5 Wellness vacations that are transforming the way we travel

As stress levels climb and burnout becomes part of everyday life, Canadians are redefining what it means to “get away,” choosing trips that let them slow down, reset and leave them feeling genuinely refreshed rather than rushed.  In fact, about 60 per cent of Canadians are more mindful of their health and well-being while on vacation, according to a report by Ipsos.  

From temple stays in Japan and geothermal retreats in Iceland to mindful cruises and restorative spa escapes, wellness-centred travel is evolving beyond a trend; it is becoming a pathway to feeling grounded, aligned, and fully recharged.  

Here are five wellness-focused trips you will want to join to achieve complete self-care for your body and mind. 

Stay in a Buddhist temple in Japan

Japan offers a relaxing journey into the art of mindfulness, and on Goaway Travel's 10-day Japan Zen & Wellness Tour, you will learn the magic of meditation, tea, and relaxation.  

Travellers will begin in Kyoto, easing into a slower tempo as they move through serene gardens and a traditional tea ceremony led by a Tea master in the historic Gion district. The journey then continues to the sacred Mt. Koya, the center of Shingon Buddhism, for an unforgettable stay at a shukubo, a temple lodge. Here, you will dine on shojin ryori, a traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, and walk through the ancient cemetery with a monk guide. 

The trip also includes a stay in a classic ryokan in Hakone, where natural hot springs, crisp mountain air, and private open-air baths create space to unwind, especially on a clear morning with stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Towards the end of the trip, there is a private shrine blessing in Tokyo.  

This kind of travel has culture, nature, and moments of peace packed into a wellness experience that feels less like a tour and more like a gentle reset.  

Rejuvenate along the Danube

Experience the magic of Europe on the seven-night "Melodies of the Danube" cruise with AmaWaterways, where wellness and cultural discovery go hand in hand. Sail from Budapest, Hungary, to Vilshofen, Germany, passing through storybook cities like Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein, and Linz, each offering its own blend of charm and history. Despite the richness of the itinerary, life on board moves at a steady, unhurried pace, giving travellers space to breathe between every destination. 

Start your mornings with a yoga or Pilates session led by a dedicated Wellness Host, often held on the open deck where the river drifts quietly beside you. There are also guided biking and hiking excursions you can opt for; these offer a more active way to explore the riverbanks. 

Meals are crafted from fresh, regional ingredients, serving up nourishing dishes that feel comfortable and not heavy. And as the evening settles in, you could join featured talks on mindfulness and nutrition or soak in sunset views as the Danube drifts by.  

With the perfect balance of active exploration and mindful relaxation, this immersive cruise lets you experience the river's picturesque sights and a renewed sense of well-being at every bend. 

Find serenity in Thailand's spas 

Immerse yourself in tranquillity on the "Thailand Wellness & Luxury Spa" journey by Goway, for a 10-day retreat designed to restore body and mind.  

Your experience begins in Bangkok, where gentle cultural discovery sets up a grounding tone for the days ahead. Wander through the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, listen to the soothing rhythm of morning monk chants, offer alms, and step into temples that feel surprisingly serene amid the city’s vibrant energy.  

Between wellness sessions, you’ll explore bustling local markets, discover ornate spiritual temples, and soak in the calm atmosphere of Thailand’s luxury wellness resorts. Every part of the itinerary is intentionally designed to help you reconnect, recharge, and embrace a more profound sense of well-being. 

With two unstructured leisure days at the end of the tour, you are free to choose what relaxation looks like for you, whether that is more spa time, exploring on your own, or simply being still. 

Soak in geothermal pools in Iceland

Experience Iceland's raw, dramatic beauty on the "Wellness Iceland" tour by G Adventures, a seven-day journey designed for mind and body renewal. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon, you'll visit secret geothermal pools to soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by ancient lava rock.  

You’ll savour warm, comforting food straight from geothermal ovens, meditate beside hot springs, and share simple, nourishing meals that reflect Iceland’s deep bond with land and nature. 

As the sail continues, the scenery grows even more powerful, with black‑sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, and lakes that invite reflection as profound as the landscapes themselves. Each day is thoughtfully balanced with activities that follow the island's natural rhythms. So, imagine glacier walks, waterfall explorations, and peaceful coastal strolls. 

In the evenings, unwind with yoga under the ethereal midnight sun, or, if you're lucky, you can watch the Northern Lights shimmer across the sky, a soul‑stirring finale to each adventure‑filled day.  

Join a purification ceremony in Bali

Find your calm in Bali on a wellness escape designed to help you slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with yourself.  In the heart of Indonesia, the Wellness Bali by G Adventures trip invites you into nine days of grounding rituals, quiet moments, and deeply restorative experiences. Begin your mornings with yoga surrounded by lush greenery, and air warm and still, the kind of calm that settles into your shoulders. 

Throughout the trip, you can indulge in spiritual rituals, traditional purification ceremonies, and hands‑on experiences that bring you closer to the island’s mindful way of living. You’ll also get the chance to visit several sacred sites, including Hindu Temples such as Gunung Kawi Temple and Tirta Empul Temple. 

You’ll learn to cook with fresh, local ingredients, take part in healing practices passed through generations, and spend time with communities who share their traditions with openness and care. 

There are plenty of playful moments, too, as you can opt for snorkelling in clear waters, wandering through vibrant landscapes, or simply letting the sun warm your skin as everything else fades into the background. 

Whether you’re meditating in Ubud, or exploring serene beaches, this journey is carefully crafted for deep renewal and authentic self‑discovery.  

Book now, relax later 

Life moves fast, and it’s easy to forget what proper rest feels like. These trips are an invitation to pause, breathe, and return to yourself, so you come home not just refreshed, but renewed. If you're ready to plan your next wellness adventure, make sure to book with a CAA Travel Consultant to access CAA Member Benefits with Goway Travel, AmaWaterways, and G Adventures.