Wellness in Travel & Tourism (WITT), an independent organisation composed of hospitality, wellness and travel specialists, has created a new wellness certification for hotels and resorts.

The WITT Certified award is designed to serve as a beacon of assurance for travellers, indicating that a property genuinely prioritises wellbeing, and help set destinations apart in a competitive market.

"This seal provides hotels and resorts with a significant advantage in attracting travellers by offering objective and rigorous audits of their wellness amenities and services," said Robin Ruiz, company CEO and founder.

WITT has already certified more than 100 properties, in North America, including locations run by well-known hospitality and wellness operators such as Four Seasons, The Ranch, Auberge Resorts, Montage, Ritz-Carlton, Golden Door and 1Hotels.

In late 2024, the company will debut a consumer-focused website, offering travellers an easy way to explore and discover WITT-certified hotels.

"Think of us as the Michelin Guide for wellness travel," said Ruiz. "Our forthcoming website will provide travellers the ability to explore WITT Certified hotels, articles and destination spotlights, empowering them to travel confidently knowing that their expectations and preferences will be met."

The verification process

The WITT Certified award is valid for three years and is based on a 100-point evaluation process focused on five pillars: Healthy Eating, Holistic Healing, Nature, Movement and Local Impact.

After a preliminary assessment, WITT's team of specialists conducts an evaluation and organises an onsite verification visit. Properties are then presented with a comprehensive evaluation report that highlights areas of excellence and opportunities for improvement.

If a property doesn’t meet requirements, WITT will offer consulting services based on its Wellness Brand Standards.

More about WITTFounded in 2022, WITT provides comprehensive certification, strategic consulting and targeted marketing support to hotel owners and management companies for new wellness destinations, renovations and existing properties.

Its mission is to raise the bar in wellness travel and hospitality by setting rigorous standards, making wellness accessible and creating positive impacts for people and the planet.