25th Apr 2018

WTA introduces new ‘glossary of terms’

WTA introduces new ‘glossary of terms’

The recently formed Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) has created a new Glossary of Industry Terms. It is hoped the Glossary will further define and establish standards for the growing global wellness tourism industry.

 

The Glossary is made up of eight terms: Wellness Destination, Wellness Tourism, Wellness Travel, Wellness Traveller, Wellness Resort, Wellness Retreat, Wellness Vacation and Wellness Visitor. The WTA expects to add new terms as the industry continues to grow and develop.

 

Andrew Gibson, WTA chair and Accor Hotels vice president of wellbeing, says: “The definitions have taken considerable thoughtful debate among the WTA Board of Directors. We feel the terms will provide clarification and benefits not only to our members, but to anyone with an interest in the wellness tourism industry.”

 

The Destination Spa category has, for the purposes of the WTA, been replaced by Wellness Resorts. Thomas Klein, Canyon Ranch president and COO, explains: “The Destination Spa category had its day as a ‘one-size fits all’ qualifier; it never truly defined integrative spas with offerings far beyond standard treatments. The term Wellness Resort, for instance, is much more aligned with our philosophy at Canyon Ranch because wellness is not an amenity, an afterthought or trend – it’s our focus. A true Wellness Resort is more than just a place to relax and shed a few pounds; it is a place to make transformative life changes.”

 

Wellness Travel has been defined as travel that allows the traveller to maintain, enhance or kick-start a healthy lifestyle, and support or increase one’s sense of wellbeing. Wellness Resorts are comprised of four primary elements: accommodations, a variety of wellness activities, healthy dining options and wellness-related facilities. A Wellness Destination, meanwhile, is a geographical area that fosters and promotes wellness as an integral part of life within the community and economics of the region.

 

The full WTA Glossary of Industry Terms can be found at www.wellnesstourismassociation.org

 

Susie Ellis, Global Wellness Institute chair and CEO, said the GWI applauds the formation of the WTA. “It makes total sense to have a dedicated global association that represents this fast-growing and fast-evolving travel segment,” she said.

 

www.wellnesstourismassociation.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

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