Author: Meagan Drillinger

Sometimes the ultimate test of a relationship is how well you travel together. More often than not, the best way to really connect with someone is when you’re both out of your element.
“Taking a break from the daily routine, the hustle, and the kids is healthy to reconnect. Sleep in and take time to enjoy pure and simple activities with each other,” says Lillian Aviles, director of business development for luxury travel company Journey Mexico. “Sometimes we get so caught up in the day-to-day that romance gets pushed to the side. Turn off your phone and take a look at the beauty that surrounds you.”
From international trips for couples to romantic vacations on a budget, these are 19 top romantic vacations for reconnecting with your partner and discovering new things about the world and each other.

Top Vacation Destinations for Storybook Romance

1. Vienna

Storybook charm permeates Vienna from Schönbrunn Palace (the private residence of the imperial family) to the Spanish Riding School, where Lipizzan horses have been trained for more than 450 years. Walk the routes Mozart walked and marvel at the twinkling lights that bedeck the plazas around the holidays.

Stay at: Hotel Bristol (from $219/night)

“Hotel Bristol has stately, ornate rooms and a beautiful view of the opera house that makes you feel like you’re on a grand tour in the 19th century,” says Alexandra R. “The city is filled with old-world charm, and staying in a hotel that similarly reflects this helps keep you in the fairytale moment even after a long day (or night) of roaming the streets.”

2. Paris

Paris is called the City of Love for a reason. You won’t find a more romantic or iconic city for couples anywhere else in the world. Elegant architecture, romantic side streets, and sidewalk cafes barely scratch the surface of what Paris has to offer couples. Cap it all off with a kiss under the glittering Eiffel Tower by night, and you’ll soon see why Paris is always a good idea.

Stay at: Le Roch Hotel & Spa (from $385/night)

The boutique city hotel boasts a swanky address in Paris, in the 1st Arrondissement, between Place Vendôme and Place de l’Opéra. Its 37 rooms overlook Rue Saint-Roch, a charming side street dotted with iconic wrought-iron balconies.

3. Positano, Italy

“The romance in Positano is inherent,” says Alexia G. “It actually seems like a form of currency that keeps this bustling, coastal beach town alive with energy.”

Stay at: Le Sirenuse (from $868/night)

Top Vacation Destinations for Couples Seeking Adventure

4. Iceland

Iceland is an adventure-lovers’ paradise, full of white-water rafting, hiking, scenic drives, kayaking, snowmobiling on a glacier, and so much more. Each moment can be filled with adrenaline-pumping activities, but it would be a shame to miss the relaxing, meditative moments in Iceland’s many hot springs—which are often the perfect end to a day spent chasing thrills.

Stay at: Lambhús (from $87/night)

“Lambhús offers quaint little cabins in the countryside of southeast Iceland. It’s like you have your own tiny house, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and Icelandic horses,” says Joni S. “And you can get up early, whip up your own breakfast, and watch the sunrise before taking a kayaking adventure on a glacial lake filled with icebergs.”

5. Phuket, Thailand

“Thailand encompasses so many different categories and bottles them into one country. Once you’re on those incredibly turquoise-blue islands, surround by massive mountain rocks, it’s complete romance and adventure,” says Cessie C.

From elephant riding to hiking to the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi to exploring Maya Bay (the famous spot where Leonardo DiCaprio filmed The Beach), the opportunities for adventure in Phuket are seemingly endless.

Stay at: Mandarava Resort (from $102/night)

Top Vacation Destinations for Foodie Couples

6. Napa Valley, California

Napa is an absolute must for foodie couples—especially those who appreciate good wine. The happy marriage between the two (food and wine, not you two lovebirds) is prevalent all throughout this region. Hire a private car or hop Ubers to check out some of the best off-the-radar wineries, including Artesa, Sterling, and Tank Garage. If you’re considering Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry—one of the country’s best restaurants—just do it. You only live once.

Stay at: Napa River Inn (from $168/night)

“Staying near the Napa Riverwalk means you can enjoy some of the city’s best dining, including La Toque and Morimoto,” says Alexia. “Make sure to stop by the Oxbow Public Market for some of the best casual dining in the region as well.”

