Relaxation is on the rise. In fact, the 2018 AARP Travel Trends report shows 49 percent of Boomers travel to relax and rejuvenate. These numbers are up a whopping 11 percent from 2017! We hear ya: You need some real R&R. Leave business behind and focus on pleasure when you get out of town. Isn’t that what vacations are all about?
Where are some of the best places to relax? We’ve found six destinations that will melt stress away from the very first day. Their beauty will inspire, and their serene energy will leave you calm, collected, and ready to take on the world.
Sedona, Arizona
Take a yoga retreat with Sedona Spirit Yoga and Hiking to keep limber in body and mind. The healing energy of Sedona’s Red Rocks and sacred vortex sites will usher you away to another plane.
Tip: If you plan to park (and rec) in the Coconino National Forest, get the required Red Rocks Pass. It gives you access to the iconic formations and helps fund area conservation work.
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Explore Garrafon Natural Reef Park and its waters by kayak or snorkel. On land, take part in relaxation amenities such as hammocks, beachfront infinity pools, and saunas. Don’t skip Punta Sur Cliff, the easternmost spot in Mexico, for aqua-blue views.
Tip: To spend more time relaxing and less time arranging transportation, stay in a hotel that offers organized rides from the airport.
Camano Island, Washington
Home to Cama Beach Historical State Park, the island is a relaxing getaway with woodsy seaside scenery in all directions. Explore the beach and park exhibits at your leisure; you’re on island time now.
Tip: Visit July through September to experience the best local pastime, crabbing. Rent a boat at the Center for Wooden Boats, and don’t forget a crab pot. You can cook and eat your crab right on the beach!
Stanley, Idaho
In this tiny town of fewer than 70 people, relaxing and taking in the mountain air can be the only things on the menu if you choose. We recommend a gentle hike in the Sawtooth Wilderness. Sawtooth Mountain Guides offers mellow day hikes and non-technical summit hikes.
Tip: Stanley is situated amongst immense beauty, as scenic byways connect it to three city airports. From Boise, Salt Lake City, or Sun Valley, a view-packed drive is on the horizon.
Montecatini Terme, Italy
In the heart of Tuscany, this region’s waters make it one of the premier spa spots in Italy. Visit the open-air Art Nouveau thermal park for a range of treatments. Nothing beats a good spa as a place to relax. Indulge in a custom facial or volcanic stone massage. The Tettuccio thermal complex also offers curative programs that involve drinking the hypotonic waters.
Tip: Take the funicular railway to the tiny town of Montecatini Alto. Marvel at medieval fortresses and take in a revitalizing meal in the main square.
Boca Grande, Florida
By land, air, or sea, Boca Grande was made for finding inner peace. Visit the bright and charming Gasparilla Inn and Club. Here you can golf, take a seaplane tour, or treat yourself to bakery bites and a meal at the Pink Elephant.
Tip: Rent a bike and explore the Boca Grande Bike Path. This scenic rail trail winds through the prettiest parts of town.
In these relaxing places to visit, you can send your cares packing. Pick the right one for you or try them all. You’ll never need a vacation from your vacation again!
