Sleep Tourism: Hilton Introduces New Sleep Retreats With Leading Expert

Image: The Kilolani Spa's Reflections Lounge at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. (Photo Credit: Hilton)
Image: The Kilolani Spa's Reflections Lounge at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. (Photo Credit: Hilton)
Laurie Baratti
by Laurie Baratti
Last updated: 4:30 PM ET, Fri March 15, 2024

Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, the quest for quality sleep is quickly transforming from an everyday challenge to a key motivator for travelers worldwide. 

In fact, Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report discovered that resting and recharging is the number one reason people of every generation want to take a trip this year. So-called “sleep tourism”—building your entire travel experience around sleep—has become a growing segment of the travel industry, first gaining momentum in 2023 and accelerating this year. 

It’s a niche within the broader trend of Wellness Tourism, which has really been taking off in recent years. The Global Wellness Institute found in its recent report that Wellness tourism is, in fact, one of the travel industry’s fastest-growing segments, on track to reach $1.4 Trillion by 2027. 

Hilton aims to be at the forefront of this movement, helping to redefine the guest experience by placing a renewed emphasis on the importance of a good night's sleep. Both in recognition of this burgeoning demand and to celebrate National Sleep Month, the leading hospitality brand is partnering with sleep science expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to optimize the ways it can promote the best night’s rest possible across its global portfolio.  

An acclaimed author, and an assistant professor in medicine and associate scientist at the Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dr. Robbins holds a deep understanding of the importance of sleep, and ways to modify behavior to get the most quality Zzzs possible. 

As part of this effort, Hilton is launching new sleep-focused resort programming in collaboration with Dr. Robbins, including launching one-of-a-kind Sleep Retreats at the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort on Maui. At its Kilolani Spa, an all-new open-air luxury spa that capitalizes on Hawaii’s natural beauty, Dr. Robbins will offer guests in-depth insights into the science and practice of achieving restful sleep.

With components designed to educate and empower guests, while taking advantage of the resort’s unique wellness amenities, the Sleep Retreats promise to deliver comprehensive journey into supremely restorative sleep. 

Entrance to the Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.

Entrance to the Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. (Photo Credit: Hilton)

“Understanding the vital role sleep plays in our lives goes much deeper than just knowing we need it. It's about nurturing and prioritizing it, especially in our fast-moving world where being constantly on the go is the norm," said Dr. Robbins. “Collaborating with Hilton to bridge the gap between sleep science and its practical, everyday application excites me and our retreats serve as a wonderful demonstration of how this knowledge can be brought to life—whether traveling or at home.” 

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in various sessions, activities and discussions led by Dr. Robbins, featuring strategies aimed at enhancing sleep quality. From meditation sessions to lectures on sleep mechanics and disorders, guests will gain valuable knowledge and practical techniques to optimize their personal sleep routines.

Beyond educational sessions, the Sleep Retreats will also feature spa services specially designed to promote relaxation, mitigate jet lag and optimize circadian rhythms. Guests can indulge in luxurious treatments that stimulate the release of sleep-enhancing hormones, ensuring a deeply restorative experience. Additionally, healthy, sleep-promoting meals will be provided to nourish both body and mind, complementing the comprehensive approach to sleep wellness.

“Hilton seeks to provide more than just a place to stay. We aim to be a catalyst for wellness, starting with a great night’s sleep. Recognizing that more than half of all travelers surveyed in our recent Trends Report emphasized the need for rest when they travel, our commitment has never been more important,” said Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president, wellness, Hilton. “From the moment a guest steps into our hotels, every touchpoint is an opportunity to contribute to the quality of their overall wellness, and these curated Sleep Retreats represent a fusion of comfort, science and innovation crafted to improve the sleep experience.” 

More information on Hilton’s new Sleep Retreats will be made available on the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s website in the coming weeks. 


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Laurie Baratti

Laurie Baratti

Assistant Editor

Laurie Baratti is an Assistant Editor for TravelPulse. She is a San Diego-based journalist whose work has previously appeared in publications like TravelAge West, SPACE, Modern Home + Living, Montage, and Sandals Life magazines. Travel writing has long been her passion, and she is always looking for excuses to explore the world outside of her native California. Laurie is also a lifelong equestrian, a proud pet-parent, and an underground advocate of the Oxford comma.

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