Wellness tourism is a dynamic and rapidly expanding segment of the global travel industry, reshaping how individuals approach travel by prioritizing self-care, personal enrichment, and transformative experiences. According to the Global Wellness Institute, this sector, defined as “travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal well-being,” is projected to reach an impressive $1.3 trillion USD by 2025.
The Farm at San Benito, celebrated as one of the world’s premier medical wellness destinations, has been a pioneer in the Philippine wellness tourism industry. Over the past 22 years, The Farm has received 110 local and international awards, solidifying its role in positioning the Philippines on the global wellness map.
As travellers increasingly prioritize physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being, the wellness tourism sector is poised for exponential growth in 2025. Alongside established trends, emerging innovations are expected to propel this industry to new heights.
The rising demand for programs that blend traditional healing practices with modern, science-backed treatments is transforming the wellness industry. This shift is particularly relevant for addressing chronic and lifestyle-related conditions. The Farm at San Benito serves as a model, showcasing how scientifically grounded practices can deliver tangible health benefits, build credibility, and position a resort as a leader in the wellness industry.
Longevity retreats
As the global wellness tourism industry continues to flourish, longevity retreats is becoming a growing trend in the wellness tourism industry, offering transformative experiences that enhance health and extend life expectancy. The Farm at San Benito’s Longevity Program in partnership with Tulsi Wellness Club, combines regenerative and holistic practices to optimize health and well-being.
Mental and emotional well-being
Mental health challenges such as stress and anxiety take center stage in wellness tourism, with travelers seeking retreats that focus on mindfulness, meditation, and emotional healing. The Farm offers medically supervised holistic programs led by a team of experts, providing personalized therapy sessions, mindfulness practices, and guided meditation to help guests take control of their mental well-being and achieve inner peace and emotional balance.
Detoxification, weight loss and sleep retreats
Wellness tourism is booming, with detox and weight loss retreats gaining popularity as essential components of health resorts globally. These retreats offer a holistic approach to cleansing the body and mind, helping guests rid themselves of stress, toxins, and emotional baggage. The Farm at San Benito provides transformative detox and weight loss retreats.
Meanwhile sleep-focused programs, like Sleep Induction Therapy at The Farm, address the root causes of sleep disturbances through a holistic approach. These programs combine acupressure, nutritional counseling, and personalized coaching to improve sleep quality and reset circadian rhythms. Sleep retreats are becoming increasingly essential in the wellness tourism landscape, expected to remain prominent in 2025 and beyond.
Women’s health balance and family wellness
Women’s health retreats are becoming a cornerstone of wellness tourism, offering specialized programs for women’s unique health needs, including fertility, postnatal care, and menopause management.By addressing mind, body, and spirit, The Farm helps women navigate life’s changes with grace and clarity.
The Farm also provides comprehensive family wellness experiences—personalized wellness treatments for both adults and children, and healthful kids’ menu. These family programs cater to multigenerational travelers, fostering wellness for all ages.
Holistic recovery and post-procedure care
Medical and wellness tourism are merging, with travelers seeking post-surgery recovery in serene, nature-filled settings. The Philippines is becoming a top destination for medical tourism and post-recovery wellness, with programs at The Farm at San Benito combining evidence-based medicine, traditional healing, and holistic wellness.
Regenerative tourism
Wellness travellers are increasingly prioritizing eco-sustainability, community enrichment, and cultural authenticity. As a pioneer of regenerative tourism, The Farm at San Benito embraces these values by integrating eco-friendly practices, farm-to-table dining, community-driven initiatives, and the Filipino Brand of Wellness.
Cultural wellness
As travelers increasingly seek immersive cultural experiences that connect them with local traditions, The Farm exemplifies this trend with its Filipino Brand of Wellness, incorporating indigenous therapies like Hilot, farm-to-skin treatments using local medicinal herbs, and culturally inspired wellness cuisine that celebrates Filipino heritage.
Culinary wellness
Culinary wellness, centered around nutrient-rich, locally sourced, seasonal, and organic foods, is becoming a key element of holistic travel. At The Farm at San Benito, this philosophy is showcased at The Farm through award-winning dining experiences that focus on nourishment, healing, and sustainability. From ALIVE! Vegan Restaurant to Prana Indian vegetarian cuisine, Pesce’s Blue Zone®-inspired pescatarian dishes, and The Upperdeck’s Mediterranean heart-healthy offerings, every meal is designed to support well-being while promoting eco-sustainability. These mindful dining options combine nutrition with conscious sourcing, offering a holistic and flavorful journey.
Halal wellness tourism
Catering to the growing demand for inclusive wellness, The Farm at San Benito is proud to be the Philippines’ first Halal-certified vegan restaurant and Muslim-friendly wellness destination. ALIVE! Restaurant, renowned for its delectable plant-based cuisine, has become a haven for health-conscious individuals seeking vegan dining options. The Farm warmly welcomes Muslim travelers with services thoughtfully designed to align with cultural and religious practices.
Pet wellness
As more individuals seek to include their pets in their wellness journeys, The Farm has pioneered this trend by introducing pet wellness offerings. These services, provided by visiting practitioners, include stress-relieving therapies such as Reiki sessions specially designed for dogs. This reflects the growing interest in holistic care that extends to beloved animal companions.
Weddings and MICE
The MICE sector is evolving as organizations increasingly recognize the link between wellness, productivity, and overall well-being. The Farm leads this transformation by offering tailored wellness programs specifically designed for MICE events that include comprehensive health assessments, yoga and meditation sessions, sound healing experiences, vegan living foods, culinary workshops, and more.
Furthermore, a new trend is redefining weddings, as couples increasingly seek health-conscious and meaningful ways to celebrate their union. At The Farm at San Benito ceremonies are designed to nurture both the couple and their guests, offering rejuvenating experiences that go beyond tradition. From serene settings, nourishing cuisine, eco-friendly practices, to holistic wellness activities, The Farm ensures that every moment of the celebration promotes harmony, health, and happiness.
The future of wellness travel
2025 is set to be a landmark year for wellness tourism, marking a global shift toward purposeful, meaningful, and health-focused travel. Leading the way are destinations like The Farm at San Benito offering wellness programs that prioritize eco-sustainability. By addressing global health concerns and blending modern science with ancient healing traditions, wellness tourism is poised for continued growth in 2025 and beyond.
The Farm at San Benito is a founding member of the Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines (WeTAP), recognized as the official voice of the wellness tourism industry in the country. WeTAP aims to position the Philippines as a premier wellness tourism destination that enriches lives, uplifts local communities, and promotes environmental sustainability.