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Top 10 medical tourism destinations in the world.

With rising healthcare costs in the US and the rise of health tourism destinations that offer quality and affordable healthcare perked up by a beautiful travel experience, patients from around the world are scampering to book appointments with healthcare providers far away from home.

Yearly, millions of patients travel from countries lacking healthcare infrastructure or less advanced in a particular area of medical care to countries that provide highly specialized medical care. Patients book trips to countries for various medical procedures ranging from cosmetic surgery, dental work, to orthopedic procedures at affordable rates.

For the health tourism destinations and healthcare providers, the competition is fierce, requiring an interplay of factors to drive medical travel and improve their brand in the medical tourism market.

But choosing a destination for one’s medical needs can be an arduous task; with multiple risks sold by the media about medical travel, health consumers are now being more careful about their medical travel choices. The Medical Tourism Index provides a critical gauge for medical tourism destinations, evaluating countries across key indicators that define an excellent medical travel hub.  

The MTI assesses medical travel destinations across three main dimensions: Destination Environment, which provides an overview of the socioeconomic and cultural factors that promote inbound travel; Medical Tourism Industry, which assesses the medical tourism infrastructure, including seamless communication, effective medical travel facilitation, and culturally competent programs, and; Quality of Facilities and Services, which evaluates the quality of care provided, quality of healthcare professionals, as well as presence of third-party accreditations.  

Medical travel professionals, healthcare organizations, and governments around the world are investing heavily in accessing the right tools and resources to rank higher in the MTI to attract more clients and health payers.  Global Healthcare Accreditation, a global leader in healthcare accreditation helps these stakeholders to reposition themselves and conform to industry best practices to achieve these metrics.  

Global Healthcare Accreditation offers accreditations, medical training programs and certifications to help healthcare providers, governments, and medical tourism facilitators gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry and become more equipped to handle the challenges in the industry and deliver world-class service.  

Using the Medical Tourism Index 2020-2021, which ranks 46 destinations against these indicators, these are the best destinations to travel to for your healthcare needs.  

Canada’s rank as number one in the 2020 edition of the Medical Tourism Index comes as no surprise as the second-largest country in the world boasts of a robust tourism industry that attracts more than 14 million Americans each year. Its proximity to the US affords the country a massive influx of tourists and patients who seek to bypass the long wait times and high healthcare costs at home.

Canada ranks high in its reputation for offering quality and highly-specialized medical treatments and world-class healthcare facilities, particularly in orthopedic procedures and complex heart surgeries.  It is ranked at the top position for its Destination Environment, 7 th in the Medical Tourism Industry dimension, and 4 th in the Quality of Facilities out of 46 destinations assessed.  

Singapore comes second-place in the Medical Tourism Index, hitting top spot in ranking for the Quality of healthcare Facilities and Services in the country. As of 2019, more than 500,000 foreign tourists visited Singapore for its affordable and quality healthcare services.

Singapore recently set up International Patient Service Centers (IPSCs) that act as medical travel agencies to mediate between international patients and Singaporean healthcare providers, as a way to drive more growth in the industry and allow a much more seamless medical travel journey.  

Singapore boasts world-class mutli-specialist centers that collaborate with centers of excellence around the world, including the Singapore General Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, and the Mount Elizabeth Hospital. Singapore is a choice destination for an array of cosmetic procedures and oncology treatments, with internationally accredited centers and qualified healthcare professionals.   ‍

Ranking second in the Medical Tourism Industry and the Quality of Facilites and Services categories, and 5 th in the Destination Environment dimension, Japan ranks as one of the most developed healthcare systems in the world, by every measure. Leading recent advances in technology and medicine, Japan continues to deliver top-notch healthcare services to citizens and foreign tourists, most of which come from mainland China.

Low cost of care is also a major driver of Japan’s inbound medical travel, attracting medical tourists from across the world to its expertise in minimally invasive medicine and tech-driven procedures in plastic and orthopedic surgery.  

Spain is known as one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, with a tourist profile that pulls tens of millions of tourists every year. The country is ranked high by the MTI as the choicest medical tourist destination in Europe as it offers foreign patients excellent healthcare services with a beautiful travel experience.

Spain attracts a growing number of international tourists from the Middle East, North Africa, and the British Isles, many of who visit the country for advanced orthopedic, cosmetic, and dental procedures.

Spain boasts of several hospitals that are accredited by international bodies, including the renowned Hospital Universitario de Madrid and Sanitas Hospitales in Madrid.

United Kingdom

The UK ranks fifth in the global ranking of medical tourism destinations by the MTI. The UK is home to renowned medical institutions including the London Orthopedic Clinic, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and the Cambridge Complex Orthopedic Trauma Center, known for top-quality healthcare services.

The UK is also a choice tourist destination center, welcoming more than 31 million international tourists every year, many of whom are attracted to the rich cultural heritage of the Great Britain.

The United Kingdom takes its highest point in the Destination Environment category, ranking 3 rd out of 46 destinations, notably for its richness as a tourist destination.  

Dubai known for its ultramodern architecture, high-rise buildings, and luxury shopping. Dubai, with a population of more than 9.4 million welcomes more than 10 million tourists every year. The congenial environment and beauty of Dubai gives a boost to travel experience for millions of international patients that arrive Dubai for world-class care.

The Medical Tourism Index ranked Dubai the top medical destination in the Arab region, as it boasts of world-class hospitals and international doctors across several specialties. Dubai welcomes medical tourists mainly from Asia and neighboring Arab and Gulf countries, and some trips from European and African nations.

Dubai continues to receive millions of tourists yearly, hundreds of thousands of which visit the DHCC for mostly complex cosmetic, dental, and fertility treatments. The city, which is home to renowned hospitals, Mediclinic City Hospital and Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital, has become a one-stop-shop to medical tourists mainly from the GCC and the wider Arab world.  

Costa Rica is fast rising as a leader in the medical tourism market. Known for its beautiful sights and competitive prices, Costa Rica welcomes millions of medical tourists from neighboring countries including the US and Canada ‍

This Central American country has ranked high in dentistry and cosmetic surgery - above Canada and US - consistently in the last few years. The country is also building a name in the fields of eye surgery, cancer therapy, and bariatric surgery. The CheTica Ranch located in San Jose provides exotic recovery retreats for medical travelers for patients who relish recovery in a relaxing ambiance. This ranch is also staffed with highly-trained nurses to cater to the medical needs of these patients as they recover.

Costa Rica ranks 1 st in the Medical Tourism Industry category and 6 th in the Destination Environment dimension and 13 th In the Quality of Facilities and Services dimension.   ‍

‍The global Medical Tourism Index ranks Israel as the 8th top medical tourism destination in the world, citing the large pool of tourists that visit the Dead Sea and the massive drift of medical tourists seeking IVF and other fertility treatments in the country.

Israel ranked high in international reputation, patient experience, quality of healthcare, and accreditation of healthcare facilities in the MTI. Israel is 3 rd in the Qualities of Facilities and Services dimension, boasting world-class healthcare institutions and internationally trained healthcare providers.  

The renowned Sheba Medical Center, which is known for its excellence in complex surgical procedures, launched an international medical tourism division that offers medical services to thousands of international patients from around the world including Russia, Cyprus, Georgia, and the US.

The capital city and the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirate, Abu Dhabi, has built a strong medical tourism platform that can see it emerge the best in the region.

The emirate launched the Abu Dhabi Medical Tourism e-portal in 2019 that provides international patients with details of all the medical offerings and healthcare facilities in the city. Prospective patients can also access medical tourism insurance packages as well as other tourist services such as hotel bookings, transportation, and recreational activities via the e-portal.

Healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi comply with strict quality rules set by the city’s Department of Health, ensuring they deliver nothing short of top-quality care. Abu Dhabi works closely with Global Healthcare Accreditation and the Medical Tourism Association, which have been integral to transforming the country’s medical travel and healthcare landscapes to attracting more medical tourists and health payers.  

India is one of the major players in the Asian medical tourism industry, ranking first in the Medical Tourism Industry dimension of the MTI. India is one of the most visited countries for health care, with an expanded visa policy that eases travel for medical tourists. The medical visa policy allows patients to stay up to 60 days and also offers a medical attendant visa for blood relatives that wish to accompany the patient.

The Indian government launched a to provide patients with access to their network of healthcare facilities and a list of medical services available in the country. This allows patients schedule appointments with healthcare providers and even book for other services including accommodation and recreational activities before their arrival.

India ranks 6 th in the Medical Tourism Industry and Quality of Facilities and Services categories, with world-class centers that offer complex transplant services, orthopedic procedures, and complex heart surgeries.  

To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

For those seeking medical care abroad, we highly recommend hospitals and clinics who have been accredited by Global Healthcare Accreditation (GHA). With a strong emphasis on exceptional patient experience, GHA accredited facilities are attuned to your cultural, linguistic, and individual needs, ensuring you feel understood and cared for. They adhere to the highest standards, putting patient safety and satisfaction at the forefront. Explore the world's top GHA-accredited facilities here . Trust us, your health journey deserves the best.

Exploring the Surge of Cosmetic Tourism: Trends and Considerations in Aesthetic Procedures Abroad

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The Medical Tourism Magazine (MTM), known as the “voice” of the medical tourism industry, provides members and key industry experts with the opportunity to share important developments, initiatives, themes, topics and trends that make the medical tourism industry the booming market it is today.

Andrew Henderson

Founder of Nomad Capitalist and the world’s most sought-after expert on global citizenship.

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The 10 best countries for medical tourism and overseas healthcare

Like anything else we discuss on this site, the best countries for medical tourism — or anything else — are often those you would have never thought of. Emerging countries have built great healthcare infrastructure while minimizing costs, allowing them to deliver care for as little as five to ten cents on the dollar in some cases.

