness solutions will emerge in the coming years. Watershed Wellness Industry Takes a Leadership Role in the Water Crisis As water scarcity becomes a terrible problem worldwide, fueled by climate change, population growth and pollution, the spa and wellness industries must rise up, both collectively and individually, to address the issue. This is the biggest problem that nobody is talking about, affecting millions of people globally. The spa and wellness industries have long been water-hog villains. Consider this: a single drench shower uses up to 40 liters of water per guest, which can add up to 11,000 liters of water daily—or more than four million liters (over ten million gallons) annually. That's just one spa. As our planet heats, and droughts and water shortages become far more commonplace, it will become imperative for wellness establishments to do more to help preserve, replenish, and renew our water supplies, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just selfishly about individual health, but also about the health of the planet. Given the importance of water in spa and wellness businesses and treatments, the industry is in a unique position to lead by example in promoting water conservation and environmental stewardship. Many wellness destinations at the forefront of the movement are adopting sustainable practices to reduce their water usage, or even to implement processes to help with water shortages in their communities. The destination spa Rancho La Puerta in Mexico, for instance, has invested in building a $5 million "water healing plant" that uses anaerobic bio-digesters, constructed wetlands and ozone to treat 27 liters (7+ gallons) of sewage per second in an effort to reverse the water crisis in Tecate. Other wellness destinations are implementing graywater recycling systems, closed-loop water systems, and natural filtration systems for their pools. As more destructive droughts loom, and as the public becomes more aware of water shortage issues, it will become imperative for the spa and wellness industries to change their practices—or risk being seen as an outdated, ethically obsolete model of wellbeing that neglects this rising crisis in planetary wellness. Augmented Biology Unlocking Human Potential Through Advanced Health Optimization As advancements in health technology and genetic engineering unfold, a new paradigm is taking shape in which health is not merely sustained, but actively optimized and extended, enabling people to unlock their full neural, physiological, and psychological potential. A fundamental redefining of the nature of human capability is underway and a new fusion of body and machine that once seemed like the stuff of science fiction is pushing the potential of people's brains and bodies to superhuman levels. Breakthroughs include performance-enhancing brain-computer interfaces, neurocell wellness, nth-level extreme performance fitness, and wearable robotics with exoskeletons that help athletes endure intense exertion. Neurable's smart headphones are integrated with brain-computer interface technology to help people gain deep insight into their cognitive health and manage burnout. Augmented mobility inventions include the MO/GO trousers, with wearable robotics that provide a 40% boost to leg muscle strength and knee support, so people can move powerfully and freely in physically demanding environments like the wilderness. AI-integrated wearable health devices are transitioning from simple trackers to active systems that respond to individual needs, while advancements in genetic engineering, neuroplasticity and personalized preventative medicine are becoming more viable—meaning tailored interventions for hyper-optimization will go mainstream. Rising consumer demand for wellness solutions that optimize cognitive, emotional and physical states will see the idea of unlocking untapped human potential become a reality. We're on the cusp of a new era where we're beginning to not only understand our biology more deeply, but also take active control in improving it, and we're pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human—unlocking radically new possibilities for health, brain power, longevity and performance. The future will not be defined by our limitations, but by our endless capacity for growth and improvement. Longevity Redefines Work Wellness Industry Opportunities Arise to Support the Expanding 65+ Workforce An age bomb is coming, and it will radically reconfigure the workspace. All over the world, the number of young workers is dramatically decreasing as the over-65 employee demographic explodes in an age of longevity. It's hard to believe, but the fastest-growing workforce age group globally are now the over-75s. Many forces are driving people to work longer: the vast knowledge resources they hold, their financial needs, the desperate need for labor, and the 4% GDP boost available to countries for every one year of increased work participation. This trend explores the many seismic changes coming to work: what roles we'll fill, how long we'll stay, and how we'll adapt. It will all come down to maintaining the health and wellness of older workers and creating work policies that address how our responsibilities, needs and goals change with age. While most workplaces are lagging in solving for this, some are taking action. We'll see more flexi-work adopted by corporations like the UK's HSBC, as flexibility over locations and hours can be non-negotiable for older employees. This could mean part-time schedules, or consulting roles offering more autonomy. Companies, like Siemens in Germany, will create more mentorship programs, as older workers value sharing their deep experience. Reverse mentoring will rise, as it has at multinationals like Estee Lauder and General Electric, where senior employees are mentored by younger ones, to create intergenerational communication and stay ahead of tech and trends. In an ever-changing skills-based world, with the need to constantly be upskilling ourselves, under-utilized educational institutions could become centers for re-schooling and up-schooling the older worker. Companies like India's Tata Consultancy Services focus on continuous learning programs for older employees. Singapore is the shining example in policy for an aging workforce: they raised the re-employment age, provide wage offsets for companies hiring older workers, offer skills development programs for older employees, and crucially, the most accessible, affordable healthcare system. If we don't create solutions that put workers on a path of longevity, our economies will fail. The wellness industry will have a huge role here, and expect new advisors specializing in the wellness of the very valuable corporate older worker. Wellness Tackles Addiction Wellness Moves into Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment This trend identifies a new wellness category, with the wellness space poised to further topple taboos and offer innovative products around addiction, just as it has for sexual wellness and menopause. Wellness practices are increasingly being integrated into all manner of addiction treatment—from alcohol to illicit drugs to technology—and wellness companies are enthusiastically entering the harm-reduction space. As drug use climbs around the world and alcohol is named a Class 1 carcinogen, creative, judgement-free options are needed. Cool-kids-approved brands aimed at harm reduction are going viral. Blip and Jones are bringing smoking cessation into the modern day with slick packaging, innovative products, and online support. New ingestibles, like GreenOut ("the epipen of cannabis") or Soft Landing Chocolate ("a reverse edible"), will help people come down fast and safely if they get too high on THC. There are more health dupes, like Puff Herbals' herbal wellness "cigarettes" that help with sleep or focus. New apps and wearable tech are supporting people with addictions, as are new "habit" coaching platforms, like Zabit. The line between a luxury wellness resort and a medical addiction treatment center is blurring as more treatment centers realize that many wellness approaches are proving incredibly helpful in supporting people through recovery. Carrara in California marries medical treatment with EMDR therapy, somatic experiences, yoga, tai chi, TCM, spa treatments, and mandatory hyperbaric oxygen chamber sessions. At Zurich's Paracelsus Recovery, cutting-edge medical advancements (from full-body MRIs to epigenetic testing) are integrated with acupuncture, shiatsu, and equine and art therapy. Even if your bad habits don't require a two-week medical stay, with the rise of the "sober curious" movement, more hotels and wellness resorts are hosting wellness-focused sobriety retreats to help people cut down on everything from booze to tech, such as Gill Tietz's Sober Powered Nervous System Reboot Retreat in Mexico. The trend also examines a new wave of med-tech innovations to treat addictions, like Spark Biomedical's neuro-stimulating earpiece easing opioid withdrawal symptoms, as well the new ways psychedelic drugs are being used to treat drug addiction. Wellness on the Line Cruise and Rail Journeys Navigate to Wellness Travel Fueled by a desire for slower, more relaxed travel, both cruises and train travel are surging in popularity. Increasingly, they're also exploring itineraries with a host of holistic wellness programs, resort-level facilities, on-board health experts, and wellness-focused excursions. From dedicated Dior spa carriages on Belmond's fleet of luxury trains, to a boom in wellness retreats at sea—sometimes with a celebrity twist—wellness is playing an important role in offering unique programming that helps users differentiate in a crowded marketplace. Wellness brands like COMO Hotels are jumping into the cruise market. Their first "Journey into the Arctic" combines adventurous excursions with COMO Shambhala wellness treatments. Established cruise lines are partnering with celebrities from Gwyneth Paltrow to Deepak Chopra and Dr. Andrew Weil to help them navigate their wellness experiences. Rail journeys are celebrating their natural mindful qualities. Commuter trains are highlighting the opportunity for knitting or meditation during Mental Health Awareness Week. A new generation of train travelers is discovering Europe's historic thermal towns—all accessible by rail—and visiting the bathhouses, grand hotels and promenades that set the scene for 19th-century wellness journeys. Wellness-focused excursions for both train and cruise travelers increasingly offer guests the opportunity to explore local wellness traditions, from wild swimming in Scandinavia, to gathering medicinal plants with a Mayan shaman in Mexico, to soaking in onsens in Japan. As astrotourism, silent tourism and "calmcations" grow in popularity, rail and ship travel—which can transport guests far away from light and noise pollution—will capitalize on these trends. Cruises are focusing on everything from longevity programming to more "scientific citizen" expeditions. And residential cruise real estate is also emerging. Next year, Blue World Voyages plans to launch its first ship, entirely dedicated to sports and wellness, and featuring advanced technology like air and water purification systems, circadian lighting and vitamin-C infused showers—the kinds of amenities seen in the most sophisticated wellness real estate projects on land. With both cruises and trains offering travel where the journey can be the destination, and with slowing down exactly the kind of wellbeing we most need, expect to see more wellness on cruise lines and rail lines moving forward. The Middle East's Wellness Ambitions From Desert Retreats to High-Tech Wellness, the Region Embraces Holistic Wellbeing The Middle East is emerging as a global wellness leader, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation and sustainability, fueled by national strategies and vast new developments. Wellness is touching every part of Middle Eastern society, from innovative health solutions to religious gatherings, and as oil-dependent countries seek new revenue streams, wellness is emerging as a prime sector. Several Middle Eastern countries have articulated national visions that emphasize wellness and preventive healthcare as integral components of their development strategies, understanding that wellbeing is vital to economic diversification and population health. The UAE's Vision 2030 invests in prevention and AI-enhanced clinical care; Oman's Vision 2040 emphasizes preventive health and the creation of a genomic database targeting genetic diseases; and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 funds public health campaigns targeting chronic illness and has gone big on wellness tourism. Large-scale travel destinations like Red Sea Global's AMAALA in Saudi Arabia—which will include an unprecedented 30 world-class wellness destinations when complete, with the first eight opening this year—highlight the region's ambitious moves into wellness tourism. Elsewhere, Arabic wellness traditions and dramatic landscapes are creating authentic experiences that highlight the region's beauty and heritage. For instance, in Jordan, guests connect with local Bedouin culture while stargazing and hiking. The region is pioneering new intersections between sports and wellness, with destinations like Qatar's Aspire Academy and Saudi Arabia's Sports Boulevard. Digital innovation is transforming healthcare in the Middle East, especially within the GCC countries, with major investments in artificial intelligence, robotics, genomic medicine and digital healthcare infrastructure. The market for beauty products celebrating Middle Eastern heritage is growing, with products like Asteri Beauty's vegan, "desert-proof" collection, or MZN Bodycare's line, inspired by the plants of Saudi Arabia. Extremely ambitious investment in preventative healthcare, sports, and wellness infrastructure and tourism, are creating a new global hub for wellbeing—one that once seemed unlikely.

