India has been recognized as one of the top 10 most active countries during the 2024 World Wellness Weekend, a global event aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and overall well-being. The eighth edition of this event ran from September 20 to 22, involving 9,688 venues in 155 countries—a notable 54% increase from the previous year’s participation. Activities spanned from sunrise in Fiji to sunset in Maui, showcasing a unified global effort to prioritize health.

The event's reach expanded significantly, with over 1,000 new venues joining in the last four weeks leading up to the weekend. The participating locations were listed on wellmap.org, an interactive platform available in 18 languages, allowing people to find nearby activities such as fitness sessions, yoga, and massage workshops.

India stood out among countries like Spain, Italy, Brazil, Japan, and Mexico in terms of active participation. Marbella, Spain, led in venue numbers, while Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, offered the most diverse activities. Other active cities included Sao Paulo, Rome, and Buenos Aires.

World Wellness Weekend emphasized various categories: vitality, beauty, hospitality, holistic care, and longevity, covering fitness clubs, spas, hotels, wellness centers, and alternative therapy clinics. The 2024 event was also marked by new records: a 100% rise in estimated views (reaching 34 million) and social media engagement that attracted a potential audience of 3.5 billion—an impressive leap from the 430 million seen in 2023.

Highlights included the first-ever four-day wellness event, a Yoga Fest in Karatsu, Japan, supported by the city’s Town Hall. Portugal hosted the first “World Wellness Wedding,” showcasing the theme's versatility. Additionally, two renowned circus groups from Cambodia joined the weekend festivities, offering performances that highlighted the importance of well-being through art and movement.

World Wellness Weekend aligns with the World Health Organization’s efforts to address global issues like obesity, physical inactivity, and mental health. The event aims to reach beyond paying clients to include local communities and underserved groups, reinforcing the principle of #WellnessForAll. Throughout the year, the participating venues continue to appear on wellmap.org, encouraging ongoing community engagement and wellness activities.

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Marriott Bonvoy Resorts across the Caribbean have taken wellness to the next level by introducing a variety of outdoor activities that offer a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure. From yoga under the open sky to invigorating snorkeling tours, these resorts invite guests to reconnect with nature, boosting both physical and mental well-being.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino: This resort offers the unique desert bathing experience, designed to immerse guests in nature while enhancing mindfulness. Couples can enjoy a picnic with nutritious snacks, a yoga session, and a relaxing massage, all set in serene natural surroundings. This carefully crafted wellness package is ideal for those looking to de-stress and recharge.

The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas: For adventure seekers, the luxurious 65-foot catamaran Lady Lynsey II offers an exclusive island-hopping tour through the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. The itinerary includes snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of St. John’s Trunk Bay and a visit to the renowned Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke. This trip combines fitness, fun, and relaxation in some of the Caribbean’s most scenic locales.

Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino: Here, guests can explore one of Puerto Rico’s magical bioluminescent bays on a guided kayak tour. Paddling through the glowing waters of Bio Bay is not only a visual spectacle but also a meditative and invigorating experience, perfect for reconnecting with nature and enhancing overall well-being.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico: Couples can challenge themselves on one of Puerto Rico’s most scenic golf courses at this stunning resort. The course’s coastal backdrop offers not just a physical challenge but also an opportunity for relaxation and mindfulness, with every swing becoming a meditative experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman: Guests are invited to embark on a serene Botanical Tour, wandering through beautifully landscaped gardens rich in native and exotic plants. With fragrant air and peaceful surroundings, the experience encourages reflection and mindfulness while providing a deeper appreciation of the island's diverse flora.

JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort and Spa: Outdoor wellness activities such as water aerobics and beachside yoga are just a few of the options at this resort. With a private beach, lush surroundings, and the vibrant Caribbean Sea, this resort provides an idyllic setting for a wellness retreat.

Curacao Marriott Beach Resort: This hidden gem is perfect for family vacations, offering a full calendar of wellness events. From snorkeling and kayaking to aquarobics and ATV tours, guests can enjoy activities that promote fitness and family bonding. The resort’s new guided snorkeling sessions, starting in October, are a highlight for families wanting to explore the vibrant marine life together.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Marriott Bonvoy Resorts in the Caribbean offer experiences that cater to every wellness need. From calming yoga sessions to exhilarating island-hopping excursions, these resorts combine luxury, nature, and wellness, ensuring every guest leaves rejuvenated and refreshed.

For more information about these wellness experiences, visit Marriott Bonvoy.

The Marriott India Business Council celebrated the 10th anniversary of its social initiative, “Road to Give,” bringing together associates across multiple countries to participate in fitness activities for charitable causes. Over the past decade, the initiative has promoted both physical well-being and social responsibility, leaving a lasting impact on communities.

Since the program’s launch, “Road to Give” has encouraged Marriott employees to engage in activities such as running, walking, cycling, and wellness challenges. This year, around 9,000 to 10,000 associates from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka joined these efforts. The events are aimed at raising INR 1.20 crore (approx.) in donations to support Rising Star Outreach of India, a Chennai-based NGO that provides vocational training and social programs for individuals affected by leprosy.

Participating hotels, including Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan, led various fitness events and challenges, highlighting Marriott’s dedication to uplifting communities. According to the organizers, the initiative has evolved into a key part of the company’s social responsibility framework, fostering teamwork among employees while enabling charities to extend their reach.

Reflecting on the journey, Sanjay Gupta, Chairman of the Marriott India Business Council, remarked, “Ten years of ‘Road to Give’ is a testament to our associates’ unwavering dedication to service and community engagement. This initiative not only fostered teamwork and camaraderie but also reinforced our commitment to the communities we are privileged to serve. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain determined to continue our journey of creating positive change together.”

To mark the occasion, Marriott encouraged associates, partners, and the broader community to join the celebrations by participating in events or donating to the cause. The council emphasized that every step taken, every mile covered, and every donation made contributes toward building a better future for the community.

The “Road to Give” initiative exemplifies Marriott’s long-term commitment to promoting fitness and philanthropy, creating a culture of giving that extends beyond the workplace. With each passing year, the campaign has successfully mobilized thousands of employees, raising significant funds and positively impacting lives across the region.