This goes hand-in-hand with all our founding philosophies at Nomad Capitalist. As you grow your lifestyle and business abroad, health becomes an ever-increasing priority and being able to access quality care wherever you find yourself is extremely important.

That means finding destinations that offer the standards of excellence you expect and that potentially can save you huge hassles and medical bills.

Medical tourism is on the rise and dozens of countries around the world, from Asia and South America to Eastern Europe, are getting in on the act. Agencies are being set up to promote less expensive health care costs to potential foreign visitors from developed countries where health care costs are through the roof.

Procedures that cost into the six figures in the US or the UK cost as little as four figures in these countries.

All the while, the best hospitals in these medical tourist hot spots have highly-trained, English-speaking doctors, just like you’d find at home – and sometimes better than you would find at home, as healthcare costs and challenges continue to rise in high-tax Western countries.

So, where are the best countries to get that expensive surgery, the routine checkout, or the plastic surgery makeover? To be honest, there are so many potential countries that it was hard to narrow it down to just ten. In no specific order, let’s find out which ones made the cut…

Brazil is the world capital for plastic surgery medical tourism, owing to the country’s image-conscious culture. While Mexico is the best known country in the Americas for foreigners seeking care, Brazil stands out as one of the most advanced places in the region.

Looking good and feeling sexy is important in Brazil — almost to an extreme — so it’s no wonder the country is home to more cosmetic surgeons than anywhere else on earth.

In Brazil, plastic surgery is done in a hospital, not in an office, and doctors are highly trained in such procedures. Up until recently, medical tourism in Brazil was largely relegated to elective procedures.

However, the country has the first JCI-accredited hospital in the world outside of the United States — Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in Sao Paolo — and now has more than 40 JCI-accredited hospitals.

Brazil has the least efficient medical system on this list, although it is nearly tied with the United States in that regard. Costs for plastic surgery can be as much as 60% less than in Western countries, and surgeons can handle just about any procedure you can dream up. There are even veterinarians offering cosmetic surgeries on pets!

Brazil is home to perhaps the world’s most renowned plastic surgeon, Ivo Pitanguy, and prices for top doctors can be as high as those in the US, so make sure to shop the lesser-known clinics if you want to save money. However, Brazil’s beauty consciousness surely can’t hurt anyone looking to save money on a nip and tuck.

Mexico’s proximity to the United States and extensive crossover in medical training means standards for care are often equivalent to what you would expect “back home” and with far less expense. All major cities in Mexico will have good quality-hospitals.

One area of focus for Mexico is also dentistry — for example, the numerous dental practices that line the US-Mexico border and receive countless patients per year coming from the States to Mexico for those procedures.

Expats may choose to have private insurance, otherwise much of the health care services in Mexico are government run and may incur small fees.

All the technologies, prescriptions, and operations you would expect to be available in the United States are available in Mexico at a fraction of the cost. 

Panama is not only a top location for retirement or second citizenship , but also for medical tourism. Its private hospitals also offer excellent medical care that may partner with major hospitals in North America that you may be familiar with already.

International travelers can get plans that may include coverage not only in Panama but elsewhere and for a reasonable monthly rate.

The medical staff is largely English-speaking and Panama is a well-connected and well-developed country in the region. Panama is one of the freest economies in the world and almost any nationality can visit Panama 180 days visa-free.

Panama offers significant savings on procedures such as dental implants that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in the US.

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica, like Panama and Mexico, also is one of the most developed and expat-friendly countries in the region. The nation is one of the safest and most popular destinations for retirement, uses the US dollar, and likewise offers excellent choices for medical tourists.

Most people choose to make the most of both the government and private options in this country to access the healthcare they need. Costs for major operations or doctor visits are often a quarter of the price they would be in the US. Costa Rica is also one of the best countries for having a territorial tax system .

Around 40,000 people visited Costa Rica last year solely for medical tourism, and 15,000 of them for dental care. The dental tourism niche is booming in Costa Rica , where you can expect to pay around USD 4,000 for a  tooth-replacement procedure that would cost you minimum USD 10.000  in the US or Canada. Even with plane tickets and accommodation, it is still a bargain.

6. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is an excellent option for healthcare in the European Union and in a part of Europe that offers many of the highly-developed European services one would expect but at a better value than its counterparts in the Western part of the continent.

Prague is considered a haven for retirees and entrepreneurs alike . The Czech Republic is known for being sought out for services like teeth whitening, cosmetic surgeries, and others.

You can save up to sixty percent compared to the UK  on cosmetic surgeries: a breast enlargement with silicon implants costs £2,120 including one to two nights in a clinic in Prague, and nose reshaping costs £1,610 including one night in the clinic.

Prague is one of our best-value European cities for living and in general, the Czech Republic is one of our low-tax European bases to focus on. Whether you are visiting only for medical reasons or would want to seek out opportunities in the Czech Republic from a business and lifestyle standpoint, this country is worth considering.

Turkey, a country at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, has a growing medical tourism sector that also is worth looking at. World-class health treatment centers, as well as spas, dentist, cosmetic surgeons, and much more, are found in Turkey.

Turkey is also known for eye health specialists where the most expensive ocular procedure will cost you USD 5000. As this country grows economically and focuses on its relationship to the EU, pay close attention to how the medical tourism industry will grow.

We discussed Turkish citizenship by investment as an interesting option, particularly for investors from the Middle East and elsewhere who want a middle ground and base in the region that is increasingly pro-business and offers great connectivity to the rest of the world through Istanbul.

Yes, really. India has become a top health tourism destination for high-end surgeries at inexpensive prices. India specializes in inexpensive bypass surgeries and other high-end medical procedures for medical tourists.

One of the top ten medical tourism hospitals is in India . Stories of Westerners traveling to India and saving 75% over home country costs for large procedures — travel costs included — are not uncommon.

India is anticipated to have a $2 billion industry serving the overseas patient, thanks to well over 100,000 patients who visit each year. The Indian government is easing restrictions on citizens of many countries, making it easier for them to travel to India, visa-free and with fewer restrictions (US citizens do need a visa to enter India, which costs $67 plus any agency service fees).

India is widely known for its advanced medical services and equipment. Doctors tend to be highly trained, due to large medical tourism cities like Chennai and Noida having foreign patients fill half their hospital beds.

Also, the language barrier is lower for English speakers, and Indian hospitals are bringing in translators for non-English speaking foreigners.

Health care costs in India can run as low as ten cents on the dollar compared to the US or the UK. Popular treatments include bone-marrow transplants, eye surgery and hip grafting and replacement.

India is also a top destination for cardiac bypass surgery at facilities like the Asian Heart Institute; the procedure can cost less than $10,000 as compared to more than $100,000 in the West.

3. Thailand

Thailand has long been one of the best medical tourism destinations in the world, with low health care costs and excellent service for expats. So much so that medical tourism is growing by 16% a year. Bangkok is home to Bumrungrad Hospital , where I myself went for a total health check-up after losing a bit of weight , and paid very, very little.

The hospital was largely modeled after the Mayo Clinic, and their electronic medical record service impressed Microsoft so much they bought the whole thing.

While I’m not a fan of Thailand in general, there is no denying that their medical system is prized for offering a wide range of surgeries and other procedures at cheap prices.

One of my expat friends said he’d get “any surgery” in Thailand due to the high quality of care. Many doctors in Thailand have been trained in Western countries or Singapore and speak excellent English; nurses tend to speak English relatively well, also.

Ever since the crash of the baht in the nineties, Thailand used its currency crisis to attract medical tourists from around Asia, mainly for cosmetic surgeries.

Today, Thailand is a haven for inexpensive plastic surgery, but also non-elective procedures. A facelift that might cost $15,000 in The Land of the Free would cost $2,500-3,000 in Thailand.

Meanwhile, bypass surgery could cost around $25,000, an 80% discount over US prices. Experts recommend sticking to Bangkok rather than the coastal resort towns for access to the best doctors and care.

2. Singapore

Singapore, while expensive, has one of the most sophisticated hospital systems in the world. Singapore’s status as one of the world’s freest economies, as well as a highly developed nation, has made it a medical tourism hub for both Asians and Westerners for years.

Cancer treatment is a top speciality there. Gleneagles Hospital was ranked among the top ten hospitals around the globe by a health travel group, but many other hospitals offer excellent care as well.

The World Health Organization ranks Singapore as the best health care system in Asia, and sixth in the world. And while socialists claim that Singapore’s efficient, rather socialist health care model is a model for the rest of the world, personal responsibility is a key driver that keeps health care costs here reasonably low.

You will pay more in Singapore than in places like Thailand, but the quality of life in Singapore is second to none. One US-based grocery chain had a policy of paying the entire hospital bill, including travel costs for two, for employees who got hip and knee replacements in Singapore.

Life expectancy in Singapore is several years longer than that of the UK. And, by many standards, the city-state has the world’s lowest infant mortality rate .

If you’re looking for the most developed country for less expensive surgery, Singapore might be for you. However, there are stories of excessive costs which, together with rising health care standards in other countries, are causing medical tourism to shift to other parts of Asia.

1. Malaysia

Malaysia sees well over half a million medical tourists — most from around Asia — each year due to the country’s developed infrastructure and low costs. Malaysia has built medical facilities that rival Singapore at much lower price points.

The country has set up agencies to attract hundreds of thousands of medical tourists for procedures for anything from burns to heart conditions.

The general consensus is that, as Singapore gets more expensive, Kuala Lumpur is picking up the slack with facilities that are just as good. English is more widely spoken in Malaysia than in Thailand, and infrastructure is better than countries like India.

