Sleep Tourism: A New Wave in Travel

Travel often conjures images of adventure and sightseeing, but a new trend is emerging: sleep tourism. This growing market, estimated to expand by nearly 8% and over $400 billion between 2023 and 2028 according to HTF Market Intelligence, focuses on resetting sleep schedules and prioritizing rest.

Does sleep tourism sound appealing to you? Or are you wondering why anyone would leave home just to sleep? Whether you're intrigued or skeptical, this article will explore:

What sleep tourism is all about
The benefits of this trend
The unique elements that make up sleep tourism experiences
Destinations that cater to sleep tourists

At the end of this article, you should be ready to consider a sleep-focused getaway for your next travel adventure.

What is sleep tourism?

Sleep tourism is all about making sleep the centerpiece of your travel experience. While most trips include long days of sightseeing and packed schedules, sleep tourism flips the script. The primary goal is rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation, and it’s becoming popular as people recognize the importance of quality sleep to their overall health.

This trend fits perfectly within the broader wellness movement, which emphasizes not just physical fitness but also mental well-being. As mentioned above, sleep tourism has gained traction in recent years—part of a growing demand for wellness-focused experiences, with hotels and resorts offering specialized services aimed at improving guests' sleep quality.

Benefits of sleep tourism

The benefits of sleep tourism extend beyond just catching up on sleep. Here are some reasons why sleep-focused travel could be worth considering for your next vacation:

Improved sleep quality: Sleep tourism is designed to provide the best sleep environments, which can lead to deeper and more restorative sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Stress reduction: Taking time to prioritize rest in a peaceful environment can significantly reduce stress levels. Sleep-focused retreats often include elements like meditation, yoga, and nature walks, all of which contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Enhanced mental and physical health: Consistently good sleep is linked to numerous health benefits, including improved mood, better cognitive function, and even a stronger immune system. By focusing on sleep, travelers can return home feeling rejuvenated and more prepared to tackle their daily lives.

Key elements of sleep tourism

Sleep tourism isn’t just about booking a room and hoping for the best. These specific elements cater to the needs of those seeking better sleep and can make all the difference in your experience.

Accommodations designed for sleep

Some hotels and resorts are taking sleep seriously, offering rooms specifically designed to optimize rest. For instance, The Benjamin Hotel in New York City features a “Rest & Renew” program that includes everything from blackout curtains to noise machines. The hotel also provides a menu of twelve different pillows to suit every guest's comfort preference, such as memory foam or water-filled options.

Another example is Zedwell Hotel in London, which prides itself on rooms designed purely for sleep. The rooms, called “Cocoon Rooms,” are soundproof, have no windows to eliminate noise and light pollution, and feature air purification systems to maintain optimal air quality. This focus on a clean, quiet, and comfortable sleeping environment is central to the sleep tourism concept.

Programs and services

Many sleep-focused accommodations offer specialized programs and services. Fazlani Nature's Nest, for example, offers a sleep enhancement wellness program called "Master Sleeping." This program lasts from a few days to a week and focuses on improving sleep quality through personalized strategies, including lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and Ayurvedic treatments. The program incorporates relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga to reduce stress and promote restful sleep, providing a holistic approach to enhancing sleep health.

In addition, the Six Senses resorts have taken a holistic approach to sleep tourism. They offer a “Sleep With Six Senses” package that includes consultations with sleep doctors, yoga sessions, and sleep-boosting snacks rich in magnesium and other sleep-friendly nutrients. These programs go beyond just a comfy bed, focusing on overall lifestyle adjustments that can improve sleep long-term.

Technology and innovations

As sleep tourism gains popularity, hotels are increasingly turning to cutting-edge technology to enhance guests' sleep experiences. A prime example is the Restorative Sleep Suite at Park Hyatt New York, launched in 2022. This suite features The Restorative Bed™ by Bryte, which incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sleep science to optimize rest. The bed dynamically adjusts throughout the night to relieve pressure points and control temperature, adapting to different sleep stages and helping guests fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and even combat jet lag.

What sets this innovation apart is its ability to learn and remember. Guests can store their sleep preferences, creating a personal profile that can be accessed on return visits. The suite also includes other tech-forward amenities like a Vitruvi Essential Diffuser with a signature "Sleep" Essential Oil blend. As the demand for wellness-focused travel continues to grow, we can expect to see more hotels investing in similar sleep-enhancing technologies, from smart mattresses to circadian lighting systems.

Destinations for sleep tourism

Want to try out sleep tourism? Here are some places you can consider:

Japan

In Tokyo, the Nescafé Harajuku sleep cafe marries the world of coffee with the comfort of napping. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful nap in a cozy setting and then reawaken their senses with a complimentary cup of Nescafé coffee. It's the complete retreat for those looking to blend relaxation with a caffeine boost in the heart of Tokyo.

Portugal

The Hästens Sleep Spa Hotel in Coimbra is dedicated to delivering an unparalleled sleep experience. The hotel's rooms are equipped with famed Hästens beds and there is a sleep spa program designed to help guests achieve deep and restorative sleep.

Italy

Lefay Resort & Spa in Lake Garda offers a sleep program that blends luxury and wellness. Their five-night program is specifically designed to tackle insomnia through a combination of modern and traditional therapies, aiming to balance energy levels and promote restful sleep in the beautiful setting of Lake Garda.

Canada

Mountain Trek Retreat and Health Spa in British Columbia emphasizes a natural approach to sleep wellness. Located in the scenic British Columbia landscape, their program includes outdoor activities, yoga, and spa treatments, promoting a harmonious balance between physical activity and rest.

Switzerland

The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz offers a sleep diagnostics center where guests can undergo a comprehensive sleep analysis, including monitoring brain activity during sleep. This medical approach, combined with the calming Alpine surroundings, makes it an ideal spot for those serious about improving their sleep.

Conclusion

Sleep tourism is a refreshing take on travel, one that prioritizes rest and well-being over the usual hustle and bustle of sightseeing. With a growing number of destinations and accommodations dedicated to enhancing sleep quality, there’s never been a better time to explore this trend. So next time you plan a getaway, consider making sleep your top destination!