A new tourism trade group has been born to advocate for the growing wellness tourism industry.
The Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) has been created and is the first dedicated organization for the wellness tourism industry.
Founding members of the association include Andrew Gibson, VP of wellbeing at Accor Hotels, Tom Klein, chief operating officer of Canyon Ranch and Anne Dimon, founder and CEO of TravelToWellness.com.
As a not-for-profit, privately-held organization, the WTA’s role is to educate consumers and help to define the industry.
"Our mission is clear and concise. We plan to support and further the growth and development of the wellness tourism industry through networking, education, communication and marketing," said Andrew Gibson, who is WTA chairman.
Memberships will be offered to destination marketing organizations, hotels and resorts, destination spas, tour operators and travel advisors keen to support the industry.
The WTA announced its first tourism office member, the Monaco Government Tourist Office.
The Global Wellness Institute’s 2017 Global Wellness Economy Monitor stated that the industry is now worth more than $500 billion annually.
"It makes perfect sense to have our own association. Especially since there is some confusion with consumers and travel agents as to what constitutes legitimate ‘wellness travel," said Anne Dimon.
