Category: Well-Traveled

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Lifestyle Well-Traveled

HealthyWay's Ultimate Wellness Vacation Guide: Things To Do In Boulder

Within one hour of arriving in Boulder, Colorado, I found myself eating raw, vegan pad thai, sipping on hibiscus iced tea (which was attuned to a crystal, naturally), and surrounded by women in yoga pants giving each other tarot card readings (I’m not even kidding). The things to do in Boulder were a little more woo-woo than I had expected. I most certainly was not in New York anymore, and I was digging every minute of it.
Just a half hour outside of Denver, Boulder is a great destination for a three-day weekend filled with fresh mountain air and seemingly endless bike trails. Locals joke that it’s “25 square miles surrounded by reality,” with an intellectual community that loves the great outdoors as much as it craves the amenities of urban life. Oh, and if it breaks your heart to leave Fido at home while you’re on vacation, bring your dog with you on a trip to this beloved Colorado city. There are countless things to do in Boulder for both you and your four-legged buddy.
But more than anything else, what truly made me fall in love with Boulder was the foodie scene. The city incubates indie food brands that blossom into supermarket staples while still staying true to their original dedication to producing high-quality treats using sustainable practices. Justin’s nut butter, Celestial Seasonings tea company, Horizon organic dairy, and a number of other brands you probably have in your pantry right now were born (and still maintain a presence) in Boulder. And that doesn’t even touch on the thriving farm-to-table restaurant scene. Foodies are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in Boulder.
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Read on to discover the best things to do in Boulder for a healthy, active vacation (fueled by good food!).

Things to Do in Boulder’s Foodie Scene

Digging into the local healthy food and drink scene is one of the most memorable things to do in Boulder. Expect esoteric health tonics, gourmet farm-to-table dinners, and high-protein snacks.

Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar

A meal at a local farm-to-table restaurant like Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar should also be high on your list of things to do in Boulder. Shine’s kitchen is 100-percent free of GMOs and gluten—and 100-percent full of grass-fed meats and fresh veggies.

Pancakes from Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar in Boulder, Colorado
Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar

This spot whips up a hearty brunch with stacks of fluffy buttermilk pancakes and scrambles of just-picked vegetables, while coconut curry, grass-fed burgers, grain-free fettuccine, and taco plates fill tables at dinner. As for those potions, the colorful 6-ounce adaptogenic herb-infused sippers promise to work some magic on your health.

Thrive

The top of every list of things to do in Boulder should include visiting a vegan restaurant—the cruelty-free food in this city is just too delicious to miss, even if you typically eat meat. Enter Thrive, the spot with the raw pad thai and the tarot cards.

Smoothies from Thrive Raw Organic in Boulder, Colorado
Eli Akerstein

Superfood smoothies dominate the menu (and each is attuned to a specific crystal). Thrive also whips up some hearty salads, nut-milk-based puddings and porridges, and flavorful snacks (the nori wrap is particularly popular). Grab a seat outside if the weather’s nice.

The Laughing Goat Coffeehouse

Before you walk over to the pedestrian mall for a little shopping and a lot of people-watching, grab some of the best coffee in Boulder at the Laughing Goat.

Laughing Goat Coffeehouse in Boulder, Colorado
The Laughing Goat Coffeehouse

This cafe skips the gimmicky stuff in favor of strong classic espresso drinks that you can spruce up with a half dozen spices on the coffee bar. Come back after dark, when the cafe switches over to a live music venue with beer and wine, and you won’t want to leave.

Native Foods Cafe

Perhaps you prefer your vegan grub with a little less woo-woo. Try Native Foods, a small chain of vegan fast-casual joints that has meat- and dairy-free versions of all your favorite comfort foods. It’s a little more down-to-earth than Thrive but no less delicious.
Choose from options like portobello-sausage burgers, Baja tacos, Buddha bowls, double cheeseburgers, and avocado crunch wraps. And a side of the tangy, dairy-free mac ’n’ cheese definitely wouldn’t hurt.

Arcana

This rustic-chic restaurant takes inspiration from historical American cuisine for its upscale menu of farm-to-table dishes. Meals like smoked chicken, garden veggies, rainbow trout, and rabbit loin come meticulously plated, with dynamic textures and vibrant colors that make the foods look as glorious as they taste.

Drink from Arcana Restaurant in Boulder, Colorado
Arcana Restaurant

But the real treasure at Arcana is the bread: baskets of black garlic bread, rye caraway potato buns, and pull-apart dinner rolls—perfect for soaking up the craft cider.

Justin’s HQ

Your list of things to do in Boulder absolutely must include a quick stop at the headquarters of Justin’s, nut butter extraordinaires. Swing by to see the mini-museum of Justin’s artifacts (like the original nut butter jar), pick up some complimentary nut butter squeeze packs (perfect to throw in your backpack for a hike), and sneak a few treats from the giant bowl of mini peanut butter cups.

Nut butters at Justin's Nut Butter HQ in Boulder, Colorado
Julianna Abdallah, Prep Creative

If you’re lucky, you might run into Justin (yes, the Justin) himself—he’s there most days of the week, concocting new nut butter creations that might eventually land in your local supermarket.

Things to Do Outside in Boulder

In a place where locals bike (and even sometimes tube) to the office and weekends are spent seeking out new trails, physical activities dominate the list of things to do in Boulder. Don’t forget to pack your sneakers, hiking boots, and a pair of Birkenstocks (just to fit in).

