Category: Travel wellness

Luxury, Wellness, and the Flavors of Mexico: My Unforgettable Stay at Etéreo, Riviera Maya

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In June 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a couple of days at Etéreo, the first Auberge Collection I’d stayed at since being at the Auberge du Soleil many years ago. Here’s a short account of my stay.

The Welcome

Imagine a world where you are greeted by a shaman who leads you through a Mayan welcome ritual; where wellbeing and self-love are manifested through a cleansing ritual, sound baths and flowing yoga; where your surroundings rest above mangroves, overlooking a beach, ocean with hidden cenote, and water features at every turn.

Thus, I found myself standing with my eyes closed and arms akimbo while being wafted with incense to chanting in Mayan. By Kevin. Kevin, as it transpired, is a resident shaman at Etéreo, an Auberge resort where I was to spend two days restoring my exhausted body and extenuated mind. (I should add that Kevin’s most un-Mayan-sounding name came from his mother’s favorite English radio show that she enjoyed before he made his entry to the world).

A short drive from Cancun airport, Etéreo lies in Kanai, near Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya. Kanai is a preserve where the ratio of building to land is limited, local materials are used in building, and water features predominantly in the design. Etéreo seems to float on a sea of green, a veritable ecosystem of tropical birds, iguanas, coatis (Mexican raccoons), and more.  

Aside from Kevin, my welcome crew included my guía, Richie, who was there to answer questions and deal with any requests I might have (easily conveyed via WhatsApp). Richie gave me my personalized itinerary for my stay, which, unsurprisingly for me, consisted primarily of the spa and culinary activities.

Suites and Studios

My room, an Oceanfront Studio with Plunge Pool, was perfect. Like all the accommodations at Etéreo, it overlooked the Caribbean sea. With 875 square feet, I had plenty of space for a king-size bed, big bathroom with soaking tub and separate shower with a view, and more. However, I spent most of my time on the generous terrace that included my very own plunge pool.

Rooftop studios and suites allow even more outdoor living space. Families can spread out in a two- or three-bedroom suite up to 3,900 square feet in living area.

My king-size bed faced the floor to ceiling windows and the view to which I cherished waking up. As I sipped my coffee, my plans for reading vanished and my book remained unopened. I was mesmerized by the view.

Experiences

You can be as busy, or not, as you like at Etéreo. For my part, a walk on the beach every morning, a swim, spa, curling up reading on my terrace, or lounging in my plunge pool worked really well.  Options abound from tequila tasting, culinary activities, a cacao ceremony, Mayan calendar reading, sunset rituals, kayaking to the underwater cenote, and beach activities. Take advantage of the Weekly Experience Calendar, particularly if you have the good fortune to be at Etéreo during the Holidays.

Of particular interest to me was the array of authentic culinary experiences, including the popular Cena de la Abuela, a Mexican heritage dinner with recipes from Etéreo’s chefs’ grandmothers.

For little ones, there is the Chavitos Kids Club, which is offered free of charge in summer, along with children’s meals. There’s a different theme daily and enough variety of activities to make you want to be a kid again.

Spa & Wellness

After settling into my gorgeous room, I scurried to the dedicated yoga studio to join my colleagues for the specially-arranged yoga class, only to find that they all ghosted me in favor of languishing poolside. Indignation gave way to gratitude as I enjoyed one of the best yoga classes I’ve ever had with the talented instructor, Jesús, all to myself.

The following day I participated in a sound bath with Jesús and one of the shamans. I must have enjoyed it. I fell fast asleep and, to the delight of those around me, woke myself up with my own snoring…

SANA spa at Etéreo has the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor space, as well as modern and Mayan-influenced treatments.  Enjoy the spa, exercise classes and fitness center as part of your vacation or book a curated four-day wellbeing retreat (through me of course!).

Authentic Mexican (And Asian…) Cuisine

As much as I travel and being married to a chef, to say that I would go back somewhere on account of the food seems a bit silly. I would go back to Etéreo because of the food. Chef Carlos Segura has got his act together, not only in the manifestation of his talent and passion for his craft, but also through the seamless and friendly service. When harmony is prevalent throughout front and back of house, you know you’re on to something.

