Adventure travel is the new therapy – here’s the science that proves it

With its wide range of health benefits, wellness travel is surging in popularity. It prompts the question: could travel be the new therapy?

As our daily lives grow busier with never-ending to-do lists, group chats and constant notifications, it’s no wonder wellness tourism is booming. Craving deeper sleep, nourishing food, immersive nature and meaningful experiences, travellers want to return home feeling rejuvenated, now more than ever before. In fact, the Global Wellness Institute projects the wellness tourism market will reach $1.3 trillion in 2025, as travellers increasingly seek escapes that offer more than just sightseeing.

If you’re looking for once-in-a-lifetime adventures paired with all-inclusive laid-back luxury and an informal and authentic atmosphere, HX Expeditions might be your ideal wellness escape. With HX, the journey is just as transformative as the destination.

Here are eight scientifically backed reasons why travel can rewire your wellbeing – and why a trip with HX is one of the best ways to travel well.

1. Unplug to recharge

Before smartphones – when the screeching symphony of dial-up tones rang out from our desktop computers – our attention spans were longer and our collective happiness was arguably higher. Today, our average attention span has plummeted to eight seconds, and our mental wellbeing often feels like it’s hanging on by a thread. The antidote? Digital detoxing. Proven to boost mental health, subjective wellbeing and enhance sustained attention, disconnecting while travelling can lead to more meaningful trips and greater happiness.

Each HX vessel is designed to help you unplug and reconnect with nature – there are no loud casinos or theatres here. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the ship with natural light and immersive, awe-inspiring views, from towering Antarctic icebergs to the magical green glow of the Northern Lights.

Unplug to notice the world around you. (Image: Cody Duncan)

2. Why solitude isn’t selfish

Taking time for yourself can often feel a little indulgent, but it couldn’t be further from it. Reconnecting with yourself, quieting your mind and putting your wellbeing first is not only proven to reduce stress but enhances creativity, mental clarity, self-awareness and relationships, and even lower blood pressure, too.

Unwinding in quieter moments and connecting with yourself can remedy burnout. HX ships invite guests to slow down and recharge in one of the many top-deck saunas, hot tubs or pools after a big day of exploring. Imagine basking in warm water as the starry Arctic sky stretches overhead – a moment of pure presence.

Wind down in a top-deck sauna, hot tub or pool.

3. Nature as medicine

Spending time in nature is restorative on every level. The therapeutic power of nature immersion is significant, and even doctors are prescribing time in nature. Time outdoors has been shown to help lower stress, blood pressure, loneliness, and depression while boosting cardiovascular health, vitamin D and immune resilience.

HX doesn’t just take you to the edge of the map but invites you to step beyond it. A hike to a remote summit one day, a spontaneous wildlife encounter while kayaking the next – every moment hums with possibility. Just what the doctor ordered.

Get active in nature and marvel at its wonders. (Image: Espen Mills)

4. Feed your mind

Travel isn’t just good for the soul, as it’s fuel for the mind, too. The process of exploring the world’s countries, cultures and creatures rewires the brain, promoting plasticity by forming new neural connections and strengthening existing ones. This process not only improves cognitive function but also slows the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

HX is not only devoted to learning, but to conservation, too. Onboard a HX voyage, guests can take part in hands-on exhibits at the ship’s Science Centre, attend expert-led lectures on glaciology, marine biology and climate science, enrol in University of Tasmania learning modules, and even contribute to real world research through citizen science programs.

Exercise your brain at the ship’s Science Centre. (Image: Tuan Lam)

5. Connection through exploration

Connection is at the heart of adventure travel. Whether you’re packing your bag with a loved one or sharing a moment of awe with a stranger, the bonds formed while exploring are real and lasting. The World Happiness Report 2025 found that while bonding with loved ones supports overall happiness and connection, even brief interactions with strangers during travel can lead to increased happiness and a sense of belonging.

HX fosters these connections through shared experiences, meals and open conversations with onboard scientists. Whether spotting a whale together or hiking side by side, guests form deep connections in unforgettable places.

Imagine the dinner conversation after spotting wildlife like this together. (Image: Andrea Klaussner)

6. Movement with meaning

As the old adage goes, you never regret a workout. Getting your body moving regularly – especially in nature – unlocks a multitude of health benefits, including reduced anxiety, a rush of endorphins and overall improved mental and physical wellbeing.

Movement in nature is like medicine. Whether it’s snowshoeing across Arctic tundra, kayaking through Antarctic ice fields or working up a sweat on a coastal hike, HX offers a broad range of memorable activities that double as a workout.

Kayak somewhere new for multiple benefits.

7. Stress melts away

We could all use a little less stress in our daily lives, but remedying it by slowing down and being present is often easier said than done. Travel helps break the cycle, as getting away from your routine and into new environments has been proven to reduce stress and lower cortisol levels.

Onboard HX, stress melts away with every passing iceberg. Whether a silent Zodiac cruise or sipping something warm as the sun sets over Greenland, guests can breathe easy. With no screens or rush, presence can take over.

Sit back and relax as a new world glides by. (Image: Martin Hain)

8. Sleep soundly

Ever wondered why you sleep more on holidays? Away from the everyday chaos, your body finally gets the rest it needs. Sleep is, as The World Sleep Society puts it, a “pillar of health” – and few things restore it like travel.

HX cabins are sanctuaries of comfort, featuring plush beds, Nordic duvets and calming sea views. For deeper rest, upgrade to an Expedition Suite to enjoy a balcony, sweeping window views and even a hot tub.

Let onboard luxuries lull you to sleep. (Image: Dan and Zora Avila)

Reconnect with yourself – and the world – at travelhx.com.