The Flatirons

Chautauqua Park is your gateway to the Flatirons, the slanted sandstone formations blanketed in lush greenery, that set the backdrop of the city. One of Boulder’s most iconic sites, the Flatirons have plenty of great hiking opportunities with bird’s-eye views of the city.
Flatirons in Boulder, Colorado
Trails range in length and difficulty, but no matter which one you choose, make sure you bring plenty of water and take breaks as you need them (that high altitude is real!).

Movement Climbing + Fitness

Rock-climbing is definitely an option when it comes to things to do in Boulder. But before you go outside, you might want to get a feel for the sport on the indoor climbing walls at Movement Boulder.
The skilled team offers short introductory courses, climbing training, and technical instruction. The supportive, community-focused environment will give you the confidence you need (and maybe even a climbing buddy) to do some real rock climbing around Boulder.

Boulder Creek

When a city has a semi-official “Tube to Work Day,” you’ve got to spend some time around the creek.
You won’t have to go far—the Boulder Creek runs right through downtown and has plenty of nearby picnic areas, an adjacent bike path, and gravity-defying sculptures (the work of local stone-balancing artists). Plus, wading in the creek is especially refreshing on those hot summer days.

Boulder B-Cycle

Biking is a must for any list of things to do in Boulder. Don’t worry about lugging your two-wheeler on the plane, though. The Boulder B-Cycle program allows you to borrow bikes for 30-minute rides and drop them off at any of the 45 docking stations around town.

Bicycles from Boulder, Colorado's B Cycle Progam
Julianna Abdallah, Prep Creative

No need to sign up for a lengthy membership, either—the 24-hour “day tripper” pass is perfect for tourists (and at just $8, much more affordable than any other way of getting around).

Things to Do in Boulder to See How Locals Live

Wondering about the locals’ favorite things to do in Boulder? We’ve found a few places that’ll immerse you in the culture of this great city.

Boulder Farmers Market

You don’t know the full potential of farmers markets until you step foot in the one in Boulder. Every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning, 13th Street (between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue) fills with vendors showing off their glistening locally grown produce, pouring kombucha straight from the tap, and selling all kinds of fresh treats (think jars of honey, golden bread, spicy salsa, chocolate, and hummus in every flavor).

Food from the Boulder Farmers Market
Joni Sweet

There’s also a food court with everything from pizza and crepes to tacos and Chinese buns. The epic experience is a weekly ritual for many local families—expect crowds.

Dushanbe Teahouse

Adjacent to the Boulder Farmers Market is a building that seems a little out of place with its Central Asian architecture, bright colors, and dazzling patterns. It’s the Dushanbe Teahouse, which was a gift to Boulder from its sister city, Dushanbe, Tajikistan, roughly 30 years ago. It took more than 40 artisans to carve and paint the teahouse’s stunning ceiling and pillars by hand, resulting in a structure that reflects traditional Persian design.

Dushanbe Teahouse in Boulder, Colorado
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

While the teahouse is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, visiting in the late afternoon should be on your list of things to do in Boulder—that’s when it hosts its daily afternoon tea, complete with tiered towers of sweet and savory snacks and, of course, fresh pots of tea.

Pearl Street Mall

A stroll down Pearl Street Mall, the outdoor pedestrian-only thoroughfare, is one of the most quintessential things to do in Boulder. Whether you want to explore the shops, taste the local craft beer, or just do some people-watching (there are lots of colorful characters hanging about), the Pearl Street Mall won’t disappoint. Plus, it’s probably the best spot to pick up souvenirs for your friends and family.

Boulder Pollinator Garden

When it comes to things to do in Boulder, saving the environment hits high on the list for locals and visitors alike.

Flowers at the Boulder Pollinator Garden
Julianna Abdallah, Prep Creative

Visit the Pollinator Garden to see how residents are working to save bees and protect butterflies, and even taste some locally produced honey. Nature lovers will relish in the blooming flowers and views of the Flatirons.

Things to Do in Boulder for Mind × Body Wellness

This health-minded community is no stranger to self-care. Wondering where to get a massage, do some yoga, or just chill out in Boulder? Look no further.

All Terrain Yoga

Feeling the need to stretch out after a long flight? Take a class with Jenna, the yoga instructor behind All Terrain Yoga. As the name of the company implies, classes take place in unexpected places (including outdoors, right next to the Boulder Farmers Market!).

All Terrain Yoga class at the Boulder Farmers Market
Julianna Abdallah, Prep Creative

Can’t make it to one of her weekly sessions? Don’t worry—yoga’s one of the main things to do in Boulder, and you’ll find plenty of other studios around town. Yoga Loft, the Yoga Workshop, and Amana Yoga are a few favorites.

Boulder Shambhala Center

Learn how to channel the peaceful vibes of Boulder from within by participating in a drop-in meditation session at the Boulder Shambhala Center. Choose from both open meditation practices and guided instruction depending on your needs and preferences.
And if you get really into it, consider extending your trip to Colorado to include a wellness retreat at the Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, just two hours away.

The Spa at St. Julien

When so many of the top things to do in Boulder involve playing outside, you’ll need to schedule some time for a little bodily pampering. There’s no better place to do it than at the Spa at St. Julien, an award-winning day spa with therapeutic massages, body scrubs and wraps, natural facials, hair treatments, and nail care.

