WITT and Wellness Tourism Association Announce the Core Wellness Standards for Hotels

The first global framework for authentic wellness travel

TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WITT (Wellness in Travel & Tourism) and the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) have partnered to launch the Core Wellness Standards for Hotels, a first-of-its-kind global initiative designed to help hotels integrate authentic, holistic and high-quality wellness into every guest touchpoint.

Developed with guidance from the WITT Standards Advisory Committee, a global assembly of experts in hospitality, fitness, nutrition, sustainability, and travel, the standards set clear, measurable benchmarks to help hotels elevate their wellness offerings and stand out in a competitive market.

Drawn from WITT's 100+ rigorous certification criteria under five essential pillars, the Core Wellness Standards represent the fundamental requirements for a property to be considered authentically wellness-focused.

The Core Wellness Standards include:

Healthy Eating
1. Offer nutritious and dietary-inclusive meals
2. Recommend local wellness-aligned dining options
3. Supply clean, filtered water throughout the hotel

Holistic Healing
4. Maintain an inviting and clean atmosphere
5. Foster a restful sleep environment
6. Nurture personable and warm service

Nature
7. Integrate elements of biophilic design indoors
8. Facilitate access to green spaces

Movement
9. Provide space and programs for physical activity

Local Impact
10. Prioritize local supplies and equipment
11. Celebrate local culture and people
12. Protect and preserve the environment

Providing clarity to a rapidly expanding industry where "wellness-washing" is common, the Core Wellness Standards help hotels attract wellness-focused guests and give travelers confidence in independently verified criteria.

"Wellness travel is no longer a niche - it's a priority for millions of travelers worldwide," said Oxana Spivey, VP of Wellness Standards & Development for WITT. "These standards give hotels a clear, credible path to creating experiences that truly support well-being, while establishing a transparent definition of wellness in hospitality and elevating the overall guest experience."

"This collaboration between the Wellness Tourism Association and WITT brings a long-overdue level of clarity to the wellness tourism space," added Robin Ruiz, Founder & CEO of WITT and President & CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association. "It's about creating a consistent, transparent definition of wellness in hospitality—one that strengthens trust, inspires innovation, and sets a new benchmark for the industry."

The Core Wellness Standards and certification applications are now open to hotels worldwide. For more information, visit wittcertified.com.

About WITT:
WITT™ (Wellness in Travel & Tourism) is a global leader in wellness certification for hotels and resorts, setting rigorous standards for properties at all stages of development. Through its certification and education programs, WITT advances wellness travel, fostering transformative experiences and positive impacts for people and the planet. For more information, visit wittcertified.com.

About Wellness Tourism Association:
Founded in 2018, the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) is a global membership organization dedicated to clarity, connection, and credibility in wellness tourism. Members include hotels, resorts, tour operators, travel advisors, destinations, and other wellness-focused stakeholders. In August 2025, Robin Ruiz, Founder & CEO of WITT, became President & CEO, ushering in a new era for the WTA.

Media Contact:
Nicole Weiss
NJW PR Inc.
(626) 321-7658
[email protected] 

SOURCE WITT