In March, I travelled to a bitterly cold Berlin to take part in the fifth annual Global Healing Summit. The event was declared a great success and to me, a first-timer, very educational.  So this issue has somewhat of a wellness theme.  

The wellness tourism industry is rapidly becoming one of the biggest growing travel sectors in the world and it is fascinating to learn more about it.  

The concept of wellness vacations has now extended beyond spas and massages, as I learned in Berlin. It also now incorporates interpersonal experience with communities and the Wilderness Safaris group of lodges is all about just that. Located within 25 km east of Seronga in Botswana, the scenic Vumbura Cultural Experience offers guests the opportunity to share in the traditional lives of the Batswana people by visiting the neighbouring Gunotsoga village. Comprising approximately 1,500 people, the village is inhabited by two major tribes, Hambukushu and Wayeyi. In consultation with Wilderness Safaris, the communities have crafted an authentic cultural exchange, where the community leaders will illustrate the history, traditions and hospitality of Botswana to interested guests, enhancing their knowledge of and respect for the people of the village. 

Further north in Africa, we also have a look at the breath-taking Serengeti.  The opportunity to witness the Serengeti’s great wildebeest migration – one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring occurrences – with unimaginable proximity to nature is now offered by Newmark Hotels, Residences, Reserves & Lodges. The hotel property group recently announced its acquisition of Serengeti Explorer Camp – a majestic camp that changes location within Serengeti National Park twice a year, following the masses of wildebeest and other animals.  

Until next time, bon voyage!