The entrance to Boulder, Colorado's Spa at St. Julien
The Spa at St. Julien

The spa makes many of its products out of herbs from the on-site garden. (Can’t get more natural than that!) After your treatment, restore your mind at the inner relaxation lounge and consider a dip in the 50-foot indoor lap pool at the fitness center. (Spa guests get a free pass!)
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Lifestyle Well-Traveled

How Solo Travelers Meet New People And Make Friends Around the World

Where’s the weirdest place to meet new people? For me, it was in bed in Mexico (and involved exactly zero margaritas).
I had woken up in my hotel room in Playa del Carmen, turned to my left, and there was a woman in the queen bed next to mine. While a stranger in my room would typically cue a freakout, this situation was different. I was on the inaugural Vaera Journeys women’s entrepreneurial retreat, and my roommate was scheduled to arrive late that first night.
“Good morning,” I squeaked out, unsure if I was ready to make a good impression, let alone make a new friend, so early in the day.
“Good morning! This is the first time I’ve ever met someone in bed before!” replied the stranger, who I’d later learn was Debbie Arcangeles, host of the podcast The Offbeat Life. Anyone who can crack a joke that actually makes me laugh before my first cup of coffee gets fast-tracked to my friends list, and we spent the rest of the retreat bonding (in bed, and out of it!), attending entrepreneurial mastermind sessions, chilling out on the beach, and brainstorming creative ideas for our businesses. It was a match made in roomie heaven.
And lucky for me, I didn’t leave the friendship behind in Mexico. We still chat online and get together when we can in New York. She’s one of countless people I’ve connected with on the road—arguably one of my favorite places to meet new people.
If you thought that loneliness is a way of life for solo adventurers, think again. Travel catalyzes friendship. Few experiences offer the opportunity to connect deeply with others like overcoming language barriers, getting around a foreign country, stepping totally outside your element, and taking in a different culture.
Traveling is the best way to meet new people—if you’re open to it.

Why should you meet new people on vacation?

So you finally took the plunge and booked a trip, with absolutely no idea who your seatmate will be on your flight. It takes a lot of guts to travel solo—why would you want to ruin that by trying to meet new people on your journey?
Think about why you were inspired to travel to begin with. You probably had an interest in changing the way you see the world. That shift in perspective gets even more dynamic when you throw a variety of new connections into the mix, says Molly Cowen, frequent traveler and editor at TravelPirates.
“Not only have I had eye-opening discussions, but I’ve also had countless interesting conversations and genuinely fun adventures with friends of as little as a few hours,” she says.
For me, visiting a Hindu temple in India alongside a British scholar, a Finnish taxi driver, and a couple of Aussie creatives was a much different experience than if I had gone alone. It made it more fun and more interesting to see it from a multicultural point of view. Plus, when we got lost, it felt adventurous—not stressful. We could laugh about it together as we found our way.
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Meeting new people abroad shouldn’t only consist of other foreigners, though. Befriending locals has its own advantages—you get an authentic glimpse at what it’s actually like to live in a particular place, and you learn cultural nuances you might otherwise miss as an outsider. When I lived and traveled in Indonesia, building tight-knit relationships with local women allowed me to ask otherwise taboo questions I had, such as why some chose to wear the hijab while others didn’t. Plus, the sleepovers we had were an instant cure for my homesickness.
Finally, there are a lot of practical advantages to finding friends when you’re far from home. You can save money (and travel on a budget) by sharing hotel rooms, transportation, and meals. You’ll also build a support network in the country.
Going somewhere a little sketchy, or trying out a daring activity (like bungee-jumping)? If your new pals don’t want to join you, they’ll at least take note of where you’re going and look out for your safe return.

If you want to make friends on vacation, you have to plan ahead.

The planning stage is the best time to increase your chances of meeting new people on vacation, and it starts with where you stay. Look for accommodations that foster a sense of community among their transient residents.
“Hostels are a great way to meet new people,” says Viktoria Altman, travel blogger at Traveltipster. “Many people who stay in hostels tend to be more outgoing. Although hostels used to be only for young people, there are more and more older travelers who choose to stay in them, not in small part for the company.”
Hostels aren’t for everyone, though. If you’re looking for more upscale lodging, skip the big chains in favor of small, family-owned guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels. Charming, one-of-a-kind places mentioned in popular guidebooks (such as the Lonely Planet series) attract friendly travelers from all over the world, and often host events (like movie screenings, family dinners, and board game nights) that create atmospheres for budding friendships—even if you’re just staying a couple of nights.

Meet new people through the art of conversation.

When’s the last time you approached a perfect stranger for a casual conversation? That’s exactly what you’ll need to get comfortable doing if you want to meet new people on a trip. It might seem uncomfortable at first, but trust me when I say that the person on the receiving end of your greeting will probably be receptive.
“Be friendly and read the situation. Don’t be afraid to chat up strangers and ask questions about the area,” says Nicole Faith, founder of the Digital Nomad Business Directory. “You can ask ‘Are you a local?’ and tell them you’re visiting. Ask for their recommendations and opinions—people love giving them! It’s a quick way to break the ice.”
Every great friendship starts with a simple conversation. Fear of rejection is real, but try to suppress it for the few moments it takes to open up to someone. You never know where it might lead.

Meet new people in a class or group activity.

Shared experiences instantly give strangers something they can both relate to—and hopefully bond over. Trying out a new activity or signing up for an interesting class present ample opportunities to meet new people when you don’t know anyone.
“I met a friend while on a haunted house tour in Scotland and another friend on a four-hour swimming cruise in Greece. If you are looking to meet people, join all kinds of activities. You can find some really fun ones on Groupon and Viator,” says Altman.
Taking a local cooking class is a travel ritual for me; I sign up for one on nearly every trip I take. Not only do I get to learn new recipes, but I also get to connect with others over a mutual love of culture and cuisine. And sometimes, the classes come with surprises—like the time my Turkish cooking teacher helped me crash a wedding in Istanbul…but that’s another story.

Meet new people while traveling? There’s an app for that.

