Spa Natural Center and Flavio Acuña reaffirm at DATE 2025 the role of the Dominican Republic as a leading wellness tourism destination
In a rapidly changing world where travelers no longer seek just rest but transformation, wellness tourism is emerging as one of the strongest pillars of sustainable tourism development. In that context, the recent edition of DATE 2025 (Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange), held from May 14 to 16 at the Barceló Bávaro Convention Center, served as the ideal platform to showcase how the Dominican Republic is steadily advancing toward regional leadership in wellness tourism.
Among the event’s most prominent figures was Flavio Acuña, CEO of Spa Natural Center, who for over three decades has worked to position the country as an international benchmark for health, reconnection, and holistic wellness experiences. His presence did not go unnoticed: both for his participation in key panels and for the Spa Natural Center stand, which received numerous visits from tour operators, hoteliers, tourism developers, and media outlets.
A new tourism standard: wellness as a driver of transformation
During his participation, Flavio Acuña shared data that confirms the unstoppable rise of wellness tourism: over $6.3 trillion generated globally in 2024, with projections placing it at $1.3 trillion by 2030, driven by an annual growth rate of 25%. Within this outlook, he emphasized the role that the Dominican Republic can and must assume as the Caribbean epicenter for wellness retreats, longevity tourism, and regenerative experiences.
“We’re not talking about a complementary service. We’re talking about the central axis of today’s tourism experience. Today’s traveler doesn’t just want to rest—they want to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with a deeper sense of purpose. Wellness is what truly transforms, builds loyalty, and sets a destination apart in the contemporary world,” Acuña stated before a diverse audience that included hospitality leaders, government representatives, and international partners.
Conscious retreats, sustainability, and active longevity
One of the points that resonated most was the reference to post-pandemic travel dynamics, where visitors now prioritize natural settings, digital detox, mindful breathing, and practices that enhance holistic health. From meditation sessions under the stars to treatments rooted in traditional medicine or phytotherapy, today’s travelers seek experiences that help them heal, reconnect, and live in greater balance.
In this regard, Acuña emphasized the opportunity for the Dominican Republic to position itself as an ideal destination for boutique retreats, wellness clinics, active longevity programs, and eco-therapeutic offerings. “From Cabarete to Samaná, including Miches, Bayahibe, and Punta Cana, we are already seeing hotels taking steps toward health- and nature-centered models. The next big leap will be integrating that vision into the planning of national tourism development,” he added.
International Representation and Institutional Support
Flavio Acuña has not only been a pioneer in placing wellness at the heart of Dominican tourism; he has also succeeded in representing the country at high-level global forums. Currently, he is a member of seven of the eight most influential wellness and health tourism organizations in the world, including:
- WITT (Wellness International Tourism & Travel)
- World Wellness Weekend, evento que en 2024 impactó a más de 430 millones de personas en 150 países.
- Asociación Iberoamericana de Turismo Wellness & Health
- Asociación Latinoamericana de Spa
- Asociación Americana de Spa
- World Association of Wellness Tourism
- ODM International Elite Therapist Member
This institutional backing was also reflected in Spa Natural Center’s presence at DATE 2025, with a stand focused on offering expert guidance, detailed information, and strategic orientation about the center’s services and programs, as well as the international representation efforts led by Flavio Acuña.
Wellness and longevity: the great challenge for the future of tourism
Another key point in Acuña’s presentation was the demographic shift: by 2050, it is estimated that one in four people worldwide will be over the age of 65. This segment will not only live longer, but will also be more active and wellness-conscious. In this context, the Dominican Republic has a unique opportunity to attract senior travelers who prioritize health, mobility, mindful nutrition, and regenerative environments.
He also emphasized that public policies must align with this vision, by improving access to green spaces, promoting sustainability, and training tourism professionals to meet this growing demand with both expertise and empathy.
Spa Natural Center: a brand committed to the evolution of tourism
From its base in Punta Cana, Spa Natural Center has advised hotel chains, resorts, clinics, and public sector entities seeking to integrate the wellness model in a comprehensive and sustainable way. Beyond individual treatments or therapies, its approach focuses on transforming spaces, processes, and value propositions, helping to shape destinations that are more human, healthy, and responsible.
“The Dominican Republic has everything it takes to become one of the world’s leading wellness tourism destinations. But achieving this requires vision, commitment, and joint action between the private sector and public institutions,” Acuña concluded.
The Dominican Republic is transforming through wellness
DATE 2025 was not just a tourism fair—it was a statement of purpose and a clear reflection of where global tourism is heading. In this new landscape, wellness is no longer a trend; it has become the new standard of tourism excellence. With strategic vision, international experience, and a deep commitment to social transformation, Spa Natural Center and Flavio Acuña are positioning the Dominican Republic among the destinations best prepared to lead this shift.
Because today’s traveler is no longer looking to escape—they are looking to heal, reconnect, and evolve. And wellness tourism is the way forward.
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