The two main restaurants are Itzam, traditional Mexican, and Che Che, a blend of Asian and Mexican cuisines. Homemade guacamole pairs really well with a spicy tuna roll, as I discovered.   

At Che Che, we were treated to a Tacology session, a six-course tasting menu which included Octopus Chicharron, Creamy Lobster Adobo, Ahi Toro Taco, Pork Belly Cochinita, Wagyu A5 Taco, and dessert. Our welcome cocktail was a Juevebes, a Mexican version of the French 75 which just happens to be my favorite.

Having decided that hosting a tacology session would be a fabulous way to entertain, I requested a couple of recipes. Watch this space for my future podcast on that very topic, replete with the recipes that Chef Carlos Segura was kind enough to share with me.

Dinner at Itzam delighted with the regular menu that would please carnivores and vegans alike. Grilled marrow and braised beef, or lobster esquites to start for the former, chayote and beets tartare for the latter. I couldn’t decide what to have so my host suggested the tasting menu. My eyes have long been bigger than my belly so I had to go for it. Six courses later, I was full with chayote, ahi tuna, snapper, pork belly confit, short ribs, and churros with sea salt dulce de leche.

Do you wonder now why I would go back for the food?

Ready to go to Etereo?

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Whether you’re seeking deep rest, culinary discovery, or simply a change of pace wrapped in natural beauty, Etéreo delivers an experience that feels both grounding and extraordinary. If this magical corner of Riviera Maya is calling your name, I’d be delighted to help craft your perfect stay. Reach out to me to book Etéreo, secure exclusive amenities, and let me design a journey that’s as effortless as it is transformative. jayne@ilxtravel.com and 772-480-8621.

10 Reasons To Go To Etéreo

A Magical Mayan Welcome
Be greeted by a resident shaman and experience an authentic Mayan cleansing ritual the moment you arrive—setting the tone for deep relaxation and renewal.

Serene, Nature-Forward Setting
Etéreo “floats” above protected mangroves in the Kanai preserve, surrounded by tropical wildlife, calm waters, and lush greenery that instantly grounds you.

Spacious, Luxurious Accommodations
Oceanfront studios and suites offer expansive layouts, soaking tubs with ocean views, and generous terraces—many with private plunge pools you’ll never want to leave.

Personalized, High-Touch Service
Your own guía (guide) is just a WhatsApp message away to coordinate schedules, answer questions, and make your stay seamless and stress-free.

Wellness Experiences That Actually Restore You
Daily yoga, sound baths, curated retreats, and the SANA Spa blend modern techniques with Mayan traditions for deeply nourishing experiences.

A Wealth of Activities—If You Want Them
From kayaking to the cenote and sunrise beach walks to tequila tastings, cacao ceremonies, culinary classes, and sunset rituals, you can be as active or as mellow as you like.

Exceptional, Destination-Worthy Cuisine
The food alone is worth the trip. Chef Carlos Segura’s talent shines across Itzam and Che Che, delivering meals that blend tradition, creativity, and perfect execution.

Unique Culinary Experiences
Highlights like Tacology tastings and Cena de la Abuela provide a delicious way to explore Mexican heritage through recipes passed down by the chefs’ own grandmothers.

A Dream for Families Too
With spacious multi-bedroom suites and the Chavitos Kids Club (free in summer along with children’s meals), Etéreo is a rare resort that delights adults and kids equally.

Effortless Access, Total Escape
Just a short drive from Cancun airport, you’re transported into a sanctuary that feels worlds away—making Etéreo perfect for quick getaways or longer restorative stays.

5 Ways To Exercise More On The Road When You (Think You) Don’t Have Time

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  1. Move More
  2. Set Reasonable Goals
  3. Take Advantage of Down Time at Airports
  4. Schedule Your Workout Time Like You Would Any Appointment
  5. Chunk It Down
  6. If All Else Fails…

Move More

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

If you spend a lot of time in a car or on a plane, chances are you are not moving enough. Getting more activity into your life doesn’t have to be a huge performance, you can literally take small steps towards moving more. Even when you are traveling, you will have ample opportunity to put this into practice easily and frequently. Think about it. Do you try to get the closest possible parking spot to where you are going? Do you always take the elevator? Do you take advantage of the hotel pool? Do you dance around your room to your favorite tunes? (The latter is my favorite because there really is no one watching). Whatever you choose to do, if ou are amping up your current activity level, that’s wonderful.

