Patina Osaka is elevated lifestyle hotel by Capella Hotel Group set to open in 2025.  A new benchmark for luxury, blending modern sophistication with a profound respect for local heritage.

Opening in 2025, Patina Osaka marks the debut of Patina Hotels & Resorts in an urban setting. This elevated lifestyle hotel by Capella Hotel Group sets a new benchmark for luxury, blending modern sophistication with a profound respect for local heritage.

Patina Osaka draws its design inspiration from the City of Water, paying homage to Osaka’s storied waterways and cultural vibrancy. Rising elegantly over 20 stories, the structure is a collaboration between the acclaimed Jun Mitsui & Associates, who crafted its striking exterior, and Strickland, whose interior designs echo a narrative deeply rooted in a sense of place. This symbiotic partnership has created a sanctuary that fosters connection, reflection, and a shared consciousness amidst the urban energy of Osaka.

Patina Osaka is a celebration of craftsmanship and sustainability

The hotel boasts a prime location opposite Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, and adjacent to Naniwanomiya-Ato Park, offering guests both history and natural beauty at their doorstep. Its approximately 220 rooms — including 35 opulent suites — blend thoughtful design with unparalleled comfort, making Patina Osaka a refined gateway to the cultural, historical, and modern wonders of the city.

The hotel’s design highlights natural materials, including textured stone and lustrous wood, accentuated by handcrafted details to immerse guests in a sensory experience. Public spaces blend urban vitality with natural serenity, providing an atmosphere that rejuvenates and inspires. Patina Osaka’s dining experiences take sustainability to heart, featuring innovative dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients and culinary techniques that honor both tradition and the innovation.

Patina Wellness: a haven of holistic rejuvenation

At the heart of Patina Osaka is Patina Wellness, where restoration becomes an art form. The spa is a sanctuary of renewal, combining ancient healing traditions with the latest technological advancements to offer highly personalized treatments. Guests can indulge in an array of restorative options, including hydrotherapy, cryotherapy, red-light photobiomodulation, and hyperbaric oxygen and hydrogen therapy.

Facilities include:

Two double treatment rooms and four single treatment rooms.
A hydrotherapy bath suite, cryotherapy chamber, and infrared sauna.
An aquatic sanctuary pool for relaxation and rejuvenation.
A state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with CrossFit gear, free weights, and advanced cardio machines.

Wellness offerings extend beyond treatments, with a curated menu of fitness classes, mindfulness programs, and innovative beauty therapies. Every element is designed to resonate deeply with guests, leaving them feeling balanced, refreshed, and inspired.

Patina Osaka redefines urban luxury, offering a unique combination of vibrant city life and tranquil retreat. More than a hotel, it is a cultural landmark and a tribute to the spirit of Osaka—a place where timeless traditions meet modern innovation.

Read more about Patina Osaka’s wellness offerings in our interview with General Manager, Ellen Franke.

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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In 2025, the journey is as much about the plate as the place. Culinary travel has become the fastest-growing segment in luxury tourism, with travelers prioritizing food as a gateway to culture and heritage.

Culinary, gastronomy, or food tourism is, according to the World Food Travel Association, “The act of traveling for a taste of place in order to get a sense of place.” Grand View Research reports that “culinary travel and shopping” is the fastest-growing segment in the luxury travel market.

Travel and Tour World attributes this growth to social media influencers, the popularity of food-focused television, the appeal of local, sustainable food movements, the growth of food festivals and events, and a growing interest in cultural and culinary heritage. 

The primary purpose of culinary travel is to experience the unique food and drink of a destination, creating a connection to and understanding of the local culture. Hilton’s 2025 travel trends report found that, after accommodations, dining experiences are the next highest travel budget priority in 2025. Also, half of global travelers book restaurant reservations before their flights, nearly one in five will travel specifically to seek out new restaurants or culinary experiences, and 60% of luxury travelers prioritize staying at hotels with great restaurants. 