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  2025-01-31

• Thailand to Host ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025

  Thailand, known as the “spa capital” of Asia, is set to become a global hub for the pool and spa industry. The ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025 will take place from September 2 to 4, 2025, at the IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Bangkok. Organized by the prestigious Asia Pool & Spa Expo, often referred to as the “Oscar” of the global pool and spa industry, the event aims to provide an efficient trade platform for promoting Asian products worldwide and facilitating international brands' entry into the Asian market. Co-located with TAAPE Expo The expo will be held alongside TAAPE (Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo), Thailand’s only exhibition dedicated to water parks and attractions. The 2019 TAAPE Expo saw participation from global exhibitors representing over 20 countries, including White Water from Canada, Polin Waterpark and Polgun Waterparks from Turkey, Synergy Waterpark from India, and Lanchao and Dalang from China. Rapid Growth in Pool & Spa Market The pool market in Thailand is expanding rapidly, driven by a growing expatriate population, a thriving tourism sector, and rising living standards. The expo aims to showcase the latest innovations and services while fostering collaboration among industry professionals. For more information, visit the official website at www.aseanpoolspaexpo.com.

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  2025-01-10

• Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 to Showcase Latest Industry Innovations

  The Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 is set to take place from May 10 to May 12 at the China Import & Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, China. The expo will bring together global leaders in the pool and spa industry to present their latest products and technological advancements. A wide array of products will be featured, including: Pools Equipment: Leading manufacturers like EMAUX, LASWIM, GLONG, and POOLKING will showcase cutting-edge designs and advanced technology.Water Treatment: Companies such as SINCOBEST and BOYUANSHANG will present top-selling solutions for effective water management.Pool Lighting: BAOBIAO, POOLUX, and others will highlight their innovative lighting systems.Pool Cleaners: SUBLUE and POWERFUL will demonstrate high-tech robotic pool cleaners in action.Spas: Prominent brands like KASDALY, MONALISA, and SUNRANS will exhibit luxurious spa products.Saunas: Renowned exhibitors such as KEYA and HUAXI will present their latest sauna solutions.Acrylic Pools: Local manufacturers like GOLDEN HARVEST and DONCHAMP will display high-quality acrylic pool materials.Pool Liners: LANDY and QUNTAI will offer a look at their premium PVC liners and accessories.Pool Covers: POOLMAX and YIYONG will introduce protective cover solutions. The expo provides exclusive benefits for international buyers, including:Complimentary Hotel Accommodation: Free rooms during the exhibition period for select international attendees.Factory Tour: A “Happy Water Trip” on the final day, offering exclusive factory visits to experience the latest production innovations firsthand. “This expo offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with top suppliers, explore industry trends, and expand business opportunities in the pool and spa sector,” said an expo representative. [Inquiries]Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 Secretariat http://www.asiapoolspaexpo.com/index.php?lang=en

