health tourism in europe

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Medical Tourism

Europe’s top medical tourism destinations: a comprehensive guide.

Europe has emerged as a premier destination for medical tourism, attracting health-conscious travelers with its blend of high-quality medical care, advanced treatments, and rich cultural experiences. This comprehensive guide explores the top medical tourism destinations in Europe, highlighting their unique offerings, healthcare excellence, and the reasons they stand out in the global medical tourism landscape.

The Appeal of European Medical Tourism

Quality and Affordability : European countries offer a balance of high-quality medical services at prices often more affordable than in the U.S. or other parts of the world.
Advanced Medical Technology : Europe is known for its cutting-edge medical technology and innovative treatments, making it an attractive destination for specialized healthcare.
Cultural and Historical Richness : Besides medical treatments, Europe offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, contributing to the holistic well-being of medical tourists.

Top Destinations for Medical Tourism in Europe

Western europe.

Germany : Known for its precision in medical technology and surgery, Germany offers world-class healthcare in oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and more.
France : Renowned for its luxury wellness retreats and high standards in cosmetic surgery, France combines quality healthcare with a touch of glamour.

Southern Europe

Spain : Boasting modern facilities and expertise in various medical fields, Spain is also favored for its sunny climate, aiding in recovery and relaxation.
Italy : Italy excels in areas like dental care and cosmetic surgery, complemented by its rich culture and cuisine, enhancing the overall experience of medical tourists.

Central and Eastern Europe

Czech Republic : Known for its affordability and high-quality dental and cosmetic procedures, the Czech Republic is a growing hotspot in medical tourism.
Hungary : Hungary, especially Budapest, is famous for dental tourism, offering state-of-the-art treatments at competitive prices.

Northern Europe

Sweden : With a focus on patient care and innovative treatments, Sweden is a top choice for those seeking advanced medical procedures in a serene environment.

Specialized Treatments and Wellness Retreats

Europe is not just about conventional medical treatments; it also offers a range of specialized procedures and wellness retreats:

Thermal Spas and Natural Treatment Centers : Countries like Hungary and Iceland are known for their natural thermal baths and spas, offering therapeutic and wellness experiences.
Rehabilitation and Recovery Centers : Many European countries provide excellent rehabilitation facilities in serene and supportive environments, ideal for post-operative recovery.

Navigating Medical Tourism in Europe

Language and cultural considerations.

Most top medical tourism destinations in Europe cater to international patients with multilingual staff and services tailored to diverse cultural needs.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Europe maintains high standards of medical ethics and patient safety, with strict regulations governing medical practices and patient care.

Insurance and Costs

It's important to understand the cost structure and insurance options when planning a medical trip to Europe. Many countries offer packages that include treatment, accommodation, and additional services.

Europe offers a diverse and rich landscape for medical tourism, combining high-quality healthcare, advanced treatments, and unique cultural experiences. Whether seeking specialized medical procedures, wellness retreats, or a combination of health and cultural exploration, Europe's top medical tourism destinations offer something for every health-conscious traveler.

As medical technology and global healthcare standards continue to evolve, Europe remains at the forefront of offering exceptional medical tourism experiences. With its unique blend of modern healthcare, rich history, and diverse cultures, European medical tourism is poised to grow and adapt to the changing needs of patients worldwide.

This comprehensive guide to Europe's top medical tourism destinations offers insights into the quality, affordability, and diversity of healthcare options available, catering to the needs of industry professionals and health-conscious travelers alike.

To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

For those seeking medical care abroad, we highly recommend hospitals and clinics who have been accredited by Global Healthcare Accreditation (GHA). With a strong emphasis on exceptional patient experience, GHA accredited facilities are attuned to your cultural, linguistic, and individual needs, ensuring you feel understood and cared for. They adhere to the highest standards, putting patient safety and satisfaction at the forefront. Explore the world's top GHA-accredited facilities here . Trust us, your health journey deserves the best.

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The Medical Tourism Magazine (MTM), known as the “voice” of the medical tourism industry, provides members and key industry experts with the opportunity to share important developments, initiatives, themes, topics and trends that make the medical tourism industry the booming market it is today.

Health Tourism in the EU: Facts and Figures

Table of Content

What is health tourism, why is it growing so fast, the growth of health tourism, why do people travel for healthcare.

Health tourism has been around for thousands of years since the third millennium B.C. In fact, people in ancient Mesopotamia traveled to the temple of a healing god or goddess in Tell Brak, Syria to heal eye disorders. Greeks and Romans also traveled by foot or boat to spas all over the Mediterranean. And now people are traveling from all corners of the world to the EU to receive medical treatments, creating a market called health tourism.

Let us look at the state of health tourism in the EU, where it is headed, who the key players are, and how it could impact your tour operation.

Health tourism is a form of tourism that consists of patients traveling to other countries to get medical treatment or assistance. It comprises all the services associated with tourism like transport, accommodation, and hospitality. Health tourism consists of medical tourism, wellness tourism (to enhance health), and spa tourism (spas that combine medical and health components). The three components are different but also overlap.

Wellness tourism, in particular, is a broad concept; and its meaning depends on culture and geography in the EU. For example, in southern Europe, wellness tourism is connected to the seaside, the Mediterranean diet, and the slower pace of life. In Scandinavia, the focus of wellness is on outdoor activities like walking and swimming. As you can see, the definition of wellness tourism is diverse across the EU and serves as proof of the overlap between wellness and spa tourism.

All in all, the definition of health tourism is not really clear, making it difficult to include it in tourism statistics. That consequently makes it tricky to measure the importance, growth, and impact of health tourism on the overall tourism industry and economy.

However, we do know that the market for health tourism has grown exponentially in recent years and has led to new forms of health tourism like fertility tourism and dental tourism.

But how much is the industry growing?

Estimating the total size of the health tourism sector in the EU is difficult because of the limited and fragmented data out there; and also due to the overlapping definitions by different sources and countries.

Although we cannot accurately estimate the total size, the industry has grown substantially in the past decades as citizens of the EU travel from richer countries like the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany, Netherlands, and Ireland to seek affordable healthcare in other countries, primarily in Eastern Europe.

It has been growing at 12-15 percent annually, according to research from PwC .

Until quite recently, the top health destinations for Europeans were the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. However, since a new European Directive on Cross-Border Healthcare (which states that there should be free access to treatment in the community space for all EU citizens) in 2014, a new public-pay medical tourism market appeared. As a consequence, countries like Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, Poland, and Latvia have become popular destinations for Western Europeans. According to the Polish Association of Medical Tourism, 488,000 of foreign patients came to Poland for medical treatment in 2014.

Health tourism today makes up about 5 percent of the tourism industry in the EU28 and contributes to about 0.3 percent of the EU economy. It in fact has a higher domestic share than traditional tourism does. Therefore, increasing the share of health tourism may lessen the seasonality of tourism, increase labor quality and sustainability.

Perhaps that is one of the reasons countries like Turkey are implementing policies to fuel the health tourism market. In Turkey, which has become a premier and popular destination for medical tourists looking for less complicated treatments, the government offers discounts for patients flying with Turkish Airlines. The government is also planning to introduce tax-free healthcare zones for foreign patients.

More and more governments and companies are offering cheap flights, open borders, and inclusive packages to further fuel this segment of the tourism market.

Let’s take a look at some key statistics from a June 2009 survey that was conducted by the Medical Tourism Association (MTA) to understand why the industry is growing so fast and why it is important for key stakeholders to prioritize health tourism directives:

64% of patients that traveled for care didn’t have health insurance
Almost 83% of patients traveled with a companion
33% of patients traveled abroad for cosmetic surgery
Almost 90% of patients or their companions engaged in tourism activities
Nearly 80% of the demand for medical travel is driven by cost savings
Medical tourists spend between €6,083 and €12,885 per medical travel trip
48% of respondents would be interested in engaging in medical tourism again at some point in the future
The cost of medical treatment and quality were the most important factors in their decision to travel abroad for treatment
Out of 49 participants that had previously traveled overseas for medical treatment, 36% used a medical tourism facilitator

The following statistics from Eurostat and IPK International give us a general overview of the health tourism market in the EU:

The total volume of health tourism in the EU is around 56 million domestic arrivals and 5.1 million international arrivals in 2014. (That figure is for health tourism with the main objectives of wellness, spa, and medical treatments.)
Health tourism makes up 4.3 percent of all EU arrivals
Germany, France, and Sweden are the main players in the health tourism industry in the EU
Wellness tourism makes up 66-75 percent of EU health tourism
Health tourism brings in €46.9 billion in revenue which represents 4.6 percent of overall tourism revenues and 0.33 percent of EU28 GDP
More than 75 percent of EU health tourism revenues come from five countries: Sweden, France, Poland, Italy, and Germany
Market reports indicate stability and an increase in health tourism
Most medical health tourism clinics also serve local patients and use medical tourism as an additional revenue stream
Health tourism may have several benefits to the labor market and the environment

Patients choose cross-border treatments for various reasons: The possibility of having access to certain treatments that are not available in their countries, the lower cost and higher quality of the treatments; and the opportunity to have a holiday to rest and recover in the destination country. Patients may even spend more time in a hotel that they would at a hospital during their medical trip. Depending on the procedure, they often spend a couple of nights at a hospital and spend the rest of the time in a hotel for recovery or doing physical therapy.