Technology has made it easier than ever to meet new people, especially while traveling. Social media helps digital nomad and travel vlogger Andrea Valeria find friends in every city she calls home.
“There’s a misconception that you’re bound to get lonely when you’re traveling full time, but I haven’t experienced that yet,” she says. “That’s mostly thanks to social media. When used with purpose, it helps you connect to people you wouldn’t otherwise meet in your vicinity.”
She’s had the most luck with Instagram and Twitter, as those platforms facilitate connections based on mutual interests. It often starts with exchanges of likes and comments, before moving into private messages, and eventually over to chat and text, says Valeria. When you’re both at the destination, set up a time to meet in person, perhaps over coffee or lunch.
“This year, I traveled to an island in Mexico with two girls I met on Instagram that I had been talking to for over a year, and it was one of the greatest trips I’ve done in a while,” she says. “If you’re careful and strategic, social media can lead you to your next best friend.”
Traditional social media isn’t the only way to meet new people with digital tools, though. Travel writer Tracy Kaler recommends trying Bungee Girl, an app that helps solo female travelers find gal pals wherever they go. Try out a few platforms to see what works for you—and who you happen to come across.

A retreat or group tour is a great way to meet new people.

All the planning required while you’re on a trip can preoccupy you, consuming precious time you might otherwise spend meeting new people. Wellness retreats and organized group tours take care of that structure for you, leaving you free to get to know other travelers, says Jill Bowdery, travel blogger at Reading the Book.
“I always make friends on these tours, even the shorter ones,” she says. “My Facebook friends list is littered with people from all over the world who I connected with. Some are people I shared two weeks of intense experiences with, while others are people I only knew for a day but hit it off with well enough to want to keep that connection. All of them make life more interesting!”
Plus, the shared itinerary will give you tons of opportunities to socialize during exciting experiences.

Meet new people by learning a language.

Every traveler has struggled with a language barrier. But building a language bridge might be the easiest way to meet new people around the world, says Stephanie Montague, travel blogger at Poppin’ Smoke.
“If you’re in a foreign country, chances are there’s someone who wants to learn English and would love to meet you for coffee. If you are interested in learning the local language, all the better,” she says. “Try posting a message on bulletin boards at local universities or through organizations serving foreigners. Online classifieds are also a good resource to find a local with which to practice the language.”
It’ll pay off with some helpful vocabulary, and hopefully a new amiga.

Stay in touch with the new people you meet.

Success! You found a companion and spent days wandering around an exotic place together. But now it’s time to part ways—how can you keep the relationship alive when you live far away?
Whenever you meet new people, get their details right away, says Goldie Chan, a frequent traveler and founder of Warm Robots, a social media strategy agency.
“Add them immediately into your phone, WhatsApp, or on to your favorite social network and send them a picture of the two of you. This ensures that you have their contact and not just a scrap of paper,” she says.
Then, use the info! Budding friendships aren’t as resilient as your long-term buddies back at home—they require regular attention to blossom. When you meet new people, continue to connect with them over social media and email. Sending them a postcard, snail-mail style, will show special care. Growing the relationship ensures that it’ll be there for the long term.
Who knows? Maybe you’ll even plan your next trip together.

A Word of Caution: Be safe when you’re meeting new people.

No matter how lonely you get while traveling solo, don’t let your desire to meet new people put your safety at risk. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when you’re trying to meet new people on vacation:
Meet new people only in public places. There’s little to no reason to go into the private room or car of someone you’ve only known for a short while.
Tell someone you trust where you’re going and who you’re meeting. Zap an email to your friends and family back home, and let the staff at your hotel or hostel know what you’re up to.
Secure your valuables. Carry no more than the amount of cash you need for a day, put locks on your bags, and definitely stash your passport in a safe place.
Know your own limits. That goes for alcohol and physical activity. Pushing yourself to the point of insobriety or exhaustion leaves you vulnerable.
Always trust your instincts. They can save you from a lot of trouble.
Taking a few basic safety precautions gives you the peace of mind you need to meet new people. Go ahead, traveler, mingle your way around the world. Let us know how it goes!

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Lifestyle Well-Traveled

How To Overcome Travel Anxiety And Actually Enjoy Your Vacation

Vacations are supposed to be just that: a vacation—from daily stress, from daily anxiety, from daily life. But let’s be honest, getting to the actual relaxation part can be just the opposite: both entirely stressful and fraught with travel anxiety.
Inevitably, when it comes to travel snafus, anything that can go wrong will go wrong. It’s not enough that your Uber Pool is stuck in traffic. Once you get to the airport, TSA seems to constantly be changing its rules (Laptop in or out: Which one is it?). Then there are flight delays, dealing with your fear of flying, and, ultimately, stepping off the plane—and into someplace new.
When we look at the big picture, actually enjoying a vacation takes quite a bit of work, especially if you’re already working to overcome a substantial amount of travel anxiety.
In the 2015 study “Exploring the Fear of Travel” published in the International Journal of Scientific Management and Tourism, researchers wrote, “Although millions of people travel from one to another point of the globe in quest of other landscapes, customs and cultures, there are many others who are restrained due to psychological impediments. Leisure travel is for them a real nightmare.”
In some scenarios, travelers might not even know they suffer from travel anxiety. “While travel anxiety isn’t actually a diagnosis, situational phobias are,” says Heidi McBain, a licensed professional counselor and therapist, and author of Life Transitions: Personal Stories of Hope Through Life’s Most Difficult Challenges and Changes. “These phobias can include fear of airplanes, fear of enclosed spaces, or other anxieties relating to travel.”
If this sounds like you, rest assured you are not alone. Travel anxiety is something that many Americans struggle with. (A 2015 survey from The Economist and YouGov showed that about 15 percent of Americans are afraid of flying.) The good news is is that there are steps you can take to minimize travel anxiety, which can get you on the road to a relaxing vacation a whole lot sooner.