Set Reasonable Goals

Photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels.com

Working out every day is a great goal, but it might not be realistic for you right now. Furthermore, if you try to commit to six workouts a week when you’re currently doing one, chances are that you won’t stick to the plan. Better to add one more workout to your weekly schedule until you become comfortable with your new routine (usually about three weeks), then add another. Keep doing this until you are exercising five or six times a week, or even every day.

The length of your workouts should be what fits into your schedule. Twenty or 30 minutes a day are better than no minutes a day.

Take Advantage of Down Time at Airports

Orlando Airport. Photo by Jayne Withers

When you have a delay or a long layover, you can sit and work, or you can work out. Even if your inner over-achiever wants to use the time to clear out your inbox, channel that energy and a portion of your time to moving. Walk the terminal, take stairs, or check out one of the increasingly popular in-terminal gyms or yoga rooms. The physical and mental benefits of squeezing in a workout include stress-reduction, which is always a bonus in these harried days of travel.

Schedule Your Workout Time Like You Would Any Appointment

Photo by Anete Lusina on Pexels.com

Exercise needs to be a habit, not a whim. If you’re a reluctant exerciser or you’ve talked yourself into thinking you don’t have time to exercise, block your workout time in your calendar and honor it. While traveling, you can schedule time to hit the hotel gym, swim some laps, find a nearby exercise class, or go for a walk, especially if you are at a property by the beach. I follow my regular routine when traveling, which is a daily 30-minute Pilates, barre or cardio session from the Beach Body App, supplemented with a Pilates Reformer class or a beach walk if my location permits. Most hotels have workout facilities these days, so you will always have access to some form of exercise. Once you have scheduled your exercise appointments, the key is to hold yourself to them and make them a priority.

Chunk It Down

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Perhaps your day is filled with business meetings or you have a jam-packed sightseeing itinerary with the family, and you have no idea how you are going to work out. If you only have 10 minutes to exercise, that’s okay. Give yourself permission for a shorter workout— 10 minutes are better than no minutes. Head to YouTube or an exercise app to find options for 10 minute ab or stretching routines. Or set a timer for 10 minutes and alternate planks, jumping jacks, and crunches. Maybe later you’ll be able to squeeze in one or two more 10-minute workouts. Before you know it, you’ll have completed 30 minutes of exercise without even noticing.

If All Else Fails…

The above five steps are simple and doable, and shouldn’t leave you feeling overwhelmed. In any event, please feel free to reach out to me via social media or email if you are feeling stuck with your exercise routine. I’ll be delighted to point you in the right direction.

My book “Mile High and Healthy: The Frequent Traveler’s Roadmap to Eating, Energy, Exercise and a Balalnced Life” has two chapters devoted to exercising while traveling. MHH, as I call it, is available on Amazon or by contacting me directly.

Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel: A Full-Service Wellness-Focused Resort in the Heart of Miami Beach

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As a wellness travel consultant, I’m always excited to visit a new property. With the wellness travel market growing exponentially, as travelers seek to continue their healthy habits on the road or use their vacation time to reset, wellness-oriented properties are popping up all over the place. In some cases, this means adding a spa or fitness facility to an existing location, for others it means creating an environment that is truly focused on wellness; its raison d’être.

Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel falls into the second category, yet that hasn’t always been the case.  When I first posted from the property, the reaction was along the lines of “Is that the place I remember from the Sixties? The Seventies? In my case, it was from the early Nineties when I lived up the road (Collins Avenue) in Bal Harbor. I would drive past the Carillon twice a day heading to and from my office. The Carillon is an institution on Collins Avenue, and a beautiful one at that. While having undergone renovations, many of the original features have, thankfully, been kept. I was thrilled to see the collection of memorabilia in the bar lounge curated from past visitors and the hotel’s archives.