A European Commission survey shows that a large proportion of EU citizens, about 49 percent, is willing to travel for health care. That may be due to the EU directive on healthcare, which says that Member States must reimburse their citizens at the value that the care they receive would cost at home (in order to protect the financial sustainability of national healthcare systems).

However, this gives certain disadvantages to patients from poorer countries with less developed healthcare systems. For example, healthcare services cost substantially less money in Croatia than in Sweden. So a Croatian patient would have to pay out of pocket for the substantial difference in the cost of treatment if they seek medical treatment. Whereas, a patient from a wealthier Member State can seek treatment in Croatia or anywhere else without paying much out of pocket for their care. That scenario is particularly beneficial for wealthier member states as they make economic gains if the treatment is less expensive abroad.

Health tourism is undoubtedly growing at an exponential rate and healthcare and tourism providers are picking up on it. So are governments. National policies in certain countries, like Turkey, are enhancing the growth of health tourism. That is evidence that health tourism is an important strategy within the overall tourism planning.

Do you want to know more about this topic? Feel free to contact us any time!

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7 countries for health tourism in Europe

Medically reviewed by

Medical Tourism Association reports, over 14 mln people travel abroad to get an alternative treatment annually. A lot of these people, in particular from the USA, Asia, Africa, the UAE, Post-Soviet states, choose Europe for health tourism due to high-quality treatments.

European countries provide medical services of different price levels — the same procedure may cost 2-3 times cheaper in the Czech Republic or Poland than in Germany or Austria, for instance. So, people with different levels of income can find an appropriate option for treatment in Europe.

Bookimed, a leading platform for searching best treatment across the world, has composed a ranking of the top 7 countries for health tourism in Europe. It is based on Bookimed patients' reviews, hospitals' equipment level, doctors' experience. In this article, you will read about the price level for medical services in top European countries for health tourism, leading hospitals, specialties. If you need any additional info or want to find the best option for medical tourism in Europe, fill out a form on our website. This option is free.

Top 7 countries for medical tourism in Europe:

Switzerland

Czech republic.

255,000 medical tourists annually

Price level: medium-high.

Top specialties for treatment:

neurosurgery
rheumatology
orthopedics.

See the list of top German hospitals here

Book a hospital in Germany

Why is Germany a top country for health tourism in Europe?

Germany is among the top destinations for medical tourism in Europe. According to IMTJ data, 255,000 outbound patients from 177 countries choose Germany for treatment annually.

Medical tourists are mostly from the Middle East, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Eastern European countries, the UK, Netherlands, USA.

Innovative technologies. Germany is a frequently chosen country for medical tourism in Europe due to the usage of the latest developments in diagnostics and treatment. Germany invests the biggest amount of money among European countries in the development of medicine.
European and German certificates that approve high level of medical services. All German hospitals are strictly checked for their compliance with the demands of the European Union. due to this, a patient can be sure that the treatment is performed according to the highest European standards.
Clinical trials. German doctors provide scientific research to find new treatment options against severe diseases like cancer, for instance.
Prices regulated by the government. The cost of treatment in Germany is controlled by the state organs, so medical tourists won't pay more than the local citizens.

Submit a request to get treatment in Germany or another country for medical tourism in Europe. Bookimed manager will find the best hospital in your case, provide you with prices, and arrange your trip shortly. This option is free.

100,000 medical tourists per year

pediatric oncology (sarcoma, blood cancer, etc.)
cancer of the gastrointestinal tract in adults
complex neurosurgical operations
stem cells therapy
epilepsy treatment.

See the list of top Spanish hospitals here

Why is Spain so popular for health tourism in Europe?

The popularity of Spain among inbound patients for medical tourism in Europe is increasing by 14% annually. Currently, over 100,000 medical tourists choose Spanish hospitals for treatment. About the 3rd part of all medical facilities in Spain are private. They provide high-quality medical service mostly for patients from France, Russia, the UK, the Netherlands, etc.

Top healthcare system. Spanish healthcare system takes the 7th place according to the WHO (World Healthcare Organization), so patients receive access to the best treatment options and consultations with the leading doctors.
Innovative treatment approach. Spanish doctors provide permanent scientific research to invent new treatment options. There are breakthrough developments in children's oncology and neurosurgery.
Tourists' attraction. Spain attracts people from all over the world for its culture, meal, nature, architecture. Due to this, inbound patients can combine treatment and vacations.

Submit a request to receive treatment in Spain. Bookimed manager will choose the best hospital for you, provide with prices, and arrange medical trip shortly. This option is free.

Book a hospital in Spain

35,000 medical tourists annually

Price level: high.

plastic surgery
rehabilitation
orthopedics
cardiology.

See the list of top Swiss hospitals here

Why do people choose Switzerland for medical tourism in Europe?

Switzerland is less popular health tourism destination in Europe compared to Germany or Spain. The reason is quite high prices for treatment. However, patients who look for VIP conditions and high level of comfort are ready to pay for these. Patients from China, India, Brazil, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf, Syria, Russia often choose Swiss hospitals.

Advanced treatment. The level of medicine in Switzerland is one of the highest in Europe, so a patient can be sure of the best quality of treatment.
High-level medical services. A patient won't have to wait in queues to get a consultation with a doctor, everything is processed comfortable. The hospital's rooms are cozy with all amenities that helps a patient to relax and speed up the recovery.
Unique climate for fast recovery. Switzerland is a mountainous country — the air is fresh and clean, the view is incredible. All these make a patient feel comfortable and recover fast after medical procedures or operations.

Fill out a form to get treatment in Switzerland. Bookimed manager will choose the best medical centers in your case, provide with prices, and arrange your trip shortly. This option is free.

Book a hospital in Switzerland

20,000 medical tourists annually

Price level: low-medium.

robotic surgery

See the list of top Czech hospitals here

Why do patients choose the Czech Republic for medical tourism in Europe?

Medical tourism in Europe, Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is among most affordable countries for health tourism in Europe. However, more and more international patients choose this place to get treatment. About 20,000 people, mostly from the Western Europe, choose Czech hospitals for treatment annually.

Affordable prices. Czech hospitals offer 2-3 times lower prices compared to German, Swiss, Spanish medical facilities. This is due to general price policy within the country and living wage level of local citizens.
High-quality treatment. Private Czech hospitals provide medical assistance at the same high level as German, Italian, Austrian, etc. facilities. The medical centers have got international certificates, and doctors practice in the USA and top European hospitals to interchange the experience.
No language barrier for German and Austrian patients. The part of the Czech Republic is German-speaking, so patients from Germany and Austria will feel comfortable.

Fill out a form to get treatment in the Czech Republic or another country for medical tourism in Europe. Bookimed manager will choose the best hospital for you, provide with prices, and arrange your trip shortly. This option is free.

Book a hospital in the Czech Republic

10,000 medical tourists annually

Price level: high

spa and wellness procedures
cardiac surgery.

See the list of top Austrian hospitals here

Benefits of Austria for medical tourism in Europe

Austria has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Europe and the world according to IMTJ data. However, this destination for medical tourism in Europe is suitable for people who are ready to pay for quality. The prices for medical services in Austria are one of the highest in Europe. 10,000 inbound patients choose Austria for health tourism in Europe.

Advanced level of medicine. Austrian hospitals (both private and state) provide high-quality treatment of severe diseases. Doctors conduct scientific research to invent new treatment options. Austrian healthcare system takes the 9th place in the world according to the WHO.
Access to the latest treatment. Austrian medical centers update the equipment and apply new technologies to achieve the best result.
Excessiveness of treatment. There is a high density of doctors and hospitals in Austria: about 5 doctors per 1,000 people that is the greater number in Europe. This means that patients receive medical help avoiding queues and in the shortest term.

Submit a request to get treatment in Austria or another country for medical tourism in Europe. Bookimed coordinator will choose the best hospital for you, provide with prices, and arrange your trip shortly. This option is free.

Book a hospital in Austria

5,000 inbound patients annually

Price level: medium

orthopedics and rehabilitation
neurological disorders
cardiac surgery

See the list of top Italian hospitals here

Why do patients choose Italy for medical tourism in Europe?

Medical tourism in Italy is developing quite slow compared to Spain or Germany, for instance. About 5,000 medical tourists mostly from the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, Russia choose Italy for health tourism annually.

Italian healthcare complies with the strictest European standards and has chances to become more demanded among medical tourists in the near future.

Active scientific work. Some Italian hospitals, like Ospedale San Raffaele, are European leaders in developing new treatment options. It allows patients taking part in clinical trials and receive access to the latest developments.
Ability to combine treatment and vacation. Choosing Italy for medical tourism in Europe, patients receive a great opportunity to get rest during or after treatment.

