Rather than traveling with FOMO (fear of missing out), where itineraries are chock-full of activities, restaurant reservations, and places to be, all with the intention of making the most of your time away from home, consider instead JOMO (joy of missing out) for your next escape.
Taking things a bit leisurelier and giving yourself the ability to be flexible, where you can wander where the wind blows, is a great way to enjoy a more restorative vacation. Indulge in a holiday that will fill your cup, rather than deplete it, leaving you feeling like you need a vacation from the vacation. You’ll find that sojourns in nature are key.
Keep reading to discover five of the world’s most peaceful and beautiful destinations.
Walk and Breathe with the Trees in Japan
With digital devices and technology constantly in hand, it’s no surprise that more travelers are seeking experiences where they can unplug and tap into something more impactful and meaningful.
To delve into forest bathing, or the Japanese art of “shinrin-yoku”, consider an active off-the-beaten path guided tour with Walk Japan. One standout journey, for example, is The Nakasendo Way, or “the road through the mountains”, an ancient and historic route that travels through small villages between Kyoto and Tokyo. You’ll meet new friends while walking on the most serene sections of the path through the countryside and into Japan’s Central Alps.
Of course, you can also bookend this tour through nature with extended stays in Tokyo and Kyoto, staying at hotels that have spa, massage, and fitness offerings like Park Hyatt Tokyo and Park Hyatt Kyoto.
Relax Your Mind and Body with Sound Healing in Australia
For those seeking meditative experiences, where sound baths counter stress and encourage relaxation, look into a meaningful vacation to Byron Bay in Australia. This boho coastal town in the southeastern state of New South Wales is well known and loved for its sandy beaches, surfing, hiking, and wellness escapes.
Enjoy a sunset hike at Cape Byron State Conservation Park, where you can breathe in nature while wallabies and other creatures romp around nearby. The views from Cape Byron Lighthouse are magic, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. From June—November, head to Captain Cook Lookout and spot humpback whales.
Explore the expansive gardens at Crystal Castle, complete with the world’s tallest geodes in the Shambhala Gardens. Breathe deep while sauntering on the Buddha Walk and around the Crystal Labyrinth and feel the stress flee from your body during a soothing Crystal Singing Bowls sound bath, a 20-minute meditation session open to all. It’s a feast for the senses.
Seek Out Mood Boosting Breaks in Scotland
Travel to the Scottish Highlands, the rolling mountainous land in northwest Scotland, for countryside tranquility that will leave you feeling healthy, strong, and more like yourself. From Loch Ness to ancient ruins and medieval castles to valleys and mountains, this enchanted region offers immersive nature experiences like none other. Connect with the wild landscapes with an active vacation that will leave you feeling recharged and ready to face anything.
Hike the West Highland Way, Scotland’s most beloved long-distance trail, either on a self-guided tour or with professional guides at Wilderness Scotland. This eight-day walking tour travels 96 miles on foot from the south to the north, beginning in Milngavie near Glasgow; traveling through Loch Lomond, Glen Falloch, Strath Fillan, and Glencoe; and ending in Fort William in the Highlands. This is the hiking trip you’ve been dreaming about.
Discover National Parks in the United States
National parks in the United States are undoubtably America’s best idea. From the Mighty Five national parks in Utah—Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks—to Alaska’s Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks to Montana’s Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, it’s well worth the effort to plan an outdoorsy vacation with your family in tow, full of hiking, camping, fishing, and other nature filled adventures.
Rent an RV for an impressive road trip, going at your own pace and taking in the sights as you see fit. Spend and much or little time as you like, enjoying the small towns along the way with your family in tow.
From fifth wheels to pop up campers to travel trailers to adventure vans, the choices are numerous. For an aesthetic experience, perfect for capturing in your photographs, rent a classic Airstream or a camper van from Peace Vans.
Make Memories in Patagonia
Create space for meaningful experiences by trying something new. You’ll feel good knowing that you’ve challenged yourself in some way, which will release a sense of joy and exhilaration.
Patagonia, the sweeping southern tip of South America, is unquestionably one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet. With an outdoor ethos, visiting the natural landscapes in Argentina and Chile will be one of the most unforgettable highlights of your life.
From windswept icy fjords to jagged peaks to massive lakes to stunning national parks like Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, home of the famous “W Trek”, and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina, home to Perito Moreno Glacier, there’s much to see in this region.
One adventure company takes the guesswork out of planning. Wildland Trekking has an excellent hut-to-hut trekking tour in Torres del Paine, for example. Hike the “W Trek” on a six-night guided adventure where you’ll see some of the most striking panoramas on the planet. Picture yourself wandering through pure wilderness, past granite formations and iceberg-filled glacial lakes, on your way to backcountry refugio’s and campsites. What a way to create some lifelong memories.
The big question is: where will you go next?