The Largest Spa on the Eastern Seaboard

Fast forward to 2024 and the Carillon boasts the largest spa and wellness facility on the eastern seaboard at a massive 70,000 square feet. This includes a hydrotherapy circuit with nine hot and cold thermal experiences; over 75 weekly group fitness classes, including Pilates reformer (at no additional cost); a stunning oceanfront fitness floor; and a two-story climbing wall.

The array of spa treatments ranges from functional to integrative, traditional to touchless. I experienced two of the latter hands-free treatments, V.E.M.I. and halotherapy. My travel partner enjoyed The Oriental, based on ancient Chinese massage therapy aimed at balancing the body’s yin and yang.

There are 28 treatment rooms so if you are doing a girls’ or guys’ weekend, there is plenty of room to accommodate all of you for treatments.

As a huge fan of water-based treatments, I was in my element (pun intended) in the Thermal Hydrotherapy Circuit, a collection of suites from which one moves one to the next, stimulating circulation and rejuvenating the body as you go. The thermal suites include the herbal laconium (my favorite), crystal steam room, Finnish sauna, an igloo shower, experiential rain showers, vitality tub, thermal loungers, and foot spas. For descriptions of each of these features, please click here.

Best yet, the Thermal Hydrotherapy Circuit is open to all hotel guests for no additional cost.

Luxury All-Suite Accommodations

As a guest you will enjoy spacious luxury all-suite accommodations that feature one- or two-bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and separate living room. I’m a big fan of separating workspace from sleep space, especially when I’m traveling on business. With two of us in the suite, there was plenty of room to plug in when we needed so we could labor away while enjoying the view from floor to ceiling windows. (For the best views of the expansive beach, book a corner suite as shown in the photo below. Equally stunning views are available from the open plan kitchen and living area.)

Bedrooms can be configured with king or twin queen beds, which are the star of the show. This was my first experience with a Bryte Balance Smart Bed, which I got to program to my own preference of firmness. (If two of you are sharing the bed, you each customize your own side).  Every morning, I received an email telling me how I had slept the night before, not only how many hours, but also how fitfully.

The spacious spa -inspired bathrooms feature a large soaking tub, shower with a double head, vanity, make-up station, and a separate loo. And a scale, which is handy if you want to track your progress. After three nights at Carillon and taking full advantage of the facilities, I was down another pound on my current weight loss journey.

Each suite contains an ActivePure advanced air filtration and surface purification system which was developed by NASA and is proven to kill pathogens and contaminants. I can’t think of many places that go to such lengths to make sure that you are sleeping well and breathing good air.

As you can see, Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel checks a lot of boxes – superlative fitness facility, excellent spa, spacious accommodations – so what about dining?

From Casual to Michelin-Starred Dining

I loved the convenience of the Corner Store, located in the lobby. This is a great source for smoothies, juices, fresh baked goods, and grab-and-go healthy meals. There is also a decent selection of beer and wine and snacks, should you want to put together an impromptu wine and charcuterie tasting. (For the record, I do that often when traveling if I don’t feel like eating dinner out).

I should add that there is a Publix supermarket literally across the street. With a very functional kitchen in the suite, we were able to enjoy salad and sushi when we didn’t feel like going out. In-room dining is another option, featuring items from the Corner Store and the Strand’s varied menu. The latter is a fine-dining restaurant located off the hotel’s lobby, with plenty of indoor seating and a large terrace overlooking the beach. The menu is largely Mediterranean with plant-based and gluten free options. We shared a tuna bowl, short rib fagottini, and quinoa. For dessert, we went to the very comfortable cocktail lounge for chocolate martinis. In case I forget to mention it again, the bar staff are awesome.

As you walk into the Strand’s bar, you’ll see a large double door on your left. It could almost blend into the decor because it completely belies what is behind. Open the doors to what was the Carillon’s private dining room back in the day and you are entering a magical space. The Tambourine Room by Tristan Brandt is a Michelin-starred dinind experience limited to only 18 guests at a time. The menu is based on Chef Brandt’s foundation in classical fine French and Asian cuisines. A 10 course tasting sourced from local producers excites the senses at $250 per person with $125 chef-selected wine pairing.