Submit a request to receive treatment in Italy. Bookimed manager will find the best hospital for you, provide with prices, and arrange medical trip shortly. This option is free.

Book a hospital in Italy

Price level: low-medium

ophthalmology

See the list of top Ukrainian hospitals here

Why do patients visit Ukraine for health tourism?

Ukraine is less popular country for medical tourism in Europe among inbound patients than above-mentioned states. However, this tendency is changing, and more and more often visit Ukrainian hospitals to have plastic surgery, dental treatment, stem cell therapy, etc. The main reason is prices — they are 2-3 lower than in Europe, and over 4 times than in the USA. The main benefits of health tourism in Ukraine:

Low prices. The living wage of Ukrainians is low, so the costs are also cheaper compared to Europe, the USA, Canada, etc. Inbound patients can rent comfortable accommodation and eat in good restaurants but paying less. This allows saving much money during treatment.
Unique treatment options. Ukraine is the only country where stem cells therapy with fetal cells is available. Stem cells are immune cells that can restore any part or tissue in the body.
Low-cost flights. There are a lot of low-coasters that fly to Ukraine from Europe, so patients won't pay a lot for travel.

Fill out a form to receive treatment in Ukraine. Bookimed manager will select the best hospital for you, provide with prices, and arrange medical trip as soon as possible. This option is free.

Book a hospital in Ukraine

Medical tourism erases the boundaries and allows patients to get access to the most effective and affordable treatment. Each country for medical tourism in Europe can offer the most adequate option for therapy in your case. All you need — to decide what state is the best for you. If you have any doubts, Bookimed manager is always ready to help you. Our assistance is free.

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Jan 14 2022

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the trend of traveling abroad for medical procedures. This growing interest in what is commonly known as medical tourism can be attributed to various factors, with the increased accessibility and affordability of both travel and medical treatments in other countries being among the most prominent. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to bear in mind that not all medical facilities can offer the same standard of care, and healthcare standards may vary from one country to another. Therefore, selecting a medical tourism destination should not solely hinge on cost-effectiveness, and it should involve a thorough assessment of the advantages and disadvantages. To truly comprehend the concept of health tourism, it’s essential to delve into its underlying causes and potential benefits.

What is Medical Tourism?

Imagine you have a teddy bear that’s a bit broken, and you want to get it fixed. But, what if you could make it an adventure? That’s what medical tourism is like. It’s when people go on a magical trip to another place to get better when they’re feeling sick.

Why Do Patients Choose to Go Abroad for Medical Treatment?

Patients who choose to travel to a foreign country to have the medical treatment they need there are usually described as medical tourists. There is so much interest in similar practices that it has led to the creation of a separate branch of tourism aimed specifically at patients. Medical tourism focuses on providing people with treatments and procedures they cannot obtain or cannot afford at home. With its high standards of healthcare, EU countries are quickly becoming one of the top markets for such services.

Common reasons to seek medical treatment abroad include:

the possibility of undergoing medical procedures quicker,
looking for specialist medical healthcare not available locally,
the lower cost of medical treatment.
Cultural and Tourist Experience

6 Benefits of Medical Tourism in Europe

✔️ world-class healthcare facilities.

Europe is home to renowned medical institutions, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge medical technology. Patients can access high-quality care, often on par with or exceeding that available in their home countries.

✔️ Quick Access to Medical Procedures

Even though public healthcare is available in almost all European countries, its standards, accessibility, and coverage are not equal across the continent. Unless it’s the issue of life-threatening conditions, it is not uncommon for patients to wait in queues for years before receiving the necessary treatment. It shouldn’t come as a surprise then that an alternative solution quickly emerged in the form of private clinics offering comprehensive and specialist medical care both to local and international patients. By expanding your options to those available abroad, you can get the care and procedures you need without waiting. In several countries like Poland, the waiting times for surgeries and treatments are considerably shorter than in other big countries with huge public healthcare systems.

✔️ High Standards

The EU-wide regulations and requirements concerning medical procedures and the training and education of medical specialists ensure that you can count on receiving medical care at an equally high standard whether you travel to Poland or other EU countries. Furthermore, in many cases, it’s also possible to find clinics offering innovative and specialist treatments you wouldn’t be able to access in your country.

✔️ Lower Cost

The biggest difference between different destinations tends to be the cost it takes to travel, stay, and get treated in a specific country. This aspect has led the Eastern EU countries to become an attractive medical tourism market by combining cheap flights, competitive prices for healthcare procedures, highly-trained specialists, and medical standards on a par with those in Western countries. Often the overall cost of travelling to a country with cheaper healthcare can be significantly lower than paying for a similar procedure locally.

✔️ Excellent Patient Care

To attract international patients, clinics that focus their services on catering to medical tourists pay close attention not only to the quality of medical care but also to the overall comfort. Medical tourism packages are often tailored to the needs of patients who come for treatment from abroad and, in addition to consultations, hospitalization and medical procedures, can additionally include, e.g., arranging hotel stays.

✔️ Accessible and Affordable Travel Options

One of the biggest advantages of being a medical tourist in Poland and other EU countries is the ease of travel. You can move freely within the EU borders and enjoy convenient rail and air connections between most major cities. The number of travel options available makes reaching your chosen destination not only easy but also really affordable as you can choose the one that works best for you.

✔️ Attractive Destinations

While the main goal of medical tourism is providing patients with affordable and professional medical care abroad, many patients choose to use the opportunity to travel to another country and enjoy the local culture, food, and attractions as well. Depending on the type of procedure and its requirements, you can use the days leading up to surgery or the recovery period for sightseeing and get the most out of your trip.

✔️ Multilingual Support

Many European healthcare facilities offer multilingual support, easing communication barriers for international patients. This ensures a comfortable and efficient healthcare experience.

In Conclusion, Medical tourism in Europe offers a compelling combination of high-quality medical care, cost-effectiveness, and a rich cultural experience, Meet caring doctors, and stay in hospitals that feel like castles, it’s making it a popular choice for patients seeking treatments and procedures abroad. It’s all about getting better and having fun at the same time. So, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!

5 Things to Check When Choosing a Medical Clinic Abroad

Make sure that the offer you’re choosing is legitimate by looking for more information about the clinic and the type of procedures performed there.
Carefully read all the documents to know exactly what your chosen health tourism package includes.
Learn more about the qualification of the doctors at the clinic and their experience, as well as previous results.
Look for opinions from former patients . Such testimonials are a great source of information about the quality of patient care and treatment effectiveness.
Undergoing any medical procedure comes with a risk of complications. That’s why having reliable and complete information is key for both patients and healthcare professionals. Planning a surgery abroad requires effective communication between you and the clinic — avoid clinics that are unwilling to share details of their treatments and methods with you.

KCM Clinic – The Best Destination for Medical Tourists in Poland

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Comparisons of Health Tourism Within the EU Countries

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Hatice Ulusoy ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-8911-5490 4 &
Nurperihan Tosun ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6548-3099 4

Part of the book series: Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics ((SPBE))

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Health tourism is one of the sectors that includes two important branches, medical tourism and wellness-spa tourism and forms with the dynamism of health and tourism together. Today, the obstacles to accessing the health system, long waiting lists, the lack of diagnosis and treatment with new technology in countries of people, the desire to get quality health services at a more affordable cost, as well as vacationing or seeing different holiday destinations increase the demand for medical tourism. In this study, it is aimed to compare and evaluate the health tourism potential of the European Union, which has the third largest population in the world, in the context of medical tourism. France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and Poland are economically important health tourism destinations. More than three-quarters of EU health tourism revenues are only among these five countries.

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Ulusoy, H., Tosun, N. (2020). Comparisons of Health Tourism Within the EU Countries. In: Kavoura, A., Kefallonitis, E., Theodoridis, P. (eds) Strategic Innovative Marketing and Tourism. Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36126-6_42

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Attractiveness of different European countries for medical tourism 2020

Ranking of the most attractive countries for medical tourism in europe in 2020, by medical tourism index*.

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France, Germany, Italy, Malta, Poland, Russia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom

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Statistics on " Remittance flows by country worldwide "

Remittances received as a share of GDP in 158 countries worldwide 2022
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Personal remittance inflow towards Middle East and Central Asia as a whole 1970-2022
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Personal remittance outflow from Middle East and Central Asia as a whole 1970-2021
Countries in Middle East with most outgoing remittances, by receiving region 2021
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Countries in Southeast Asia with most incoming remittances, by sending region 2021
Personal remittance outflow from Southeast Asia as a whole 1974-2022
Countries in Southeast Asia with most outgoing remittances, by receiving region 2021
Remittance costs in Southeast Asia as of Q3 2023, by country

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Costs, worldwide

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Premium Statistic Quarterly cost of sending 200 USD worth of global remittances 2023, by payment type
Premium Statistic Quarterly remittance costs from the G20 as a whole 2011-2023
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Latin America and the Caribbean

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Middle East and Central Asia

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North America

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South Asia, East Asia, Australia and Oceania

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Premium Statistic Countries in APAC minus Southeast Asia outgoing remittances, by receiving region 2021
Premium Statistic Remittance costs in Asia-Pacific except Southeast Asia as of Q3 2023, by country

Southeast Asia

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Further related statistics

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Medical Tourism
Destinations

Medical Tourism Destinations

Asia and the middle east.