Like other countries in Asia, Malaysia saw medical tourism as a way to diversify its economy during the Asian financial crisis. Prince Court Medical Center, where I easily saved $2,000 when I got sick in Kuala Lumpur, was ranked the number one hospital for “patients without borders” by the Medical Travel Quality Alliance.

Malaysian hospitals offer services such as in vitro fertilization at around one-fifth the price of Western facilities, as well as offering sophisticated treatment for burn victims. Malaysian hospitals also offer total physicals that would cost several thousand dollars in the US, including blood work, for a few hundred dollars.

If you are looking for top quality healthcare without wasted money and headache, these countries offer you a start. Apart from this list, other countries are joining in to grab their share of foreign patients, as well.

Jordan has seen millions of patients cross into its borders and has received a top-five ranking for medical tourism from the World Bank, while Colombia is fast rising as a medical tourism hub. Would you go overseas for inexpensive health care? Share your comments below.

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11 Best Countries for Medical Tourism in 2023

The term medical tourism in recent years has gained exponential attention due to patients seeking healthcare treatments abroad. Several factors underlie the triggering for treatment abroad. One of the major factors is to save cost. Other advantages include zero waiting time, international standard healthcare, touring after recovery, unavailability of treatment in homeland, and much more. The following destinations are often considered as the best countries for medical tourism by most people.

In the US, the healthcare system is known for being notoriously expensive. Although the treatment offered is of a high standard. But compared to the other countries the costs are a few folds higher. According to data collected in 2017 by the Gallup-Healthways  Well-Being Index , 11.3% of Americans cannot afford health insurance.

Circumvention tourism is another growing sector in this field. Services such as abortion and doctor-assisted suicide may be restricted in the home country but are allowed in the destination country.

This article is formatted to help readers with selecting the right destination for varying sectors of medical tourism. It covers destinations popular for their particular services and more insights on why one might choose to visit them.

Before starting with the list consider subscribing to get the latest medical tourism offers.

In the medical tourism index of 2020-2021, Spain ranks 4th out of the top 46 medical destinations worldwide.

Although, the visitor count may not be as high as in countries like Singapore or India, but is still very decent. The country received  140,000 patients in 2018 , and the revenue generated reached over 600 million euros.

Spain aces the highest rating on organ transplants with a donation rate of 36 donors per million people . This makes the country a go-to destination for patients seeking organ transplants. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Spain ranks 7th as the best health care in Europe.

The cost of treatments is significantly lower than that of the UK, America, Canada, etc. Visitors can expect to save costs up to 30-70%, depending on the surgery. Plus, being a tourism-focused country, patients get to enjoy high living standards during their stay. Some notable surgeries offered are Orthopedic Surgery, Dentistry, Cosmetic surgery, Eyesight surgery, and Obesity surgery.

Spain isn’t considered to be a destination for general medical procedures. Instead, visitors come here for more complicated procedures such as plastic surgeries, fertility treatments, and so on. This also explains the reason for not having as many medical tourists as some of the Asian countries. In addition to that, Spain is relatively expensive for many Asian countries to travel to. It is more suited for European countries and a few other developed western countries.

Japan ranks 3rd in the global destination for the 2020-2021 medical tourism index. The country has recorded 31.19 million international tourists visiting various regions in 2018.

Although Japan is one of the most popular tourist attraction nations, medical tourism has never been a primary focus until recently. The country is already equipped with state-of-the-art medical technologies and great tourist attention; therefore, the government is making its effort into entering the medical tourism industry.

A promotional program started by the government in 2011 allowed tourists on a medical visa to stay up to 6 months in the country , and in the case of a normal tourist visa, the stay period was doubled.

Japan’s medical treatment standards are often better than in the US. Also, the survival rate for cancer-related treatments is far better than in many first-world countries. One important thing to note is that patients don’t come to Japan for cheaper healthcare. The cost of medical procedures is relatively high. Tourists visit the country merely because of the technologically advanced medical facilities and a higher standard of treatment.

Israel has been emerging to be a popular medical tourism destination for the past few years. The country ranks at the 8th position in the global medical tourism index and offers 20 JCI accredited clinics.

Israeli medical facilities and research are amongst the most highly valued in the world. The country specializes in cancer-related treatments. In fact, around 80% of the patients come for cancer treatments. Oncology, which is the study of tumors, is considered one of the finest in Israel.

Common treatments for medical tourism in Israel include bone marrow transplant, heart surgery, neurological, and catheterization treatments. Despite being a highly developed country, the treatment costs are considerably low as compared to that of the UK and USA. Such as, bypass surgeries in the US will cost over $100,000, whereas, less than $40,000 is needed in Israel.

For a detailed overview, read our complete guide on Israel medical tourism .

08. South Korea

South Korea hosts amongst the most technologically advanced procedures and skilled medical professionals in the world. The country ranked 1st in the OECD’s healthcare access. Plus, it stands in the second position for being the most efficient system.

By 2006, over 95% of the population was under the National Health Insurance system. South Korea’s healthcare emerged to be what it is today because of a joint project by the University of Minnesota and Seoul National University after the end of the 1950s war. The project lasted for six years, helping the country familiarized with the proper contextual medical framework needed for its success. Currently, over 70% of the population has private insurance. ( Source )

Common treatments received by foreign tourists include cosmetic surgeries such as plastic surgery and dermatology. Non-cosmetic surgery includes internal medicine and general health checkups. The rising popularity of K-pop and K-dramas has led to an increase in cosmetic surgeries in order to be a look-alike of the desired celebrities.

The mortality rate is also a major driving force for the demand for South Korea’s healthcare treatments. Implications such as cervical cancer survival rates are 76.8%, surpassing that of the US with 62.2% and Germany measuring in at 64.5%. The performance is also better for other serious procedures. ( Source )

The wide availability of medical care has also driven down the cost while maintaining the best-in-class standards. Patients coming from countries such as the US can expect to save between 30% to over 80% of what would cost in the home country.

Panama is the ideal place to get the American standard of medical care at a cost similar to that of India. Because of its suitable geographical location, Panama is a very easy country to travel to, especially for the American and European countries.

Panama is a very well-developed country and has a strong influence on American culture. In fact, for emergency cases, 911 service is also supported there but is limited to specific regions. The standard treatments for foreign tourists in Panama include cosmetic surgeries, dermatology, orthopedic surgery, fertility treatments, cancer treatments, stem cell therapy, etc.

Regarding the cost, procedures such as hip replacement are charged around $19,000 to $21,000 in the US, whereas, just $11,000 to 13,000 is needed in Panama. Similarly, costs for arthroscopy, Herniated Disc, Angioplasty, etc. are significantly cheaper in Panama than in the neighboring countries. Excluding any kind of malpractices, most treatments offered in the US are available in this country as well.

Beautiful beaches, old heritage sites, and attractive landmarks have made the country a more preferable option. Patients can get their desired treatment at a reduced cost and spend the rest on shopping or vacation trips. Tourism is one of the crucial sectors in the country’s economy with generating approx. $1400 million annually.

06. Malaysia

Malaysia is amongst the top 10 tourism destinations globally, and being a medical tourism powerhouse adds more to its appealing factor.

Malaysia’s government has a substantial contribution regarding the promotion of the country’s healthcare tourism. The country’s government considers health care one of the top 12 National Key Economic Area (NKEA). In 2019, around  $550 million  was earned through medical health care tourism.

The country has gained a reputation for having modern healthcare facilities and highly skilled medical professionals. By 2020, 5,300 more trained professionals are estimated to be required to facilitate its medical services. The ease of entry is another positive aspect that aids in making health tourism more sought after. If needed, the medical visa can be extended from 30 days to 90 days and also allows for having four people with the patient under the same visa conditions. ( Source )

A few of the sought-after procedures undertaken by foreign patients are cardiac procedures, cancer treatment, fertility treatment, cosmetic surgery, and general health screenings.

Medical tourism in India has also been gaining significant tourist traction for quite some time. Previous data from 2017 reported, over 495,000 patients traveled to the country to seek medical aid. India’s medical tourism sector is thriving because of the joint effort made by the government and the private sectors.

To make India’s medical services more accessible, the government has made various amendments to its  visa restrictions and schemes . Previously, the criteria of having a two-month gap between simultaneous visits from Gulf countries were withdrawn. Also, the stay for visa-on-arrival has been set to 30-day regarding medical reasons.

The cost of treatment is one of the cheapest in India compared to that of some other destinations. Procedures such as breast implants can cost around $2200 in India, whereas, in the UK, patients may need to cash out over $4000. Tooth whitening might cost approx. $300, as compared to approx. $500 in the UK.

Chennai, the 5th largest urban economy in the country, is named India’s health capital. It attracts 45% of the total tourists visiting India. The primary reason for such a massive influx of tourists is the cost, no waiting time, and advanced medical facilities.

A few of India’s sought-after medical treatments include bone-marrow transplant, cardiac bypass, eye surgery, hip replacement, and so on. Depending on the treatment, patients have the liberty to choose either the hospital or a paid accommodation for postoperative care.

04. Costa Rica

Costa Rica ranks 7th in the  global healthcare index  and is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries that you can find. In fact, around 4% of the total biodiversity is present in the country. People come here merely to enjoy ecotourism combined with medical tourism. For a detailed overview, read our article of medical tourism in Costa Rica .

Relaxing on beautiful beaches, eating luscious seafood, exquisite resorts, and visiting government-protected parks are the go-to activities for most tourists. Because of the geographical location, patients can visit both the Pacific and Caribbean beaches. Besides, it is not uncommon to see friendly wild animals roaming around the streets.

