Did you know that Antigua and Barbuda is the first ever country to be recognized by the Wellness Tourism Association as a Wellness Destination? That’s BIG news!
As a lover of all things wellness myself, I had to tap into the expertise of one of the leading companies offering wellness and yoga experiences in Antigua and Barbuda. Wadadlivity’s insight shows why the twin-island country is a growing destination for travelers seeking wellness experiences in the Caribbean.
Stephanie Winter, Founder of Wadadlivity in Antigua & Barbuda, speaks to Anjali Datwani, Founder of Urban Journey
AD: Have you noticed any emerging trends in wellness tourism, particularly in the Caribbean?
SW: There’s a rising demand for authentic local experiences, which is boosting sales for local businesses. This is crucial because the lion’s share of money spent in the Caribbean doesn’t stay here. We’re also seeing more interest in eco-friendly practices, and the decriminalization of cannabis is creating new opportunities for wellness tourism.
AD: What makes Antigua a unique destination for wellness tourism compared to other Caribbean islands?
SW: Antigua and Barbuda truly offer the complete package for wellness tourism. With crystal-clear waters and acres of lush, untouched land, our islands provide a stunning backdrop for your next escape. Wellness-focused travelers can choose from luxurious spas to charming eco-lodges. Enjoy sunrise yoga, guided nature hikes, kayaking, and spa treatments inspired by island traditions. Plus, farm-to-table cuisine is back in a big way, with chefs getting creative with local ingredients.
On Finding Wadadlivity
AD: What inspired you to create Wadadlivity, and how do you define wellness in the context of Antigua?
SW: In the early days of Instagram (back when your feed was chronological and there were no ads), I would post photos of the vegan meals I was creating at home. Before long, I was fielding so many questions that I decided to create a dedicated space to share wellness tips and all the joys of a plant-powered life. When it comes to Antigua and the wider Caribbean, wellness is about releasing the detrimental habits our ancestors were forced to adopt during colonialism and returning to a more nature-centered way of living. It’s not just about personal well-being—it’s about nurturing our communities and taking care of the environment too.
AD: How does Wadadlivity contribute to the well-being of the local community?
SW: Wadadlivity creates a safe space for people to show up as they are and empowers them to try something new. We provide wellness services to schools, government agencies, non-profits and corporate clients. Our children’s programs have been particularly impactful and it’s a joy to see them incorporate yoga into their daily routines.
On wellness experiences
AD: How do you design experiences that connect visitors with nature while promoting well-being?
SW: The best way to promote well-being is to be in nature. Less is more in my book, so the experiences I design strip away the excess so we can focus on what’s actually going on in our minds and bodies.
AD: How do you incorporate local traditions and culture into your wellness experiences?
SW: I was fortunate to grow up with a strong Antiguan identity and appreciation of our culture. I’m not actively looking for ways to “Antiguanize” my practices, but showing up as my authentic self. Headwrapping, drumming, movement and healthful foods are all part of that identity.
AD: Are there any local artisans, farmers, or healers you collaborate with to enhance your offerings?
SW: Absolutely! Well-being is a community effort and we regularly partner with other local companies. Some of our best known partnerships are with [plant-based chef] Bushbungalow Creations, Humble and Free Wadadli [Rastafari Tours], and Most High Union [Body Therapy].
AD: Can you walk us through one of your signature wellness experiences?
SW: Your journey begins with a short walk through a lush garden, where the sounds of birds greet you. As you arrive at the event space, you find yoga mats thoughtfully laid out, inviting you to settle in. The gentle aroma of incense and soothing lo-fi music set the perfect ambiance. We start seated, taking a moment to set our intentions for the practice ahead. Gradually, we move into a gentle yoga flow, allowing our bodies to stretch and relax. We conclude the session with a guided meditation, to help quiet your mind. After the practice, there’s time to socialize and enjoy seasonal plant-based refreshments, all in the tranquil embrace of nature.
AD: How is Antigua is redefining wellness retreats in the Caribbean
SW: Antigua’s popularity as a wellness destination in the Caribbean grows every year. As more wellness seekers discover the island, the local tourism industry continues developing new ways to experience the island-inspired well-being. Here’s how Wadadlivity is adapting to the future outlook of Antigua wellness tourism.
AD: How do you see Wadadlivity evolving in the next few years?
SW: We’re dedicated to forging even stronger collaborations with our Caribbean partners and expanding our offerings to encompass more of the African diaspora.
AD: Many travelers seek authentic, immersive experiences—how do you ensure your offerings provide that?
SW: I start by thinking about the “why”. Why is this person or group reaching out? What’s the real reason they’re seeking out this type of experience and how can I best utilize the natural and human resources around me to fulfill that need? The result is a one-of-a-kind experience that stimulates the senses and slowly turns awareness inwards.
AD: What advice would you give travelers looking to incorporate wellness into their next trip to Antigua?
SW: Connect with Wadadlivity today! We provide bespoke yoga and meditation experiences designed to soothe your nervous system and rejuvenate your mind.