Thailand leads the Asian countries in the number of medical tourist arrivals every year – more than a million – coming from all over the world.
India , with modern facilities being built and an abundance of highly trained medical personnel comes in a close second with half a million medical tourist arrivals every year.
Singapore , although slightly more expensive than its neighboring countries, Singapore has one of the best health systems in the world and is a favorite destination among Asians and Australians.
Malaysia offers excellent facilities and competitive prices and draws mostly medical travelers from neighboring countries such as Indonesia and Singapore.
Turkey is an attractive choice for Europeans and Arab visitors, with the highest numbers of JCI accredited hospitals and it's proximity to Europe.
Other health tourism destinations in Asia include Israel , The Philippines and China .
Spain 's health system has excellent reputation, making it a favorite destination for people from UK and Ireland for procedures ranging from face peel to complicated neurosurgery.
Turkey which was mentioned earlier, is on the border of Europe and Asia, and is fast becoming a destination of choice for eye care, orthopedic surgery, cosmetic surgery and many other medical procedures.
Germany has an excellent healthcare system, and is considered a top destination for patients from the Middle East, UK and the United States who looking for high quality medical care.
Hungary is a preferred destination mainly for Dental tourism, cosmetic procedures, hair restoration etc.
Poland offers dental, cosmetic procedures and orthopedic surgery at prices much lower then in Western Europe.
Other medical tourism destinations in Europe include France, Austria

Latin America

Mexico has been largely credited for a variety of cosmetic and plastic surgeries as well as dental procedures and bariatric treatments. Lying just across the southern border of the United States, many of the healthcare facilities in Mexico are run and manned by US, if not US-trained, health professionals.
Costa Rica is another Latin American country that combines its vast natural resources with internationally recognized expertise in the area of cosmetic surgery, bariatric surgery and dental care. American medical tourists flock to Costa Rica because the competence of its healthcare professionals and the short flight times from the United States.
Panama is also an ideal medical tourism destination for treatments such as plastic surgery and cancer therapy. American medical tourists can readily enter the country with a tourist visa.
Argentina became highly attractive for medical tourism after its currency plummeted in favor of the US dollars.
Colombia is another favorite destination for cosmetic surgery because of its well-trained staff as most of the physicians studied in Britain or the United States.
Brazil , a long-time player in cosmetic surgery but considered a newbie in the non-cosmetic field, is another destination of choice when considering the Latin America sphere. However, a Visa is still required should US Citizens opt to visit Brazil for medical tourism purposes.
South Africa is the leading medical tourism destination in Africa, having the best healthcare system south of the Sahara. It attracts patients from other African countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Tanzania, as well as some America and European patients.

Latin America:

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‘Health Tourism became one of the fastest growing forms of tourism nowadays and an appealing business opportunity not only to individual stakeholders providing medical, spa or wellness products but to also to tourism destinations as whole. The HTI Conference is another step forward to find common definitions and strategies for a sustainable growth of the sector.‘

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‘HTI Conference is an extremely good organised, very professional event and perfect for networking for everyone that cares about the future of the health tourism and medical spa, health resorts industry. I wish a big success also in the future! ESPA is looking to expand cooperation with HTI. Thank you very much for your fantastic hospitality.’

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‘HTI brings together key players from the health tourism industry. Its format is very conducive to networking and learning from the leaders in the field. This is a great meeting for anyone who is serious about business. Many thanks for the great organization, it was a valuable experience.‘

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Top 10 medical tourism destinations in the world.

With rising healthcare costs in the US and the rise of health tourism destinations that offer quality and affordable healthcare perked up by a beautiful travel experience, patients from around the world are scampering to book appointments with healthcare providers far away from home.

Yearly, millions of patients travel from countries lacking healthcare infrastructure or less advanced in a particular area of medical care to countries that provide highly specialized medical care. Patients book trips to countries for various medical procedures ranging from cosmetic surgery, dental work, to orthopedic procedures at affordable rates.

For the health tourism destinations and healthcare providers, the competition is fierce, requiring an interplay of factors to drive medical travel and improve their brand in the medical tourism market.

But choosing a destination for one’s medical needs can be an arduous task; with multiple risks sold by the media about medical travel, health consumers are now being more careful about their medical travel choices. The Medical Tourism Index provides a critical gauge for medical tourism destinations, evaluating countries across key indicators that define an excellent medical travel hub.

The MTI assesses medical travel destinations across three main dimensions: Destination Environment, which provides an overview of the socioeconomic and cultural factors that promote inbound travel; Medical Tourism Industry, which assesses the medical tourism infrastructure, including seamless communication, effective medical travel facilitation, and culturally competent programs, and; Quality of Facilities and Services, which evaluates the quality of care provided, quality of healthcare professionals, as well as presence of third-party accreditations.

Medical travel professionals, healthcare organizations, and governments around the world are investing heavily in accessing the right tools and resources to rank higher in the MTI to attract more clients and health payers. Global Healthcare Accreditation, a global leader in healthcare accreditation helps these stakeholders to reposition themselves and conform to industry best practices to achieve these metrics.

Global Healthcare Accreditation offers accreditations, medical training programs and certifications to help healthcare providers, governments, and medical tourism facilitators gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry and become more equipped to handle the challenges in the industry and deliver world-class service.

Using the Medical Tourism Index 2020-2021, which ranks 46 destinations against these indicators, these are the best destinations to travel to for your healthcare needs.

Canada’s rank as number one in the 2020 edition of the Medical Tourism Index comes as no surprise as the second-largest country in the world boasts of a robust tourism industry that attracts more than 14 million Americans each year. Its proximity to the US affords the country a massive influx of tourists and patients who seek to bypass the long wait times and high healthcare costs at home.

Canada ranks high in its reputation for offering quality and highly-specialized medical treatments and world-class healthcare facilities, particularly in orthopedic procedures and complex heart surgeries. It is ranked at the top position for its Destination Environment, 7 th in the Medical Tourism Industry dimension, and 4 th in the Quality of Facilities out of 46 destinations assessed.

Singapore comes second-place in the Medical Tourism Index, hitting top spot in ranking for the Quality of healthcare Facilities and Services in the country. As of 2019, more than 500,000 foreign tourists visited Singapore for its affordable and quality healthcare services.

Singapore recently set up International Patient Service Centers (IPSCs) that act as medical travel agencies to mediate between international patients and Singaporean healthcare providers, as a way to drive more growth in the industry and allow a much more seamless medical travel journey.

Singapore boasts world-class mutli-specialist centers that collaborate with centers of excellence around the world, including the Singapore General Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, and the Mount Elizabeth Hospital. Singapore is a choice destination for an array of cosmetic procedures and oncology treatments, with internationally accredited centers and qualified healthcare professionals. ‍

Ranking second in the Medical Tourism Industry and the Quality of Facilites and Services categories, and 5 th in the Destination Environment dimension, Japan ranks as one of the most developed healthcare systems in the world, by every measure. Leading recent advances in technology and medicine, Japan continues to deliver top-notch healthcare services to citizens and foreign tourists, most of which come from mainland China.

Low cost of care is also a major driver of Japan’s inbound medical travel, attracting medical tourists from across the world to its expertise in minimally invasive medicine and tech-driven procedures in plastic and orthopedic surgery.

Spain is known as one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, with a tourist profile that pulls tens of millions of tourists every year. The country is ranked high by the MTI as the choicest medical tourist destination in Europe as it offers foreign patients excellent healthcare services with a beautiful travel experience.

Spain attracts a growing number of international tourists from the Middle East, North Africa, and the British Isles, many of who visit the country for advanced orthopedic, cosmetic, and dental procedures.

Spain boasts of several hospitals that are accredited by international bodies, including the renowned Hospital Universitario de Madrid and Sanitas Hospitales in Madrid.

United Kingdom

The UK ranks fifth in the global ranking of medical tourism destinations by the MTI. The UK is home to renowned medical institutions including the London Orthopedic Clinic, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and the Cambridge Complex Orthopedic Trauma Center, known for top-quality healthcare services.

The UK is also a choice tourist destination center, welcoming more than 31 million international tourists every year, many of whom are attracted to the rich cultural heritage of the Great Britain.

The United Kingdom takes its highest point in the Destination Environment category, ranking 3 rd out of 46 destinations, notably for its richness as a tourist destination.

Dubai known for its ultramodern architecture, high-rise buildings, and luxury shopping. Dubai, with a population of more than 9.4 million welcomes more than 10 million tourists every year. The congenial environment and beauty of Dubai gives a boost to travel experience for millions of international patients that arrive Dubai for world-class care.

The Medical Tourism Index ranked Dubai the top medical destination in the Arab region, as it boasts of world-class hospitals and international doctors across several specialties. Dubai welcomes medical tourists mainly from Asia and neighboring Arab and Gulf countries, and some trips from European and African nations.