The healthcare system in the country is one of the best. World Health Organization frequently places Costa Rica above the American healthcare system. Hospitals here are very dynamic when it comes to offering medical services. Hospital Cima, for example, provides a list of  over 300 certified surgeons  on their website. Patients have access to their phone and email, as well as a detailed overview of their medical records. American patients visiting the country can easily expect to save 30 to 40% of the cost back home. Although dentistry and cosmetic surgeries are the most sought-after procedures, hospitals here offer the majority of the treatments available in the US.

03. Singapore

Singapore is considered an international hot spot for medical vacation . It ranks 2nd in the global top 46 medical tourism destinations and is estimated to have around  500,000 visitors each year .

Compared to some western countries, Singapore is an excellent choice for getting low-cost medical treatments. However, patients don’t come here to save costs. Instead, the country is considered one of the safest destinations for receiving state-of-the-art medical support. Plus, Singapore accounts for one of the highest numbers of JCI accredited hospitals, signifying the overall better quality of medical services.

Regarding the cost, for treatments such as heart bypass surgeries, in the US, it will cost around $123,000. Whereas in Singapore, it’s approximately $16,000 to $25,000. Other treatment costs are also low, such as normal delivery fees range between $6,000 to 12,500, Hip replacement within $8,500 to 12,000, and removal of a breast lump will cost around $5,400 to $10,700.

In Singapore, patients can save 25% to 40% compared to the same services available in the United States. The country is regarded to be the center for activities such as biomedical and biotechnological procedures. Hospitals there specialize in treatments for implications relating to cardiology, hematology, oncology, neurology, stem cell therapy, and orthopedics.

Singapore was rated as the 6th best healthcare system by the World Health Organization. This also helped the country to attract millions of international patients each year. Plus, according to 2019 data, the country enjoys the world’s longest life expectancy, with females living on average at 87.6 years and men 81.9 years. ( Source )

02. Thailand

Unique Thai hospitals, exotic beaches, medical treatments – these are the factors alluring over a million tourists each year.

Thailand is amongst the top 10 destinations for medical tourism globally. To keep up with this status, the Thai government has taken various measurements, one being the removal of fees from non-immigrant visas for medical tourists since 2013.

The language barrier is a problematic issue for foreign travelers. Hospitals are hiring professional multilingual speakers to aid with the communication difficulty. Foreign medical professionals are also allowed to practice their work in the country but must qualify for the Thai language examination.

From open-heart surgery to fertility treatments, all are available in Thailand from accredited hospitals. Also, treatments relating to gender reassignment and other fringe medical procedures are available in the country.

Even if not for surgeries, Thailand is also renowned for health and wellness tourism. Visitors can enjoy high-class integrated wellness centers that facilitate services such as Thai massage, spa, and restoration activities.

Among the medical destinations within Thailand, Bangkok is the most popular one taking in most of the tourists visiting the country.

Mexico’s popularity for healthcare has been rising for quite a few years. Its close proximity to the United States, and similar healthcare standards have been a significant influence for many western nations. For a detailed overview, read our complete guide on Mexico medical tourism .

This country is most suitable for budget-conscious Americans and Canadians. According to Renew Bariatrics , approx. One million Americans visit Mexico each year. Depending on the medical procedure, the cost savings are expected to be from 35 to 80%. The country accounts for at least 9 JCI accredited medical facilities.

In earlier days, dentistry and cosmetic surgeries used to be the most popular ones. Overtime, that has extended to orthopedic, bariatric, cardiac, eye, knee replacement, hip replacement, and various other procedures. Plus, the waiting time in Mexico is almost non-existent. International patients are offered face-to-face interaction with the doctor. Most hospitals are up-to-date with the latest technologies. The staffs are also well-trained to provide all types of medical support. Ambulance services are also offered at a cheaper cost.

Regarding the price, something simple as Bleaching discolored teeth will cost just $50. This same cost is approx.—$ 250 in US clinics. A hip replacement surgery will cost $12,500, which is 65% lower than the US. Similarly, Fertility Treatments will cost $2,650, Facelift is $4,250, Breast Augmentation is $3,800, and so on.

Finding the best places for medical tourism can be quite daunting. Not just the price or the standard of treatment – factors such as ease of communication, laws, availability, ethics also play a significant role in choosing the desired destination. We have tried to portray the best features of what each country has to offer. According to us, the list above represents the best countries for medical tourism. And you should be able to find all of your medical needs from these countries.

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Top 20 Wellness Retreats Around the World

Our favourite health tourism hotspots, from luxury medical spa breaks to wilderness and wellness retreats.

• Written by MTM Editorial Team
• May 25, 2020

Your wellness is sacred, and rejuvenation is number one on the menu.

Taking a break in beautiful surroundings, recharging, and revitalising your overall health must be the most appealing activity you can imagine right now. The stress and uncertainty of lockdowns and conflicting reports during the Coronavirus pandemic are bound to affect your physical, mental, and emotional health. The worldwide health tourism and wellness industry is well poised to cater to your every need, with an extensive selection of venues and programs available to indulge in.

Here are our top twenty handpicked choices of outstanding international wellness experiences, in no specific order:

1. SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain

The top-of-the-range SHA Wellness clinic is located in the Sierra Helada Mountains overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and features one of the best medical spas in the world. The SHA method focuses on health and wellbeing, lifestyle, and nutrition, integrating ancient eastern natural therapies with modern western preventive and regenerative medicine, genetics, and anti-ageing techniques.

Luxurious facilities, two indoor-heated pools, a hydrotherapy circuit, intensive nutrition and relaxing vistas complete this multi-award-winning experience. Most retreats take seven days, some longer.

The Platinum List, 2019 winner; Tatler Spa Awards, 2018 Holistic Hero; Golden Panther 2018 and featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

2. ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa, Japan

The luxurious ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort and Spa recently opened in Japan’s Oita Prefecture, and it offers elegant and sophisticated Japanese onsen (a natural hot spring bath) overlooking one of the country’s renowned hot springs. The facility has 79 guest rooms, and ten suites are splendidly decorated with wood, bamboo and marble, creating a refined private oasis.

The HARNN’s Spa has five treatment rooms, two outdoor onsens, open-air terrace baths, with mountain or bay views, a Japanese garden and an infinity pool overlooking the Beppu hot springs. Treatments are based on traditional medicine and use natural ingredients, the region’s famous moyban waters and will leave you with exceptional serenity and relaxation. It is a well-deserved splurge for the discerning health tourist.

No international awards yet, but watch this space.

3. Miraval Life in Balance Spa, Orange County, California

The Miraval Life in Balance Spa at the Pacific Ocean seaside is the first spa outside the Arizona flagship spa and is located in Orange County’s Monarch Beach Resort.

The spa resort provides quiet reflection, life-changing treatments, and stress-relieving fitness classes, as well as several outdoor activities on the beach, ideal for health tourists looking for that perfect balance.

The 30,000-square-foot facility offers more than 70 activities: yoga, fitness classes, cooking classes, meditation workshops and speakers as per your personalised plan. You may opt for a Sea Salt Serenity Body Ritual, a Coastal Stone Massage or Sports Massage and a myriad of other treatments.

Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2019

4. Villa Stephanie at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany

Villa Stephanie is a 15-room villa, part of the 140-year-old Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, in the heart of German Spa Town Baden-Baden on the edge of the Black Forest. The hotel exudes old-world charm and is Oetker Collection’s flagship property. It is dedicated to medical, fitness, detox, emotional and beauty treatments. It is connected to Haus Julius, where aesthetic services are rendered such as stem cell rejuvenation therapies, gynaecology, ophthalmology and dentistry.

It is a restorative hideaway whilst waiting for medical tests, and you can participate in one of their results-oriented wellness programs. They include whole body cures, digital detox, weight loss and intense detoxification (Kings Way) and bespoke retreats. You may opt for an e-smog free room (wifi signals blocked). Other activities include kickboxing, sauna, mountain biking and an aqua gym.

Discretion, intimacy, and refined elegance make this a popular choice for medical tourism and wellness seekers.

Oetker Collection Flagship Property, many international spa awards

5. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

One of the top luxury wellness resorts in Switzerland, the 5-star Grand Resort Bad Ragaz was built around the ancient Tamina Gorge hot spring in the 200-year-old residential spa town of Ragaz.

It focuses on holistic healing using science-backed clinical therapies, and thermal spa treatments and features a comprehensive medical spa and health centnre. Thermal therapies are provided in the traditional Helena Pool, Sports Pool and Family Spa, the Kneipp area and Garden Pool with mountain views, with the water running at 36.5C. Thalassotherapy and beauty rituals using the natural detoxifying and purifying qualities of the thermal spring water, Sauna World, Tamina Therme (spa and sauna) and the Hair Spa are popular with visitors.

2019 Best Medical Resort in CEO Travel Destinations and 2019 Resort Spa of the Year in World Spa & Wellness

6. The Mulia, Bali, Indonesia

Located in the exclusive Nusa Dua beach area, the Mulia is one of the best spa resorts in Bali, with luxury, unrivalled service and style underscoring the 5-star experience. Award-winning restaurants include a signature take on cuisines from Indonesia, Japan, China, Pan-Asia, the Mediterranean and other global destinations. It has the largest gym in Bali and offers beach activities and four pools.

Mulia’s lifestyle wellness program is personalised and designed to improve your physical and mental wellbeing, comprising Ayurvedic practices, yoga, meditation, aqua aerobics, reiki and healthy meals. Indulge in a Balinese massage, body treatment and salt scrub or visit the “ice room” for the ultimate luxury spa experience.

Conde Nast Traveler Best Luxury Resort and Spa and Tripadvisor Best Luxury Resort

7. Amankora Paro, High Intensity Training in the Himalayas, Bhutan

The Amankora 10-day, ultra-intensive training program is designed to push physical, mental, and spiritual boundaries. It is a high-altitude training challenge that comprises 498 miles of hiking and cycling via the country’s iconic sights and picturesque valleys. Ideal for the active and adventurous health tourist, but certainly not for the faint-hearted.

