UPDATE: The global sleep tourism market has surged to an estimated $74.54 billion in 2024, with projections indicating it could nearly double to $148.98 billion by 2030. This trend reflects a growing public focus on health and wellness amid rising sleep disorders and stress, making sleep a sought-after luxury for travelers.
Recent studies characterize inadequate sleep as a global public health epidemic, contributing to serious health issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and increased accident rates. Alarmingly, 25% of Canadians aged 18 to 79 report chronic sleep difficulties, underscoring the urgent need for solutions.
Travelers are now prioritizing rest over traditional excursions. At hotels like Hilton’s Conrad Bali, guests are enveloped in cocoon-like hammocks designed to enhance sleep quality. Meanwhile, the Lefay Resort in Lake Garda, Italy, combines Eastern and Western medicinal practices to promote restorative sleep.
The Sleep Easy program at Longueville Manor in the Channel Islands features consultations with sleep specialists and employs evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Amenities like pillow menus and smart beds are becoming standard, ensuring guests receive tailored sleep experiences.
In Canada, the Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, located in the scenic Kootenay mountains, emphasizes holistic health. Program creator Kirkland Shave reports that half of the retreat’s guests seek sleep as a primary goal. The one-week program includes activities like yoga, hiking, and therapeutic massage, all aimed at resetting the body and mind for improved sleep.
Shave advocates for lifestyle changes to combat sleep deprivation, emphasizing the importance of reducing screen time before bed. He suggests starting with just 30 minutes away from devices, gradually increasing to two hours. Research shows that excessive device use before sleep drastically decreases sleep quality.
To reinforce positive sleep habits, Mountain Trek encourages bedtime journaling, allowing guests to list daily goals, emotional concerns, or expressions of gratitude. This practice not only aids relaxation but also promotes long-term behavioral changes.
As sleep tourism gains momentum, the demand for specialized retreats and accommodations is likely to grow. Shave highlights that cultivating a lifestyle that prioritizes sleep can enhance overall well-being. “Just work little by little to keep tweaking lifestyle habits that sanctify sleep,” he recommends.
This evolving trend is not just about luxury; it reflects a critical response to a public health crisis. With sleep deprivation affecting millions, the rise of sleep tourism could provide a vital pathway to better health and wellness for countless travelers worldwide.
Stay tuned for more updates as the sleep tourism market continues to expand and transform into a key player in global travel.