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  2025-01-10

• Global Wellness Summit Announces 2024 Theme: “A Watershed Moment for Wellness”

  The agenda for November’s conference in Scotland will have a double vision: broadly exploring how the wellness industry is at a pivotal moment for growth and disruption, while also taking a deep dive into the topic of water, from the explosion of interest in a new breed of bathing, sauna, hot springs, cold immersion, and wild swimming experiences to the water-hungry wellness and spa industries waking up to their role in creating a sustainable “blue economy” The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the multitrillion-dollar global wellness economy, today announced the theme for its 2024 conference being held in St. Andrews, Scotland from November 4-7: “A Watershed Moment for Wellness.” The agenda, at the macro level, will explore how the wellness industry is at a watershed moment for growth and evolution, gathering global experts to analyze the newest directions within each sector– whether fitness, mental wellness, wellness tourism, healthy food and weight loss, wellness real estate, well-tech, beauty, wellness policy, and more. A Dive into the ‘H2O Experience Economy’: The agenda will also specifically explore the surge in water-wellness experiences, a welcome democratic trend in an age of ever-wealthier wellness. If “sanus per aqua” (or “health by water,” the Latin acronym for “spa”) is the most ancient of wellness approaches, experts will discuss the powerful renaissance in water-based therapies underway, and how emerging hydrothermal approaches and technologies could revolutionize wellness in the future. The agenda will tackle many topics where water and wellness intersect, from the global surge in new urban bathhouses, sauna centers, and vast water-wellness parks that are becoming the new social “hotspots” to the wave of new and restored hot springs destinations (from reimagined Japanese onsens to an investment rush in hot springs development in the US). Climate Change, the Water Crisis, and the Wellness Industry: Climate change is severely threatening the world’s most precious resource, water. The wellness and spa industries are voracious consumers of water, while wellness tourism often creates other negative environmental impacts that threaten marine/water ecosystems and can hurt local coastal communities. The agenda will bring sustainability experts together to show how the industry needs to change, from boosting the wellness industry’s role in the “blue economy” (the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and preserving endangered ocean ecosystems) to embracing the ethics of water (how clean water is a basic human right, now denied to 2.2 billion people) to adopting new technologies and practices that could transform the industry’s water use efficiency. The Perfect Location: Europe/the UK is the ancient birthplace of water-wellness and spa, and the ideal place to explore the theme. Scotland’s water is famed worldwide (crucial for some of its biggest exports, like scotch and whisky) and it’s one of the world’s most water-rich countries. It has more than 30,000 lochs, 10,000 miles of coastline, and enough rivers and streams to circle the Earth three times. In 2024, 98% of Scotland’s bathing waters will again meet or exceed the country’s strict environmental standards. Host Sponsor, Kohler–Water Experience Innovator & Sustainability Activist: The 2024 host sponsor is Kohler Co., which for 150 years has been a storied brand in design and innovative water features/experiences. With the Summit being held at one of their seven global properties, the iconic Old Course Hotel with a reimagined Kohler Waters Spa, delegates will literally be immersed in the theme. The company is also a renowned leader in sustainability and protecting the world’s water resources and is working hard toward net zero environmental impact by 2035. “There is powerful synergy between this year’s Summit theme on how water intersects with wellness and Kohler Co.’s mission, which not only includes pioneering water design, features and experiences for wellbeing but also working hard to fight climate change and protect the world’s water resources,” said Nina Kohler, strategy and design leader for the Hospitality Group at the Kohler Co. A Watershed Industry Moment, for Growth, for Disruption: The wider agenda will explore the historic momentum for the industry. Global Wellness Institute researchers find that the wellness economy was worth $5.6 trillion in 2022 and forecast that it will rise to $8.5 trillion by 2027. They will unveil a complete update of the Global Wellness Economy Monitor in Scotland, with new data and insights on each wellness sector. “This is a watershed moment for wellness. In our 2024 trends report, we note that we’ve seen more industry disruptions in the last year than in the last decade–whether the rapid rise of medical-wellness and longevity concepts or Big Pharma rewriting weight loss,” said Susie Ellis, GWS chair and CEO. “With fast-shifting consumer demands, fast-evolving technology, demographic shifts (including a profoundly aging population), accelerating climate change and demands that businesses take environmental action, this year’s agenda will investigate how our industry will continue to see further radical transformation.”

