The wellness industry is booming, with global revenue hitting a staggering $6.3 trillion in 2023 and projected to soar to $9 trillion by 2028. Within this flourishing market, wellness tourism accounts for a staggering $830 billion, while wellness real estate represents $438 billion. It’s clear the concept of “wellness” has become a defining element across industries—hospitality being no exception. But with wellness encompassing everything from spa treatments to functional medicine, how should hospitality professionals evolve their spaces to meet these diverse needs?
This year’s HD Expo + Conference, taking place May 6–8, offers the answers. One of the highlights of the event is the session, “Trends in Wellness: Where We Are Today”, taking place on Tuesday, May 6, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the DesignWell Pavilion. This must-attend panel will bring together industry leaders who are shaping the future of wellness in hospitality, providing key insights and strategies you can apply to your own properties.
What You’ll Learn
The session will unpack how wellness trends are shifting and highlight actionable strategies that hospitality professionals can incorporate into their current and future projects. Expect thought-provoking discussions around the following:
- Redefining wellness to cater to diverse markets, from urban travelers seeking quick rejuvenation to those embarking on full-scale retreats.
- Designing spaces that promote holistic wellbeing, whether through sensory elements, sustainable materials, or biophilic design.
- Innovations in wellness offerings that cater to both individual experiences and larger group dynamics.
From strategic insights to design inspiration, attending this panel will give you a competitive edge as you create spaces that resonate with today’s wellness-conscious traveler.
2025 DesignWell Pavilion by HBA
Integrating Wellness into Modern Hospitality
The numbers speak volumes. The booming wellness tourism and real-estate industries are influencing customer expectations across all sectors of hospitality. Whether it’s adding a meditation garden, rethinking spa designs for functional medicine, or offering wellness-themed culinary options, your ability to integrate wellness into your business isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity.
By joining this session, you’ll stay ahead of industry shifts and learn from the best, while making valuable connections with design leaders, operators, and innovators in the world of hospitality.
Meet the Speakers Shaping the Future of Hospitality Wellness
The panel brings together a powerhouse of wellness expertise, each speaker offering distinct perspectives that reflect the multifaceted nature of wellness today.
Vivianne Garcia-Tunon, Vice President of Operations, Wellbeing at Auberge Resorts Collection
With over 25 years of experience in the wellness industry, Vivianne is a trailblazer shaping wellness worldwide. She has been instrumental in opening 51 luxury spas for brands like Mandarin Oriental, ESPA, and One&Only and now oversees wellbeing strategies for 30 unique properties at Auberge Resorts. Combining her expertise in Nutrition, Energy Medicine, and Interior Design, she integrates wellness through design, holistic therapies, and functional medicine. She also lectures on Wellness Design at the University of Miami and Florida International University.
From rethinking fitness spaces to pioneering new wellness-driven designs, Nadia Biski brings an unparalleled focus on performance-focused luxury to the panel. Representing Equinox—a brand synonymous with elite health and wellness experiences—Nadia offers insight into creating environments that not only reflect cutting-edge trends but also deliver unmatched customer experiences.
Sara Felch, Kerzner International
Sara Felch’s work with Kerzner International bridges the worlds of indulgent luxury and wellness. From designing unforgettable retreats at One&Only resorts to shaping Atlantis’ offerings, Sara is at the forefront of blending escapism with intentional wellness practices. Her expertise illustrates how wellness can be woven into every touchpoint of a guest’s stay.
Rebecca Parekh, Co-Founder & CEO of The Well
Rebecca Parekh’s company, The Well, has redefined destination wellness by seamlessly merging Western medicine with Eastern healing. Her perspective on wellness as a proactive lifestyle rather than a reactive solution offers a fresh lens for redefining hospitality milestones. Rebecca’s approach provides actionable guidance for creating spaces that make wellness part of daily life.
HD Expo Conference Highlights
The “Trends in Wellness” session is just one example of the inspiring and informative programming you’ll find at HD Expo + Conference 2025. Explore the full event schedule and uncover even more ways to enhance and innovate your craft.