The issue of whether global populism is negatively impacting tourism in general – and wellness tourism in particular – is a burning one, but not easy to address right now. When you look at countries like Turkey or the U.S., there are so many causes to disentangle. Malleret argues that in the long term, countries that “turn inward” will ultimately deter tourism and lose travellers to other more welcoming destinations.
VIDEO: The Naked Truth about European Spa & Wellness Traditions
Europe pioneered spa/bathing culture thousands of years ago – and it’s a surprising history. Watch global spa experts (moderated by Anna Bjurstam, VP, Six Senses Hotel & Resorts) discuss some “naked truths” about unique European traditions.
Wellness Architecture: Teen Sports Utopias Rise in Old Industrial Buildings
The Danish charity, GAME, is creating utopian spaces fashioned out of abandoned warehouses where teens can skateboard, play sports and even create animation – combining wellness with architectural revitalization.
GWI Roundtable: The Future of Wellness in the Baltics
The GWI’s Eastern European Initiative recently hosted an expert roundtable – moderated by Initiative Chair, Alla Sokolova, and held in collaboration with the Baltic Spa Association – to discuss best practices, trends, opportunities, and challenges for the spa and wellness industry in the Baltics region.

Must-Reads from the Wellness World (Week of June 20, 2017)
“The Secret to a Long and Healthy Life? Eat Less” – BBC Future, June 1, 2017
New research suggests that permanently cutting the daily calories we consume may turn out to have a profound effect on our future.
When it Comes to Wellness, Europeans are “Best in Class”
When it comes to health and wellness, European nations lead the world. Fourteen of the 20 healthiest countries are in Europe, with Italy being the world’s healthiest country (even with one of the worst economies in Europe on many counts).