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  2024-06-05

• American Express Reveals 2024 Top Travel Trends

  American Express Travel® released its 2024 Global Travel Trends Report[1] today, highlighting the inspiration and trends driving global travel bookings this year. The report, based on survey data from travelers in the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, found that 84% of respondents plan to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2024 compared to last year. Additionally, 77% of respondents care more about having the right travel experience than about the cost of the trip.The four trends driving booking decisions are:· For the Love of the Game: Sports fans are planning trips around athletic events, whether it involves a favorite sport, a beloved team, or an international multi-sport competition· Planning Big: Major, expedition-style adventures, like a trip to the Galapagos Islands or trekking with the gorillas, deliver the transformative experiences that travelers are looking for· Going Solo: Travelers are takings trips alone, embracing the ease of planning and ability to tailor itineraries that are a perfect fit· On a Whim: With so much of life being structured and scheduled these days, people are seeking flexibility in their travel plans and leaving room for spontaneity“Travelers are focused on creating the right itineraries and building memories, whether that means booking a trip to see a favorite sports team compete or taking a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise,” says Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel. “Our Global Travel Trends Report sheds light on what is driving global travel bookings and provides inspiration for where to go next. Our American Express Travel Consultants can help, no matter what type of trip you want to take.”Top insights from American Express Travel’s 2024 Global Travel Trends Report include:· A desire to see sporting events live and to watch favorite teams and beloved players in person are driving where travelers are going and what they are doing when they get there.- 67% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents[2] (compared to 58% of all respondents) are interested in traveling for sporting events in 2024- 58% of respondents who are traveling for sports in 2024 will do so for soccer, basketball or Formula 1 racing- New York, Miami and Paris are the top destinations respondents are planning to travel to for sporting events this summer· Transformative, once-in-a-lifetime trips, like visiting the Galapagos Islands and hiking in Antarctica, are at the top of many travelers’ wish lists, and younger travelers want an expert to help them plan.- 65% of respondents are more interested in taking a major trip in 2024 than in previous years- 72% of respondents would rather save money for a major trip than spend it on going out with friends; and more than half of respondents plan on saving between 6 months to 2 years for a major trip- 58% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents want a travel agent or trusted advisor to help them book a major trip this year- 55% of respondents planning a major trip would consider visiting multiple countries in a region· The ease of planning and ability to make the perfect, personalized itinerary is driving people to plan trips alone, especially younger travelers.- 76% of Millennials and Gen Z respondents (compared to 69% of all respondents) say they are planning on taking a solo trip 2024- 74% of male respondents and 63% of female respondents say they are planning on taking a solo trip in 2024- 66% of respondents planning on traveling solo are planning a trip tailored to treat themselves- 60% of respondents planning on traveling solo this year intend to take two or more solo trips· Travelers are leaning into flexible itineraries, allowing them the freedom to be spontaneous and experience the local culture when they travel.- 78% of respondents say that spontaneous trips appeal to them77% of Millennials and Gen Z have booked a last-minute trip before, compared to 65% of Gen X[3] and 52% of Baby Boomers[4]- 68% of respondents agree that they like to leave unplanned time in their trip to experience local culture/activities- 57% of respondents prefer booking a last-minute getaway to a nearby destination rather than somewhere far awayAs the demand for travel continues into 2024, American Express provides eligible Card Members with exceptional travel access and experiences, including 1400+ airport lounges through its Global Lounge Collection®; expert Travel Consultants who can build dream itineraries for everything from major trips like an expedition cruise or safari, to quick weekend getaways; restaurant reservations through Resy and curated where-to-eat guides at Resy.com/Travel; benefits across global sporting experiences and venues; benefits at over 2000 hand-picked hotels around the world via Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection; more than 1000 premium vacation rental properties via Select Homes + Retreats™, and more.The full American Express Travel 2024 Global Travel Trends Report can be viewed here. [1] Survey Methodology: This poll was conducted between January 31 - February 8, 2024 among a sample of 2005 US Adults, 1007 Australia Adults, 1002 Canada, 1002 UK Adults, 1002 Japan Adults, 1006 Mexico Adults and 1005 India Adults who have at least a $50k+ income equivalent and typically travel at least once a year. The interviews were conducted online. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2-4 percentage points. Some geographies may be weighted with fewer variables depending on local census data availability.[2] Millennials and Gen Z are defined as respondents as being born between 1981 - 2012.[3] GenX are defined as respondents as being born between 1965 - 1980.[4] Baby Boomers are defined as respondents as being born between 1946 - 1964.

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  2024-03-14

실시간 Global News 기사

• Corona Welcomes The World To Visit Its Tropical Paradise, Corona Island

  Today, Corona, the world’s most valuable beer brand[1], officially opens the doors to Corona Island—an eco-protected natural paradise off the coast of Colombia, now available for booking on major travel platforms. Travelers worldwide can secure their stay directly at livecoronaisland.com or through Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com. As a beer brewed with natural ingredients, Corona Island is symbolic of the brand’s dedication to live in harmony with nature. It is more than just a destination; it offers an experience that will inspire travelers to fall in love with the natural world and motivation to protect its resources. Originally debuting in 2021 as an invite-only getaway located 20 km (12 mi) southwest of Cartagena, and accessible only by boat, the island offers guests a chance to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature through curated daytime activities and evening experiences. Corona Island features ten premium waterfront bungalows, each with its own jacuzzi, nestled among lush tropical forests and pristine beaches. The island offers all-inclusive overnight stays for two people per bungalow, alongside a limited number of all-inclusive day trip passes that are also available for purchase. An Eco-Protected Paradise Corona Island is the world’s first and only island to receive Oceanic Global’s three-star plastic-free Blue Seal for eliminating single-use plastics and adopting sustainable operating best practices at scale. Built with eco-tourism at its core, Corona Island integrates those practices into its architecture, hospitality and daily operations, featuring: · Sustainable Design: Structures use solar energy, native plants like guadua, and traditional building techniques such as bahareque. · Fresh, Local Dining: The island serves its food with an emphasis on local ingredients, such as baked goods made with fruits native to the region, which are all included in the price of the visit. Also available for guests to enjoy are the full suite of Corona products, including Corona Extra and Corona Cero. Immersive, Conservation-Focused Experiences Guests can enjoy a variety of relaxation and eco-conscious activities, including: · Yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking for a mindful connection to nature. · Eco-preservation initiatives such as snorkeling to restore coral reefs and mangrove planting for ecosystem reforestation. “At Corona Island, relaxation meets conservation in a natural beachside setting. As the brand born at the beach, and a beer brewed with natural ingredients, we believe that our island serves as a perfect extension of our ethos,” said Clarissa Pantoja, Global VP of Corona. “With breathtaking landscapes, sustainable practices, and immersive outdoor activities, we invite eco-tourists and travel enthusiasts alike to explore this unique setting, where every experience reflects our dedication to preserving the beauty of the natural world.” To view rates and book your experience at the one-of-a-kind, natural eco-paradise, visit www.livecoronaisland.com or search for Corona Island on Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com.

