Going on holiday usually means that health and wellness take a back seat for a couple of weeks, but that doesn’t have to be the way. The rise of fitness tourism combines travel and fitness, helping you get the best of both worlds. As well as gaining a golden glow, fitness holidaymakers come home toned, lean and more committed than ever to a healthy, active lifestyle. Here’s a list of the best fitness holiday destinations to help you choose your perfect trip.
Bali
Also known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is often hailed as the ultimate wellness holiday destination. Much of the island’s tourism is centred around yoga and healthy eating, so it’s the perfect place to partake in a fitness boot camp. Bali’s expat community is very much committed to self-improvement, so you’re likely to meet plenty of like-minded individuals to spur you on throughout your journey. Ultimate Fitness offer a comprehensive Bali fitness bootcamp that will shape you up from head to toe.
Thailand
Thailand’s affordability and delicious, healthy cuisine make it a very fitting destination for a fitness holiday. Often lauded for its stunning beaches, Thailand is a beautiful country with a myriad of destinations to explore. There are ancient temples, bustling markets and dramatic landscapes to be explored during your rest time – or you could simply recover by soaking up the sun on the sand.
Mallorca
The dreamy island of Mallorca is a wonderful place for a fitness boot camp. As well as its pristine beaches, Mallorca is steeped in history and is home to a plethora of castles and cathedrals, so there’s plenty to see and do on rest days. It’s a wallet-friendly destination, thanks to a reasonable cost of living and cheap flights from the UK. The Mediterranean diet is famously healthy and flavoursome, making the largest Balearic Island an excellent wellness destination.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka was ranked the top country for travel by Lonely Planet and it’s easy to see why. Its rich culture, incredible scenery and idyllic beaches are hard to resist. The country is home to a multitude of wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears and even blue whales. Sri Lankan cuisine is regarded as very healthy, not to mention economical, at just a few pounds per meal.
Ibiza
It may be known for its hard-partying culture, but Ibiza is also a popular destination for fitness retreats. It’s more expensive than its South-East Asian alternatives but it’s decidedly less humid, not to mention flights are significantly cheaper. This is a destination for those looking for a short, high-end retreat to give their fitness levels a quick boost.
The Philippines
Beaches in the Philippines are so perfect that they belong on a postcard. It’s an inspiring setting that will motivate you to work harder than ever. Whichever of the country’s 7000 islands you choose to work out on, you’ll be charmed by the stunning scenery and friendly people. It’s a very affordable destination and the diet is full of fresh fish and vegetables, so there’s no danger of you cancelling out your workouts with junk food.