You start with a Buddhist blessing, being sprinkled by a monk with holy water, followed by a full medical examination, and a hyperbaric oxygen spa treatment to help you adjust to the high altitude. In addition to the biking and hiking you will also participate in martial arts training, Bhutanese hot-stone bathing, forest bathing, singing bowl meditation, and in the winter, rafting in the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers.

Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence

8. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, Clanwilliam, South Africa

The foothills of the Cederberg Mountains on the West Coast of South Africa are home to a stunning ecological oasis, wildlife and wellness resort, less than three hours from Cape Town. Spanning 18,500 acres of wide-open plains, the natural heritage site on which it sits is home to more than 150 kinds of birds, 750 species of plants, and 35 species of mammals; and its nook-and-cranny caves are the canvases for over 130 unique rock art sites, some as old as 10,000 years.

Spa treatments are inspired by ancient African traditions drawing on native African plant extracts such as baobab tree oil, cape aloe, rooibos and mafura butter. Personal wellness journeys are aimed at rejuvenating all your senses, replenishing your spirit and achieving deep inner peace and harmony by surrendering to the ancient mystical powers of the African landscape.

National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World; Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award; Best Spa in Africa & Indian Ocean at the Global Spa & Wellness Awards

9. Ananda in the Himalayas, India

Ananda is located in a 100-acre forest at the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, where the ancient arts of meditation, yoga and Ayurveda were born. The restored Viceregal Palace is touted as the ultimate statement in style with old-world elegance.

Ananda is one of the most popular luxury spa resorts in India and offers 80 varieties of spa therapies, including a range of Ayurvedic treatments. This wellness escape will help you redefine your lifestyle and set you on a spiritual pathway to the ultimate, discovered through the union of mind, body and soul, and as close to nirvana as you can get.

Top Destination Spa in the World by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Travel Awards 2019; Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Award 2018 for Best Destination Spa on a Global Level

10. Naia Resort & Spa, Placencia, Belize

Situated within a private 200-acre reserve on Belize’s southern coast on the Placencia peninsula, Naia offers an intimate and natural playground with endless activities for the discerning traveller and wellness seeker. The resort features stand-alone villas (studio to two-bedrooms) with access to the beach and swimming pools, spa treatments, cultural and sea excursions and two dining facilities.

The spa is built on a series of islands on the lily-covered lagoon, and offers journeys in healing, self-care and renewal, covering six acres comprising over-water individual treatment suites and a couple’s private island suite, a fitness centre and yoga and movement studio. Products used in spa treatments are indigenous and made by local artisans and traditional healers.

Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, no 4 in Belize

11. Aro Hā Wellness Retreat, Glenorchy, New Zealand

Situated in New Zealand’s Southern Alps and overlooking the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, the Aro Ha wellness retreat features 20 eco-suites and singles in the most epic natural beauty setting – snow-capped peaks and sapphire lakes. The resort is completely self-sustaining.

The multi-award-winning retreat focuses on elevating your body and mind by blending wellness traditions and luxury. The experience includes meditation and vinyasa yoga classes to help nourish yourself from the inside out. Hiking in the stunning mountains, indulging in wholesome vegetarian cuisine and mindfulness classes will have you rejuvenated in no time.

World Spa Awards Winner 2019, Spafinder Wellness Awards, Golden Panther Award by Paradise Magazine, Celebrated Living Platinum List, Destination DeLuxe Award, Haute Grandeur Hotel Award, Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Award

12. La Maison Arabe, Marrakech, Morocco

Just a short walk from the UNESCO heritage site, Jemaa el Fna Square, in the heart of the ancient medina of Marrakech is a riad (traditional Moroccan house) boutique hotel. La Maison Arabe has become legendary for its intimate but opulent Moorish setting, the world famous cooking school and most of all its traditional hammam spa.

The brand-new Wellness Center features two hammams, the traditional Moorish steam baths, as well as five massage rooms for traditional Moroccan massage with exclusive natural products, and  several body and skin treatments.

A douiria with six rooms is available for those seeking privacy, and the adventurous can relax at the outdoor heated swimming pool or the pool at the country club annex, or explore the city’s rich heritage and culture.

Featured in Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Cote Sud, Le monde, Saveurs, Travel & Leisure and many more. Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Winner in 2019; Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence

13. Waldorf Astoria Resort, Pedregal, Mexico

This Waldorf Astoria Hotel requires no introduction – it is luxury and personalised treatment personified. It is a unique yoga retreat, with emphasis on sourcing inspiration from the moon, the sea and Mexican folk healing to restore your mind, body, and spirit.

Teaching the classical techniques of yoga — asana (alignment), pranayama (breath awareness), bandha (engagement of the body from the core), and vinyasa (flow and connection in practice) — which are the keys to inner transformation, linked to different phases of the moon, it is a distinctive approach to wellness and beauty. The spa, Luna y Mar (the moon and the sea), was created by Sylvia Sepelli and offers special spa treatments harnessing the energies of moonstone. A salon, tennis lessons, private seaside yoga sessions, moonlit meditation and world-class cuisine, are all on offer for the discerning visitor.

No. 1 Resort Hotel in Mexico, Forbes 2020 Travel Guide, Hilton Honors.

14. Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand

Kamalaya offers a seamless, holistic wellness experience that integrates healing therapies from the east and west, a breathtakingly beautiful natural environment, inspired healthy cuisine and customised wellness programs and retreats. This multi-award-winning Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa is situated in the verdant tropical landscape of the southern coastline of the island and is built around a monk’s cave.

Programs address issues related to stress and burnout, weight management and sleep or emotional imbalances. Stunning spa facilities include traditional massages or private sessions, far-infrared sauna, Chi Nei Tsang (Taoist abdominal massage), as well as plunge pools and a herbal steam cavern in-between. Yoga and meditation, as well as specific healing modalities (naturopathy, traditional Chines medicine or Ayurveda, bio-impedance analysis, nutritional evaluation, Western medicine), are available.

Kinnari Gold Award at the 2019 Tourism Authority Thailand (TAT) Awards; Best Overseas Health & Wellness Property in 2019 Australian Luxury Travel Magazine’s Gold List Awards; Owner & Operator of the Year in 2018 American Spa; Leader in Furthering Mental Awareness – Debra Simon Award; Condé Nast Traveler Magazine’s Gold List 2017 and more.

15. Dolce Vitality Fitness & Detox Retreat, Amalfi Coast, Italy

If you are looking for an active boot camp in stunning surroundings to refocus, look no further. The six-night Dolce Vitality provides you with an outdoor gym, daily yoga, mindfulness, strength and conditioning classes, spa treatments and rejuvenating massages. They make good use of the outdoors too with guided treks around Positano’s ancient mule tracks around the hillsides through orange and olive groves, tiny mountain villages and to Mount Vesuvius. They provide holistic vegan cuisine prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. The interior of the historic building is luxurious and private boats are provided for exploration.

2020 Forbes Travel Guide Star Award Winner, 2011 Andrew Harper’s Readers’ Choice Award; Conde Nast Traveler Awards including Gold Status, Class – Classifiche delle eccellenze

16. Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, Lanai City, Hawaii

This stunning low-key resort set high on a cliff above Manele Bay, with waterfalls, streams, ponds and gardens in a tropical setting is the perfect backdrop for the Lanai Sensei Retreats, the brain-child of tech billionaire Larry Ellison and renowned physician Dr David Agus. The sleek, sophisticated Polynesian aesthetic design in teak and zebra wood complements the secluded oceanfront retreat on the last unspoiled island in Hawaii.

Visitors are guided through personal health journeys with yoga, massages and beauty treatments, organic meals by Japanese celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and can participate in horseback riding, Hawaiian cultural activities, and other excursions, such as the adventure park, water sports and golf. Lanai Air flights are included in packages.

US News Travel top thirty wellness retreats; Travel+Leisure readers’ Best Beach Hotels, TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and more.

17. Anantara Veli Resort, Maldives

The Anantara Veli Maldives Resort’s Balance Wellness signature program includes yoga, cutting-edge cleansing treatments at the Cocoon Medical Spa, snorkelling and surfing, at this stunning overwater resort for adults only (over eighteen). Featuring 67 over water and ocean bungalows, the resort is a half-an-hour speedboat ride from Velana International Airport and guests have access to facilities at the sister resort Anantara Dhigu. With an open-air cinema, private dining, and couples’ spa journeys, with meticulous attention to detail in all services, the resort promises a romantic and rejuvenating stay.

Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence; Tripadvisor 2019 Travelers’ Choice Award; Green Growth 2050 Certified Gold and Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards

18. Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort, Mexico

This charming, upscale hotel in the magical Akumal (Place of Turtles in ancient Mayan language), on the Riviera Maya, is a truly unique experience. The wellness resort offers more than a mile of pristine white sandy beach, snorkeling with the turtles or diving in the coral reef close to the beach. For tourists seeking a relaxing break, there is also the option of lazing in the sun, swimming in the ocean or exploring the Mayan settlements for entertainment close by.

Akumal Bay prides itself on sophisticated simplicity and friendly service, a relaxed but intimate atmosphere, with a spa, meditation classes and daily yoga, making this one of the most relaxing wellness retreats, even for the most discerning wellness tourist.

Tripadvisor 2019 Travelers’ Choice Award

19. Taj Usha Kiran Palace, Madhya Pradesh, India.

One of the top luxury yoga retreats in India, Taj Usha Kiran Palace Wellness Retreat, is situated in a 130-year old historical palace and now 5-star hotel owned by the Taj group, in amongst 9 acres of landscaped lawns. Royal suites and luxury villas cater to your every need, with private pools and sunbathing areas. History abounds, and even the kitchens prepare recipes from the Maratha and Nepalese royal kitchens.

