Interview with Jean-Guy de Gabriac
1. How did you start WWW and why do you believe in this initiative?
As a consultant specialized in guest experience for spa and hospitality since 2001, I believe that we are “stronger together”. Wellness professionals should be considered as “essential workers” for the many benefits they bring to the public on a physical, mental, emotional point of view.
In 2017, I suggested to my network that we all “open” our doors to the public on the 3rd week-end of September. 160 venues joined in 2017, 600 in 2018. The World Wellness Weekend continued to grow during the pandemic with a lot of online activities to strengthen immunity and boost vitality and serenity. 2,300 venues particiopated in this pro-bono global wellness event in 2021.
2. Is it difficult to host such an event simultaneously on different continents and cities?
As Victor Hugo wrote “Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come.” With the help of 140 volunteer Ambassadors & Coordinators, and the support of 11 wellness brands we have created an agile network of professionals. We have received the official support of 7 Ministers of Tourism, Health and Sports, 6 Governors and 30 Mayors. The support of Town Halls and Visitors bureaus make a big difference in the preparation.
3. How are different territories responding to the events? Are there people from specific countries or cities who are more in need of these events?
Wellness professionals in Latin America are definitely the most engaged and organized, especially in Brasil, Dominican Republic (especially with the support of Rotary clubs), Argentina, Chile…
The next most active region is Asia Pacific, especially in Vietnam (with the support of the Hue Tourism Bureau and Fusion Resorts), Indonesia (with the support of the Ubud Hospitality Association and 140 clubs from Celebrity Fitness and Fitness First participating), Japan (with the support of Japan Sport Tourism Alliance, (Fitness Industry Association Japan, (Japan Fitness Association) including
In “Incredible India” the TAJ Hotels group is fully participating with 60 venues, being the most active hospitality group in the world!
In Europe, Italy is by far the most dynamic country with the support of Val di Fiemme, and so many grandiose activities in Sardinia, Sicily, and cities like Florence, Rome, Milano, Torino, Alassio, Capomelle…
Spain is joining for the first time on a grand scale with Marbella on the forefront, as well as over 90 professionals participating in the city of Jerez / Cadix, and over 80 in Grand Canaria
4. Tell us more about your partners and how do they support your programme?
More than 60 professional federations are supporting World Wellness Weekend, encouraging their members to participate, especially IHRSA (International Health Racquet Sportclub Association) ; CIDESCO International ; Wellness Tourism Association ; Asociacion Americana de Spa ; Leading spas of Canada ; Sustainable Spa Association ; International Massage Association ; International Sauna Association and for the first time the International Coaching Federation showcasing how Coaching can truly empower people, address stress & anxiety, promote mental health, and foster personal growth and professional development.
5. What are some highlights from this year’s event?
The focus of the 6th annual edition of the World Wellness Weekend is “Living Well Together” especially after two years of pandemics and social distancing.
In partnership with the European Week of Sports, fun, free, inclusive Yoga sessions and Fitness classes will be available in about 140 countries, encouraging people to be more active, more often, with friends and family as their “wellness buddies”.
Many guided relaxations will be conducted across the globe with an intention for “Inner peace and World peace” to promote Mental Health and Serenity.
Many Ambassadors are following our connection with the UNITED NATIONS’ 3rd SDG (Good Health and Well-being for All”). They will be offering free activities for mothers with kids in intensive care (Colombia), under privileged women in Argentina and the Dominican Republic…
6. How do you measure the impact of the event following an edition? What are the most fascinating findings you came across?
We measure the growth of World Wellness Weekend through our website in 18 languages with a geolocator. Already we are seeing a significant growth in the number of participating venues (over 3,000 in 2022 vs. 2,300 in 2021). Last year 52 hours of wellness videos were posted on social media channels to share tips and classes with a global audience. 37% of venues organized activities on two days, and 52% organized 2 to 5 activities to reach a wide audience. This year we are measuring the reach and impact on social media. Numbers will be announced in October after the event. Stay tuned for more…