And Marriott International’s Luxe Landscapes Report tagged luxury culinary tourism as the leading driver of travel.

“As our findings reveal, affluent travelers will choose a destination based on the gastronomy and culinary experiences available. When considering where to travel this year, 88% of respondents ranked the chance to discover new food or gourmet adventures as either “important” or “very important.

“Acutely aware of dining trends, HNW individuals are eager to experience new dining establishments. When asked to prioritize the importance of visiting a new restaurant, 82% rated this as either “important” or “very important.” – Marriott 

Marriott has, in fact, released a report focused entirely on global food trends for 2025. The Future of Food 2025 report highlights key culinary trends expected to shape the food industry in 2025, with a strong focus on the Asia Pacific region, which accounted for over 37.8% of the global culinary tourism market in 2023. This region’s rich food heritage is gaining more attention, as travelers increasingly choose destinations based on their culinary offerings.’

Food is positioned as a cultural medium for storytelling and community engagement. The report draws insights from leading chefs, mixologists, and industry insiders across Asia Pacific, underscoring the region’s growing influence on global culinary tourism and the rise of new dining experiences.

Asia Pacific is emerging as a culinary powerhouse, where chefs creatively infuse international flavors into traditional dishes. Sustainability and ancient culinary techniques are also on the rise, with a renewed focus on heritage ingredients and traditional, labor-intensive methods that emphasize local production and environmental mindfulness. Fine dining is evolving, with hyperlocal dining experiences integrating local cultural practices, alongside the exclusive concept of “superfine” dining. And a growing trend of “food as medicine” is reshaping menus as more restaurants incorporate health-conscious options aimed at supporting longevity and overall wellness.

Trying the local cuisine is always an exciting part of the travel experience, but for foodie travelers, it’s the main attraction.

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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Luxury in 2025 is no longer about ostentation; it’s about refinement, mindfulness, and sustainability. The luxury minimalism trend prioritizes meaningful experiences over material excess, focusing on tranquility, authenticity, and connection to nature.  

Luxury has traditionally been associated with extravagant living, acquiring material possessions, and being seen with status symbols or indulging in high-end goods and experiences to be flaunted. Lately, however, that narrative is shifting towards more personal and introspective experiences.

One demographic driving this trend is affluent Chinese women, known as the “world’s biggest travel spenders.” China is the top spender on international tourism and Chinese women are key players in driving change in the luxury travel sector. A recent report from FINN found that, for these travelers, luxury is less about extravagance and increasingly about experiences that bring joy, fulfillment, and a deep sense of contentment, a shift that reflects broader global trends towards travel experiences that resonate with personal values and aspirations

In this evolving concept, luxury minimalism in travel is about embracing understated elegance, where the focus shifts from flaunting wealth to enjoying meaningful moments. Travelers are seeking destinations and experiences that emphasize simplicity, authenticity, and privacy, and toning down the traditional displays of opulence. 

Luxury is no longer about grand gestures or extravagant displays, but rather about creating a sense of tranquility and exclusivity through subtlety. Space, serenity, and time to enjoy them are today’s real luxuries. This aligns closely with the growing interest around mental health and wellbeing. The time to mindfully focus this isn’t available to everyone. Travelers can benefit from peaceful settings that allow them to slow down, reconnect with nature, or just enjoy being present without feeling the need to always be doing something.

Luxury minimalism in travel also aligns closely with sustainability and a conscious shift away from overconsumption, including a move towards traveling closer to home. Seeking out thoughtful design, experiences, and environmental responsibility over material excess allows eco-conscious consumers to find deeper meaning in their journeys, with sustainability at the forefront.

In this context, luxury accommodations are designed to minimize their environmental footprint—using eco-friendly materials, renewable energy, and supporting local communities. Travelers are drawn to destinations where sustainability is embedded into the experience, from sourcing local and organic food to minimizing waste and water usage. The appeal of minimalism is not just in aesthetic simplicity but in the responsible use of resources, ensuring that travel doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.