What is travel anxiety?

The cause of travel anxiety can be difficult to determine, but it’s typically related to some other form of anxiety. Unlike other forms of anxiety, though, travel anxiety can be triggered by anything related to any aspect of traveling: from worrying about getting to the airport to not wanting to leave your comfort zone or an actual fear of flying itself.
“Anxiety is fear of the future and the possibility of something negative happening,” explains McBain. “A delayed flight, an oversold plane, a long line at check-in, and a host of other possible scenarios may trigger stress in certain people.”
[pullquote align=”center”]“Leisure travel is for them a real nightmare.”[/pullquote]
Additionally, according to McBain, travel anxiety can be something learned from family members who suffer from it, or it can develop because of negative experiences with flying in the past, or from something someone saw on TV or in a movie.
Travel anxiety is not necessarily irrational. “Travel can be stressful whether it’s a one-night trip with a nonstop flight or a month-long trek through Europe,” says Anna Thelen, a travel consultant with Dream Come True Vacations. “There’s always this feeling of the unknown and helplessness when it comes to relying on airlines, transportation, [and] the kindness of strangers.”
Interestingly, if your travel anxiety doesn’t present as typical anxiety does, you might not even know that it’s something you struggle with.

Signs of Travel Anxiety

Anxiety in daily life is normal and we all deal with a certain amount of it. If you’re wondering if you have travel anxiety, look out for these common symptoms. (But to know whether or not it is something more than naturally occurring worries, speak to a professional who can help you with a diagnosis and treatment plan.)
“Physical symptoms of anxiety are fight-or-flight responses. They are natural responses to stressors,” says Tania Elliott, MD, Chief Medical Officer of preventative health company EHE. “[These] physical symptoms include increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, and high blood pressure.”
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To determine how problematic your travel anxiety is, note if there is immediate fear or fear that is out of proportion with reality, which can result in active avoidance according to McBain.
Becoming aware of whether or not you have travel anxiety is a great first step. But the goal then should be to minimize it so that the overall vacation experience doesn’t become a negative association.
Luckily, there are several practical things that travelers can do before and during a trip that can help to lessen the stress associated with travel anxiety.

How to Overcome Travel Anxiety: Plan Before the Plane

“For many people, the more experience they have with travel, the overall less anxiety [they] feel,” says Thelen. Planning ahead is key when it comes to trying to minimize the anxiety, she says.
Learning about your destination, airline, resort, and airport ahead of time is one of the best ways to stay calm. Thelen recommends sharing your itinerary with friends and family as well as keeping both electronic and paper backups of all important documents. Additionally, look up all the information for nearby hospitals and embassies in case of illness or emergency.
One of the best ways to overcome your anxiety before traveling is by purchasing travel insurance. This may give you peace of mind, knowing that both your health and travel investment are protected.
Still feeling anxious? “I also like to play a game of What If? where I discuss all the potentials that could go wrong during the trip and have a plan for how to work through for fix those problems before they happen,” Thelen shares.
Another option is to consider using a travel agent. Travel agents take a lot of the planning legwork out of the vacation, meaning you have fewer opportunities to fret over every little choice. Plus, should anything go wrong, you’ll have a professional back home whom you can contact to help you solve any issue.

How to Overcome Travel Anxiety When You’re En Route

As for dealing with anxiety that comes with being on the plane itself, Elliott recommends her patients consider guided meditation. She points them to the HeadSpace app; their short, guided meditations are ideal for when you’re feeling anxious out in public.
“The fight-or-flight response is how the body reacts when it senses a predator. It results in a lot of pent-up energy,” says Elliott. “Walk it off. Stand up. Do a mini sun-salutation, if you will.” Elliott stresses the importance of opening up your body when you feel anxious, rather than shrinking in.
Her most-recommended breathing technique for helping to overcome travel anxiety is called alternate nostril breathing. Place one thumb on one nostril and your ring finger on the other. Push in with your thumb, and breathe in, then alternate and do the same with the other nostril. Do this for 30 seconds, she says, and make sure that your exhale is twice as long as your inhale.

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Don’t forget to take care of yourself in other ways, too. “When you’re on an airplane, one of the things you can do is get a good night sleep before. Stay hydrated as well. If you feel crummy during travel, it will trigger anxiety,” says Elliott.
Finally, if the fear of flying is still holding you back, you might be calmed by some cold, hard statistics. As you go through the motions of flying, quell your worries with the fact that 2.5 million passengers fly in and out of American airports every single day. Air travel is also supremely safe. David Ropeik, a risk communication instructor at Harvard University, says your odds of dying in a car accident are about 1 in 5,000 while the odds of dying in a plane crash are about 1 in 11 million.
You’re more likely to be struck by lightning in your lifetime with a 1 in 13,000 chance, and you hardly ever hear stories about that. It seems that we hear about plane crashes so often because they are so rare. Trying to remind yourself of these safety statistics while traveling can definitely help you stay calm.

Dealing With Travel Anxiety on Vacation

Hopefully once you reach your destination, the travel anxiety wears off and you’re able to relax and enjoy a beautiful vacation. Still, many people find that the constant periods of transition during a travel experience cause anxiety.
“Most people experience anxiety right before they leave for a trip and right when they get there. Transitions are difficult,” Elliott says. She recommends trying as best you can to be present and in the moment.
Her best advice? Make it a cellphone-free trip. “Disconnect from technology and immerse yourself in your surroundings,” she says. “This is a [linkbuilder id=”6580″ text=”life hack”] that I try to do when I’m on vacation. I put my phone in the safe. The first six hours I feel the technology withdrawal, but after that I find myself feeling totally free.”

