Finding Balance: The Story of Delva Douglas and MBS Holistic Travel

Delva Douglas understands the value of a break. As the owner of MBS Holistic Travel, she has made it her mission to help people recharge their minds, bodies, and spirits. Her passion for travel and wellness led her to create MBS Holistic Travel, specializing in wellness retreats and getaways with a focus on Jamaica. However, Delva’s journey into the wellness travel industry was about more than just beautiful destinations—it was about providing a space for healing and self-care.

A Purpose Beyond Travel

For Delva, MBS isn’t just a brand; it’s a message. MBS stands for Mind, Body, and Spirit, guiding all her work. After leaving Jamaica at 18, Delva spent over 30 years in America but kept her roots close. Therefore, MBS Holistic Travel is her way of reconnecting people with the transformative power of travel. “I want to show people Jamaica and help them understand the power of stepping away from their daily routines,” she says.

Delva’s purpose became especially clear after two close friends—one an accountant in Jamaica, the other a doctor in America—passed away due to work-related stress. As a result, she felt motivated to create a space where people could escape daily pressures and focus on their well-being.

The Heart of MBS Holistic Travel

Based in Cary, NC, MBS Holistic Travel offers wellness-focused trips, including retreats for couples and individuals seeking personal growth. While Jamaica remains the top destination, MBS is expanding to Greece, Ghana, Bali, and Thailand next year. Moreover, these new destinations represent an exciting opportunity for the business.

These retreats go beyond simple relaxation. Instead, they provide a space for self-reflection and mental health support. What sets MBS apart is its commitment to mental health. Delva ensures that guests have access to licensed clinicians during their stays. “Being in a new environment can bring up deep emotions,” Delva notes. “Thus, we have professionals available to guide our guests through those experiences.”

Connecting with a Community

Delva’s vision extends beyond just offering retreats. She’s passionate about helping black women and people of color understand the importance of taking breaks. “In our community, many of us didn’t grow up seeing our parents go on vacations. We need to learn the value of stepping back,” she explains. Therefore, MBS Holistic Travel aims to change that narrative. The upcoming retreat in March 2025, specifically for black and brown women, embodies this mission. Delva is actively seeking sponsors and volunteers to give these women the red-carpet treatment they deserve.

Her ideal clients are busy professionals and entrepreneurs juggling daily pressures. Many feel overwhelmed and need a chance to reset. Consequently, Delva’s retreats offer that opportunity—a chance to escape the hustle and focus on what truly matters: their well-being.

A Growing Business with a Big Heart

Though MBS Holistic Travel has hosted retreats for just a year, it’s growing steadily. Delva has completed three retreats so far and is excited for the future. However, she knows the challenges that lie ahead. “We have a great product, but we need to be more visible,” she admits. Delva is proud of the positive feedback from clients, who often share their experiences via email. They consistently praise the life-changing impact of the retreats.

Delva is not alone in her journey. She has a loyal team of two employees, dedicated to the vision of MBS. Their commitment has been key to the company’s success, helping bring Delva’s vision to life.

Lessons from Loss and a New Beginning

Delva’s story is shaped by loss and the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Losing her friends and the global pause made her realize the need for people to slow down. “What we don’t deal with will eventually deal with us,” she reflects. The pandemic forced many to face issues they’d been too busy to address. For Delva, it was a reminder of why her work is so vital.

Her message is simple but powerful: taking a break isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. She believes traveling and stepping away from daily stresses can bring clarity and purpose. Ultimately, it’s about offering a space where people can reconnect with themselves.

Investing in Wellbeing

For Delva, the joy of her work comes from seeing people transform through the experiences she creates. “It gives me great pleasure to see people find their purpose and happiness,” she says. “That’s why I do what I do.” She encourages anyone feeling overwhelmed to step back, even if only for a few days, and recharge in a new environment.

With plans for growth and a clear vision, Delva and MBS Holistic Travel are ready to welcome more people into the journey of wellness and self-care. For those seeking a break from the noise of life, MBS Holistic Travel offers more than just a vacation—it offers a path to renewal. If you would like to learn more about MBS Holistic Travel retreats make sure you visit their website by clicking here.