Luxury minimalism fosters a travel experience that values quality over quantity, urging travelers to consume less and appreciate more. It’s a quieter, more mindful form of travel that enriches the traveler’s connection to the destination without contributing to the overconsumption that often accompanies traditional luxury tourism.

Personalization plays a key role in luxury minimalism. Rather than offering endless amenities, resorts focus on understanding the unique desires of each guest, crafting bespoke experiences that resonate on a deeperlevel. The luxury comes not from what is given in abundance but from what is thoughtfully selected and presented, creating moments of meaning and tranquility in an otherwise fast-paced world.

Finally, some list security concerns as a factor in the move towards toning down flashy displays of wealth, as busy tourist areas and events, and high visibility are losing their allure in times of uncertainty. 

In short, luxury minimalism redefines indulgence as a celebration of simplicity, space, and personalization, providing a fresh perspective on what it means to experience true luxury.

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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Travel is becoming a family affair, with multigenerational trips bringing together grandparents, parents, and children for shared experiences that strengthen bonds. In 2025, luxury resorts are rising to the occasion, offering versatile accommodations that balance connection and privacy.  

At the other end of the spectrum from solo travel, multigenerational travel is surging as families increasingly value experiences that bring together grandparents, parents, and children. The Mountaineer reports that 74% of parents embrace the idea of vacations involving extended family, and more than 55% have started opting for trips that include grandparents as well as kids. 

And according to a report from Virtuoso and Globetrender, in 2025, seven generations will be traveling at the same time for the first time in history. The youngest of these, known as “Beta Babies,” will be born to Gen Z parents, while other traveling generations will include Generation Alpha, Millennials, Generation X, Boomers, and “the Matures.” A new trend, “XZ Beta Travel,” highlights how Gen Z parents will vacation with their young children and Gen X grandparents, who frequently foot the bill. 

Luxury resorts are taking notice and rethinking layouts and offerings to simultaneously provide privacy and connection. The key to meeting the needs of multigenerational families is flexible accommodations and a variety of spaces, like private villas, family-friendly resort spaces, and adults-only zones, so that family members can gather when they choose and retreat when desired. This design allows for intimate family moments and time apart. 

Private group travel is also on the rise. Forbes reports that a recent survey by luxury travel advisors at Embark Beyond found that 61% of Americans are interested in traveling with extended families or a small group of friends in 2025. Embark Beyond’s founder, Jack Ezon, told Forbes, “Multigenerational travel is still the biggest growth area for us, and has been consistently growing for years. In 2019 multigen experiences grew by 22% and now account for 32% of our transactions and 43% of our overall revenue.” 

Luxury resorts catering to multigenerational families are offering wellness-focused services, like family yoga sessions and kid-friendly spa treatments. As wellness tourism grows, hotels are integrating activities that appeal to all age groups, encouraging both relaxation and health-focused experiences that families can share together.  

In 2024, CN Traveler reported that Canyon Ranch had started welcoming children to their Lenox, Massachusetts, property for the first time. Canyon Ranch CEO told the magazine: “We are finding that the passion for wellness extends across every age group and is more often at the center of family structures and strategies.”   

The demand for multigenerational travel and wellness is expected to continue rising, especially among luxury travelers who prioritize connection, privacy, and exclusive experiences. These trends are reshaping the industry, encouraging hotels and tour operators to focus more on creating shared yet personalized experiences across multiple generations. 

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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In 2025, solo travel is more than a trend; it’s a declaration of independence. With flexible itineraries and a focus on personal growth, solo journeys offer unparalleled freedom to explore the world on your own terms.  

The number of solo travelers has been steadily rising over the past few years, according to reports. Hilton listed “MeMooners” as a 2025 trend in its most recent travel trends report, with nearly 50% of global travelers, especially Gen Z and Millennials, often traveling alone. 

Hilton is prioritizing solo travelers in the design of dining spaces, with flexible seating options like an odd number of bar stools and varied table types. Food and beverage teams are also trained to cater to solo travelers, offering personalized tasting menus and smaller portions. 