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

NOLA has an intoxicating atmosphere that just makes you want to live life, bite by bite. Start with a sinfully good breakfast at the Cake Cafe. Stop in at Coop’s Place for an ice cold beverage and marinated crab claws. A visit to Erin Rose for a frozen Irish coffee and a poboy from Killer Poboys helps to round out this food tour on foot. For dinner, Pêche is a seafood favorite; you can’t go wrong with anything from the raw bar, and the whole grilled fish is an Instagram-worthy entree. Other classic recommendations (that don’t swing too touristy) include Cochon Butcher, Herbsaint, the Carousel Bar, Coquette, Commander’s Palace, and Bacchanal.

Stay at: Hilton New Orleans, St. Charles Avenue (from $114/night)

“We love staying here as it’s within walking distance to the French Quarter, but not so close that you’re on top of all the noise and chaos,” says Becca D. “It’s so centrally located, so you can walk off all the calories you’re bound to inhale.”

8. Mérida, Mexico

When people think of authentic Mexican cuisine, Yucatán is often overlooked. But the state, with Mérida as its capital, is teeming with a wide and unique offering of delights. Local specialties include pan de cazón (layers of tortilla with a tomato, onion, and Serrano chili sauce filled with local white fish), poc chuc (grilled pork marinated in sour orange), and sopa de lima (shredded chicken and strips of tortilla with a sweet and tangy lime broth).

Stay at: Rosas & Xocolate (from $238/night)

“Its rich colors, outdoor showers, and chic rooftop terrace—great for a cocktail—make for a wonderful choice for a younger, sexy, and trendier experience,” says Lillian A.

Top Vacation Destinations for Beach and Chill Couples

9. St. Lucia

St. Lucia is fairly small in comparison to other Caribbean islands, but it has something for everyone. Its beaches are stunning for lounging, offering views of the iconic Pitons. Sample fresh cocoa beans at a plantation, sip local rum, or simply sit back and relax. If couples should want a little action, the botanical gardens have hot springs and waterfalls as well as top sites for snorkeling.

Stay at: Anse Chastanet Resort (from $300/night)

“This resort, the sister property to world-famous Jade Mountain, is overall a bit quieter, with more dramatic cliffside rooms. I love this property for the views, and the staff’s attention to detail,” says Daniela H.

10. The Maldives

Couples know that they will spend a bit more on a splurge trip like the Maldives, but the memories are simply priceless. There is a world-class coral reef, so be sure to grab snorkel gear and spend time exploring the reef. Simply stunning ways to spend the day with your boo include stand-up paddleboarding or a sunset cruise on a dhoni, a traditional boat used in the Maldives to see the dolphins making their daily migrations.

Stay at: Six Senses Laamu (from $800/night)

“This is the perfect resort because you can spend all day doing nothing but luxuriating on their picture-perfect beaches or by their gorgeous pools, or just relax at your own luxury villa,” says Becca.

11. Rosemary Beach, Florida

The beach towns, restaurants, and laid-back living will make you feel as though you’ve stopped into a Ralph Lauren summer collection ad—and you don’t need a passport or a mega time commitment to do so. Pro tip: The best way to explore Rosemary Beach and the surrounding beaches is by bike.

Stay at: The Pearl Hotel (from $510/night)

“Surrounded by Spanish architecture and thriving locally driven restaurants, you can rent a bicycle and bike along 30A highway, where you’ll stop along various picturesque beach towns,” says Alexia.

Top Vacation Destinations for Nature-Loving Couples

12. Belize

Belize is a visually stunning country that’s packed with nature activities. It is covered in sinkholes and boasts the world’s second largest barrier reef—as well as the famous Blue Hole diving paradise.

Stay at: Hamanasi (from $170/night)

“This resort is an amazing way to experience unique activities in the jungle and on the water,” says Elena O. “They offer a wide variety of nature adventures—from cave tubing and waterfall rappelling to diving the Blue Hole—that will please any nature lover.”

