In the heart of Scotland, beside the storied waters of St. Andrews, the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) is preparing to mark a defining moment in the wellness industry. This year’s gathering—set for November 4th through 7th—carries the fitting theme, “A Watershed Moment for Wellness,” signaling both a turning point and a celebration for an industry on the cusp of transformative change.
Amid ancient golf courses and the historic charm of cobbled streets, participants will gather in a setting that seamlessly blends beauty, history, and hospitality. As Susie Ellis, Co-Founder, Global Wellness Institute (GWI) and GWS, and Nancy Davis, Chief Creative Officer, GWI, recently reported, “Momentum is building for the 2024 Summit, and we are thrilled to share why St. Andrews is the perfect backdrop for this year’s gathering.”
A Setting Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
The allure of St. Andrews—where the sea meets expansive skies—sets the tone for a summit grounded in tradition but forward-thinking in purpose. Delegates will have the opportunity to explore the town’s cultural and spiritual roots through curated walking tours, including one led by Martin Palmer, illuminating the deeper significance of the area.
“The land here holds a mysticism,” Ellis and Davis remarked. “You can sense the history as you walk the same fairways where legends of golf once stood.” St. Andrews’ reputation as a wellness destination is further underscored by the warmth of its people, whose hospitality will be front and center throughout the event.
Exploring Wellness Through Local Culture
Jeremy Jauncey, a local, and founder of Beautiful Destinations, will take the stage with Greg O’Hara, chairman of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), to discuss the rise of wellness tourism. Attendees will get a taste of Scotland’s rich culinary heritage with modern twists. Traditional dishes, including haggis—reimagined with vegan options—will be featured at the Summit’s opening reception, hosted by Kohler Co. and the iconic Old Course Hotel. Playful anecdotes from Ellis and Davis about sampling authentic haggis underscore the immersive culinary experience delegates can expect.
Kohler Waters Spa pool; photo courtesy Kohler
Reimagining Wellness at the Kohler Waters Spa
Wellness experiences at the summit extend beyond conversations, with delegates invited to rejuvenate at the newly redesigned Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel. Extended hours allow attendees to explore innovations like the Espuro foam steam bath, an experience Ellis described as “very social.” Thoughtfully designed by Klafs—now a Kohler company—the spa offers moments of rejuvenation and connection.
A Robust Agenda with a Global Vision
The summit’s agenda reflects the dynamic nature of today’s wellness industry, promising cutting-edge insights on everything from biohacking and mental wellness to spa innovations and reimagined hospitality. New research from GWI will be unveiled, with industry leaders speculating whether the global wellness economy—currently valued at $5.6 trillion—will continue its upward trajectory.
Water, a central theme of this year’s event, will be explored in various forms, from cold plunges and ice baths to thermal and mineral springs. “Wild swimming,” an increasingly popular practice, awaits the adventurous on the morning of November 8th.
Key speakers such as Anna Dyson and Christopher Sharples will discuss the intersection of sustainable design, architecture, and wellbeing, while Martin Penrose and Timothy Amscombe-Bell will lead discussions on circular design principles, emphasizing sustainability at every level.
A Celebration of Scottish Heritage
In addition to thought-provoking panels, the summit promises lively cultural experiences, from traditional bagpipe performances to spirited Ceilidh dancing. “The Scottish pride and culture will be woven into every event,” Ellis and Davis emphasized. Each day will offer opportunities to celebrate the country’s heritage, with the festivities culminating in the announcement of the next summit location.
Navigating a New Era for Wellness
With water as both a literal and metaphorical guide, the GWS is leading the charge into a future that embraces the healing properties of the natural world while advocating for sustainable practices. “The wellness industry is evolving,” Ellis and Davis said, “and together, we are ready to navigate these uncharted waters.”
This year’s Global Wellness Summit promises more than networking and new business ventures—it offers a shared sense of purpose and responsibility.
Mary Bemis
Mary Bemis is Founder & Editorial Director of InsidersGuidetoSpas.com. An advocate for all things spa, Mary forged a vocabulary for spa reportage that is widely used by those who cover the issues today. Recently honored as a Top 30 Influential Voice Transforming Wellness by Medika Life, Mary is an inaugural honoree of Folio’s Top Women in Media Award. Her spa media roots run deep—in 1997, she launched American Spa magazine, in 2007, she co-founded Organic Spa magazine, and in between serving on the ISPA and NYSPA Board of Directors, she was on the launch teams of Luxury SpaFinder and New Beauty magazines. Named a "Wonder Woman of Wellness" by American Spa magazine, Mary was honored by the International Spa Association with the distinguished ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award. She is a special advisor to the non-profit Global Wellness Day.
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