Dubai continues to receive millions of tourists yearly, hundreds of thousands of which visit the DHCC for mostly complex cosmetic, dental, and fertility treatments. The city, which is home to renowned hospitals, Mediclinic City Hospital and Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital, has become a one-stop-shop to medical tourists mainly from the GCC and the wider Arab world.

Costa Rica is fast rising as a leader in the medical tourism market. Known for its beautiful sights and competitive prices, Costa Rica welcomes millions of medical tourists from neighboring countries including the US and Canada ‍

This Central American country has ranked high in dentistry and cosmetic surgery - above Canada and US - consistently in the last few years. The country is also building a name in the fields of eye surgery, cancer therapy, and bariatric surgery. The CheTica Ranch located in San Jose provides exotic recovery retreats for medical travelers for patients who relish recovery in a relaxing ambiance. This ranch is also staffed with highly-trained nurses to cater to the medical needs of these patients as they recover.

Costa Rica ranks 1 st in the Medical Tourism Industry category and 6 th in the Destination Environment dimension and 13 th In the Quality of Facilities and Services dimension. ‍

‍The global Medical Tourism Index ranks Israel as the 8th top medical tourism destination in the world, citing the large pool of tourists that visit the Dead Sea and the massive drift of medical tourists seeking IVF and other fertility treatments in the country.

Israel ranked high in international reputation, patient experience, quality of healthcare, and accreditation of healthcare facilities in the MTI. Israel is 3 rd in the Qualities of Facilities and Services dimension, boasting world-class healthcare institutions and internationally trained healthcare providers.

The renowned Sheba Medical Center, which is known for its excellence in complex surgical procedures, launched an international medical tourism division that offers medical services to thousands of international patients from around the world including Russia, Cyprus, Georgia, and the US.

The capital city and the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirate, Abu Dhabi, has built a strong medical tourism platform that can see it emerge the best in the region.

The emirate launched the Abu Dhabi Medical Tourism e-portal in 2019 that provides international patients with details of all the medical offerings and healthcare facilities in the city. Prospective patients can also access medical tourism insurance packages as well as other tourist services such as hotel bookings, transportation, and recreational activities via the e-portal.

Healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi comply with strict quality rules set by the city’s Department of Health, ensuring they deliver nothing short of top-quality care. Abu Dhabi works closely with Global Healthcare Accreditation and the Medical Tourism Association, which have been integral to transforming the country’s medical travel and healthcare landscapes to attracting more medical tourists and health payers.

India is one of the major players in the Asian medical tourism industry, ranking first in the Medical Tourism Industry dimension of the MTI. India is one of the most visited countries for health care, with an expanded visa policy that eases travel for medical tourists. The medical visa policy allows patients to stay up to 60 days and also offers a medical attendant visa for blood relatives that wish to accompany the patient.

The Indian government launched a to provide patients with access to their network of healthcare facilities and a list of medical services available in the country. This allows patients schedule appointments with healthcare providers and even book for other services including accommodation and recreational activities before their arrival.

India ranks 6 th in the Medical Tourism Industry and Quality of Facilities and Services categories, with world-class centers that offer complex transplant services, orthopedic procedures, and complex heart surgeries.

To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

Unveiling the Power of Social Media Marketing in Medical Tourism

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The great reset: the best wellness retreats around the world

For rebooting, resetting or just plain old relaxing

Whether you're looking close to home or further afield, venture far from the madding crowd at one of the world's most renowned wellness retreats, which promise a mix of meditative moments and hi-tech treatments.

Below, find the best restorative havens around the world with a focus on optimal mental and physical wellbeing.

The best wellness retreats, tried and tested by Bazaar :

Cunard’s queen anne, from england: for a floating retreat.

Aboard its new luxury ship, the Queen Anne, Cunard is offering a fresh approach to renewal with Harper’s Bazaar . Our three-day Wellness at Sea programmes are designed to boost your skin, body and mind, combining bespoke spa treatments, fitness sessions and delicious, nutritious meals as you sail. The Detox Journey combats physical and mental stresses, the Relax Journey is tailored to reset your nervous system and the Energise Journey invigorates. Whichever you choose, you will disembark revived and radiant.

Cunard x Harper’s Bazaar’s Wellness at Sea programmes, about £495 each

Eynsham Baths at Estelle Manor, England: Best for bathhouse rituals

Estelle Manor’s groundbreaking new spa in the Cotswolds, a recreation of a Roman villa, harks back to the sociability and ritual of ancient times. Gone is the silent reverence usually associated with high luxury. Instead, gather with friends or loved ones in the central tepidarium, before experiencing the hay-scented sauna, botanical steam-room and the bathing circuits that include two frigidariums (at six- and 12-degrees Celsius), and a caldarium. There is also an opportunity to take programmes with Emma Estrela, the spa’s breathwork master. Post-treatment, we recommend a massage with Manos Dimoudis, followed by light refreshments in the tea lounge.

Eynsham Baths at Estelle Manor , from £500 a room a night, B&B

Galgorm Hotel and Spa, Northern Ireland: Best for a complete reset

The majestic River Maine cascades alongside the 19th-century villa housing Galgorm, set within 163 acres of County Antrim countryside. A 40-minute drive from Belfast, the retreat is famed for its saunas, steam-rooms, snow cabin and salt cave, plus riverside bathing tubs. Alternate between hot and cold areas to stimulate circulation and improve immunity, and indulge in an Elemis facial or a massage before drifting back to your suite for a blissful night’s sleep.

Galgorm Hotel and Spa , from £300 a room a night, B&B

Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Bali: Best for self-discovery

Designed to exist seamlessly in its jungle site in northern Bali, Buahan has no doors and no enclosing walls. The idea is for guests to engage with nature – and, in turn, disconnect from the outside world. This is the backdrop for its all-women retreat, a journey of self-discovery and female empowerment. Days are filled with Vinyasa yoga, ice baths, forest treks and healing fire rituals, as well as group sessions on mindset reframing and personal growth. An indulgent massage is also included, for good measure.

The seven-day Women’s Retreat at Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape , from £4,600 a person, based on two people sharing

Abadía Retuerta, Spain: Best for wine and wellness

At this 12th-century restored abbey located in its own 500-acre vineyard, a two-hour drive from Madrid, oenology-inspired spa treatments are on offer. The large open spaces and walkways, originally created for meditation and the exchange of ideas, provide a calming setting from which to enjoy stargazing in the monks’ garden, lavender harvesting, mushroom foraging or just extra time at its Michelin-starred restaurant, Refectorio.

Abadía Retuerta , from £466 a room a night, B&B

Daios Cove, Crete: Best for head-to-toe transformation

Taking a tech-focused approach to wellness, Daios Cove is decidedly more concerned with health optimisation than relaxation – although the views over the private Cretian cove will certainly induce feelings of calm.

Kepos by Goco, the resort’s holistic health destination, takes a head-to-toe approach to wellness. Those after a full body reset can begin with one of the team’s diagnostic consultations, where a practitioner will measure your biological age, metabolism, or nutrition levels before prescribing a personalised course of treatments to undertake throughout your stay.

For working up a sweat, London’s BXR offers intensive personal-training sessions and full courses in the indoor and outdoor gyms, while IV drips and colonic hydrotherapy are available on request.

Try the cryotherapy chamber for a major energy boost post-workout, or opt for something a little less bracing in the surprisingly calming hyperbaric oxygen chamber, which is said to improve cognitive function.

Once you’re ready to recline (an aerial yoga class will get you there) there’s a full menu of acclaimed 111 Skin facial treatments to dive into, from the cult Cryotherapy Toning Facial to intensely rejuvenating dermapen needling.

Daios Cove rooms from £409 half-board, with wellness therapies cost on application

Sha Wellness, Mexico: Best for complete revitalisation

a pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas by it

Complete revitalisation is the mission of the innovative Sha Wellness clinic, situated close to Isla Mujeres, a white-sand paradise just off the coast of Cancún. Alongside personalised treatment plans to address any number of health concerns, Sha offers a cutting-edge solution to damaged skin in the form of its cellular-regeneration therapy. The clinic’s CAP (cold atmospheric plasma) machine delivers a painless current to skin cells, stimulating production of serotonin and vitamin D. Expect results that range from an uptick in energy levels to a tangible improvement in physical and mental wellbeing – bolstered by dips in the sea and afternoons basking in the Mexican sun.

A four-night Rebalance and Energise Programme at Sha Wellness Mexico , from £1,970 a person

The Ranch, Italy: Best for hiking fanatics

A word of warning: this retreat is not a walk in the park. Rather, it’s a hike through the mountains, daily, for around four hours come rain or shine. An outpost of the original ‘Ranch’ based in Malibu, California, this is based at Palazzo Fiuggi about an hour south of Rome, but runs as a succinct and separate programme to the rest of the health-based hotel. You will get to use their brilliant spa facilities (the infrared sauna and hot-and-cold water therapy being particularly popular amongst weary-legged ‘Ranchers’) but otherwise you eat, hike and hang out with your fellow comrades and Ranch guides.