13. Lost Coast, California

The 25-mile trek that is the Lost Coast is perfect for nature lovers, as this is as close to roughing it as it gets. The entire trail is a stretch of California coastline nearly 300 miles north of San Francisco; it’s so rugged, roads have not yet been able to conquer it. If it can be done in nature, you can do it on the Lost Coast, from hiking to backpacking, fly-fishing, biking, walking, or even just sitting outside together sipping a California craft brew.

Stay at: Various Campsites

“There are no designated campsites, mostly lightly suggested areas in which to pitch a tent,” says Mary Kate B. “The trail is astonishingly beautiful. You will pass through meadows, tide zones, and forests. If you’re looking for a challenging and secluded getaway for even the most experienced backpackers, this is it.”

14. Alaska

In Alaska, nature is all around you, no matter where you go. Rent a car and drive the state, but be sure to take your time and research before you go so you can see the things that are important to you as a couple. Hiking is number one for nature lovers, especially those hikes that are surrounded by water and waterfalls.

Stay at: The Ma Johnson’s Hotel (from $110/night)

“One of our favorite memories was in a small town called McCarthy. We drove 60 miles of dirt road to get there. The only hotel in town is called Ma Johnson’s. You are in the middle of nowhere with beautiful mountains surrounding you,” says Steph M.

Top Vacation Resorts for Couples to Get Busy

True, you can get down with your partner anywhere—we don’t need to tell you that. But if you’re looking for something a bit more on-the-nose, try one of these resorts specifically meant for sexy time. Get it, girl.

15. Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica (from $352/night)

With a name like Hedonism, this resort leaves little to the imagination. The experience in person is no different. Hedonism is a nudist resort designed for couples who live “The Lifestyle”—a not-so-secret code for people who enjoy swinging. But don’t let that scare you off. It’s actually an incredibly curated, fun, provocative, safe, and clean experience—at a luxury all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, to boot.

16. Breathless Riviera Cancun (from $303/night)

“Breathless is a high-end all-inclusive resort with a sexy twist, and it definitely doesn’t disappoint, nor does it cross the line for those who might not be so comfortable with some of the clothing-optional hotels out there,” says Elena. “Everything from the room design to colors and music to the topless pools and late night parties makes you feel excited and open to possibilities.”
Breathless puts on nightly themed shows that get your mind racing about possibilities. One of the pools is always topless optional and holds foam parties with dancers every afternoon. And should you need time away from the resort, Riviera Maya is packed with activities, including snorkeling cenotes, visiting local parks, zip lining, and exploring local markets.

Top Vacation Destinations for Couples on a Budget

17. Montenegro

“Montenegro is an absolutely breathtakingly beautiful country that has gone largely undiscovered,” says Elena. “Food entrees run about 3 to 4 euros, beer is 2 euros, and an average, no-frills hotels price is 40 euros a night. Still, you’re experiencing the same type of beauty as you would in Italy but for half the price.”

Some wonderful ways to experience Montenegro on a budget are to taste the local food, hike (which is always free), or raft down the Tara River.

Stay at: Hotel Conte (from $115/night)

18. Hawaii

Hawaii might not have the reputation of being a destination for romantic vacations on a budget, but through a few hacks, couples can experience the magic of the islands without breaking the bank. Snorkeling and hiking are two Hawaii musts that are always free. Visit Two Steps on the Big Island, or Kee Beach on Kauai, which has a beautiful, free hiking trail that is about two hours each way. The Road to Hana on Maui is also packed with hidden pools and waterfalls.

Stay at: An Airbnb!

“Even cheap hotels in Hawaii are not cheap, so why not get an experience out of your stay?” asks Noa H. “One Airbnb was almost like a treehouse in the middle of the jungle. Another was a converted garage. The family that lived in the main house caught a 28-pound fish one day and invited us and the entire neighborhood for a cookout. That doesn’t happen in hotels.”

