Unlike typical tourists who seek adventurous activities, sightseeing, or lounging on the beach, sleep tourists prioritize one main aspect of their travels: obtaining a rejuvenating night’s sleep.
The Rise of Sleep-Centric Travel
The sleep tourism industry is experiencing significant growth, with researchers predicting it will expand further. By 2024, the market is anticipated to reach approximately US$74.54 billion and is forecasted to double to US$148.98 billion by 2030.
This surge can be attributed to an increasing awareness of health and wellness, a rise in sleep disorders, and a growing population struggling with sleep deprivation and stress.
A recent study reviewed extensive research concerning insufficient sleep globally, identifying it as a largely overlooked public health crisis.
The repercussions of this issue are substantial; it not only imposes a heavy economic toll but is also linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and road accidents.
Your Dream Vacation Awaits
Sleep tourism varies widely based on location. For instance, at Hilton’s Conrad Bali, guests rest in hammock-like cocoons designed to promote sleep, whereas at Lefay in Lake Garda, Italy, a blend of Eastern and Western medicinal approaches works to foster restfulness.
Longueville Manor on Jersey offers a Sleep Easy program that includes consultations with a psychotherapist specializing in sleep issues and evidence-based strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).
Various establishments are enriching guests’ sleep experiences with amenities such as pillow menus, white noise devices, blackout curtains, hypoallergenic linens, and smart beds.
In Canada, the Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, situated in the picturesque Kootenay mountains of British Columbia, provides a holistic week-long health program. According to its creator, Kirkland Shave, half of the attendees prioritize rest as one of their primary goals. Their carefully curated program focuses on advanced research and guest experiences.
While immersing themselves in nature, guests wake to pleasant birdsong and soft light from bedside clocks. Activities may include yoga, hiking, health seminars, functional fitness sessions, therapeutic massages, and guided relaxation. The meals are also meticulously planned, based on a nutritionist’s anti-inflammatory food design.
One of Mountain Trek’s key missions is to help participants incorporate the practices they learn into their busy lives. Guests draft a list of personal health objectives to transform into lasting habits, addressing one or two at a time upon returning home.
Shave provides ongoing coaching post-retreat. “They find the right frequency to make it habitual, similar to brushing your teeth before bed,” he remarks.
Bringing Sleep Back Home
Shave emphasizes that one of the most effective strategies for reclaiming sleep in today’s fast-paced world is to disconnect from electronics. He recommends gradual adjustments: start by refraining from devices 30 minutes before bedtime, then progress to one hour, aiming ultimately for two hours of screen-free time. Studies show that using electronic devices before sleep negatively influences sleep quality.
At Mountain Trek, bedtime journaling is advised as a practice for fostering better sleep. This could involve jotting down a to-do list for the following day, articulating three emotional concerns, or noting three reasons for gratitude.
Creating a Spa-Like Environment at Home
To foster an environment conducive to restful sleep, consider creating a spa-like ambiance:
- Take a soothing bath with Epsom salts and lavender while enjoying chamomile tea.
- Settle into a cozy bed outfitted with high-quality linens, a supportive mattress, and an ergonomic pillow.
- Indulge in a calming read under a soft amber light.
If you’re grappling with sleep issues—whether due to work, home life, or relationship stresses—there’s no need to panic, advises Shave.
“Just gradually refine the lifestyle habits that facilitate sleep,” he reassures. “Then mold your daily routine to prioritize achieving restorative sleep. Ultimately, it’s crucial for our overall well-being and longevity.”
This article originally appeared in the December 2025 edition of Thewindowsclubs magazine.