For The Non-Wellness Minded

What if you’re not interested in the wellness component? The litmus test for me is whether or not I can take my husband, who will not participate in any spa treatments, and you will never catch him in a fitness center unless he has accidentally taken a wrong turn.

He would have no trouble lounging under an umbrella on the 750 linear foot beach or by the cabana pool, enjoying food and libations from the Seaglass Café. He might decide to work on his tan by the adults-only saltwater rooftop Atlantic pool.  He would love dining on the patio or inside at The Strand, and may even treat himself to the exquisite tasting menu at the Michelin-starred Tambourine restaurant.  He would enjoy the full bar (great cocktails – big thumbs up to the Flores gin and tonic, a blend of Hendricks Flora Dora Gin, elderflower tonic, and orange bitters) and comfortable lounge. He would love the spacious accommodations, the views, and being able to relax and watch his favorite TV shows.

Special Summer Offer

Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel fits the bill whatever your interest – spa relaxation and rejuvenation; tailored goal-specific wellness programs; weekend getaways, business trips for folks who don’t want to get out of their healthy routine on the road, or anyone who wants to enjoy a beachfront getaway with spacious accommodations, fantastic facilities, delicious dining, and all that Miami Beach has to offer.

Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel is a Forbes 4-star resort and AAA Four Diamond Award, and a Virtuoso property, which means I can extend special amenities to you, including an upgrade when available, early check-in and late check-out, $100 resort credit for use in the spa or restaurant, $30 breakfast credit per person. Better yet, take advantage of the current summer promotion and get your 4th night free.

For more information, or to book your stay at Carillon Miami Wellness Hotel, please reach out to me at jayne@ilxtravel.com or 772-200-3956.

Navigate the Culinary Crossroads: 10 Strategies for Nourishing Travel

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Frequent travelers face a unique dietary challenge: navigating a landscape often dominated by convenience and indulgence. Airports overflow with sugary temptations, hotel breakfasts skew towards processed pastries, and hectic schedules tempt hurried, unhealthy choices. Yet, nourishing sustenance is essential for maintaining energy, focus, and overall well-being on the road. Fret not, intrepid explorer! By incorporating these ten strategic principles, you can transform travel into an opportunity for culinary exploration and mindful, delicious eating.

1. Meticulous Pre-Planning: Avoid succumbing to indecision at mealtimes by diligently planning your culinary journey. Utilize online resources to identify healthy options at airports and research restaurants near your destination. Consider requesting a refrigerator in your hotel room to facilitate the storage of fresh produce and healthy snacks. For extended journeys, explore the availability of special meals on flights, such as vegetarian or low-carb options, to ensure access to nutritious choices.

2. Banish Menu Mayhem: Cultivate a discerning eye when navigating restaurant menus. Employ a mental filter, eliminating dishes laden with excessive cream, fried elements, and cheese. Resist the siren song of calorie-laden indulgences and prioritize dishes featuring whole grains, lean proteins, and abundant vegetables.

3. Embrace the Veggie Vanguard: Let vibrant plant-based options take center stage on your plate. Start your meals with a nutrient-rich salad and actively seek additional vegetable servings throughout your meal. This approach promotes satiety while limiting calorie intake and ensuring a balanced nutritional profile.

4. Elevate Your Carb Choices: Eschew refined carbohydrates in favor of their whole-grain counterparts. Brown rice, quinoa, and barley offer sustained energy, increased fiber intake, and lower calorie content compared to their white counterparts. Enjoy these nutrient-dense options in moderation, pairing them with a variety of colorful vegetables for a satisfying and balanced meal.

5. Pack Your Portable Pantry: Empower yourself with the ability to make healthy choices regardless of external circumstances. Pack a selection of portable, shelf-stable snacks such as almonds, seaweed snacks, lentil chips, hummus, and savory granola. These options provide sustenance during travel stretches and prevent resorting to unhealthy convenience foods.

6. Indulge with Intention: Recognize that occasional indulgence is a natural part of life. When cravings arise, prioritize mindful enjoyment over blind indulgence. Savor a few bites of a desired dish, appreciating its flavor and texture without succumbing to the pressure to finish it all. This approach fosters a balanced and sustainable approach to eating while allowing room for occasional treats.