19. Medellín, Colombia

Medellín is doing a wonderful job showcasing its transformation from cartel stronghold to travelers’ paradise. Though it doesn’t shy away from shedding light on its once treacherous past, the city is focusing on its urban socialism, art, and growing culinary scene.
“In a city that is now just getting used to being in the travel spotlight and experiencing a sudden rush of tourism, Medellín still proves to be extremely affordable,” says Prin B. “The local fare is cheap, with stands offering delicious arepas, empanadas, and other goods at every corner.”

Take the Inside Medellín Tour of Comuna 13. The free tour is conducted by locals who grew up in Comuna 13—one of the most violent neighborhoods in the ’90s and early 2000s. Today it is filled with street art and the famed Escaleras Electricas. Then take a cable car for just $1 to take in panoramic views from Santo Domingo and Parque Arví.

Stay at: The Charlee Hotel (from $156/night)

Trendy luxury and boutique style come together at The Charlee Hotel, which sits across from Medellín’s Lleras Park. The hotel has its own rooftop swimming pool and a retro style that is whimsical and fun. A full tropical breakfast is served each morning, and at night couples can dine on homemade Italian cuisine.

Packing for a trip is so stressful, I sometimes think it would be nice to have a crystal ball. After all, in just one afternoon you’re expected to conceptualize an entire week’s worth of outfits while trying to take into account your mood, the weather, and any unexpected plans. But even beyond having the perfect outfit (and shoes…and accessories), there are plenty of travel essentials that completely slip your mind come packing time. Suddenly you find yourself buckled in for an eight-hour flight in a dried-out cabin, searching feverishly for your lip balm.
We have all been there. And it is truly the worst. So to make sure you never find yourself in an ohh, I wish I had that moment again, we’ve rounded up the best travel essentials for your toiletry kit and beyond. Though these things might not have been at the top of your list before, this will surely become your go-to travel essentials checklist.

Travel Essentials for Health

Flying isn’t always a smooth experience. Rough air can lead to anxiety and sometimes even nausea and sickness. Insomnia is also a major villain when it comes to air travel. Fortunately, our experts have holistic tools at the ready to help.

Supplements

“I take a multivitamin and lots of vitamin C, like Emergen-C or Airborne, to boost my immune system while traveling,” says Tiffany Dowd, a global hotel expert and founder of Luxe Social Media and Luxe Tiffany. “In addition, I take magnesium supplements to help regulate my sleep, and I find it also helps my jet lag.”

Resistance Bands

Exercise post-flight is also crucial to fighting jet lag. Dowd travels with resistance bands to get a quick workout in her hotel room.

Your Fave Tea

“If I’m feeling run down after traveling, I have the hotel make me a cup of fresh-brewed ginger tea,” Dowd shares. “It’s soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties.”

Travel Essentials for Nourishment

There’s nothing worse than an inevitable airplane hangry moment. Sadly, airplane food isn’t the tastiest, and it’s never the healthiest option.

Water Bottle

“I never leave home without an empty water bottle. It saves money so you’re not constantly buying water in the airport and during the trip,” says Debbie Arcangeles, host of the podcast The Offbeat Life, a series committed to highlighting those who live location-independent lives. “I also fill the water bottle before I board the plane, so I don’t have to keep asking for water during the flight.”

Snacks

“I always pack high-protein granola bars and raw almonds, which I portion into snack-size bags,” says Dowd. “These are quick energy snacks that are easy to pack.”
“I always travel with Quest and One protein bars, because a hungry Sarah is an angry Sarah,” says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, Caribbean travel expert and owner of JetSetSarah.
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Tech Travel Essentials

Air travel is a perfect excuse to catch up on anything you ordinarily don’t have time for. Because you won’t have cell service and might not want to pay for wifi, you’ve got the perfect excuse to pause work to enjoy a little you time with the help of these high-tech touches.

Your Gadgets…and Noise-Canceling Headphones to Go With Them

“I need my iPhone, of course,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “I’m currently looking for a pair of noise-canceling headphones to block out other people’s noise when I work in public spaces.”

Portable Charger

Greaves-Gabbadon, Dowd, and Arcangeles all recommend a portable charger for cell phones, as well.