The hotel’s Jiva Wellness Spa provides many signature Indian spa experiences, ancient Ayurvedic treatments and a well-equipped health club. Some of these therapies originated in the 14th-century spa in the Man Mandir Palace at Gwalior Fort. Meditation and yoga retreats can be booked.

Lifestyle Asia Top Ten Yoga Retreat and Gold Level Certification from Earth Check

20. Ookushana Energy Healing & Holistic Wellness, UK

Ookushana is an authentic holistic centre, based in the heart of Northern England in Chapel Allerton, Leeds. It is a place where souls with a desire to heal, grow, create & expand their consciousness.

Founded by Felicity Weston, an inspiring healer, the Ookushana workshop has become a hub for the healing arts and is often visited by incredible yoga teachers, sound healers, meditation experts & energy workers.

Ookushana offers a combination of energy healing with holistic wellness coaching to facilitate personal and spiritual journeys. Treatments and events include tantra, sound healing, yin & yang CPD training, creating ceremonies and rituals, and Reiki training.

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The 17 Best Wellness Retreats in the World

By Nicholas DeRenzo and Betsy Blumenthal

The past few difficult years have represented a complete sea change in the way we think and talk about wellness . Sure, a great massage or facial will never go out of style—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle in keeping our minds as well cared for as our bodies. Long walks out in nature and arts and crafts sessions can be just as restorative as a punishing workout, and a nourishing meal (with an excellent glass of wine) might be just what the doctor ordered.  Whether you're into hiking or yoga, or just need a nap-inducing Swedish massage, book one of these wellness retreats in 2023 to rejuvenate both mind and body.

From the succulent-scattered wilds of the Sonoran Desert to the thrumming heart of Midtown Manhattan (trust us), these are 15 of our favorite wellness retreats where you can get away from it all—while getting back to yourself. 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

COMO Parrot Cay — Turks and Caicos

It's hard to imagine anything more reinvigorating than a few days at this health-centric resort , huddled away on its own private island in the Caribbean. Guests should take full advantage of the brand's wellness program, COMO Shambhala, which promotes good health through such offerings as enzyme-rich cuisine, a medley of fresh and creative courses like zucchini carpaccio and pineapple sundaes; complimentary yoga and pilates classes (the yoga retreats offered throughout the year are led by a rotating cast of characters, including yogi superstars the Curry Sisters); and holistic therapies, including reflexology and Ayurveda. For those who are a little more adventurous, the resort will also coordinate fishing and diving trips; biking excursions on larger, nearby islands; windsurfing lessons, and more. Go enjoy it—we'll be here at the spa's infinity pool , overlooking the ocean.

Civana Wellness Resort and Spa — Arizona  Arrow

Scottsdale is certainly not wanting for covetable destination spas, but if you’re looking for the most truly immersive, you’ll have to head out to the Sonoran Desert foothills and the appropriately named neighboring town of Carefree. After a morning intention ceremony, you’ll embark on a choose-your-own-adventure of wellness options that might include a self-guided meditation walk along a stone labyrinth path, a sunset sound bath, or a spin through the aqua therapy circuit. But the resort also takes full advantage of its Sonoran surroundings, meaning you might find yourself stand-up paddleboarding in Tonto National Forest or gaining 1,236 feet of elevation on the blood-pumping hike up to Tom’s Thumb. A “zero deprivation” approach to dining means out with the guilt-inducing diet language and in with craveable, Southwestern-tinged fare like elote corn ribs, zucchini enchiladas, and plenty of Arizona-grown wine. 

Arctic Bath Hotel — Harads, Sweden Arrow

Wellness has never looked as fairytale-like as it does at this Nordic hideaway deep in Swedish Lapland , where the bird’s nest–shaped spa floats atop the Lule River and minimalist, glass-fronted cabins are scattered on the banks or among the birch trees. The chilly waters of that very river make for a bracing last stop on a circuit of the spa’s dry and steam saunas, though if you’re looking for something a little less invigorating, there’s always the outdoor hot tub, which sits beneath the midnight sun in summer and the aurora borealis in winter. Beyond the confines of the property, you can embark on a moose safari, a snowshoe hike, ice-fishing, or dog-sledding. And remember: Back at camp you’ll be greeted with a nourishing meal of local ingredients that might include reindeer, oysters, foraged mushrooms, and a local caviar known as Kalix Löjrom.

Six Senses Fort Barwara — India Arrow

Don’t let the militaristic exteriors fool you! Although this Rajasthani fortress was constructed in the 14th century to keep out invaders, it was reborn as the newest  Six Senses sanctuary , opened in October 2021. In a way, it serves the same purpose: Its five-foot-thick rock walls, some of which rise 20 feet, successfully repel the onslaught of external stressors from which you’re trying to escape. Unsurprisingly, Ayurveda and yoga feature heavily in the wellness program here, while spa treatments incorporate such regional ingredients as saffron, Kashmir lavender, and mogra (aka “the queen of jasmines”). And there are plenty of ways to slow down outside of the treatment room, including Hindu blessings and rituals in the adjacent temple and rewilding walks around the grounds to see how horticulturists are working to attract back native birds, leopards, and jackals. 

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Karthika Gupta

The American Club — Kohler, Wisconsin

If you generally associate Kohler with stainless steel bathroom appliances, you're not alone—but we're here to tell you that the all-American company offers much more than a beautiful faucet. The brand also has a stake in the hospitality game, with a resort that doesn't stray too far from its roots—literally. The main building of The American Club , set in Kohler, Wisconsin, formerly served as housing for the workers toiling across the road in the manufacturing plant (the latter is still there, in case you're wondering). The resort feels a little like an upscale college campus : the cluster of stately, stone, and brick buildings includes posh, modern rooms; five in-house restaurants, and plenty more within walking distance; and a separate spa and golf course, both accessible via a complimentary shuttle (though you can probably walk).

BodyHoliday Cariblue Beach — St. Lucia

With week-long programs and an abundance of fitness courses and spa treatments on offer, the all-inclusive BodyHoliday resort—founded on the key pillars of relaxation, restoration, exercise, and healthy eating—is ideal for a whole host of rejuvenation-seeking travelers. Guests enjoy​​ daily spa treatments, some of which are included in the cost of booking (try the Heaven and Earth treatment, a bliss-inducing combination of scalp, hand, and foot massage), and can sample an eclectic mix of activities including archery, Spoga (spinning and yoga, of course), tai chi, tennis, and more. It doesn't hurt that it sits on the crystalline beaches of St. Lucia, either—so if you'd rather hang back and catch up on your reading, that's a-ok, too.

Naviva, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita — Mexico

The name of the game at this just-opened Four Seasons tented camp outside of Puerto Vallarta is “biophilic design,” which is all about the healing power of dropping guests directly into nature: That means each open-air tent comes with an outdoor shower, plunge pool, and hammock, perfect for taking in the surrounding 48 acres of jungle. Inspired by the shape of ceiba tree seeds, the two “spa pods” include their own personal gardens and timber soaking tubs, while the  temazcal  (a pre-Hispanic sweat lodge) is the place where mindfulness meets mysticism as you’re guided by a healer, or  curandero . During your time out here, you might hike to the Aztatlán ruins, partake in a cliffside yoga class, or sample “seacuterie” made from the bounty of the nearby Pacific. 

Six Senses Douro Valley — Portugal

Set on the terraced slopes of one of the world’s oldest wine regions, Six Senses Douro Valley recasts a 19th-century manor house with unexpectedly modern and colorful flair—making it much more than a place to sleep off one too many glasses of vinho (and they've got that in spades—see the resort's comprehensive wine cellar, or the by-the-glass machine at the bar). It's hard to one-up the offer of wine on tap , but the spa is certainly in the running: The complex has everything, from acupuncturists to aerial yoga, and even professionals to help you craft your own customized wellness program while you're there, all to help you ease back into the nine-to-five groove once you leave.

Winvian Farm — Morris, Connecticut

Winvian Farm might be the perfect retreat for that jaded office cube-dweller, who sorely needs to detox—or, at least, to be distracted from their inbox for a day or two. The design of each of the 18 cottages (and a single suite) on the 113-acre Relais & Chateaux property is based on a different, and fanciful, concept, like the Library or Treehouse; in the Camping cottage, for instance, stars illuminate the ceiling, and marshmallows are laid before the fireplace for roasting. Winvian's Executive Chef, Chris Eddy, cranks out clean, bold, farm-to-table fare with organic produce plucked from the farm's own gardens—but make sure to pair it with a velvety glass of Dominus 2008 Cabernet from the farm's well-stocked wine cellar (their selection spans roughly 13 countries and 37 regions). Oh, and that  magnificent, 5,000-square-foot spa is open to both guests and drop-ins—so don't be surprised if you see some locals looking for a little R&R.

Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt — Austria

The  Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt , a sprawling alpine chalet at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser mountain, is like the postcard-perfect set of  The Sound of Music . To make the most of the crisp mountain air, take a six-mile hike over to Schwarzsee Lake, one of the warmest in the Alps, where you can  set up a picnic or take a dip. If youre not trying to venture too far off course, but still want to take advantage of those snow-capped views, we’d suggest a swing at the on-site driving range, set up against the mountains. Or, better yet, take a lesson at the resort’s own ski school in the winter. A meal at the cozy but sophisticated Stangl-Alm, with a fireplace and top-to-toe wood paneling providing an ideal backdrop for shaking off the cold and resting your legs after crossing the Alps.

