Wellness Travel Awards finalists announced

Above: Ananda in the Himalayas, one of the Wellness Travel Awards finalists 

The finalists in the inaugural Wellness Travel Awards have been announced today. The awards, hosted by Spafinder Wellness 365, shortlists close to 300 spa, hotels, resorts and retreats on six continents around the world. 

Spanning 18 categories and more than 40 countries, the finalists are businesses who are deemed to focus on wellness and to leave guests and visitors feeling healthier when they leave than when they arrived. 

The list of nominees was complied based on recommendations by a panel of international industry judges, made up of spa, wellness and travel journalists, as well as other industry experts from around the world. 

The awards will now open to voting by the public. Voting remains open until September 19, with the winners set to be announced at the World Travel Market in London on November 3-6. 

Spafinder chief brand officer Mia Kyricos said: “The Wellness Travel Awards recognise a rapidly growing demand for healthier travel options (that) make it easier for people to live well when they are on the road.” 

Spafinder defines wellness travel as “holidays and business trips that help travellers stay or get well when traveling,” by offering wellness-related programmes, services and facilities. 

Finalist spas and resorts include Ananda in the Himalayas in India, Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa in Germany, the Miraval Arizona resort in the US, Chiva-Som in Thailand and Grayshott spa in the UK, to mention just a few. 

To cast your vote in Wellness Travel Awards, click here

For the complete list of nominees, click here