“Self-care is how you take your power back.”
– Lalah Delia
Wellness travel is an exploding industry, and with everyone getting in on the game, the choice has never been so vast. The challenge lies in finding the sweet spot: a destination and community that vibes with your specific goals.
If you’ve considered a retreat but your head is spinning with options, these seven destinations are a great place to start. Each features excellent reviews and a proven track record. Better yet, take your pick from over-the-top luxury, weird but wonderful, adventure with a side of relaxation, or a staycation in your own city.
The world is your oyster ……
The Seven Best Wellness Retreats
For a five star splurge
Ever dreamed of jetting off to the far side of the globe with nothing on your agenda but TLC? This wellness and yoga resort is one of the world’s best, and its motto, “walk in, float out” says it all. And, oh yeah, it’s in BALI!
Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
While we’re dreaming, why not aim for the utterly gorgeous and world-renowned spa of this outpost of the Four Seasons chain? I mean, truly, why not?? With some of the best rated Ayurvedic therapies outside of India, interwoven with swimming alongside wild sea turtles, and an ocean so sparkly blue it will be your next screen saver, this has to top any wellness bucket list.
For a splurge in this hemisphere
Another Ayurvedic reset for body, mind, and spirit, set on the stunning beaches of Mexico. Specializing in Panchakarma, an individualized detox that is not for the faint of heart, but ultimately results in a brand new you (pssst…. this place is an insider secret, so keep it to yourself!).
One of the most inventive and playful retreats out there, Nosara Wellness combines the usual wellness suspects with adventurous offerings such as aerial yoga, equine therapy, past life coaching, and therapeutic kung-fu. If you have any energy left, you can always learn to surf; this sleepy town has some of the best surfing conditions in South America.
The best in North America
Kripalu, Interlaken, Massachusetts
One of the original grandaddies of wellness retreats, this bucolic retreat in rural Massachusetts offers something for everyone: courses, yoga, spa, lectures, workshops, and more. If you’ve never tried a retreat this is an excellent place to start.
Mountain Trek, Nelson, British Columbia
If you prefer to earn your spa-ing, this award-winning retreat is for you. Kick your fitness goals into high gear with hikes in the unparalleled beauty of the Rocky Mountains, followed by heaps of food and pampering. Guided hikes are as difficult or as gentle as you like, and the surroundings are as wild as it comes. Their mantra: to make you into an athlete again.
The Golden Door, San Marcos, California
As the #1 rated destination spa in the world, this place has serious cred. You may find yourself rubbing elbows with celebrities enjoying Golden Door’s signature combination of compassion, pampering, and deep focus on refreshing the mind as well as the body.
No budget? No problem.
A wellness retreat doesn’t necessarily mean leaving your own home. All it takes is some planned ‘me’ time: turn off your phone, stock up on nourishing food, buy some special goodies such as a face mask or bath salts, and serve up a home spa.
If you feel the need to be guided, try your local yoga studio (yin yoga is the best mini spa there is), gym, or community centre. Small, bite-sized workshops can often be found at your nearest neighbourhood bulletin board. Get your feet wet with one that speaks to you.
For more on Wellness Travel, check out the Acorn Archive: Wellness Travel Musts
Happy (and Healthy) Trails!!
Sarah Comeau @sarahfaithcomeau
