We may earn a commission on purchases made through our links.
At first glance, it might sound a bit silly, but hear me out: sleep tourism is becoming a huge hit in the travel and wellness scene. In today’s fast-paced world—where we’re rushing through itineraries and ticking off bucket lists—who really thinks about taking a trip just to catch up on sleep? Yet, for those of us who are running on empty, the allure of sleep travel is growing stronger. A staggering statistic from the US Army shows that two-thirds of adults aren’t hitting the 7-8 hours of sleep we all need.
Neuroscientist Matthew Walker, in his enlightening book ‘Why We Sleep’, strongly advocates for the importance of a good night’s sleep. He mentions, “Scientists have come up with a groundbreaking treatment that could potentially extend your life, enhance memory, and improve your overall happiness. On top of that, it can help keep your weight in check and protect against serious health issues. Interested?”
In a society where we can’t seem to step away from work and our devices, the concept of sleep tourism is taking off. Forget luxury handbags; today’s must-have is the opportunity for quality sleep. Hotels are paying serious attention to what travelers want and have started creating restful havens with features like circadian lighting, next-level soundproofing, and beds designed to adapt to your specific comfort needs.
Top Destinations for a Rejuvenating Sleep Retreat
F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “There’s nothing worse than trying to fall asleep and being unable to.” But don’t worry if your sleep schedule is out of whack when you travel! A recent study led by Sigga Svala Jonasdottir and his team reveals that people often end up sleeping more while traveling than at home. So, why not leap into the world of sleep tourism on your next getaway? It just might save you from those burnt-out vacation vibes!
If you’re aiming for a sleep-centric vacation, I’ve found some upscale locations worth checking out—just be ready to splurge, as these places charge over $1,000 a night for their luxurious suites. The Park Hyatt Chicago, for example, offers “Wellbeing” and “Mindfulness” suites, complete with yoga gear, cutting-edge gym basics, scented essential oils, a soothing sound machine, and even state-of-the-art smart beds that adjust to your sleeping style and can track your sleep patterns.
If traveling to Europe, check out the Lasenhof longevity clinic located on the beautiful Frisian Island of Sylt in northern Germany, where you can sign up for a week-long “Sleep Well” program, tailored to help you reinvent your sleep habits.
Your Guide to Planning a Sleep Retreat
Before you pick a sleep haven, consider whether it meshes with your personal style, lifestyle, and, of course, budget. Look into what facilities they have. If it’s a remote spot surrounded by nature, the tranquility alone can enhance your experience. But urban hotels? You’ll want places that cut down on noise and distractions. Also, confirm that their staff includes sleep specialists—it’s essential for getting useful advice.
Don’t forget to carve out some activities during the day since physical movement contributes to better sleep. But keep it flexible; no one wants a jam-packed schedule. It’s also a good idea to bring along items that make you feel at home, like your favorite pajamas or your trusted silk pillowcase. Reducing the stress of preparing for your trip could start early at home!
If those luxury resorts are out of your price range, no need to worry. You can still make any trip feel like a relaxing retreat by incorporating sleep best practices from experts. Antony Sadis, head therapist at the Six Senses Spa in the Alpina Hotel Gstaad, Switzerland, shared a few tips: stick to a regular sleep schedule, limit caffeine in the evening, and squeeze in daily mindfulness walks. One travel hack? Make sure to catch some quality sleep during your flights to stock up on rest.
Check out the original article on Explore.