Other sources back this up. Bokun reports that the solo travel market is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 9.1% between 2023 and 2030, making it the largest growth segment in the global leisure travel market. And in 2024, Brian FitzGerald, CEO of Overseas Adventure, told Forbes that “Back in 2017, 27% of our travelers were solos. In 2019, it was 39%, and 47% in 2021. Today, it’s 50%.”  

Chinese women, who have been dubbed “the world’s biggest travel spenders” and are huge market drivers, are reportedly embracing this movement. Asked how they define “luxury,” the majority (63%) of affluent Chinese women surveyed said “luxury” is defined by the ability to enjoy complete privacy and “me time,” while 72% also stated that they will maintain or increase solo travel in the future.  

Reasons for choosing this option vary. Solo Traveler World asked its readers why they solo traveled in 2023, and how (as part of a group, independently, adventure, luxury, etc.). These were the responses:   

Why: 

I want to see the world and I don’t want to wait for others: 66%
I want to do what I want when I want: 57%
I like the feeling of freedom and independence: 46%
I want to meet new people: 42%
Personal growth: 33%
I have different interests than my friends: 40%
My partner does not want to travel as much as I do: 112% 

More than 90% of these travelers will take tours, according to the survey. And many destinations offer guided experiences or meet-up opportunities geared specifically toward lone wolves.  

Solo travel offers flexibility and freedom that traveling with others doesn’t. Solo travelers can create itineraries that suit their interests and pace, and aren’t bound by the preferences of companions, so they can change plans on a whim, explore less conventional destinations, or embrace spontaneous opportunities. And traveling alone may lead to more authentic interactions with locals and other travelers, as solo travelers may be more inclined to engage with their surroundings.  

Social media and travel blogs are showcasing the appeal of solo travel. Influencers often share stories about overcoming fears, meeting new people, and experiencing unique adventures, inspiring others to embark on solo journeys. And solo travel is often associated with wellness retreats, meditation, and digital detox experiences.  

Overall, solo travel continues to thrive as a meaningful and enriching experience, particularly among millennials, Gen Z, and women. 

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com. 

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As the pace of modern life accelerates, slow travel is emerging as a countermovement. Instead of rushing through destinations to check off itineraries, slow travel encourages a deliberate, unhurried approach, where travelers spend meaningful time engaging with local cultures and communities.  

Listed as a top trend in the recent Hilton 2025 Trends Report: The Vacation Maximized, slow travel is a concept that emphasizes a more mindful and immersive travel experience or “The growing desire to travel like a local.” 

 According to Hilton, immersing oneself in a destination for an extended time to fully experience the culture is gaining popularity. Driven by a desire to reduce speed and build connections with others and one’s surroundings during a stay, slow travel encourages a leisurely approach. 

“With Slow Travel on the rise, more travelers are exploring secondary cities and destinations instead of the overcrowded tourist hotspots. For instance, Sardinia, a longtime getaway for Italians, is now seeing an uptick of travelers. Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia has seen a 90% year-over-year increase in U.S. travelers and 15% increase in Irish travelers, from 2023 to 2024. Baia di Chia Resort Sardinia, Curio Collection by Hilton, has seen a 150% increase in U.S. travelers and 45% year-over-year increase in both UK and Czech Republic-based travelers, from 2023 to 2024.” – Hilton 

Hilton also lists the trend of “hurkle durkling,” a Scottish word for lounging in bed, even while traveling.

A reflection of this is Conde Nast Traveler tapping train travel as something to watch. The resurgence of luxury train travel aligns with slow travel, where the focus shifts from speed to savoring the journey. With high-end rail experiences like the La Dolce Vita Orient Express offering slower, scenic routes to less-explored destinations, travelers can immerse themselves in local cultures and landscapes at a more relaxed pace. The experience encourages a deeper connection to places visited. As luxury trains cater to travelers seeking unique, meaningful experiences, they highlight the value of slowing down and appreciating the entire journey rather than just the destination. 