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  2025-03-19

• Global Wellness Summit Releases 10 Wellness Trends for 2025

  The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) has released its much-anticipated Future of Wellness report for 2025. Spanning 130 pages, the report is the most comprehensive annual forecast of trends shaping the health and wellness industry. Last year’s report identified a stark polarization in the wellness market. On one side, a high-tech, medicalized, hyper-optimized, and expensive approach—termed "hardcare"—was on the rise. On the other, a growing demand for simpler, low-tech, socially and emotionally driven wellness, described as "softcare," was taking hold. The 2025 report predicts this divide will only deepen. The Rise of Analog Wellness One of the standout trends is the push toward Analog Wellness. As people grow increasingly weary of the manipulative and overwhelming digital world, they are opting to disconnect and embrace retro, pre-digital, and even pre-industrial lifestyles. Analog hobbies and experiences are becoming synonymous with wellness, and this shift is expected to influence industries from travel to home design and even public policy. Another trend, Sauna Reimagined, highlights the reinvention of the ancient, low-tech tradition of saunas, emphasizing their social and restorative aspects. Similarly, Wellness on the Line explores the surge in creative wellness offerings aboard cruise ships and trains, reflecting a broader yearning for slower, more mindful travel experiences. High-Tech Wellness: The Human-Machine Fusion At the other end of the spectrum, Augmented Biology is redefining the possibilities of wellness through the integration of human bodies with advanced technologies. Once confined to the realm of science fiction, these innovations are now unlocking superhuman physical and cognitive potential. The Supplement Paradox addresses the evolution of the supplement industry, focusing on science-backed, high-tech solutions to restore consumer trust in a market riddled with skepticism. Addressing Social Challenges through Wellness The report also examines how wellness is tackling some of society’s most pressing issues. For example, Teen Wellness addresses the alarming rise in mental health challenges among adolescents, spotlighting new initiatives tailored to their unique needs. Meanwhile, Wellness Tackles Addiction sheds light on a growing category aimed at reducing the stigma around addiction, from sober retreats to luxury rehab programs and harm-reduction products. In response to the global water crisis, Watershed Wellness highlights how spas and wellness destinations are working to conserve and replenish water resources. Additionally, Longevity Redefines Work explores how the wellness industry can support an aging workforce, as younger employees become scarcer and older workers remain active in the labor market. The Middle East: A New Leader in Wellness One of the report's most surprising revelations is the rise of the Middle East as a global wellness leader. Driven by ambitious national visions in GCC countries, the region is investing heavily in cutting-edge preventive healthcare, sustainable wellness tourism destinations, and innovative sports-meets-wellness concepts. The GWS 2025 report paints a vivid picture of the wellness industry’s evolving landscape. From the nostalgic embrace of analog living to futuristic breakthroughs in augmented biology, these trends underscore the industry’s growing influence on both personal and societal well-being. TEN WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2025: Analog Wellness 2025 Will Be the Pivotal Year for a Great Logging Off, and Analog-ing On The online world's relentless manipulations, marketing and disinformation campaigns—causing general brain and culture rotting—seem to have really gone too far. People are grasping how tech's evilly brilliant AI and algorithms push us toward hate, dissolve the line between real and not real, and keep us addicted to increasingly awful content. If "digital detox" is as old as the Internet, 2025 will be THE year that more people get very intentional about logging off from an online world costing us our minds, focus, humanity, social lives, financial wellness, and political stability. More companies, concepts and destinations will help people disconnect. There's a new era of "calm tech," including evermore creative apps that discipline your social media time. More governments are taking action, from banning devices in schools to passing "right to disconnect" laws that fine companies for hitting employees with after-work calls and texts. The digital detox trend is even impacting real estate and home design: the hyper-connected smart home is being replaced by the minimally connected, tactile "dumb home," where privacy and peace are restored. A great "analog-ing on" is also ahead. Trailblazed by younger gens, there's a growing obsession with retro tech, and analog hobbies and experiences, that restore our attention and the sense of the tactile. Structured, super-social classes and clubs revolving around every type of analog experience are exploding globally: social ceramics studios, old-school game-playing clubs, intellectual "academic bars," reading salons set to live music. These analog clubs and salons are giving fitness studios and pricey "social wellness clubs" competition as new grassroots third spaces. The digital detox and analog experiences trends are also transforming travel. Digital detox cabins in nature (like the UK's Unplugged) or phone-free adventure tours like FLTO's, feel more aspirational than spa palaces. Retro-tech mania (for old-school cameras, vinyl records, and vintage typewriters) is hitting resorts, from "deep listening" vinyl record nights in saunas, to swapping guests' phones for "digital detox kits" that contain Polaroid cameras, paper maps and board games. Wellness resorts are launching sophisticated analog arts programming: painting, ceramics, calligraphy and writing workshops. Travelers are seeking positively pre-industrial experiences: at the new South African 17th-century farm turned wellness resort, Soetmelksvlei, you learn blacksmithing and wheat milling. The digital detox and analog living trends have been percolating for years, but they now feel less like trendy nostalgia and more like social activism fighting to create a sane, human "retro future." If we had to bet on AI-driven or analog wellness, longevity clinics or logging off, we'd take the latter. Sauna Reimagined A Global Renaissance of an Ancient Tradition While saunas have been around for thousands of years, they're currently enjoying an incredible renaissance. From new urban saunas in New York City and Chicago, to rustic waterfront saunas in Oslo or Brighton, to saunas with immersive art installations in Tokyo, today's saunas represent a reinvention of an age-old tradition—and an increasingly younger, hipper crowd is taking notice. A key part of this sauna renaissance is driven by a rise in entertainment in saunas. The Aufguss movement, once the domain of European countries, is gaining momentum worldwide, with new countries like Japan and England taking part in recent years. Sauna design is also getting far more exciting, and stand-alone saunas are accessible, often made for the public, with low entry fees. Even box-style saunas in spas are becoming more experiential, with panoramic glass walls or immersive digital art. Event-sized saunas that fit dozens—or even hundreds—of people are also popping up worldwide. Younger consumers, craving real-life connections beyond bars and clubs, are flocking to these social saunas, which can feature DJs, drag queens, or full-blown concerts. Where saunas were once a sad, dark, lonely box in a basement, today they're lively, social cultural and entertainment hubs, often with fantastic views and in incredible locations, and people just can't get enough. The Supplement Paradox Wellness, Efficacy and the Trust Revolution Supplements are a gigantic, growing $178 billion market that has moved from humble health aid on pharmacy shelves to cultural phenom. With glossy packaging, celebrity endorsements, and price tags now reaching thousands of dollars, supplements mean status as much as health. The industry has been long plagued by lax regulations and "science washing." This trend explores new directions that could help create shifts in the perception of supplements' efficacy and value. Science is meeting premiumization, from hyper-personalized formulations to a focus on cellular longevity, as supplements evolve into more precise tools of lifestyle optimization. Biomarker and genetic testing, and predictive AI, are underwriting