Travel as Healing – New York Times

Instead of hitting as many tourist sites as they can in a week, travelers are opting for more relaxing, wellness-focused vacations in 2022. The New York Times says that in the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s no surprise that travelers want to work on their mental and physical wellness during their time off.

“In a recent American Express survey, 76 percent of respondents said they wanted to spend more on travel that improves their well-being,” the New York Times says. “About 55 percent said they would be willing to pay extra for these services or activities.” (Concepción de León)

Worldwide Resorts To Celebrate Global Wellness Day, June 11, 2022 — Forbes

Global Wellness Day is an entirely not-for-profit day, a social project dedicated to living well. The purpose of the day is to ask the question, even if for just one day, “How can I live a healthier and better life?” and to direct the thoughts of both individuals and society towards “living well” and raise awareness. Now in its 11th year, Global Wellness Day is credited with helping change the perception of “self-care” from a selfish pursuit to a necessity. 

Many travel wellness trends have changed since the event’s inception eleven years ago. Wellness travel is no longer a luxury-only experience—it’s become more inclusive and accessible; spending time in nature has become more recognized as a wellness pursuit by both consumers and proprietors; and authentic experiences that reflect the local culture of a destination are more in demand. 

Participating resorts include Eden Roc Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic; Skyterra in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina; Half Moon, Montego Bay, in Jamaica; and many more. (Roger Sands)

With a rise in Covid cases, should people change summer travel plans? An expert weighs in — CNN Travel 

Memorial day weekend saw a jump in both Covid-19 cases and travel plans over last year. Should you cancel your summer travel plans? Dr. Leana Wen, author of Lifelines: A Doctor’s Journey in the Fight for Public Health, emergency physician, and professor of health policy and management at George Washington University, says, 

“Not necessarily. There may be some people who want to reevaluate their travel plans, and everyone should think through contingencies — but I don't think that most people should have to cancel their summer travel… Those who are generally healthy, and vaccinated and boosted, are at low risk for severe illness due to Covid-19. It's reasonable for many people to say that, given their low risk, they are fine resuming pre-pandemic activities and are not going to restrict their travel or other activities. Yes, there is still a small chance they could become very ill, and long-term symptoms from the coronavirus infection remain possible, but many people are concluding that they will assume that risk because the value of travel and all other pre-pandemic activities is so high to them.” (Katia Hetter)

One Big Thing: The Summer of “Revenge Travel” – Axios

Axios says that after more than two years of COVID-19-related cancellations, Americans are shelling out cash for “revenge travel” to make up for experiences and time lost. Whether through upgrading to business or first class, splurging for a five-star hotel, or staying in destinations for a week or two longer, we’re all treating ourselves. Axios says that nearly 9 out of 10 Americans are planning to travel this summer, and they’re willing to opt for higher cost options while they’re at it. (Jennifer A. Kingson and Joann Muller)

These Are the National Parks Requiring Reservations to Visit in 2022 – Condé Nast Traveler

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a national interest in getting outside into nature in an unprecedented way. For four consecutive months in the summer of 2021, Yellowstone National Park shattered records for most recreational visitors. 

“In 2022, visitor numbers are anticipated to surge even higher as more international visitors are expected to return. But that growth has a very real impact on the natural wonders that are meant to be protected and preserved by their NPS status. … The main strategy for crowd control? Reservation systems,” Condé Nast Traveler says.

Some of the most popular parks are now requiring reservations for some of the most popular hiking and driving routes. Those parks include Yosemite, Zion, Acadia, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Dinosaur National Monument. (Rachel Chang)

Hotels and Airlines Cause Stress. Now They’re Trying to Relieve It. — The Wall Street Journal

Simply feeling relaxed on vacation doesn’t cut it anymore for a growing number of travelers. Many say they are more intently focused on their mental health and overall wellness on their trips as they have navigated the stresses of the pandemic. 

Travel companies are embracing wellness travel, offering free virtual therapy sessions and ‘joy ambassadors’ as pandemic-weary vacationers hit the road. (Allison Pohle)