This trend is connected to concerns about sustainability, as fewer destinations can mean a lower carbon footprint. Hilton’s report also states that 62% of respondents consider communications about a hotel’s sustainability programming to be important, and 73% agree it’s important to minimize their environmental impact while traveling. Slow travelers are interested in  eco-friendly accommodations and might also choose sustainable transportation methods like trains or bicycles.

Slow travel contrasts with the typical “bucket list” travel style, where people rush to check off multiple destinations in a short time. Slow travel promotes less touristy activities like visiting local markets, eating at family-owned restaurants, attending cultural events or festivals, and participating in activities that support the local economy.   

Slow travel not only reduces the carbon footprint but can offer a more fulfilling, less stressful travel experience. It aligns with broader trends like luxury minimalism and quiet luxury, focusing on wellness and mental well-being, rather than just consumption and fast experiences. 

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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A new smart fabric can convert body heat and solar energy into electricity, meaning wearable tech may soon be able to operate continuously without the need for an external power source.

“Imagine a coat that captures solar energy to keep you cozy on a chilly winter walk, or a shirt that can monitor your heart rate and temperature. Picture clothing athletes can wear to track their performance without the need for bulky battery packs.” 

These things are one step closer to possible, now that University of Waterloo researchers have developed a smart fabric with the potential for energy harvesting, health monitoring, and movement tracking. 

According to a research brief, the fabric can convert body heat and solar energy into electricity, meaning wearable tech may soon be able to operate continuously without the need for an external power source. Sensors to monitor temperature and stress, and possibly other biomarkers, can be integrated into the material, adding to the body of development towards integrating advanced textile technologies into wearable technology.

One promising application, says the brief from the University of Waterloo, is smart face masks that can track breathing temperature and rate and detect chemicals in breath to help identify viruses, cancer, and other conditions. 

 “We have developed a fabric material with multifunctional sensing capabilities and self-powering potential,” said Yuning Li, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering. “This innovation brings us closer to practical applications for smart fabrics.”   

Li, director of Waterloo’s Printable Electronic Materials Lab, said in a statement: “AI technology is evolving rapidly, offering sophisticated signal analysis for health monitoring, food and pharmaceutical storage, environmental monitoring, and more. However, this progress relies on extensive data collection, which conventional sensors, often bulky, heavy, and costly, cannot meet. 

“Printed sensors, including those embedded in smart fabrics, are ideal for continuous data collection and monitoring. This new smart fabric is a step forward in making these applications practical.” 

Apparently, the fabric is “more stable, durable, and cost-effective than other fabrics on the market.” Presumably this is referring to other smart fabrics.  

This is indeed, not the first smart fabric. Another example is 3DKnITS, developed by MIT researchers. 3DKnITS conforms to the body and senses movements like walking, running, jumping, and yoga poses with high accuracy. Using a process called thermoforming, pressure sensors are integrated into a multilayered knit, enhancing their precision. The fabric, produced via digital knitting technology, enables rapid, scalable prototyping and has potential healthcare applications, such as smart shoes for gait tracking or socks to monitor diabetic foot pressure. 

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is an opulent, five-star destination built on the site of a 13th Century monastery.

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is an opulent, five-star destination “hidden away” in the heart of the city offering an exceptional level of luxury hospitality that combines a profound sense of history with modern comfort and convenience. The hotel is Antwerp’s first member of the Leading Hotels of the World, and the site’s history dates back nearly 800 years.   

Historic records show that in 1238 an order of monks set up a monastery and the St Elisabeth hospital for the local sick and poor on the grounds. An infirmary and chapel were added in the 1400s, and in the 16th century an onsite apothecary and medicinal garden followed. In 1798, the hospital was taken under the management of Antwerp’s Board of Almshouses, and the premises underwent further construction over the coming years and centuries. Today, the monastery has been converted into a hotel.  