hyper-personalized, more adaptive regimens that address risks like (potentially toxic) over-supplementation and inefficacy. Thorne HealthTech's Onegevity platform and InsideTracker analyze biomarkers, genetics and lifestyle data to deliver tailored formulations. Longevity science is creating supplements targeting key aging mechanisms like mitochondrial health, telomere preservation and cellular repair—such as NAD+ boosters and senolytics (that kill "zombie" cells). David Beckham's new IM8 brand, partnering with Prenetics and the University of Oxford, is studying the accelerated aging that happens in space (aboard the International Space Station) to create unique, science-backed longevity supplements. More science-based supplements are targeting precise needs. New GLP-1 companion supplements are formulated to counteract the muscle loss, nutrient imbalances and digestive issues that occur when taking Ozempic, such as Elo Health's GLP-1. More are addressing the unique physiological needs of women, with innovation in targeting hormonal health and fertility. Menopause care is advancing: Morrama Labs' Luma app collects temperature, heart rate stress and sleep data during menopause to customize formulations 3D-printed into monthly pill batches. The trend also covers new detoxification methods removing microplastics, heavy metals and pollutants that can hinder nutrient absorption, and how nanotechnology could enhance supplements' precision by targeting specific tissues or organs, bridging the gap between medical treatment and supplements. Teen Wellness An Opportunity for Greater Inclusion Teenagers today face mounting mental health challenges, fueled by societal crises and social media pressure. While historically, spas and wellness destinations have treated teens as a sidenote or in rather silly ways, with the skyrocketing teen mental health crisis, the industry is finally getting serious about teen wellbeing. A shift is underway as the wellness industry opens up to family and intergenerational wellness programming to help teens and their families deal with unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression and addiction. From off-grid sanctuaries in Bali that help teenagers deal with the overstimulation of the digital age, to surf therapy retreats in the UK and Morocco that combine the mindfulness of surfing with trauma therapy, culture and connection, new programming is using powerful wellness tools like sound therapy, meditation and nature immersion to fight the rising teenage "diseases of despair." The hospitality and spa worlds are taking notice. Hotel brands like Rosewood, One Hotels and Carillon Miami are working on new teen-focused initiatives, and spas are experimenting with things like adapted massage for sports-involved teens and new approaches for sedentary or neurodivergent youth. But it's not just spas that are tackling the issue. A wide range of urban and suburban wellness programs are meeting teens where they are in their local communities to provide accessible experiences that improve mental health, and free apps like Clear Fear and Sorted Teens have been designed specifically to help teens deal with anxiety or foster resilience. The wellness industry has a vital opportunity and responsibility to support this generation and foster healthier, more balanced young lives, and we expect more serious teen wellness solutions will emerge in the coming years. Watershed Wellness Industry Takes a Leadership Role in the Water Crisis As water scarcity becomes a terrible problem worldwide, fueled by climate change, population growth and pollution, the spa and wellness industries must rise up, both collectively and individually, to address the issue. This is the biggest problem that nobody is talking about, affecting millions of people globally. The spa and wellness industries have long been water-hog villains. Consider this: a single drench shower uses up to 40 liters of water per guest, which can add up to 11,000 liters of water daily—or more than four million liters (over ten million gallons) annually. That's just one spa. As our planet heats, and droughts and water shortages become far more commonplace, it will become imperative for wellness establishments to do more to help preserve, replenish, and renew our water supplies, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just selfishly about individual health, but also about the health of the planet. Given the importance of water in spa and wellness businesses and treatments, the industry is in a unique position to lead by example in promoting water conservation and environmental stewardship. Many wellness destinations at the forefront of the movement are adopting sustainable practices to reduce their water usage, or even to implement processes to help with water shortages in their communities. The destination spa Rancho La Puerta in Mexico, for instance, has invested in building a $5 million "water healing plant" that uses anaerobic bio-digesters, constructed wetlands and ozone to treat 27 liters (7+ gallons) of sewage per second in an effort to reverse the water crisis in Tecate. Other wellness destinations are implementing graywater recycling systems, closed-loop water systems, and natural filtration systems for their pools. As more destructive droughts loom, and as the public becomes more aware of water shortage issues, it will become imperative for the spa and wellness industries to change their practices—or risk being seen as an outdated, ethically obsolete model of wellbeing that neglects this rising crisis in planetary wellness. Augmented Biology Unlocking Human Potential Through Advanced Health Optimization As advancements in health technology and genetic engineering unfold, a new paradigm is taking shape in which health is not merely sustained, but actively optimized and extended, enabling people to unlock their full neural, physiological, and psychological potential. A fundamental redefining of the nature of human capability is underway and a new fusion of body and machine that once seemed like the stuff of science fiction is pushing the potential of people's brains and bodies to superhuman levels. Breakthroughs include performance-enhancing brain-computer interfaces, neurocell wellness, nth-level extreme performance fitness, and wearable robotics with exoskeletons that help athletes endure intense exertion. Neurable's smart headphones are integrated with brain-computer interface technology to help people gain deep insight into their cognitive health and manage burnout. Augmented mobility inventions include the MO/GO trousers, with wearable robotics that provide a 40% boost to leg muscle strength and knee support, so people can move powerfully and freely in physically demanding environments like the wilderness. AI-integrated wearable health devices are transitioning from simple trackers to active systems that respond to individual needs, while advancements in genetic engineering, neuroplasticity and personalized preventative medicine are becoming more viable—meaning tailored interventions for hyper-optimization will go mainstream. Rising consumer demand for wellness solutions that optimize cognitive, emotional and physical states will see the idea of unlocking untapped human potential become a reality. We're on the cusp of a new era where we're beginning to not only understand our biology more deeply, but also take active control in improving it, and we're pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human—unlocking radically new possibilities for health, brain power, longevity and performance. The future will not be defined by our limitations, but by our endless capacity for growth and improvement. Longevity Redefines Work Wellness Industry Opportunities Arise to Support the Expanding 65+ Workforce An age bomb is coming, and it will radically reconfigure the workspace. All over the world, the number of young workers is dramatically decreasing as the over-65 employee demographic explodes in an age of longevity. It's hard to believe, but the fastest-growing workforce age group globally are now the over-75s. Many forces are driving people to work longer: the vast knowledge resources they hold, their financial needs, the desperate need for labor, and the 4% GDP boost available to countries for every one year of increased work participation. This trend explores the many seismic changes coming to work: what roles we'll fill, how long we'll stay, and how we'll adapt. It will all come down to maintaining the health and wellness of older workers and creating work policies that address how our responsibilities, needs and goals change with age. While most workplaces are lagging in solving for this, some are taking