Understanding Travel Anxiety Post-Vacation

Ideally, tackling your travel anxiety before you leave and while you’re on vacation will show you that your fears are unfounded—and it might just motivate you to travel again in the future. Not feeling so sure? There are a few things you can do after a trip in order to debrief and learn from the past so that the next time around the idea of travel is less daunting.
Give yourself some downtime before you return to work and your everyday life if possible. McBain suggests using this time to reflect on what went well and what didn’t. Journaling is a great way to take note of how you felt during each stage of the trip to see what changes you would make in the future.
[pullquote align=”center”]“The fight-or-flight response is how the body reacts when it senses a predator. It results in a lot of pent-up energy. Walk it off. Stand up. Do a mini sun-salutation, if you will.”
—Tania Elliott, MD[/pullquote]
“Take stock of the trip,” says Thelen. “Note anything that went wrong, or that you would improve on the next one and take note of that.” For example, if you find that you became anxious while checking in for a flight because you couldn’t locate all of your documents, make a note of that. Before your next trip, make sure to have everything you need for check-in printed and in an easy-to-access spot.
“I also like to keep a master packing list,” Thelen says. “Packing lists can vary from trip to trip depending on climate, time of year, et cetera, but some things remain the same and as you go through your travels, make note of items that would have made your trip easier and add that to your master packing list.”

Overcoming Travel Anxiety: Medication and Therapy

Anxiety is a normal part of life. It is okay to feel a little bit anxious from time to time. And travel is certainly stressful, so feeling travel anxiety is not uncommon and can certainly be overcome. But how do you know when it is more than just a little bit of stress?
If the pre-planning and post-planning techniques mentioned above don’t seem to assuage your anxiety at all, that is something to take note of. If the fear of travel is so debilitating that it makes you not want to go, that is another sign to pay attention to.
“If these problems are pervasive and keeping you from seeing and doing things that you enjoy and experiencing life the way you would like, then medication may be an option that you’d like to explore with your doctor,” says McBain. “Therapy is another great place to get support for anxiety and learn new, healthier ways of coping with life stresses.”
Xanax and Ativan are common prescriptions for situational anxiety, but for those who don’t necessarily want to take medication, or whose doctors feel that prescriptions might not be right for them, try melatonin, a supplement you can get over the counter.
“I recommend adjusting to the time zone you’re flying to in advance by taking melatonin a few days beforehand,” says Elliott. This allows the melatonin to be most effective in flight and allows travelers to adjust more quickly once they land.
And always remember that you are not alone in dealing with travel anxiety. Talking to someone is incredibly effective and can go a long way in determining what is the right method for you.
[related article_ids=1003493]

Categories
Lifestyle Well-Traveled

Let's Go Glamping: Get Outdoors In Style At These 11 Glamping Destinations

Love nature, but not quite enough to tolerate the bugs, the backache from sleeping on the ground, and the whole peeing without a real toilet thing? Me too. But fortunately there’s a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing the creature comforts you need: glamping. Glamping—a portmanteau of glam and camping (yes, really)—has been one of the hottest travel trends of the last few years.
Picture this: You get out to the woods, and there’s already a gorgeous safari-style tent set up, complete with a queen-size bed and luxury linens, an en-suite bathroom chock-full of lavish amenities, and the most Instagram-worthy decor (plus wifi to post those pics!). That’s just the start of what you can expect when you’re glamping.
So grab your girls, stock up on rosé, and get ready for a glorious way to experience nature. Here are the best glamping destinations in America and beyond. (And since we love ya, we’ve added some bonus tips on making traditional camping a little more luxe for women who want to stay true to their Girl Scout roots.)

HealthyWay’s Picks for Glamping Destinations in the U.S.

Looking for an outdoorsy getaway that’s not too far from home? The top glamping sites in America have got you covered. Here are a few of the chicest spots from coast to coast.

Eastwind Hotel & Bar (Upstate New York)

Take on the Catskills in style at one of the area’s newest places to stay, Eastwind Hotel & Bar. Originally a 1920s-era bunkhouse for outdoor enthusiasts, the hotel has recently undergone a modern makeover with rustic designs, Frette linens, and private fireplaces. But the real draw of this property, located in Windham, New York, is its Scandinavian-style glamping sites called Lushna cabins.

Eastwind Hotel & Bar

Minimalists, eat your hearts out: These A-frame structures are simple in design without skimping on the comforts you’d expect from glamping. You’ll have access to a private bathroom, sauna, wireless speaker, barbecue kits, and (of course) wifi—essential for sharing your picture-perfect view of the mountains.
Price: Starts at $159/night per room + $179/night per Lushna cabin

Collective Yellowstone (Big Sky, Montana)

The perfect marriage of rustic and sumptuous, Collective Yellowstone’s luxury camping accommodations in the shadow of Lone Mountain are the perfect home base to find respite after exploring Yellowstone National Park, without giving up the hotel-style experience. The tents look like heirloom cabins under canvas, complete with over-the-bed chandeliers, high thread-count linens, snuggly Pendleton wool blankets, and wood-burning stoves.

Collective Retreats

When it comes to amenities, this glamping destination has pulled out all the stops: A library of books, board games, coffee and tea, Turkish bathrobes and towels, and even homemade snacks are available in every tent—just in case Yellowstone didn’t have enough to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Price: $500–700/night

Asheville Glamping (Asheville, North Carolina)

Think tents have to be triangles? Think again—staying true to the creative spirit of the local community, Asheville Glamping has turned dome structures into fun and funky glamping experiences. Each of the three glamping domes comes with its own personality.