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp opened its doors in 2022. The botanical garden and apothecary are still operational, the infirmary and chapel have been beautifully restored as event and wedding spaces, and the property features tranquil gardens, five restaurants, and a spa. The recent restoration, which began in 2017, preserves the legacy of historic buildings and breathes new life into the property with a focus on its tradition of botanical study. 

Besides 108 rooms and suites, all located in five old original buildings, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp has five gourmet restaurants with four Michelin stars, a three-story Botanic Health Spa & Club, a 14-room conference center, a restored 19th century apothecary, a wedding, classical concert and event venue in the 15th century chapel, and a “secret venue” for VIP members’ devoted to Scotch whisky. 

Each of the 108 rooms is unique – no two are alike and the modern additions meet strict standards of sustainability. The Spa Suites have their own private spa treatment spaces plus a Finnish sauna, whirlpool, Technogym bike, treatment table, and separate shower.  

Botanic Health Spa 

The sleek and luxurious Botanic Health Spa is a leading destination spa in an oasis of calm offering sophisticated next-gen technology. Traditional hands-on treatments, provided in 10 treatment rooms by a team of therapists using a range of healing modalities, are complemented with state-of-the-art cellular analytic equipment that allows guests to quickly access a detailed physical assessment. 

The spa operates in partnership with the apothecary, just across the courtyard, which stocks a variety of tried and tested herbal and plant-based remedies. 

Spread over three floors, the 1,000 square-meter spa features a panoramic swimming pool, panoramic Finnish sauna, Kneipp walk, ice fountain, Himalayan salt-stone sauna, infrared sauna, steam bath, reflexology basins, infinity whirlpool, herb and vitamin bar, and relaxation area. Treatments, services, and experiences include cutting edge cellular-analysis, traditional European medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness classes, manicures, pedicures, and waxing, massages and full-body treatments. 

The holistic focus of the Botanic Health Spa is on a mix of healing and preventive methods, while the “synergistic combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Traditional European Medicine (TEM) that is the quintessential expression of the spa. 

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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With health and wellness taking center stage, a growing number of people are reconsidering their relationship with alcohol, sparking a surge in alternatives that prioritize mindful drinking. From sophisticated mocktails to adaptogenic beverages, these alcohol-free options allow for social engagement without compromising wellness goals. 

Driven by changing social dynamics and a shift toward wellness, the trend towards reducing alcohol consumption or cutting it out entirely reflects a shift towards mindful living where people want to enjoy socializing without the negative effects of alcohol. Whether motivated by health, mental clarity, or simply a change in lifestyle, the range of alcohol alternatives is expanding, providing more options for those rethinking drinking. 

NC Solutions reported that more than two in five (41%) people were trying to drink less in 2024, a seven percent increase over 2023. Sixty-one percent of Gen Z planned to drink less in 2024, up 53% from 2023, and nearly half (49%) of millennials were doing the same, an increase of 26% from the previous year. 

One of the most noticeable developments in this space is the surge in availability of non-alcoholic beverages. From sophisticated mocktails to non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits, consumers are finding flavorful options that allow them to partake in social occasions without booze. Brands like Seedlip and Athletic Brewing have gained popularity for offering complex drinks that mimic traditional alcoholic beverages, minus the intoxicating effects.  

Venues and bars are also catching onto this trend, offering more alcohol-free options on their menus, and entirely alcohol free bars are also opening up. This shift allows people who are moderating or abstaining from alcohol to still enjoy the ritual of drinking, whether it’s a non-alcoholic beer at a pub or a mocktail at a dinner party. 

If not giving up alcohol entirely, the concept of mindful drinking encourages people to make more conscious choices about when, why, and how much they drink. The sober curious movement, meanwhile, invites people to reflect on their relationship with alcohol without necessarily committing to full-time sobriety.  

Some people are turning to other alternatives, like adaptogenic drinks, which are believed to reduce stress and support overall well-being. Wellness brand Apothékary, which promotes the use of herbs, adaptogens, and superfoods to help people achieve balance and well-being through natural products, markets its natural, plant-based tinctures as alcohol alternatives. These have names like Wine Down and Take the Edge Off.  