Kindle

“I always have my e-reader with backlight,” says Arcangeles. “It’s a space saver, and I can even read when the lights are out so I don’t disturb the other passengers. It’s also great to have when your flight is delayed or when you have a long layover.”
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Travel Essentials for Beauty

Dry, cold air, a change in pressure, and lots of sitting can wreak havoc on a beauty regimen. Still, there are ways to maintain healthy skin while traveling with a few simple must-have beauty travel essentials for your toiletry kit.

Face Wipes

“I love having face wipes with me on the plane, especially during long flights. I can feel refreshed and clean right away,” says Arcangeles.

Sunscreen

“I always wear sunscreen when flying. You are actually exposed more to the sun’s harmful rays up in the air,” says Dowd. She recommends EltaMD UV Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen ($26) because it’s light and blends well under makeup.

Eye Cream

“I splurge on La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Cream ($460), which is so soothing under your eyes and prevents dryness,” Dowd says. She also recommends the Malin + Goetz Replenishing Face Serum ($70) for facial hydration on a flight.

Travel Makeup

“I keep travel makeup to a minimum,” Dowd says. “I love wearing a dab of NARS Illuminator ($30). It gives you an instantly refreshed and beautiful look.” She also recommends powder bronzer by Bobbi Brown ($44) and a lengthening mascara like Lancôme Définicils ($27.50).

Lip Balm

“I discovered Lanolips 101 Ointment Superbalm ($17) and it’s since become my go-to for my chronically dry lips and cuticles,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.
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Travel Essentials for Comfort

Airplanes are incredibly cold—and dry. The air at 30,000 feet can’t hold much moisture, and adding it to the airstream in an airplane is very difficult. Flying with 300 passengers also means the flight attendants aren’t going to change the temperature just for your frozen toes.

Eye Mask

“I must have an eye mask because I take a lot of early morning flights to the Caribbean, and there is always someone in my row who just has to have the window shade open,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.

Foot Hammock

“On long-haul flights I always bring a foot hammock,” Greaves-Gabbadon says. “I’m only 4’9” so my feet don’t touch the ground on many aircraft. The straps fit over the tray table and then I just slip my feet in. It’s way more comfy than having my feet just dangle (and swell) for hours.”

Eye Drops

“I always pack rewetting eye drops, as the air is so dry on airplanes,” says Dowd.

Compression Socks

“I was recently on a 16-hour flight from Hong Kong to Boston, and on a long-haul flight like this I always wear compression socks to prevent deep vein thrombosis,” Dowd says. “I find my legs are more relaxed and less swollen when I land.”

Don’t forget your passport!

We asked our experts for anything else they like to bring with them on their trips that makes the journey a little more personal. Interestingly enough, all of their answers had to do with their passports.
“I never leave home without my passport,” says Dowd. “Whether it’s domestic or international, I’m ready to go anywhere at any time. I also always keep an extra copy of it somewhere in my bags as well as a digital copy on my phone.”
“I just got the most stylish red leather passport case from Anya Hindmarch,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “It zips around so nothing falls out, has plenty of pockets for cards, and it’s personalized with “JetSetSarah” on the front. I won’t leave home without it.”

What to Wear on the Plane

We all want to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible on an airplane. Still, there are some travelers who take this a little too far and show up for a flight as if they are turning in for the night. Pajamas on an airplane is not the most pulled-together look. But today’s trends tend to favor comfort and function, so it’s not difficult to throw together a stylish plane outfit that you don’t mind sitting in for hours.
“I’m usually in dark pants, ballet flats like Chanel or Paul Mayer, which are easy to get off in security, and a comfortable top, such as a ¾-sleeve top or tee from Michael Stars or Three Dots,” says Dowd. She also always brings her Hermès pashmina, which doubles as a stylish scarf and also keeps her warm during the flight. Tip: When wearing ballet flats, don’t forget to wear your no-show socks—no one wants to walk barefoot through security.
“I bring a light, long jacket to wear over my outfit,” she adds. “I’ve just discovered this new brand called Anatomie, which is super stylish and comfortable travel wear.”
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“I am a big believer in wearing anything that is a one piece, like maxi dresses and jumpsuits,” says Arcangeles. “It’s a lot less stressful to figure out how to put together an outfit, and they are super comfortable to wear while still looking stylish.”
“Most often I wear boyfriend jeans, a T-shirt, and an adidas track jacket,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “On longer-haul flights I might swap the jeans for something softer, like harem pants or track pants. And nine times out of ten, wherever I’m flying, I’m in adidas sneakers. I’m quite the sneaker head. I customize them with Hickies so they’re easy to remove at security.”

