Small, boutique hotels often feel like hidden gems—unique, charming, and full of potential—but struggle with visibility. If this sounds like your property, you’re not alone. The good news? The booming wellness tourism industry presents a golden opportunity to transform your hotel into a go-to retreat destination.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to position your property to attract retreat leaders, build a steady stream of group bookings, and grow your revenue by $1 million or more—all by leveraging an organic Instagram strategy.
Wellness tourism is growing at an unprecedented rate, projected to reach $1.3 trillion globally by 2025. In 2022 alone, wellness travelers spent $436 billion—a number that’s set to rise as more people prioritize health and transformative experiences.
The Wellness Tourism Boom: Why Now Is the Time to Act
Wellness tourism is growing at an unprecedented rate, projected to reach $1.3 trillion globally by 2025. Travelers are seeking more than just a place to stay—they’re looking for transformative experiences, from yoga retreats to wellness workshops.
For independent hotels and boutique properties, this is an incredible opportunity:
- Retreat leaders are actively searching for intimate, unique spaces like yours.
- Wellness travelers spend **53% more** than the average international tourist, according to the Global Wellness Institute.
- Hosting just 10 retreats annually could bring in a six-figure and more revenue.
The key? Making your property visible to the right audience.
How to Attract Retreat Leaders Using Instagram
Instagram is a powerful tool to showcase your property’s charm and connect with retreat leaders. But you need a strategy tailored to your boutique hotel. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Make Your Property Irresistible with Instagram
Retreat leaders want properties that feel authentic and inviting. Showcase your space with:
– Authentic Content: Use real photos and videos to highlight your bungalows, natural surroundings, and amenities like yoga decks or cozy communal spaces.
– Consistency: Post 3-5 times per week to stay visible. Highlight different aspects of your property, from sunrise views to guest testimonials.
– Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Share what makes your property unique—your team, local traditions, or eco-friendly practices.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Instagram Reels to showcase your space in action—think yoga classes, group dinners, or sunrise meditations.
2. Speak Directly to Retreat Leaders
Your content should answer a retreat leader’s biggest questions:
– “Is this space suitable for my group?”
– “Does this property understand the needs of wellness retreats?”
Swipeable actions:
– Create posts that highlight your property’s retreat-friendly features:
– Accommodations for groups (e.g., “Our 10 bungalows sleep up to 20 guests”).
– Amenities like yoga mats, outdoor spaces, or plant-based dining options.
– Use captions to explain why your property is perfect for retreats. Example: “Our oceanfront deck is ideal for yoga classes, meditation sessions, or group activities.”
3. Craft an Offer That Brings Retreat Leaders Back
Retreat leaders value long-term partnerships. Make it easy for them to return:
– Offer perks for repeat bookings (e.g., discounts, priority booking).
– Create customizable retreat packages that include accommodations, meals, and wellness activities.
– Highlight your flexibility and willingness to accommodate specific group needs.
Swipeable actions:
– Add a Retreat Leader FAQ to your website or Instagram Highlights.
– Share testimonials from retreat leaders who’ve booked with you in the past.
How One Property Could Add $1 Million with Yoga Retreats
Here’s a breakdown of how hosting yoga retreats could transform your revenue:
– 10 retreats per year
– 15 guests per retreat
– 5 nights per stay
– $200 per person, per night
Annual Revenue: $150,000
Now, factor in additional revenue from:
– Meal packages, spa services, or excursions.
– Repeat bookings from satisfied retreat leaders.
With the right strategy, small properties like yours can consistently attract wellness groups, leading to significant revenue growth.
Why Small Properties Have the Upper Hand
Boutique hotels and independent properties offer something corporate hotels can’t: a personal touch. Retreat leaders seek out:
– Unique, intimate settings that create memorable experiences.
– Direct communication with property owners and managers.
– Flexibility to tailor their retreats to their specific vision.
This is to your advantage. By positioning your property as a wellness hotspot, you’re not just filling rooms—you’re creating long-term partnerships with retreat leaders who will return year after year.
FREE RESOURCE TO HELP YOU GET STARTED BOOKING YOGA RETREATS AT YOUR HOTEL
Click here to get our YOGA RETREAT RICHES PLAYBOOK for Hotels for FREE right now. Get started today using Instagram to connect with retreat leaders that lead to bookings.
Ready to Turn Your Property Into a Wellness Retreat Hotspot?
If you're serious about transforming your property into a sought-after destination for wellness retreats and are ready to invest in expert guidance, keep reading…
Our co-founder, Ashley Steinmetz, offers a limited number of complimentary 15-minute strategy calls per month to help independent property owners like you explore what’s possible.
Spaces fill quickly, so if you’re ready to take the next step, don’t wait. Click here to request your call with Ashley and let’s discuss how we can position your property to attract retreat leaders and unlock new revenue opportunities.