action. We'll see more flexi-work adopted by corporations like the UK's HSBC, as flexibility over locations and hours can be non-negotiable for older employees. This could mean part-time schedules, or consulting roles offering more autonomy. Companies, like Siemens in Germany, will create more mentorship programs, as older workers value sharing their deep experience. Reverse mentoring will rise, as it has at multinationals like Estee Lauder and General Electric, where senior employees are mentored by younger ones, to create intergenerational communication and stay ahead of tech and trends. In an ever-changing skills-based world, with the need to constantly be upskilling ourselves, under-utilized educational institutions could become centers for re-schooling and up-schooling the older worker. Companies like India's Tata Consultancy Services focus on continuous learning programs for older employees. Singapore is the shining example in policy for an aging workforce: they raised the re-employment age, provide wage offsets for companies hiring older workers, offer skills development programs for older employees, and crucially, the most accessible, affordable healthcare system. If we don't create solutions that put workers on a path of longevity, our economies will fail. The wellness industry will have a huge role here, and expect new advisors specializing in the wellness of the very valuable corporate older worker. Wellness Tackles Addiction Wellness Moves into Harm Reduction and Addiction Treatment This trend identifies a new wellness category, with the wellness space poised to further topple taboos and offer innovative products around addiction, just as it has for sexual wellness and menopause. Wellness practices are increasingly being integrated into all manner of addiction treatment—from alcohol to illicit drugs to technology—and wellness companies are enthusiastically entering the harm-reduction space. As drug use climbs around the world and alcohol is named a Class 1 carcinogen, creative, judgement-free options are needed. Cool-kids-approved brands aimed at harm reduction are going viral. Blip and Jones are bringing smoking cessation into the modern day with slick packaging, innovative products, and online support. New ingestibles, like GreenOut ("the epipen of cannabis") or Soft Landing Chocolate ("a reverse edible"), will help people come down fast and safely if they get too high on THC. There are more health dupes, like Puff Herbals' herbal wellness "cigarettes" that help with sleep or focus. New apps and wearable tech are supporting people with addictions, as are new "habit" coaching platforms, like Zabit. The line between a luxury wellness resort and a medical addiction treatment center is blurring as more treatment centers realize that many wellness approaches are proving incredibly helpful in supporting people through recovery. Carrara in California marries medical treatment with EMDR therapy, somatic experiences, yoga, tai chi, TCM, spa treatments, and mandatory hyperbaric oxygen chamber sessions. At Zurich's Paracelsus Recovery, cutting-edge medical advancements (from full-body MRIs to epigenetic testing) are integrated with acupuncture, shiatsu, and equine and art therapy. Even if your bad habits don't require a two-week medical stay, with the rise of the "sober curious" movement, more hotels and wellness resorts are hosting wellness-focused sobriety retreats to help people cut down on everything from booze to tech, such as Gill Tietz's Sober Powered Nervous System Reboot Retreat in Mexico. The trend also examines a new wave of med-tech innovations to treat addictions, like Spark Biomedical's neuro-stimulating earpiece easing opioid withdrawal symptoms, as well the new ways psychedelic drugs are being used to treat drug addiction. Wellness on the Line Cruise and Rail Journeys Navigate to Wellness Travel Fueled by a desire for slower, more relaxed travel, both cruises and train travel are surging in popularity. Increasingly, they're also exploring itineraries with a host of holistic wellness programs, resort-level facilities, on-board health experts, and wellness-focused excursions. From dedicated Dior spa carriages on Belmond's fleet of luxury trains, to a boom in wellness retreats at sea—sometimes with a celebrity twist—wellness is playing an important role in offering unique programming that helps users differentiate in a crowded marketplace. Wellness brands like COMO Hotels are jumping into the cruise market. Their first "Journey into the Arctic" combines adventurous excursions with COMO Shambhala wellness treatments. Established cruise lines are partnering with celebrities from Gwyneth Paltrow to Deepak Chopra and Dr. Andrew Weil to help them navigate their wellness experiences. Rail journeys are celebrating their natural mindful qualities. Commuter trains are highlighting the opportunity for knitting or meditation during Mental Health Awareness Week. A new generation of train travelers is discovering Europe's historic thermal towns—all accessible by rail—and visiting the bathhouses, grand hotels and promenades that set the scene for 19th-century wellness journeys. Wellness-focused excursions for both train and cruise travelers increasingly offer guests the opportunity to explore local wellness traditions, from wild swimming in Scandinavia, to gathering medicinal plants with a Mayan shaman in Mexico, to soaking in onsens in Japan. As astrotourism, silent tourism and "calmcations" grow in popularity, rail and ship travel—which can transport guests far away from light and noise pollution—will capitalize on these trends. Cruises are focusing on everything from longevity programming to more "scientific citizen" expeditions. And residential cruise real estate is also emerging. Next year, Blue World Voyages plans to launch its first ship, entirely dedicated to sports and wellness, and featuring advanced technology like air and water purification systems, circadian lighting and vitamin-C infused showers—the kinds of amenities seen in the most sophisticated wellness real estate projects on land. With both cruises and trains offering travel where the journey can be the destination, and with slowing down exactly the kind of wellbeing we most need, expect to see more wellness on cruise lines and rail lines moving forward. The Middle East's Wellness Ambitions From Desert Retreats to High-Tech Wellness, the Region Embraces Holistic Wellbeing The Middle East is emerging as a global wellness leader, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge innovation and sustainability, fueled by national strategies and vast new developments. Wellness is touching every part of Middle Eastern society, from innovative health solutions to religious gatherings, and as oil-dependent countries seek new revenue streams, wellness is emerging as a prime sector. Several Middle Eastern countries have articulated national visions that emphasize wellness and preventive healthcare as integral components of their development strategies, understanding that wellbeing is vital to economic diversification and population health. The UAE's Vision 2030 invests in prevention and AI-enhanced clinical care; Oman's Vision 2040 emphasizes preventive health and the creation of a genomic database targeting genetic diseases; and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 funds public health campaigns targeting chronic illness and has gone big on wellness tourism. Large-scale travel destinations like Red Sea Global's AMAALA in Saudi Arabia—which will include an unprecedented 30 world-class wellness destinations when complete, with the first eight opening this year—highlight the region's ambitious moves into wellness tourism. Elsewhere, Arabic wellness traditions and dramatic landscapes are creating authentic experiences that highlight the region's beauty and heritage. For instance, in Jordan, guests connect with local Bedouin culture while stargazing and hiking. The region is pioneering new intersections between sports and wellness, with destinations like Qatar's Aspire Academy and Saudi Arabia's Sports Boulevard. Digital innovation is transforming healthcare in the Middle East, especially within the GCC countries, with major investments in artificial intelligence, robotics, genomic medicine and digital healthcare infrastructure. The market for beauty products celebrating Middle Eastern heritage is growing, with products like Asteri Beauty's vegan, "desert-proof" collection, or MZN Bodycare's line, inspired by the plants of Saudi Arabia. Extremely ambitious investment in preventative healthcare, sports, and wellness infrastructure and tourism, are creating a new global hub for wellbeing—one that once seemed unlikely.

