What qualifies for a wellness destination? There could be a number of factors. Here are just a few:

• availability of healthy food
• clean i.e. minimal air and noise pollution
• plenty of green space and unspoilt nature
• opportunity for physical activity e.g. hiking, swimming and/or learning a new sport such as skiing or surfing
• laid back atmosphere
• presence of reputable spas and treatments
• temperate climate
• amenable health care system
• minimal disparity between men and women, the rich and the poor and different cultural/religious groups

Can you think of other criteria you would add to the list?

Wellness destinations are subjective. They can be places to which you travel for healing purposes (e.g retreats) or destinations that have a positive effect on your health. Any place that benefits your physical, mental and spiritual well-being is in essence a ‘wellness destination.’ My pick for top three are (drumroll please):

1. New Zealand
2. Costa Rica
3. Switzerland