The concept is quite simple: a plant-based detox, switching off from the world, resetting, but also enjoying the beautiful nature whilst you work to improve your fitness. The meals are substantial enough to sustain you (the afternoon snacks such as oat cookies and coconut and tahini balls being a particular highlight) and you’re giving a daily massage as a reward in the afternoons. The hikes are undeniably tough, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but are incredibly beautiful and seriously fulfilling. Even with their new shorter programme - designed for those who perhaps can’t take a full week from work - expect to return lighter, clear minded and with a spring in your step (despite the inevitable blisters).

Four night/five day programme starting from £4,017 per person

Six Senses Ibiza: Best for longevity

This recently opened hotel reveals a different side of the party island, with a programme that focuses on slowing down and promoting longevity through both ancient traditions and cutting-edge science.

The setting might be signature Ibizian style - wooden terraces and crisp white linen - but for your biohacking program it's pure high tech. Expect hyperbaric chambers, electromagnetic thrones, DNA testing and cryotherapy. There are of course some bohemian touches, like daily breakfast at the Farmer's Market and 'energy treatments' to realign, but this is mostly about utilising science to better and lengthen your health and life.

The main difference to your usual Balearic experience? Bed time's long before the sun rises.

From 2,500 Euros for three nights (4,000 Euros for seven) at Six Senses Ibiza to include diagnostics and bespoke program inclusions

Daylesford Organic, England: Best for eating well

a room with white chairs and a table with a plant on it

From the masters of organic farming and luxury living in the Cotswolds , Daylesford Organic’s wellness retreats go beyond your average wellbeing escape. Taking place a few times a year and usually as a mid-week break (providing the perfect excuse to use up your annual leave), these mini-breaks combine nutrition in an indulgent way, pampering that leaves you feeling fully restored and nurtured, and healing for a restful mind and body. This is a wellness retreat for those who like to eat and invites you to live and breathe the lifestyle brand that was founded in a bucolic corner of Gloucestershire.

Distinctly different from a wellness retreat at a hotel, here you’ll stay in one of Daylesford’s rustic cottages, just metres from the estate’s renowned Farmshop in Kingham. Expect to feast on the most delectable seasonal dishes in the Trough restaurant (where the ingredients are plucked from the estate's farm, we might add) and the nearby Wild Rabbit. De-stressing facials and massages using Bamford products are also part of the menu, as are crystal sound healing and yoga, alongside the most calming floristry or cooking classes.

A highlight is the market garden tour with brilliant head gardener Jez for a look behind the scenes at the incredible produce grown on site. There is also time with nutritionist Rhaya Jordan, who shares her tips for eating well, whether you have a busy lifestyle or would like to introduce more fibre to your diet.

Daylesford’s next wellness retreat takes place in March and costs £2,400 per person

Beaverbrook, England: Best for a day trip

Wim Hof’s breathing and cold-water therapy is a powerful reminder that we are in control of our stress response. Try his patented method in the cosseting surroundings of this Surrey hotel, only a short drive from London.

Led by a certified Wim Hof Method instructor, you and your small group (moral support is essential!) will be guided through breathing techniques designed to optimise and expand body and mind, followed by the famous cold water exposure. You'll work your way up to a guided six minute ice bath, which is hardcore and invigorating and even if you don't mind it emotionally life changing it's a great dinner party brag.

After warming up you'll enjoy a hard earned lunch and free rein of Beaverbrook's beautiful Coach House Spa.

£250 for the day at Beaverbrook including lunch and full use of the spa facilities. Book an overnight stay at Mr & Mrs Smith

Yeotown Madeira: Best for the outdoorsy type

Since opening in 2010, Yeotown Devon has gained a reputation as a no-nonsense health retreat offering an array of fresh-air activities.

Its new Portugese island outpost transports that philosophy to sunnier climates. Dubbed the 'Island of Eternal Spring', Madeira's remote and rugged landscape sets the scene for daily activities of coastal and mountain hiking, sunrise yoga, wild swimming and more. Your schedule is packed but varied, including daily massages to soothe your post-hike legs. The food is as a fresh as the air, and although is branded as a detox (so expect to forgo alcohol, caffeine and sugar) it shouldn't send you into a panic: think bright juices and local-produce-filled salads.

If you wish to pack even more into your days, a whole host of alternative therapies such as acupuncture, reiki, crystal therapy and Ayurvedic consultations are available. Otherwise, you can nestle into your 'boho chic' room, and let the sound of the waves send you into a well earned slumber.

Five day retreat from £2,500 per person at Yeotwon Madeira not including flights and transfers

Goodwood, England: Best for a nutritional reset

Set in the famous Goodwood Estate and promising a gut-health overhaul in this glorious setting, this five-day retreat combines nutritional advice, complementary therapies and an organic diet to heal and re-energise you from the inside out.

A concept drawn up by the Duchess of Richmond, gut-health nutritionist Stephanie Moore and complementary therapist Elaine Williams, the aim is to have "a restorative effect on both body and mind". The food follows the estate's field-to-fork philosophy so expect organically farmed produce and local delights that help to heal your gut without depriving your taste buds.

Education is forefront here - there's no point eating well for five days then undoing all the hard work - so expect nutritional talks, results-driven therapies and a deep dive into your daily habits (from sleep to stress) to "ensure you experience a life-changing reset".

Goodwood Gut Health five day retreat from £2,225 per person

Lanserhof Sylt, Germany: best for a medical MOT

The name Lanserhof has always been synonymous with medical excellence, and its newest outpost, a futuristic-looking building on the island of Sylt in northern Germany, has surpassed even its own high standards.

Offering more medical services than any other wellness hotel (it has 10 full-time doctors and a further 32 specialists on its books), the 50,000-square-foot medical centre has been designed to help guests achieve optimum health. ‘The people who come here aren’t necessarily ill by definition,’ says the group’s chief marketing officer Nils Behrens, ‘but they might have health problems like migraines, back pain, skini ssues or digestive struggles.’ On a health scale of one to 10, most people put themselves at a five to seven, he says. ‘We want to get you to as close to a 10 as possible.’

You’ll meet with specialists ranging from dermatologists to psychotherapists, and undergo assessments using hi-tech equipment such as a full-body AI scanner with 96 cameras. The goal is to combine medical treatments with natural solutions to cure the source, not just the symptoms, of any ailments. Essential to this are good nutrition and supplementing, breathwork, mindfulness and alternative therapies including acupuncture and craniosacral therapy (a gentle but effective upper-body treatment to remove energy blockages). There’s even a shaman available to guide you through a fire ritual. It might sound a bit woo-woo, but nothing at Lanserhof is for show: it’s about drawing on all possible resources to get you back to better health – and, hopefully, send you home feeling like a perfect 10.

The Lanserhof Sylt Cure Classic costs from about £6,000 for a seven-night stay, including accommodation

Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy: Best for a holistic health check

Leading a healthier lifestyle requires a multi-pronged approach, realigning and balancing the body and brain. The week-long Complete Life Rewind programme at Palazzo Fiuggi – a beautiful building set within expansive private grounds overlooking the mediaeval Italian spa town of Fiuggi – combines a multitude of tests, treatments and therapies to achieve just that.

A day might start with a thalassotherapy bathing ritual (wallowing in a magnesium-and salt-filled pool to draw toxins out), followed by a rigorous personal-training session, with time for some ayurvedic therapy later on. Another could include colon hydrotherapy, a vitamin-filled IV drip and an aromatherapy massage. And with the help of the team’s expert aesthetic surgeon Dr Regina Fortunato, you can take advantage of innovative treatments and tweakments, including skin-boosting injectables and fillers.

You will be served tailor-made, nutritionally balanced menus throughout your stay – but rest assured that, unless weight loss is a goal, there are no broth-based, hunger-inducing meal plans. Perhaps surprisingly for a wellness destination, one of the biggest draws for guests is the food, served in the opulent, chandelier-lit dining-room, since every dish – and there are more than 1,000 in the hotel’s recipe book – is conceived by the garlanded German chef Heinz Beck. "We don’t want guests to feel like they’re at a clinic," says the lead physician Professor David Della Morte Canosci. "It’s a holiday, after all." The Complete Life Rewind programme at Palazzo Fiuggi with Healing Holidays costs from £9,805 a person for a seven-night stay, including transfers and full-board accommodation

Eleven Deplar Farm, Iceland: best for an energy reboot

Winter can be a challenging time for wellness, when the temptation is to hole up in a cosy corner with a box of chocolates rather than doing vigorous exercise in the cold. Eleven Life’s new Live Well Retreat at Eleven Deplar Farm has a counterintuitive approach, flying a select group of guests to the darkest reaches of Iceland for a taste of ‘sensory-driven’ Nordic adventure. "The time of year is very important in connecting people to place, and to themselves," explains Hannah Smith, the head of product development at Eleven.