You’re likely not starting every morning with a sun salutation overlooking the verdant jungles of Bali, or the mountains of Colorado, or the vineyards of the Douro Valley. In fact, your mornings are probably a little bit different and a lot less Zen. But what if we told you that you could trade in your alarm clock for a yoga mat with a view and a menu of body cleansing, healthy food, and wonderful friendships? Hello, yoga retreats.

Yoga Retreat Benefits: Why go on a yoga retreat?

Yoga retreats are designed to offer yoga students the opportunity to delve deeper into their personal yoga practice, to learn more about what yoga actually is, and use the structured week of refreshing freedom to develop a better relationship with themselves.
“In my opinion, any and all things ‘yoga’ is never about getting better at yoga, per se, but rather about refining skills and techniques to lead a more joyful, integrated life,” says Eli Walker, founder of Divine Your Story yoga retreats and Drunk Yoga retreats.
“Taking yourself on a yoga retreat is an experience of a lifetime. Not only do you gift yourself an all-inclusive vacation away from the hustle of your day-to-day, but you are also affording yourself the opportunity to explore your depths while replenishing your physical abode,” Walker adds.

Yoga Retreats in the U.S.

While it might be lovely to hop a plane to Thailand for a 10-day retreat, not everyone has the time or money to do so. But that’s no reason to halt your yoga dreams! Practicing yoga on a yoga retreat is entirely possible in the U.S.

Art of Living Retreat Center

Where: Boone, North Carolina
Focus: Meditation, breathing practices
Cost: Each is different depending on time of year and itinerary. All include tuition, room, and meals.

Omega R&R Getaways

Where: Rhinebeck, New York
Focus: Meditation, yoga, creative expression
Cost: $123/day, 2-night minimum
Less structured than many yoga retreats, Omega R&R getaways allows aspiring and expert yogis to decompress with a customized experience. A wealth of classes focus on uncovering your creative side, from art and writing to aura cleansing and lunar astrology. The campus sits on 250 acres of pure upstate New York nature.

Finger Lakes Yogascapes

Where: Ithaca, New York
Focus: Restorative yoga, Vinyasa yoga
Cost: $630

Get In The Wild

Where: North Cascade Mountains, Washington
Focus: Hiking, yoga
Cost: $149
A retreat doesn’t necessarily mean you have to commit to a week away. Get in the Wild offers a Yoga Day Hike Series, which takes guests outside the city to reconnect with nature for day yoga. It changes up the scenery and removes outside distractions but doesn’t require you to use any of your PTO. The day yoga outing includes a short hike to a secluded destination for yoga practice, lunch, and awe-inspiring views.
Note: A two-day outing is also available that incorporates meditation and restorative yoga practices.

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Where: Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Focus: Yoga, staying active, creative classes, holistic healing
Cost: $169/night
This retreat offers the most flexibility among yoga retreats, as guests are allowed to pick and choose what days work best. There are no set itineraries, and the activities are chosen based on what fits your needs, whether that’s a weekend yoga getaway or a two-week escape.
In addition to traditional yoga classes, the center has hiking, barre yoga, dance yoga, and workshops that encompass everything from chanting to sound healing. Summertime is a wonderful time to visit to enjoy the lakefront beach. There is also an on-site sauna and fitness center, and the restaurant serves a menu of all-natural meals.