Lake Austin Spa Resort — Texas

A stay at  Lake Austin Spa Resort may just ruin you for good. Once you get a taste of its organic garden’s fresh bounty, which the resort uses in its seasonally influenced offerings, your regular store-bought veggies probably won’t cut it. Guests also rave about the retreat’s Culinary Experience program, which sees celebrity chefs invited in to whip up dinner and teach guests a lesson in DIY gourmet meals. If you can manage to set down your fork for a minute, you'll be richly rewarded: The resort's 25,000-square-foot LakeHouse Spa offers more than 100 massage, body, and skincare treatments and therapies, which you can enjoy from the comfort of an outdoor garden cabana or a screened-in veranda, with a handful of treatments incorporating organic herbs from the resort's garden. We see you, rosemary-citron scrub.

Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa — Ainsworth Hot Springs, British Columbia

You may be on vacation, but there’s no reason you can’t throw some self-improvement in the mix, too. At  Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat Resort & Health Spa , way up in the clean, clear air of British Columbia, you can embrace the granola life with day-long hikes led by one of the eager local guides, and sunrise yoga classes taught by certified professionals. Everything here is targeted toward achieving optimal health, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be shoving kale down your throat, or scraping bark off the nearest tree to kill the hunger pangs. Quite the contrary: The on-site nutritionist and head chef develop locally sourced, nutrient-rich meals, with lemon ricotta pancakes just one of the many fan favorites.

Cal-a-Vie — Vista, California

If this past year left you feeling overlooked and unattended to (hey, we all need a little TLC now and then), then  Cal-a-Vie has the antidote. With a staff-to-guest ratio of 5 to 1, you won't want for attention at this 32-villa retreat in the Southern California countryside. But don't let this charming,  French  Provençal-styled resort fool you: This is a no-nonsense place, where you can wake to a sunrise hike and follow it up with any combination of cardio kickboxing, spinning, Zumba, water volleyball, or piloxing (dance, pilates, and boxing), and soothe your sore muscles with a trip to the world-class spa—past patrons rave about the bamboo massage and the coffee scrub. Pair these pampering treatments with an on-site nutritionist and health-conscious chef, and you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa — Baden-Baden, Germany

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa , set in a valley in the Black Forest Mountains overlooking the tree-lined Lichtentaler Allee, has been around for 150 years for a reason: Not only is the grand dame resort done in classic country house style, but it also neighbors the historic Baden-Baden thermal baths and springs, offering maximum opportunities for rejuvenation among its guests. Compound that with the hotel’s medical spa—how many old-world retreats offer aesthetic dentistry and dermatology services behind their wrought-iron balconies?—and you’re on the fast-track to wellness. There's also the rehabilitated  Villa Stéphanie , a 15-room residential spa annex off the resort's larger main building. Guests looking for a more intimate experience will surely appreciate the draw of a facial on one of the many terraces overlooking the bank of the river Oos.

Aro Hā Wellness Retreat — Glenorchy, New Zealand

Overlooking the otherworldly expanse of Lake Wakatipu, in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, the intimate, 20-room  Aro Hā Wellness Retreat is close to perfect. The self-sustaining retreat’s biggest draw might just be its  epic setting —eco-friendly suites and singles are surrounded by colossal sapphire lakes and snowcapped peaks—but its rejuvenation offerings are also impressive. Try the Wellness Adventure programs for a New Year’s lift—a little yoga here,  a little hiking there—and a whole lot of wholesome veggie cuisine should have you feeling fresh in no time. But it’s not all body talk: A stay at Aro Hā will teach you some tricks for mindfulness, too. All the better to keep from zoning out once you’re back to your desk (though we can’t guarantee you won’t daydream about the views).

Bushmans Kloof — South Africa

Located on 18,500 acres of wide open plains at the foot of the Cederberg Mountains, Bushmans Kloof isn't wanting for extraordinary surroundings. In fact, the resort has enough impressive credentials to make your head spin: The natural heritage site on which it sits is home to more than 150 kinds of birds, 750 species of plants, and 35 species of mammals; and its nook-and-cranny caves are the canvases for over 130 unique rock art sites, some as old as 10,000 years, allowing you to conveniently check your 'nature,' 'history,' and 'art' boxes all in a single go. The spa isn't too shabby, either: Book a couples massage in the riverside gazebo, preferably while the sun is setting over the nearby Boontjes River.

Aman New York Arrow

You might not expect Midtown Manhattan to house one of the most relaxing new resorts in the country, but if anyone can pull off a bit of alchemy, leave it to Aman. Occupying the 101-year-old Crown Building, the dimly lit, 83-suite urban escape is all about serenity, and its minimalist interiors—parquet floors, Belgian Blue marble, warm copper light installations—feel miles away from the gaudiness of Trump Tower across the street. The 25,000-square-foot spa sprawls over three floors and is kitted out with wellness experiences both high-tech (a cryotherapy chamber and infrared detox sauna) and low (a fireplace-lined, 65-foot-long pool). To feel truly pampered, splurge on one of the two private “spa houses,” multi-room suites that you and your closest friends can rent out for a half or full day of treatments. One includes a hammam, the other a Russian-inspired banya, and both feature spacious outdoor terraces with a hot bath and a cold plunge pool. You’d never guess you’re just a few stories up from the scrum of 57th Street. 

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Medical tourism — prices and best hospitals

The best countries for medical tourism.

Hospitals on the website — 10

Hospitals on request — 35

Hospitals on the website — 5

Hospitals on request — 98

Hospitals on request — 92

Hospitals on the website —5

Hospitals on the website — 3

Hospitals on the website —1

TOP-10 best hospitals in the world for medical tourism

• World`s best hospitals
• South Korea

Top 3 best countries for medical tourism

Turkey, South Korea and Germany remain top 3 countries for treatment abroad through the years.

Medical specialists from international clinics select the best treatment for our patients, using ultra-modern diagnostic technologies and vast experience of working with foreign patients. You can also check out other treatment options abroad below .

Looking for the best specialised hospital abroad?

See all health tourism options, medical tourism — recommended hospitals, why medical tourism always brings positive results.

• The highest level of educational system. As a result, doctors have excellent qualifications, there are a large number of scientists in medicine, biology and many research institutes.
• The availability of university hospitals which are centres of medical competence in their region, include dozens of specialised departments and medical centres.
• Research funding. For example, the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, USA, spends more than 660 million US dollar annually on research and has a staff of 3,000 research scientists. The research results are then applied in practice in the form of new methods of treatment and slowly spread to the rest of the world.
• Public and private investment in health infrastructure. This includes not only the financing of the hospitals themselves, but also the technological medical companies that develop and produce modern medical equipment used to treat patients.
• International accreditation of hospitals and commitment to quality assurance and transparency.

Your medical travel can be organized by professionals

A medical travel ㅡ where to start, about all stages of the organization of medical tours with uniclinicsⓡ in details, security of your medical data, did not find an answer to your question about medical tourism.

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High Level Forum on Medical and Health Tourism

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Health, wellness and medical tourism have grown exponentially in recent years to become increasingly relevant in many destinations. Health tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation the contribution to physical, mental and/or spiritual health through medical and wellness-based activities. As an emerging, global, complex and rapidly changing segment, health tourism needs to be better understood by destinations that are willing to leverage opportunities and address challenges.

In the framework of the 23rd session of the UNWTO General Assembly, the High-level Forum on Medical and Health Tourism brought together ministers from all around the world to focus on the relevance of health tourism in national strategies as well as the factors shaping it such as technological developments, personal health and regulations. It also explored the market trends, the demand and the supply of health tourism and provide a platform to share good practices.  

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• Final Programme
• Programa final
• Keynote: Medical Tourism - Preparing for Tomorrow, by Jonathan Edelheit, Chairman of the Medical Tourism Association (USA)
• Photos of the Forum
• High Level Forum on Medical and Health Tourism by Manuel Butler, UNWTO

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The best fast food restaurants in america, ranked — is your favorite on the list.

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You’ll flip for these burgers — and more.

A trusted travel guide brand has named the best fast food restaurants in America — and the list contains some delicious surprises.

Fodor’s writer Geena Truman compiled the list , reportedly based on a year of extensive travel.

“Visions of golden-fried cheese curds, succulent smash burgers, and cheese-topped fries distracted me from the rolling scenery of America’s backroads,” confessed Truman, an unabashed fast food lover.

And while many of us might just pull into the nearest familiar-looking chain, the intrepid eater said she sought out regional and less obvious options, from New England to the Pacific Northwest.

Here are her picks — do you agree?

1. Culver’s

Calling the Wisconsin-based butter burger and frozen custard chain “the most delicious fast food pit stop in America,” the author couldn’t speak highly enough of the homespun Midwest favorite that’s now located in 26 states (and hopefully more to come). Truman gives a nod to the restaurant’s famed side of fried cheese curds, noting that Culver’s “gives the outer appearance of fast-food but outperforms all others in taste.”

2. Shake Shack

Admitting that maybe she’s a little biased towards frozen custard purveyors — honestly, can we blame her — Truman talks up Danny Meyer’s still growing burger and sweet treat chain, which, incidentally, was modeled after the Midwestern stands of Meyer’s St. Louis childhood.

A whopping 25 states now have their own Shack, with more to come.

“The perfect meal? A coffee custard shake, a simple all-American Angus Beef hot dog with cheese dipping sauce, and a smash burger,” Truman writes, giving her appreciation to the “real food with real ingredients” that’s worth the extra money you pay.

3. In-N-Out

“If you want a *cheap* fast-food burger with fresh toppings, a classic Americana malted milkshake, and cheesy fries with just a dash of salt, this is the place for you,” Truman said.

She notes that the food feels fresher than at other fast food chains, saying that she “can eat a Double-Double Burger animal-style with a heaping pile of fresh onions, cheese fries, and a chocolate malt shake” and still walk out feeling good. Millions of West Coasters would agree.