The retreat is centred around four pillars of health: movement, breath, nourishment and connection. First on your agenda might be a yoga class, before you set off on horseback or cross-country skis to explore the Troll Peninsula, breaking for a lakeside lunch. (Deprivation is not on the menu: the delicious food is locally sourced, while the in-house chef, Gardar Gardarsson, was named Iceland’s finest in 2018.) The afternoon might see you undergo a Viking sauna ritual – which takes place on a hillock believed to be inhabited by elves – or a Tata Harper treatment in the 10,000-square-foot spa while, after a sea-to-table supper, a sound-healing session or a sleep-focused meditation class will prepare you for restorative slumber.

A former sheep farm, Deplar has been transformed into an oasis of pure luxury. The 13 bedrooms are furnished in a simple yet cosily elegant style – think open fires, hardwood furniture and underfloor heating in the bathrooms – while huge windows offer glorious views. There’s a media room to relax in, but the spa is the crowning glory. Alongside the sauna, steam-room, hot tubs, flotation tanks and treatment rooms, it is home to a geothermally heated indoor/outdoor pool with a swim-up bar. Sitting in the water, surrounded by clouds of steam while watching the Northern Lights glittering overhead, is a soul-nourishing experience guaranteed to reawaken the joy of living. "People always want a quick fix," says Smith. "But this is about making little changes that have a big impact and long-term effects." Live Well Retreats at Eleven Deplar Farm cost from £7,572 a person for a three-night stay, including activities, necessary gear, pre-arrival planning with an Eleven experience manager, chef-prepared meals, drinks and an in-room minibar

The Kusnacht Practice, Switzerland: Best for rebalancing

a pool with a deck and chairs by it and a tree

At this super-exclusive treatment centre set in the serene Swiss landscape, scientific excellence is paired with first-class hospitality. With only 12 villas (one per guest) and some 90 professionals to cater for your needs – from doctors to chefs and personal trainers – you’d be hard-pressed to find somewhere where your wellness experience will be more personalised and thorough.

Kusnacht’s Bio-R programme focuses on biomolecular restoration: the recalibration of your body, mind and energy through science. Bone density, muscle health, genetics, brain age and an extensive psychiatric evaluation are all taken into consideration when proposing treatments, the goal of which isn’t necessarily to cure a specific ailment, but to achieve peak physical and mental health.

Tailored supplementation and hyperbaric chambers are just a couple of the services available to the practice’s ultra-high-net-worth clients (who include CEOs and entrepreneurs, royalty and billionaires) as part of a comprehensive but constantly adjusted plan. A stay at Kusnacht – from one week, though many choose to stay for six or more – is a big investment, but one that is bound to repay itself; after all, you can’t put a price on your health.

A seven-night stay at the Kusnacht Practice , price on application

Clinique La Prairie, Switzerland: Best for a mind and body reboot

If one chooses to undergo a life transformation – with all the dark moments of the soul that entails – there’s no lovelier place to do it than Clinique La Prairie, nestled beside the picture-postcard Swiss town of Montreux. Founded in 1931, the clinic has a reputation as the world’s most exclusive health destination, with just 38 rooms and the discreet ambience of a grand old hotel. It’s the original medi-spa, built on pillars of evidence-based medicine, wellness, nutrition and movement.

These have been refined over time – the menu now is mostly vegan and Michelin-star-worthy (no starvation here!), while the revitalisation programme, which once involved foetal-lamb-liver injections, is about genetic testing and stem-cell therapy. It’s down to the dynamic CEO, Simone Gibertoni, who is leading a modernisation process that includes a range of ultra-luxe ‘longevity supplements’ to bring health home. A seven-day stay resulted in a seven-kilo weight loss and a miraculous shift in mindset.

The Master Detox programme at Clinique La Prairie costs from £15,000 for a week-long stay

Palacio Estoril, Portugal: Best for a dipping your toe in

This 1930s monument on the Portuguese riviera (where Ian Fleming supposedly wrote Casino Royale at the bar and British and German spies filled the tables during the Second World War) is a glamorous location for any type of holiday. But if you are going to go down the wellness route, why not do it in style?

With a menu of retreats, from a four day reformer pilates bootcamp to seven day 'holistic de-stress' programme, whatever your ailment or goal there should be something for you. Specialities include water shiatsu and osteopathy, and the wellness centre offers unlimited access to pools, saunas, Turkish baths and hydrotherapy. And there's of course the bar, for a martini, if you so wish...

Palacio Wellness Programme from £1,220 for seven days not including accommodation

Buchinger Wilhelmi, Germany: Best for mindful consumption

Situated by the northern shores of Lake Constance in Germany, Buchinger Wilhelmi is known as one of the world’s leading clinics for therapeutic fasting. The property, which has just celebrated its centenary with a full renovation, is now under the leadership of Leo Wilhelmi, the great-grandson of its founder Dr Otto Buchinger.

Days begin with tea in bed, followed by checks on blood pressure, weight and blood-sugar levels with one of the programme’s seven doctors. An optional meditation session could be followed by swims in the heated outdoor pool, Nordic walking, yoga, qi gong, t’ai chi, dance and art classes, or spa treatments. Mindful fasting is at the heart of the plan, but there is also a focus on understanding the balance between exercise and rest, hunger and repletion, inspiration and relaxation. As Wilhelmi puts it: "While the body fasts, the mind and soul need to be nourished."

A 10-day fasting programme at Buchinger Wilhelmi costs from £2,340 a person; shorter, non-fasting stays are available, from £218 a night

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American Retirees Flock to This International Destination — and It's Got Great Health Care, Low Taxes, and High Quality of Life

Hint: it’s in Europe.

georgeclerk/GETTY IMAGES

Retiring abroad is trending among senior Americans. According to the Social Security Administration, the number of U.S. citizens receiving their benefits abroad has risen from 413,000 to 760,000 in three years , and 38 percent of them relocated to Europe.

But a new report gives more clarity on where Americans can go for the best health care, quality of life, and security. According to Global Citizen Solutions, a visa and relocation consulting company, Spain and Portugal are the most popular retirement destinations among senior U.S. citizens.

Spain scored a perfect 100 out of 100 for quality of life, which was assessed based on factors like health care, climate, and flight accessibility.

"With a public health care system and affordable supplementary private insurance options, Spain prioritizes the well-being of its residents, a key factor that entices retirees to relocate," Laura Madrid, research lead at Global Citizen Solutions, told Travel + Leisure . "Moreover, Spain offers an excellent public transportation network, known for its efficiency and affordability a plus for retirees ditching the daily use of private cars."

Portugal is a very close second with 99.79 points in the overall rankings. The report notes that in recent years, many Americans have settled in both countries for sunny weather and access to affordable health care.

“A lower cost of living is also an important factor in the decision to relocate, with living expenses in Spain and Portugal being considerably lower compared to other European nations and the U.S. Moreover, both nations offer special tax regimes for expatriates during their initial years of residence, making the Iberian Peninsula even more appealing,” the report states.

In the overall ranking, Costa Rica is third, and Uruguay and Mexico are fourth and fifth, respectively.

However, a slightly different picture emerges in the quality of life category, where our southern neighbor takes the silver medal, and Portugal drops one spot to No. 3. The winner in the economics category, which measured factors like cost of living, tax optimization, and rent prices, is Malaysia, which offers foreigners financial incentives like no tax on foreign-sourced income. (Americans living abroad still need to pay taxes in the U.S.)

When it comes to social factors like migrant acceptance and integration, the top retirement destination is New Zealand.

The report also identified the leading factors for retiring abroad. Affordable housing options, quality health care, and tax incentives are the top three motivators for seniors when choosing to retire in a foreign country. An increasing number of adults also opt to spend their golden years outside the borders of our country to acquire a second citizenship “as a strategic insurance plan,” according to the report.

You can see the full report on globalcitizenssolutions.com .

Zurich Insurance Buys AIG Travel Business in $600 Million Deal

FILE PHOTO: The AIG logo is seen at its building in New York's financial district March 19, 2015.REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo

By John Revill

ZURICH (Reuters) -Zurich Insurance on Wednesday announced a $600 million deal to buy AIG's global personal travel insurance and assistance business.

The business will be combined with Zurich's travel insurance provider Cover-More Group (Cover-More) and will expand its footprint in the United States, Zurich said.

The acquisition, which is expected to close before the end of 2024, will result in combined annual gross written premiums of approximately $2 billion for the enlarged Cover-More Group.

"Travel insurance is a priority for us," said Cara Morton, CEO Zurich Global Ventures.

"This transaction is a great strategic fit, which enhances Zurich's existing capabilities and makes us a leading travel insurance provider across all regions," she added.

(Editing by Ludwig Burger)

Tags: Switzerland , United States , Europe

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12 things to know before traveling to Georgia

Jun 26, 2024 • 5 min read

With its beautiful but rugged mountain ranges, rich culture and Soviet past, Georgia once had a reputation as a challenging travel destination loved by intrepid backpackers. Luckily, it could hardly be easier to visit Georgia these days, and it’s no coincidence that much of the country’s economy is now based on tourism.