7. Hydrate Wisely: Amidst the whirlwind of travel, prioritize mindful hydration. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee throughout the day, particularly before meals to curb the urge to overeat. Avoid sugary beverages and mixers, which contribute to empty calories and hinder healthy choices.

8. Fuel Your Day Right: Ditch the sugary breakfast routine that sets the stage for energy crashes and unhealthy snacking. Prioritize protein and fiber-rich options such as yogurt parfaits, oatmeal with berries, or eggs with spinach. These choices provide sustained energy, improved focus, and set the tone for a day of healthy eating.

9. Embrace Culinary Simplicity: Opt for dishes featuring simple, recognizable ingredients. Grilled fish, chicken, or lean meat paired with a medley of roasted vegetables offer a balanced and satisfying meal, free from the potential hidden sugars and excessive sodium often found in complex dishes. This approach promotes mindful eating and avoids unnecessary dietary pitfalls.

10. Prioritize Restful Rejuvenation: Recognize the crucial link between sleep and mindful eating. Prioritize restful sleep by avoiding caffeine after midday, opting for light dinners, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. A well-rested body makes more balanced food choices and exhibits greater self-control, empowering you to navigate the culinary crossroads with confidence.

By incorporating these ten principles, you can transform travel into an opportunity for culinary exploration and mindful nourishment. Remember, healthy eating on the road is not about deprivation, but about making informed choices and embracing the journey towards a balanced and vibrant relationship with food. Bon voyage!

Why Wellness Travel Will Be More Important Than Ever in 2024

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As we approach 2024, the world is still a whirlwind of change and uncertainty. But even in the midst of it all, one thing remains constant: our need for well-being. That’s why wellness travel is poised to be more important than ever in the coming year.

Beyond Relaxation: A Holistic Approach to Well-being

Wellness travel used to be about escaping the daily grind for a week of massages and yoga on the beach. While those elements are still valuable, 2024 will see a shift towards a more holistic approach. Travelers will be seeking experiences that address all aspects of their well-being, from physical and mental health to emotional and spiritual balance.

Here are some of the trends that will make wellness travel so important in 2024:

  • Personalized experiences: Forget one-size-fits-all wellness retreats. In 2024, travelers will crave personalized experiences tailored to their unique needs and goals. This could include everything from biohacking consultations to custom-designed mindfulness programs.
  • Focus on longevity: Living longer and healthier is a top priority for many people. Wellness travel destinations will be offering programs that focus on longevity, with activities like cryotherapy, infrared saunas, and vitamin IV drips becoming increasingly popular.
  • Mind-body connection: The connection between our physical and mental health is well-established. In 2024, we’ll see a rise in wellness travel experiences that combine physical activities like hiking and yoga with mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling.
  • Social well-being: After years of isolation and virtual connection, people are longing for meaningful social interaction. Wellness travel will provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals through shared activities and community-building experiences.
  • Sustainable travel: Travelers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact their choices have on the planet. In 2024, we’ll see a rise in eco-friendly wellness travel options, such as retreats that focus on sustainable living practices and support local communities.

Investing in Yourself

Wellness travel is an investment in your most valuable asset: yourself. It’s a chance to step away from the everyday, recharge your batteries, and return home feeling better than ever.

If you’re looking for a way to make 2024 your healthiest and happiest year yet, consider making wellness travel a priority. With so many incredible options available, there’s sure to be a perfect experience waiting for you.

Ready to start planning your wellness travel adventure? Here are a few tips:

  • Do your research: There are countless wellness travel destinations and experiences to choose from. Take some time to research your options and find one that aligns with your needs and interests.
  • Set a budget: Wellness travel can range in price from budget-friendly to luxury. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to your budget.
  • Be flexible: Things don’t always go according to plan when you’re traveling. Be flexible and open to new experiences.
  • Focus on the journey: The most important thing is to enjoy the process of taking care of yourself.

So, what are you waiting for? Contact me to start planning your wellness travel adventure today and make 2024 your best year yet!