The Southern California institution has been expanding in recent years, to Oregon, Colorado, Texas and soon, Tennessee and perhaps elsewhere in the Southeast.

4. Whataburger

What In-N-Out is to Calfifornia, the home of one of fast food’s biggest burgers (at least measured across) is to Texas. Truman calls out the chain’s “spicy ketchup, taquitos, honey-butter chicken biscuit, well-battered onion rings, Green Chile Burger, and oozing patty melt.”

However, she says that eating here is more about the size of the food than the quality, saying that it’s “not a mind-blowing eating event.”

The chain has expanded to states like Arizona and now, Nevada, where a sparkling, giant-sized branch that would make Texans jealous recently opened at the foot of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. (Talk about an interesting pairing.)

5. Raising Cane’s

Georgia has Chick-Fil-A. Louisiana has Raising Cane’s. Truman appears to prefer the latter, ranking them ahead of the Polynesian Sauce purveyor.

Here, however, the menu is even simpler — chicken fingers from fresh-never-frozen birds, served with crinkle-cut fries, creamy coleslaw, thick, buttery Texas Toast and sides of remoulade-style Cane’s sauce. “Raising Cane’s perfected the recipe,” Truman says of the chicken fingers.

The chain has spread across the country, even making inroads right at the heart of NYC, with locations in Times Square, Harlem and the East Village.

6. Five Guys

“While the burgers are tasty and completely customizable…it’s really the fries that shine,” Truman opines of the popular and pricey chain that’s located all over the country and increasingly, the world. (Five Guys Barcelona, anyone?)

“Hefty bags of Idaho potatoes are literally stacked for all to see in the hallways of their restaurants. Freshly cut daily into “boardwalk-style” slivers and fried up in peanut oil (nut-allergists beware) Five Guys also offers them “Cajun-style” for travelers who want a little spice in their life,” Truman says.

7. Chick-Fil-A

Appreciating their “juicy deluxe chicken sandwich and tasty breaded nuggets,” Truman has less to say about the wildly-popular (and fast-growing) chain, referencing the “hype” and the long lines at newly-opened franchises.

8. Dave’s Hot Chicken

This celeb-backed chain — he fastest-growing fast food concept in America, the author writes — takes a concept that’s still typically found at trendy one-off spots and markets it to the masses, quite successfully.

So maybe it’s not Nashville-level great, but Truman calls a Dave’s meal the “perfect road trip snack.”

Choose from the “chicken tender slider (topped with smoky cheese and very California kale slaw) or a couple of the extra large-sized chicken tenders,” Truman suggests — urging diners to pair whatever they order with the restaurant’s creamy mac and cheese.

9. Kelly’s Roast Beef

Noting that this Boston-area institution inspired Arby’s, Truman raves about the “their “25-day aged beef knuckle roast, cooked in-house to the perfect medium rare, sliced to order, and placed delicately on a bun with a rich BBQ sauce and melty white cheese.”

The pride of Revere Beach is harder to find than most of the brands on this list, but it’s growing — and it could definitely beat Arby’s if it grew enough.

10. White Castle

Reminding readers that the spiritual home of the slider predates McDonald’s — true fact — Truman says that she didn’t tap the classic chain because of 1920s nostalgia or the restaurant’s place in the American pantheon.

“It’s the sliders,” she says, noting that there are now 12 differnet kindsto choose from, including fish, chicken and waffles and plant-based meats.

11. Dick’s

Dick’s is easily the In-N-Out of the Puget Sound, and though we’d have chosen the quirky and delicious Taco Time NW to represent that region, a trip to this basic and delicious burger drive-in is something akin to a cultural experience, essential to any road trip that includes the Seattle area.

Touting their “delicious beef burgers, salty fries, and thick old-school shakes served from walk-up windows,” Truman also gives them cred for treating their employees well and their community spirit, too.

The Seattle native also shouts out another regional chain, Zips, for their “huge tubs of crinkle-cut fries, behemoth burgers with three sizzling meat patties and sliced ham, country-style chicken strips, and freshly fried and battered fish filets pad the monster-sized menu.”

12. Jollibee

The top fast food chain in The Philippines — with a cheerful bee as its mascot — is increasingly showing up all over America, and Truman is definitely into the idea, saying there’s “no other fast food chain quite like it in America.”

Go for “crispy fried chicken, beef patty steaks with gravy, spicy tuna pies, and their trademark sweet-sauce-topped spaghetti meals,” she says, calling the chicken — when executed correctly — “better than KFC.”

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'World's best airport' for 2024 has spa, pool and huge tropical gardens

Doha’s Hamad International Airport in Qatar has been battling it out with Singapore Changi Airport to see which would take the crown of the best airport in the world in the Skytrax World Airport Awards

• 17:15, 18 Apr 2024

An ultra-luxurious airport has been crowned the new best travel hub in the world.

The prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards - regularly called the Oscars of the airport industry - has been a two horse race between Singapore Changi and Doha’s Hamad International Airport in Qatar for several years. This year the latter has risen one place to take the crown, knocking the 12 times winner off the top spot.

The airport is absolutely vast, covering 600,000 square metre or the equivalent of 75 football fields, and stretching across a third of the city. By all accounts, moving through the gigantic airport is a breeze, in part because its now long running e-Passport scheme allows passengers to get past security in just ten minutes.

Despite the swiftness of its essential processes, passengers may want to allocate a little extra time to be in the airport ahead of their flight, simply because it is such a pleasant place to be. Doha Hamad has a reputation for being spotless and sparkling even at its most busy moments.

There are no loud-speaker announcements in the airport, meaning it retains a particular air of peace and quiet. It is also designed to echo the sea just outside, which much of the land it sits on was reclaimed from. Across the terminals are strange, eye-catching pieces of art to keep waiting guests entertained, such as a very large, yellow bear that is slumped on a pedestal with a lampshade on its head.

As well as the usual and to-be-expected luxury shops such as Burberry, Gucci, Rolex and Swarovski, there are comfortable leather chairs for guests to kick back in after a tiring holiday. For those who'd like a little extra help, a door-to-door service is available, in which a member of staff takes guests from the entrance of the terminal to boarding.

A 25-meter swimming pool, gym gear, two squash courts, hydrotherapy and spa treatments, and much else sit in the sports facility attached to HIA’s Oryx Hotel. Those lucky enough to find themselves in business or first class can use the Al Mourjan lounge, which is 10,000 square metres and features a formal restaurant and glitzy bar.

Another particularly fine feature that was added during the major overhaul of the ten-year-old airport back in 2022 are the 10,000 square meter indoor tropical garden, known as The Orchard, that provide a leafy, calm place to relax in.

“This year HIA celebrates its milestone 10th year of operations and we are truly honoured that passengers have voted us Best Airport in the World for a third time,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Al Meer said of the victory.

World's top 10 best airports

• Hamad International Airport, Qatar
• Singapore Changi, Singapore
• Seoul Incheon, South Korea
• Tokyo Haneda, Japan
• Tokyo Narita, Japan
• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, France
• Dubai International Airport, UAE
• Munich Airport, Germany
• Zurich Airport, Switzerland
• Istanbul Airport, Turkey

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How to make your own bespoke wine with the best vintners in the world.

With an initiation fee starting at $20k, private wine and travel club The Vines takes members around the globe to sip rare vintages, learn the art of blending and even create a personal barrel complete with 25 cases and bespoke labels.

By Elycia Rubin

Elycia Rubin

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Pulling a prized bottle of, say, a 2018 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon out of the cellar to relish with friends can be thrilling. But think about the bragging rights of pouring your own blend, which you personally crafted at a famed winery in the heart of Tuscany or in the hills of Argentina.

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Over three or four days you’ll stroll vineyards, gain inside knowledge about the craft, inhale the enchanting aromas inside renowned barrel rooms and sip treasured wines. Members also have the option of creating their own personal barrel (25 cases, priced from $6,000-$40,000), which will be bottled, adorned with a bespoke label and shipped to your home after maturation. Intimate and masterfully executed, these “Blending Escapes” are the pinnacle of wine-tasting bliss for any oenophile.

“Through The Vines, we share winemaking experiences with others who are passionate about wine and the cultural and travel experiences that accompany it,” founder and CEO Michael Evans tells THR . “Drinking wines from a region, with the people who make them, and enjoying the unique foods of each locale is an unparalleled experience.”

Studded with culturally rich activities designed to deeply connect members with each region thanks to the meaningful relationships Evans and his team have cultivated, excursions are carefully curated. In addition to the deep dive with winemakers, expect dinners at off-the-beaten path cafés and trattorias, bountiful lunches set on sprawling vineyards, cooking classes with revered chefs, and gatherings with resident authors and artists.

Current destinations where members can globetrot and vine hop include: Priorat, Spain; Mosel, Germany; the Champagne and Burgundy regions of France; Mendoza, Argentina; Oregon’s Willamette Valley; Duoro Valley, Portugal; Napa Valley; Sicily; and Piemonte, Italy.

South Africa, Bordeaux and Georgia in Eastern Europe are currently being plotted for 2025. Plenty of scintillating activities are forthcoming as well, to include truffle hunting in Tuscany, clamming on the Oregon coast, and making one’s own perfume in Spain.

Those who are yearning to delve further into the terroir and grow their own grapes, literally, have the option to purchase an acre of mature vineyards in Argentina at The Vines of Mendoza for $120,000, plus additional farming fees. “Winemaking is a la carte and starts at $4 per bottle,” says Evans, who also owns The Vines Resort & Spa , the private vineyard’s sleek retreat delivering majestic views of the Andes Mountains and surrounding vines.

A version of this story first appeared in the April 10 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Click here to subscribe .

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