Many travellers like to check off every single item on their bucket list while on holiday, whether by visiting dozens of museums in a row or stopping by a new place every night. Sure, exploring amazing cities like Paris is exciting as can be. And so is hitting route 66 on an exhilarating road trip.
But sometimes, planning a trip abroad can seem daunting, for all you need is a stress-free break from it all. Does this mean you shall give up on satisfying your wanderlust, though?
If the pressure of everyday life is eating you up, there are numerous destinations to let off some steam. So, buckle up and get ready for some chill me time away from home in one of these relaxing spots.
Japan Alps
You might not associate Japan with peace and quiet off the top of your head. Megacities like Tokyo and Osaka evoke the restlessness of big city life, while Kyoto’s cultural landmarks are swarmed by visitors.
Yet the Land of the Rising Sun is much more than its jam-packed tourist hotspots. And if you’re craving some relaxation, the Japanese Alps are well worth the effort. Skiing slopes and hiking trails in the Nagano Alps offer a welcome respite for outdoor enthusiasts. But your best shot at escaping the crowds is to stray from the beaten path.
North of touristy Takayama, you may discover the quaint town of Hida Furukawa. With its canals home to colourful koi fish and authentic wooden houses, Hida feels like stepping back into the Japan of old. This graceful town is also a great starting point to explore the nearby countryside cycling.
Some local inns even boast open-air baths to unwind in traditional fashion. And the region is full of under-the-radar thermal towns nestled in picturesque mountains, such as Bessho Onsen.
Isla Holbox
Mexican beaches are second to none in the Caribbean. And as far as trendy beachcations go, Tulum doesn’t have its match. Tourists and Instagram influencers have been flocking to this seaside town for decades, sipping cocktails at a stylish treetop restaurant or waking up to a yoga class by turquoise waters.
If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back destination, though, head up north instead of going down the Riviera Maya. Located off the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula, Isla Holbox is very much still the mellow destination Tulum used to be.
This dream of white sandy beaches, chill cafés, and hammocks hanging over the Caribbean is a haven for a relaxing break. Better yet, cars are off-limits on the island. So, hop on a bike to explore Holbox gems at your own pace. You may also pack some snorkelling gear, unless you’d rather book a serene cruise to Cabo Catoche.
Goa
Situated in western India, the state of Goa is a patchwork of breathtaking coastal landscapes and sun-soaked beaches. Many tourists come experience its myriad of water sports activities, from underwater walks to kayaking, surfing, and scuba diving.
If you’re in for a quieter and more intimate stay, Goa boasts more than enough secluded creeks and beaches to take a dip away from prying eyes. The region is also a hotbed for couples on a romantic holiday. Thus, you can easily arrange a candlelight dinner on the beach for your loved one. Solo travellers may also recharge their batteries at one of many Ayurveda and yoga retreats.
Funnily enough, Goa is just as welcoming to party-goers. India’s party hub boasts a strong clubbing culture, and its nightlife is proverbial. So, party animals can hit the dancefloor from dusk till dawn or spend the night away spinning the wheel on a floating casino. But if your chill vacation means staying in one place, you might as well let the casino come to you.
Casino websites are a convenient way to play roulette online in India. Top platforms include several variants for players to spice up the experience. Live dealer sessions evoke the feel of a real casino. Contrary to brick-and-mortar venues, gambling sites even reward their users with lofty bonuses and welcome packages to keep the fun going.
Managing your work and household can affect your mental health. So, shake up your routine and grab a plane ticket to a relaxing destination. Whether you’re going to a remote mountain town or a tropical island, there’s nothing like a chill vacation to keep the stress at bay.