And cannabis, now widely legalized, it’s becoming an alternative for those seeking a different kind of buzz in some places. People are opting for THC and CBD products to unwind, particularly in social settings. A recent study even found that daily cannabis use has surpassed daily alcohol use in the U.S. for the first time. 

This growing trend reflects a broader cultural shift where people are increasingly prioritizing their health and well-being. The movement away from alcohol doesn’t mean the end of social drinking, but rather an evolution of how people think about drinking. As the demand for alcohol-free options rises, we will continue to see innovative beverages, wellness-based alternatives, and new ways for people to enjoy socializing without alcohol playing a central role.  

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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In 2025, wearable technology is not just tracking our steps; it’s transforming how we live, how we learn about our bodies, and how we make choices about our well-being. Moving beyond simple data points, wearables now deliver complex health insights in real time, empowering people to personalize their wellness journeys like never before. These devices could predict when you need to rest before burnout hits, detect subtle shifts in your hormonal balance, or adapt to your unique mental health rhythms.  

 Home-based health systems are also getting more sophisticated. Together, these technologies offer real-time, in depth health and wellbeing insights and allow people to track and manage these wherever we are. From real-time glucose, blood pressure, and heart rate tracking to AI-powered recommendations, the future promises deeper integration of wearables into our daily lives, turning our homes into self-monitored health hubs. 

AI integration is a key advancement, leveraging machine learning models to continuously adapt and personalize health suggestions based on an individual’s data. AI-enhanced decision-making aims to empower users to autonomously maintain better health by adjusting workout plans or following sleep recommendations, for example. This has been employed to date with varying degrees of success but the efforts continue.  

Wearables can allow for early detection of issues for those managing chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension , and make it easier to share data with healthcare providers for more informed care. 

Smart rings are a smaller, more discreet alternative to smartwatches and fitness trackers. The Oura Ring 3 or 4 is said to be the best smart ring available right now. Oura tracks your sleep, activity, and movement, and shines light beams (infrared and red and green LED) through the skin and uses sensors to measure respiratory rate, heart rate, blood oxygen level, and body temperature.  

Emteq Labs, meanwhile, recently announced the development of glasses using technology to  measure facial expressions, eating habits, attention, and physical activity, which the company promises will unlock “transformative insights into emotions and behaviors with profound impacts across a wide range of applications,” including weight management and mental health. 

 More wearables designed to support mental health include the Apollo Neuro, which claims to help manage stress and challenging life transitions, promote a healthy lifestyle, naturally calming the user’s mind and body with soothing vibration frequencies to aid with sleep, energy and focus. 

And wearables will track your hormonal health. Corti, for example, tracks the biomarkers cortisol and melatonin, and several inflammatory markers, through non-invasive passive sweat-sensor technology to monitor stress, sleep, and metabolic health. 

Also interesting: Researchers at Washington State University are exploring the potential for wearable devices and music to help manage substance abuse disorders, following the idea that reducing stress can help avoid potential relapse. 

Beyond wearables, smart home devices are playing a larger role in health monitoring. These technologies offer integrated solutions, from monitoring environmental conditions like air quality to using smart scales and mirrors that track body metrics and suggest adjustments in real-time.  

And ZOE, the microbiome testing company, wants to revolutionize personalized nutrition, and will analyze an individual’s gut microbiome, blood sugar responses, and dietary patterns, then offer tailored food recommendations to improve digestion and overall health. 

As these tools grow more sophisticated, they empower us to monitor and understand our bodies like never before, pointing to a future where we’re more in tune with our physical and mental health, making well-informed, proactive choices that enhance our quality of life.

Spa Executive is published by Book4Time, the leader in guest management, revenue and mobile solutions for the most exclusive spas, hotels, and resorts around the globe. Learn more at book4time.com.

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