Sleep Tourism Leads the Way in Madeira's Booming Travel Industry
Revamped Version:
Craving a tranquil escape to recharge your z's? Look no further! MattressNextDay's recent study has got you covered. They evaluated the cream of the crop cities across Europe based on elements such as light pollution, traffic congestion, hotel quality, safety, and wellness facilities.
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, crowned the ranking with a score of 75.62 out of 100. This gem shines thanks to its staggeringly low light pollution (1.7 mcd/m2), minimal traffic congestion (a mere 22%), and a top-tier safety rating (80.03) among all competitors. Funchal is also home to an extensive network of pedestrian routes and plentiful access to green spaces and fitness centers, both proven sleep enhancements. Top-notch wellness hotels include the Belmond Reid's Palace and Monte Palace. For a taste of nature, take a stroll along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, unwinding in the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
Trailing just behind is Bergen, Norway, scoring 66.59 points. This city boasts Europe’s lowest traffic congestion (merely 14%) and impressive safety and wellness scores. Its picturesque fjord-side setting and serene atmosphere, combined with spa offerings such as Vannkanten Waterworld, make it ideal for a revitalizing escape.
In third place lies Lausanne, Switzerland, punching in with 56.43 points. Sitting on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne offers the lowest light pollution (1.3 mcd/m2) and high hotel soundproofing standards. With its laid-back vibe, scenic waterfront, and wellness spas like Bains de Lavey, it's the perfect place to unwind.
Interestingly, sleep-centric vacations are experiencing a surge in demand. Research shows that, by 2025, two out of five travelers will prioritize sleep quality when choosing their accommodations [6]. Search trends for "sleep retreats" have doubled, and the European wellness tourism sector is projected to hit $298.98 billion this year [6].
According to sleep expert Martin Seeley, consistent routines and soothing environments are the keys to a sound sleep. Locations with reduced noise, natural surroundings, and dark skies allow travelers to rest and rejuvenate—something we can all learn to recreate in our everyday lives [7].
When seeking the perfect slumber spot, consider the pristine and quiet pockets of the Dolomites in Italy. Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Cortina d'Ampezzo, San Martino di Castrozza, Alta Pusteria, and Val di Funes offer accommodations ranging from budget apartments to luxury spa hotels that boast first-class spa facilities [8]. For those seeking absolute serenity, remote mountain refuges like Ütia de Börz at Passo delle Erbe offer the ideal habitat for deep rest and relaxation [8].
Copenhagen, Denmark, is well-known for its cooler summer temperatures, which boost sleep comfort [2]. Despite being urban, it keeps congestion low and maintains a restful environment. With top-notch wellness infrastructure in place, Copenhagen presents a worthy choice [2].
Seeking tranquillity while keeping it urban? Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, presents a calm, safe, and less crowded urban environment, featuring quality accommodation and wellness resources [3].
Craving a more bustling vibe? Amsterdam flaunts high-quality hotels and hostels with private sleeping pods, ensuring comfortable slumber [1][3]. Specific accommodations cater to a quieter, more restful experience, and the city maintains a modest summer temperature [1][3].
To cap it off, the secluded village of Lumbarda on Korcula Island, Croatia, offers minimal crowding and traffic, providing a peaceful setting for sleep. Accommodations like Lumbarda Resort Apartments deliver tranquil retreats away from tourist hubbub [5].
In summary, when it comes to getting your shut-eye on, European cities like Funchal, Bergen, and Lausanne take the cake. Mountain and countryside destinations such as the Dolomites or Lumbarda minimize light pollution, traffic noise, and maximize access to wellness facilities and safe, high-quality lodging. Urban cities like Copenhagen, Luxembourg, and Amsterdam can also fit the bill, providing you carefully pick accommodations to maximize sleep conditions [4].
[1] https://www.unwind.com/blog/best-sleep-cities-in-europe-for-travelers/[2] https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20220308-the-cool-capitals-offering-cooler-summers[3] https://www.ahealthblog.net/cities-for-good-sleep-in-europe/[4] https://www.the-sun.com/travel/2190732/best-places-for-deep-sleep-in-europe-ranked/[5] https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/best-sleeping-destinations-for-travellers-insomnia-a9644371.html[6] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/13/well/travel/the-rise-of-sleep-tourism.html[7] https://www.thespaces.com/en-us/articles/how-travel-can-help-you-get-a-good-night-s-sleep[8] https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurenem McClain/2019/10/30/are-sleep-hotels-the-answer-to-a-good-nights-rest/?sh=731331477b7a
- The research shows that by 2025, two out of five travelers will prioritize sleep quality when choosing their accommodations, with demand for sleep-centric vacations increasing.
- In the study evaluating cities across Europe for sleep quality, Funchal, Portugal, took the top spot due to its low light pollution, manageable traffic congestion, and excellent safety and wellness facilities.
- For those seeking an urban environment that still prioritizes sleep quality, Amsterdam offers high-quality hotels and hostels with private sleeping pods, ensuring a comfortable slumber.
- Outside of Europe, the pristine and quiet pockets of the Dolomites in Italy offer a range of accommodations from budget apartments to luxury spa hotels, boasting first-class spa facilities for a restorative sleep environment.