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  2025-01-31

• Thailand to Host ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025

  Thailand, known as the “spa capital” of Asia, is set to become a global hub for the pool and spa industry. The ASEAN Patio Pool & Spa Expo 2025 will take place from September 2 to 4, 2025, at the IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Bangkok. Organized by the prestigious Asia Pool & Spa Expo, often referred to as the “Oscar” of the global pool and spa industry, the event aims to provide an efficient trade platform for promoting Asian products worldwide and facilitating international brands' entry into the Asian market. Co-located with TAAPE Expo The expo will be held alongside TAAPE (Thailand Amusement and Attraction Parks Expo), Thailand’s only exhibition dedicated to water parks and attractions. The 2019 TAAPE Expo saw participation from global exhibitors representing over 20 countries, including White Water from Canada, Polin Waterpark and Polgun Waterparks from Turkey, Synergy Waterpark from India, and Lanchao and Dalang from China. Rapid Growth in Pool & Spa Market The pool market in Thailand is expanding rapidly, driven by a growing expatriate population, a thriving tourism sector, and rising living standards. The expo aims to showcase the latest innovations and services while fostering collaboration among industry professionals. For more information, visit the official website at www.aseanpoolspaexpo.com.

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  2025-01-10

• Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 to Showcase Latest Industry Innovations

  The Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 is set to take place from May 10 to May 12 at the China Import & Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, China. The expo will bring together global leaders in the pool and spa industry to present their latest products and technological advancements. A wide array of products will be featured, including: Pools Equipment: Leading manufacturers like EMAUX, LASWIM, GLONG, and POOLKING will showcase cutting-edge designs and advanced technology.Water Treatment: Companies such as SINCOBEST and BOYUANSHANG will present top-selling solutions for effective water management.Pool Lighting: BAOBIAO, POOLUX, and others will highlight their innovative lighting systems.Pool Cleaners: SUBLUE and POWERFUL will demonstrate high-tech robotic pool cleaners in action.Spas: Prominent brands like KASDALY, MONALISA, and SUNRANS will exhibit luxurious spa products.Saunas: Renowned exhibitors such as KEYA and HUAXI will present their latest sauna solutions.Acrylic Pools: Local manufacturers like GOLDEN HARVEST and DONCHAMP will display high-quality acrylic pool materials.Pool Liners: LANDY and QUNTAI will offer a look at their premium PVC liners and accessories.Pool Covers: POOLMAX and YIYONG will introduce protective cover solutions. The expo provides exclusive benefits for international buyers, including:Complimentary Hotel Accommodation: Free rooms during the exhibition period for select international attendees.Factory Tour: A “Happy Water Trip” on the final day, offering exclusive factory visits to experience the latest production innovations firsthand. “This expo offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with top suppliers, explore industry trends, and expand business opportunities in the pool and spa sector,” said an expo representative. [Inquiries]Asia Pool & Spa Expo 2025 Secretariat http://www.asiapoolspaexpo.com/index.php?lang=en

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  2025-01-10

• Global Wellness Summit Announces 2024 Theme: “A Watershed Moment for Wellness”

  The agenda for November’s conference in Scotland will have a double vision: broadly exploring how the wellness industry is at a pivotal moment for growth and disruption, while also taking a deep dive into the topic of water, from the explosion of interest in a new breed of bathing, sauna, hot springs, cold immersion, and wild swimming experiences to the water-hungry wellness and spa industries waking up to their role in creating a sustainable “blue economy” The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the multitrillion-dollar global wellness economy, today announced the theme for its 2024 conference being held in St. Andrews, Scotland from November 4-7: “A Watershed Moment for Wellness.” The agenda, at the macro level, will explore how the wellness industry is at a watershed moment for growth and evolution, gathering global experts to analyze the newest directions within each sector– whether fitness, mental wellness, wellness tourism, healthy food and weight loss, wellness real estate, well-tech, beauty, wellness policy, and more. A Dive into the ‘H2O Experience Economy’: The agenda will also specifically explore the surge in water-wellness experiences, a welcome democratic trend in an age of ever-wealthier wellness. If “sanus per aqua” (or “health by water,” the Latin acronym for “spa”) is the most ancient of wellness approaches, experts will discuss the powerful renaissance in water-based therapies underway, and how emerging hydrothermal approaches and technologies could revolutionize wellness in the future. The agenda will tackle many topics where water and wellness intersect, from the global surge in new urban bathhouses, sauna centers, and vast water-wellness parks that are becoming the new social “hotspots” to the wave of new and restored hot springs destinations (from reimagined Japanese onsens to an investment rush in hot springs development in the US). Climate Change, the Water Crisis, and the Wellness Industry: Climate change is severely threatening the world’s most precious resource, water. The wellness and spa industries are voracious consumers of water, while wellness tourism often creates other negative environmental impacts that threaten marine/water ecosystems and can hurt local coastal communities. The agenda will bring sustainability experts together to show how the industry needs to change, from boosting the wellness industry’s role in the “blue economy” (the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and preserving endangered ocean ecosystems) to embracing the ethics of water (how clean water is a basic human right, now denied to 2.2 billion people) to adopting new technologies and practices that could transform the industry’s water use efficiency. The Perfect Location: Europe/the UK is the ancient birthplace of water-wellness and spa, and the ideal place to explore the theme. Scotland’s water is famed worldwide (crucial for some of its biggest exports, like scotch and whisky) and it’s one of the world’s most water-rich countries. It has more than 30,000 lochs, 10,000 miles of coastline, and enough rivers and streams to circle the Earth three times. In 2024, 98% of Scotland’s bathing waters will again meet or exceed the country’s strict environmental standards. Host Sponsor, Kohler–Water Experience Innovator & Sustainability Activist: The 2024 host sponsor is Kohler Co., which for 150 years has been a storied brand in design and innovative water features/experiences. With the Summit being held at one of their seven global properties, the iconic Old Course Hotel with a reimagined Kohler Waters Spa, delegates will literally be immersed in the theme. The company is also a renowned leader in sustainability and protecting the world’s water resources and is working hard toward net zero environmental impact by 2035. “There is powerful synergy between this year’s Summit theme on how water intersects with wellness and Kohler Co.’s mission, which not only includes pioneering water design, features and experiences for wellbeing but also working hard to fight climate change and protect the world’s water resources,” said Nina Kohler, strategy and design leader for the Hospitality Group at the Kohler Co. A Watershed Industry Moment, for Growth, for Disruption: The wider agenda will explore the historic momentum for the industry. Global Wellness Institute researchers find that the wellness economy was worth $5.6 trillion in 2022 and forecast that it will rise to $8.5 trillion by 2027. They will unveil a complete update of the Global Wellness Economy Monitor in Scotland, with new data and insights on each wellness sector. “This is a watershed moment for wellness. In our 2024 trends report, we note that we’ve seen more industry disruptions in the last year than in the last decade–whether the rapid rise of medical-wellness and longevity concepts or Big Pharma rewriting weight loss,” said Susie Ellis, GWS chair and CEO. “With fast-shifting consumer demands, fast-evolving technology, demographic shifts (including a profoundly aging population), accelerating climate change and demands that businesses take environmental action, this year’s agenda will investigate how our industry will continue to see further radical transformation.”

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  • Global News

  2024-06-05