Asheville Glamping

Dome 1 features an overhead skylight for premium stargazing opportunities that match its celestial-printed bed linens. Dome 2 is an interior design lover’s glamping dream come true, with a muted color palette, paper lanterns draped from the ceiling, air plants, a cowhide carpet, and accents that echo the shape of the geometric structure—no clutter, all sleek. And the whopping 1,300-square-foot Dome 3 has a 9-foot slide to take you through the bilevel structure in style. Your inner child will love it.
Price: Starts at $135/night

Urban Glamping at The Gwen Hotel (Chicago, Illinois)

Long left to the great outdoors, now glamping’s gone urban with an ultra-luxury tent on the 16th floor of The Gwen Hotel, right on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. The picturesque tent exudes an “eclectic bohemian aesthetic” you might expect to see at your independently wealthy, hippy-ish aunt’s home in California.

Collin Pierson Photography/The Gwen Hotel

Think drum side tables, macramé seat cushions, braided Indian jute rugs, and lanterns galore, all on a one-of-a-kind site that overlooks the Chicago skyline. You might not have a campfire, but the staff will bring you s’mores at turndown, and that trade-off is A-OK with us.
Price: Starts at $5,500/night

Mendocino Grove (Mendocino, California)

With its crashing ocean coastline, humbling old-growth redwoods, and fern canyons fit for fairies, Northern California offers experiences in nature like no other place in the world. The best way to take it all in: Mendocino Grove’s glamping sites.

Mendocino Grove

The property features 60 spacious tents with lavish beds, indoor plants, private porches, and romantic twinkle lights. In the morning, fuel up at the complimentary outdoor breakfast bar—then hit the trails. Let us know if you make it to the rare pygmy forest.
Price: Starts at $120/night

HealthyWay’s Picks for Glamping Your Way Around the World

Luxury camping is far from a strictly American trend. If you’re looking to add some stamps to your passport, check out these glamping sites in far-flung locales.

Wadi Rum Night Camp (Jordan)

Set deep within the bright orange Wadi Rum desert, you’ll feel like you’re in another world at Wadi Rum Night Camp. The private Bedouin-style tents look like retreats for Princess Jasmine herself, with crisp white cloth draped from the ceilings, plush beds with royal red throw pillows, ornate mirrors, and even genie lamps.

Wadi Rum Night Camp

Take a private Jeep tour of the desert at sunset, then settle in and enjoy tea around the campfire with your fellow glampers.
Price: Starts around $211/night

Lofoten Summer Glamping Experience (Norway)

Glamping is often all about the tent. Not the case with the Lofoten Summer Glamping Experience (although its traditional Sami tents do look charming). Here, it’s all about the spectacular views of the mountains across the fjords. The company’s two-night, three-day luxury camping itineraries are perfect for people who want to see nature with a little bit of structure.

Lofoten Summer Glamping Experience

You’ll observe wildlife by cruise (fingers crossed you’ll spot white-tailed sea eagles or a whale!), take a wilderness cooking class (you’ll fish for your own dinner!), hike to the area’s best viewing spots, and visit a local goat farm. You’ll also have the chance to help with a beach clean-up—perfect for travelers who want to give back to the destinations they fall in love with.
Price: Starts around $1,990 for two nights/three days

Cabañas CuatroCuatros (Mexico)

This company has given 19 classic Mexican “yurts” near the Valle de Guadalupe wine region the royal treatment with luxurious queen- and king-size beds, fireplaces and air conditioning, minibars, indoor-outdoor wooden showers, and private decks.

Cabanas CuatroCuatros

The vineyard setting overlooking the sea makes it the perfect spot to sip wine and watch the sun set. If that’s not glamping glory, we’re not sure what is.
Price: Starts at $160/night

Clifton Glamping (New Zealand)

Travel to New Zealand is all about the landscape, and Clifton Glamping in Hawke’s Bay is the perfect place to immerse yourself in it. You’ll stay in safari tents that fall somewhere between cozy cabin and a heavenly bed-and-breakfast, each appointed with a super king bed, feather duvets, and vintage-style kitchens.

Clifton Glamping

And while you could rent a bike or take a dip in the clean river, we recommend saving plenty of free time to soak in the private outdoor tub. Talk about a way to unwind!
Price: Around $200/night

John’s Camp at Robin Pope Safaris (Zimbabwe)

There are safari tents…and then there are tents on safari. The latter is exactly what you’ll experience at John’s Camp, an intimate glamping haven from Robin Pope Safaris in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park. Even though all of the six Meru-style safari tents have simple, cozy beds, en-suite bathrooms, and uninterrupted views of the landscape, we doubt you’ll only hang out there.

John’s Camp at Robin Pope Safaris

You’ll be at the only national park in the world that allows visitors to walk freely among exotic animals. The up-close action you’ll get with lions, hippos, African bull elephants, and buffalo would make Eliza Thornberry herself seethe with jealousy. (Don’t worry, you’ll have a guide to protect you.)
Price: Starts at $680/night

Enchanting Luxury Tents in the Agafay Desert (Morocco)

Travelers can escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech into this picturesque glamping site in the Agafay Desert. Surrounded by an endless expanse of golden sand, these elegant tents (lit only by wrought-iron lanterns) feature everything you need to relax in this intense environment: king-size beds, outdoor lounge cushions, en-suite bathrooms, and big tubs.