I’ve been visiting Georgia for more than 20 years, and I’ve seen the country transform almost beyond recognition in many respects, while also remaining reassuringly familiar in others. Few countries can boast the charms that win Georgia so many converts among first-time visitors , and it’s rare not to hear people raving about the country after finally getting to visit. Here are a few of the tips I frequently find myself sharing with those about to discover the delights of the country locals call Saqartvelo.

An old city with a church perched on a hill and spreading out downwards towards more modern structures near the river

1. Give yourself plenty of time to explore

Georgia appears small on a map, leading some first-time visitors to assume it can be seen in just a few days. But due to a combination of mountainous terrain and infrastructural shortcomings, that’s not the case — travel times between regions are significant. Budget at least three full days to explore the capital, Tbilisi , while I’d recommend spending at least a full week in the country to explore some of the best places to visit in Georgia . Internal flights to the mountains allow you to save a day’s driving in each direction if you are very pressed for time.

2. Pack clothes for all climates

The summer can be stiflingly hot in the lowlands, but as soon as you reach any altitude, let alone the High Caucasus themselves, the temperature plummets and you’ll need a fleece and jacket, even in July. Georgia is generally very relaxed about how people dress, with the only exception being in churches, where skin is best not exposed and where women are expected to cover their heads or don (church-provided) wrap skirts to cover up their pants.

3. Be prepared for some rough roads if you’re driving

Any experienced driver who has driven abroad before should feel fine taking the wheel here. Georgia’s roads have improved immeasurably in the past 20 years, and the vast majority are now sealed, though they remain predominantly single-lane, frequently studded with potholes, and lacking in markings or lighting at night. Nowadays it’s only the famously daunting road to Tusheti that should only be attempted by confident drivers in 4WD vehicles.

4. Locals give far better advice than apps about driving routes

You may be used to having your apps decide what route you take between two given points at home, but Georgia is not somewhere to entrust your journey to a tech giant. While apps are often very helpful, you should always ask locals before setting out on a long car journey, as what your app might not be able to tell you is how good the road it recommends is or even how surfaced it is. Often in the South Caucasus, it pays to take the more circuitous route!

Two hikers follow a path towards a moutain peak passing a small settlement

5. Keep an eye out for sheepdogs in the mountains

Sheepdogs in the Caucasus are bred to be fierce and can potentially be dangerous, so give them a wide berth when hiking in the mountains and carry a stick if possible. For this reason, when walking in the mountains, do also avoid walking too closely to herds of livestock – even if you can’t see a sheepdog, one may suddenly appear from nowhere, which might be an unpleasant surprise.

6. Be aware of political sensitivities

While speaking Russian can be very useful with older people who are unlikely to speak English, do bear in mind that to many younger people, it’s considered a colonial relic imposed on the country by an empire that continues to occupy around 20% of Georgia’s sovereign territory. The breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia (to which many governments advise against all travel ) are both emotive issues for Georgians, so broach them delicately if you want to ask locals for their views on the subject.

7. Take it easy on the chacha

Georgia’s far stronger version of grappa, chacha is the national drink and you’ll almost certainly run into it during your visit. While commercially produced varieties are around 40% proof, homebrews can be twice as strong, so do genuinely proceed with caution when you inevitably find yourself handed a glass.

8. Don’t toast with beer

Georgians only toast their enemies with beer, so make sure you have a glass of wine or chacha to hand if you’re lucky enough to attend a traditional Georgian feast, or supra (dinner party). Toasts, which are elaborate and usually led by a specially selected toast giver (tamada) , have their own myriad rules, but it’s easy enough to follow along and just drink when everybody else does.

The top of a turreted castle on the edge of a green lake

9. Rural areas can be very conservative

Spend a weekend in Tbilisi and you might come away with a rather unrepresentative sense of just how progressive Georgians are. A trip to a remote area, particularly the mountains, will soon even things out. While the people are delightful and welcoming, there’s no denying that the patriarchy still looms large in rural areas and attitudes that some may consider old-fashioned remain common. If you’re not married and don’t have kids, be prepared to field some fairly direct questions about why on earth you don’t.

10. Drink bottled water in the lowlands

The water in the mountains is generally of excellent quality and perfectly safe to drink, but it’s always safest to drink the bottled variety, which is plentiful and very cheap, in the lowlands, particularly in bigger cities. On the plus side, this does at least give you plenty of chances to try Georgia’s much-loved and unique mineral water Borjomi.

11. Use Tbilisi’s underpasses to cross busy roads

The Georgian capital is not a great place for crossing the road, particularly along Rustaveli, Tbilisi’s busy main avenue. Luckily, dozens of underpasses allow you to cross the road safely — it’s wise to use them, as one look at the febrile traffic situation is likely to confirm.

12. In big cities, a small tip will be appreciated

Hot on the heels of international tourism, tipping has now well and truly arrived in Georgia, though it’s still limited to Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi for the most part. In general, leaving a 10% cash tip when you’ve had good service is appropriate in mid-range and top-end restaurants, but not always expected. Do be aware that tips left on credit cards are unlikely to make their way into the hands of your server, though.

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Japan is dealing with a 'flesh-eating bacteria' outbreak. Here's what we know about STSS and how to avoid infection

An electron microscope image of Group A Streptococcus bacteria interacting with a human neutrophil

You may have seen alarming headlines warning of a deadly outbreak in Japan over the past few days.

Some outlets have used terms like "flesh-eating bacteria" and "kills in two days", which has sparked international interest.

But Japanese authorities say this wording is an exaggeration of a potential symptom of an infection that is rarely spread to others.

Let's unpack what we know about the disease and the story spreading around the world.

What is the bacterial infection in Japan?

The clinical term for the disease is streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS).

According to NSW Health, it's an infection caused by group A bacteria entering the bloodstream or deep tissue.

This kind of bacteria usually causes mild infections like strep throat in children but certain strains can escalate quickly and lead to invasive group A streptococcal disease (iGAS).

If that sounds familiar, you may have read about cases of iGAS on the rise in Australia last year.

STSS is considered a complication of iGAS that can "develop very quickly into a life-threatening emergency".

How quickly is STSS spreading in Japan?

Japan''s National Institute of Infectious Diseases issued a statement in March warning rates were increasing.

As of June 2, reported cases of STSS in Japan were about 977.

That's quite a leap on the previous period — Japan recorded 941 cases across the entirety of 2023.

Here are the Japanese case numbers from the past few years:

CNN reports this year has already seen the highest number of cases reported in Japan since the current recording method began .

It's not exactly clear why cases are on the rise but Japanese health authorities say a rise in respiratory infections is correlated with COVID-19 measures being relaxed.

Tokyo Women's Medical University professor Ken Kikuchi told Japan's national broadcaster, NHK, people's immune systems were weakened during lockdown.

"We can boost immunity if we are constantly exposed to bacteria but that mechanism was absent during the coronavirus pandemic," he said.

"So, more people are now susceptible to infection, and that may be one reason for the sharp rise in cases."

It's also worth noting the trend isn't limited to Japan.

There have also been increases recorded in Europe.

How does it spread?

It's difficult to say.

While people with open wounds are at an increased risk of contracting STSS, it's not known how the bacteria gets into the bodies of nearly half the people who are diagnosed.

The NSW Health Department says the following groups are most susceptible:

Older adults and children
People with diabetes
People with alcohol use disorder
People undergoing treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
People with an immunodeficiency

What are the symptoms of STSS?

Early symptoms include:

Fever and chills
Muscle aches
Nausea and vomiting

About 24 to 48 hours after the first symptoms start, the following symptoms may develop:

Low blood pressure
Organ failure
A faster-than-normal heart rate
Rapid breathing
The death of body tissue

The death of body tissue, which is also known as necrosis, is where the "flesh-eating bacteria" name has come from.

How is it treated?

People with STSS need to receive care at a hospital.

Australia's national public health information service Healthdirect says the disease is treated with antibiotics.

Surgery may also be required to remove the source of infection.

Are there any travel warnings?

At this stage, you don't need to cancel any travel plans.

Smartraveller, the Australian government's travel advice website, hasn't listed STSS as a health risk for travellers in Japan.

The World Health Organisation also hasn't recommended any travel restrictions for countries experiencing outbreaks.

Even though cases are on the rise, it's still considered very rare for someone with STSS to spread the infection to others.

But the CDC warns "less severe group A strep infections can turn into STSS and these bacteria are contagious".

How can I keep safe?

There's no vaccine available, so the best way to avoid infection is to maintain good hygiene.

That includes:

Washing your hands often and using hand sanitiser
Washing your body and hair often with soap and clean, running water
Keeping any wounds clean and bandaged until they heal
Avoid bodies of water like hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, rivers and oceans if you have an open wound
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'Rare' strep A infections have jumped in Queensland, with a childcare worker currently in hospital

a young woman sick with a cold sitting on a bed blowing her nose with a tissue

A surge in severe strep A infections has prompted health warnings. Here's what we know

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