Well-Being
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Winter / Spring 2017
175
t was once all about the spa, but today, the
concept of “wellness travel” revolves
mainly around the availability of healthy
food options and a wide range of fitness activities.
Activities that go way beyond things like working
out in the gym or taking a yoga or Pilates class.
One of the fastest growing wellness travel
trends is the movement by hotels and resorts to
help guests take their fitness routines outside by
“naturalizing the gym.”
It was Ralph Waldo Emerson who penned
the quote: “Lose yourself in nature and find
peace.” And, science tells us that something as
simple as taking a walk in nature can help reduce
stress and depression and increase one’s general
sense of well-being. So taking that fact paired
with the pure pleasure of active movement in the
great outdoors, it’s not surprising that an
increasing number of hotels and resorts are
offering their guests a wide range of outdoor
activities. And, not simply any outdoor activities,
but authentic local experiences that allow guests
to truly appreciate the natural attributes and
culture of a destination.
When it comes to wellness, Fairmont is one
luxury brand that tends to be a trend leader. The
hotel chain was, in fact, one of the first luxury
hotel chains to partner with a fitness apparel and
footwear company (Reebok) to
launch a fitness program.
Fairmont Fit was introduced
back in 2007 and is still
running strong.
Mike Taylor, Director,
Global Communications &
Luxury Brands, AccorHotels
(which includes Fairmont) says,
“Today’s traveler wants to
maintain a healthy and
balanced lifestyle while on the road, but often
does not have the luxury of time.” He adds,
“Across our brands, we’ve taken steps to
strengthen our wellness offerings by providing
guests with state-of-the-art fitness centers,
nutritious menu items and fitness activities that
promote meaningful life experiences.”
I
With an average annual snowfall of 12 ft., Fairmont
ChateauWhistler and the surrounding Banff National
Park area is a superb venue for snowshoeing.
It was Ralph Waldo Emerson who
penned the quote: “Lose yourself
in nature and find peace.”