Retreat in the Pines

Where: Tyler, Texas
Focus: Yoga, relaxation, female bonding
Cost: $399

420 Yoga Retreats

Where: Parshall, Colorado
Focus: Yoga, meditation, active travel
Cost: $645/lodging, $345/camping
For those yogis who believe that all good things start at 4:20, this might be the retreat for you. Each retreat kicks off with Laughter Yoga at—you guessed it—4:20. Guests receive a special goodie bag packed with tokeable treats like joints and ganja medicinals to help bring a new perspective to the yoga experience.
Classes incorporate weed into each style, including Vinyasa flow, partner yoga, and silent meditation. The retreat also uses the Rocky Mountains as its playground, offering other activities, such as hiking, massage, and meditation.

Big Sky Yoga Retreats

Where: Clyde Park, Montana
Focus: Vinyasa and restorative yoga
Cost: $1,975

Yoga Retreats Around the World

If you can afford a little extra time, the world is a veritable playground for healing, relaxing yoga retreats.

Haramara Retreat Center

Where: Sayulita, Mexico
Focus: Yoga, wellness, cultural immersion
Cost: $216/night, 2-night minimum

Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas

Where: Nassau, Bahamas
Focus: Yoga, meditation, adventure experiences
Cost: Price: $96/day
A salutation to the Caribbean sun is a true yoga goal. Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreats makes the Bahamas the spot for aspiring and experienced yogis alike. Founded by Swami Vishnudevananda, Sivananda is a literal island oasis for spiritual growth, healing, and relaxation.
Prepare to start the day with a 6 a.m. meditation, followed by Asana and Pranayama sessions. From there the itinerary becomes more free form, as guests can create their schedule based on what speaks to them, including more workshops, snorkeling, lectures, etc., all followed by a group afternoon yoga class.

Sathi Retreats

Where: San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Focus: Yoga, surfing
Cost: $207/day
Sathi Retreats is a rustic luxury-style retreat organizer that both hosts retreats and assists those who want to host a retreat of their own. In fact, the company was founded by a lover of yoga who is not actually a yoga teacher! But she is a master at events and has a passion for travel, so she loves facilitating yoga teachers in bringing together their students to fantastic locations.
One of the retreats, in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, combines both yoga practice with surfing. Attendees will warm their muscles each morning with 90-minute power yoga then grab a board and hit the waves. The best part is you don’t have to be a pro surfer to enjoy this retreat, as the waves surrounding San Juan del Sur are mellow enough for novices. The day ends with AcroYoga and a family-style dinner.

Museflower Retreat

Where: Chiang Rai, Thailand
Focus: Gentle yoga, meditation, relaxation
Cost: $500
With three-, five-, and seven-night packages, Museflower Retreat in the mountains of Thailand sets the stage for helping travelers incorporate yoga into their daily life. Each retreat includes wellness workshops, meditation, farm-to-table food, Hatha yoga, and spa treatments.

Drunk Yoga

Where: Various destinations
Focus: Yoga, wine tasting, cultural experiences
Cost: Varies

Divine Your Story

Where: Bali, Indonesia
Focus: Restorative yoga, wellness, empowerment
Cost: $1,750
Combining yoga and theater, Divine Your Story is a unique twist on a traditional yoga retreat that teaches theatrical techniques and best yoga practices to help guests empower themselves. Hosted each year at Jeda Villa in Pemuteran, Bali, the retreats are designed to help participants gain perspective and clarity. The retreat includes daily yoga practice, guided meditation, afternoon classes to help “rewrite your life story,” plus restorative, meditative, and inversion workshops, twice daily gourmet meals, beach access, pools, and more.

Ananda

Where: Garhwal, India
Focus: Intensive yoga practice for experienced yogis
Cost: $895/night
For a truly indulgent and luxurious yoga getaway, why not visit the birthplace of yoga itself? Ananda is a Himalayan hideaway tucked high in the mountains that offers more than just a yoga getaway. It is an intensive, immersive, one-, two-, or three-week cleanse that requires deep knowledge of postures, breathing, and meditation.
Meals are Ayurvedic in design, which means they allow for natural detox. Days are filled with five or six yoga sessions, and in between you can maximize the vacation experience with devotional rituals on the Ganges River, white water rafting, or animal safaris.

Blue Osa Yoga Retreat

Where: Puerto Jiménez, Costa Rica
Focus: Yoga teacher training
Cost: $2,890