As we all know, the winter months can take a toll on our mental and physical wellbeing, especially when living in a colder climate; however, Gen Z seems to have found a way to turn this challenging season into an opportunity to prioritize mental health and overall wellness.
Glowbirding, one of the hottest new travel trends emerging among the younger generations involves temporarily relocating to a warmer climate during the winter months to prioritize mental health and wellbeing. Unlike traditional snowbirding, which is centered around rest and relaxation, glowbirding focuses on the benefits of sun exposure, boosting mental health and staying active.
According to VRBO, 60% of long-term stays on the app take place in January and February, so now is the time for “glowbirds” to migrate to sunny destinations that recharge both the mind and body. Whether popping in for a weekend away or embracing the full benefits of glowbirding for a long term stay, see below for three spots to escape the winter blues this season:
- A Wellness Haven in Miami: Home to the largest spa and wellness center on the Eastern Seaboard, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offers a staggering array of cutting-edge treatments and an innovative approach to wellness.
- Marbella’s private playground: The Mediterranean’s most luxurious resort, Puente Romano Beach Resort enjoys 320 days of sunshine a year on Marbella’s iconic Golden Mile.
- Luxurious Retreat in The Bahamas: Escape to the serene paradise of The Bahamas at Baha Mar, where luxury meets wellness in the heart of Nassau’s sun-drenched shores.
Please see below for more information on these wellness-focused destinations.
- With an average of 255 sunny days per year, Florida truly lives up to its nickname of the “Sunshine State.” Whether it’s soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, enjoying a variety of outdoor activities or experiencing its world-class dining scene, Miami offers the perfect location for “glowbirds” to escape and unwind.
○ Where to stay: As the largest spa and wellness center on the Eastern Seaboard, nestled in the heart of North Miami Beach, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is the place for glowbirds looking to recharge, rejuvenate and revitalize their bodies and minds. With a staggering array of cutting-edge treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and a team of world-renowned wellness experts, Carillon Miami offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking a truly transformative escape. The resort’s one- and two-bedroom luxury apartment-style suites are perfect for a long term stay, equipped with a Bryte BalanceTM Smart Bed to reset one’s circadian rhythm and promote deeper, restorative sleep.
- Marbella’s Mediterranean climate offers “glowbirds” a welcome winter escape, boasting average temperatures between the mid-60s and low 70s from January to March. From serene coastal walks along its golden beaches to vibrant culture and dining scenes, Marbella is a sun-soaked haven for those looking for a restorative getaway this winter.
○ Where to stay: Puente Romano Beach Resort, the Mediterranean’s most luxurious resort, offers guests unparalleled health and wellness experiences, from cutting-edge spa therapies at the renowned Six Senses Spa to state-of-the-art fitness facilities featuring the latest TechnoGym equipment. Located on Marbella’s iconic Golden Mile, this sunny-320-days-a-year stretch of coastal paradise offers “glowbirds” the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests who stay at Puente Romano also have access to the finest sports facilities at the Puente Romano Tennis Club, where legends including Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, John McEnroe and many others have played, and The Marbella Club Hotel Golf Resort, with its breathtaking views of the Andalusian mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.
Bahamas, Caribbean
- The Bahamas, with its archipelago of over 700 islands, is a sun-drenched paradise where winter seems like a distant memory. Known for its azure waters, powdery white sands, and year-round warm climate, The Bahamas offers a perfect escape for ‘glowbirds’ seeking to enhance their wellbeing. The consistent warmth, with temperatures hovering comfortably in the 70s and 80s even in the winter months, ensures that visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to exploring lush landscapes, all while soaking up some quality Vitamin D.
○ Where to stay: For a comprehensive glowbirding experience, Baha Mar in Nassau is your luxury haven. This expansive resort features three distinct hotels – the Grand Hyatt, Rosewood and SLS – each offering their unique touch to the wellness journey. The EPSA at Baha Mar, the Caribbean’s largest luxury spa, provides an array of treatments blending Bahamian traditions with modern therapies, while accommodations range from suites to villas, all tailored for long-term stays. Guests can engage in activities like yoga, meditation, and enjoy state-of-the-art fitness facilities, with the added bonus of cultural immersion through art, cuisine and music, ensuring a holistic wellness experience