Agafay Desert Luxury Camp

With no electricity, you’ll be on a digital detox and able to take in even more of this incredible landscape. Dinners come with three courses of French-Moroccan fusion cuisine, followed by stargazing to your heart’s content.
Price: Starts at $100/night

DIY Glamping: Still want to rough it? Glamp up your campsite!

Maybe you’re craving a camping experience that’s a tad more authentic than glamping—more power to you! Here are some luxe touches you can put on your campsite to infuse it with just a little bit of glam:

Your bed is everything if you’re experimenting with glamping.

Inflate an air mattress in your tent (this is a must!), then cover it with your favorite sheets, a fluffy duvet, a throw blanket, and at least half a dozen pillows. The goal of glamping is to sleep outside without feeling like you slept outside.

You can also liven up your overall tent decor.

Start by draping a few strands of solar-powered twinkle lights around the entrance of your abode. Position a few chairs around an outdoor mat just outside your tent to create a deck-like feature. Then, add some glamping-inspired decorations, like streamers, party flags, lanterns, and wind chimes.

Do yourself a favor and set the table up nicely.

The five minutes it takes to place a checkered tablecloth, candles, Mason jars, and real flatware will pay off tenfold in upscale(ish) dinners, breezy breakfasts, and unforgettable dining experiences.

Get your camp food on point.

Whether you’re cooking over the fire or using your portable burner, camp food can be one of the most memorable parts of spending a night outdoors. Up your breakfast game by whipping up a glamping-style brunch. Mountain Standard makes it easy with its new carrot cake pancake mix. Just add water and fry for a few minutes to get gluten-free, golden-brown pancakes studded with apple chunks, raisins, and coconut. (Pro tip: They get even better with a generous pour of maple syrup and a mimosa to wash them down.)
Speaking of food, you’ll need to plan for s’mores. Epic, epic s’mores. Leave your cheap chocolate at home and instead treat yourself to gourmet dark chocolate, cinnamon churro marshmallows, and the fanciest honey-kissed graham crackers you can find. Voilà! The perfect glamping treat before snuggling into your sleeping bag.

Shower in style.

If possible, set yourself up with an outdoor shower in a secluded place (trust us: it beats the coin-op showers in the communal restrooms). You can hang sarongs around the area for a little more privacy. Then, stock it with mini bottles of luxury shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other amenities that you might find in the en-suite bathrooms at glamping sites. And go ahead and bring along a nice towel. Tiny self-care treats can go a long way toward helping you enjoy your outdoor adventure to its fullest potential.

Give your bar a little attention.

Plan to make a few glamping-themed cocktails and bring along mini bottles of your favorite spirits, tasty mixers, and some fresh garnishes to doll up the Mason jars you’ll use as cocktail glasses. Don’t forget your shaker!
Whether you’re a die-hard camper who’d never even think of letting someone else set up your tent or you’ve got your heart set on a stunning glamping experience with your gal pals this summer, just getting outside and away from it all is the most important thing. You’ll come home refreshed and invigorated—with a newfound appreciation for your own four walls.

Categories
Lifestyle Well-Traveled

12 Travel Apps Every Woman Needs To Download

It’s easier than ever to take a vacation these days. Not only is travel becoming more and more accessible thanks to the age of social media and a general rising thirst for new experiences, but technology makes planning and executing your vacations easier than ever. You can plan an entire vacation directly from your iPhone—and it can help you get around a new city too.
That being said, the market today is so oversaturated with travel apps that it can be a bit dizzying trying to figure out which ones are actually the best to use. We spoke with real women who spend much of their lives on the road to find out which travel apps help them to make the most out of their destination while still maintaining the routines that keep their lives in balance.

Travel Apps for Booking Your Vacation

From booking flights to organizing your packing list, there are some seriously amazing apps out there that will help get a vacation off the ground.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner covers all the bases for booking travel, from flights to hotels to rental cars. Much like Google Flights’ web app, Skyscanner’s mobile app does a search for the most affordable and best options through its travel partners. View the least expensive days to fly, or set up flight alerts for when prices change for specific destinations. If you’re feeling impulsive, select their Top Deals section, which shows the lowest fares from your nearest airport.
“I was visiting my boyfriend in London and the day I was supposed to return home I couldn’t bear to leave, so I did a quick search on Skyscanner and found a discounted flight back to New York City for the following day. It was cheaper than the cost to change my ticket,” says Gaby, a New York City–based travel writer.
Download Skyscanner for free for iOS and Android.

PackPoint

Keeping a list of what to pack can be incredibly useful—especially if it’s tailor-made for you. PackPoint uses information from your destination, like weather, location, and your travel dates, to curate a bespoke packing list. It will ask you questions about your itinerary to help make the list as specific as possible, so whether you’re traveling for business, lounging at the beach, or having a night on the town, you’ll be sure to have the right outfits. You can also share your packing list with friends traveling with you to solve all the So what are you bringing? discussions going down in the group text.
Download PackPoint for free for iOS and Android.

Travel Apps for Where to Stay

Picking the perfect place to stay is half the fun of traveling. Once you’ve chosen that, it’s a lot easier to envision sipping that cocktail, splurging on a great souvenir, and venturing outside your comfort zone.

Airbnb

Airbnb’s app version of its website is a wonderful way to book travel either at home or on the go. Find a place for a fraction of the cost of a typical hotel and live like a local. There’s no better way to get the feel of a destination than by living in your own space in the heart of a funky neighborhood.
The app also has a section called Experiences, which has a set of curated experiences to try during your stay. These experiences are put on by local guides, which can add a whole new level of local to your vacation.
Download Airbnb for free for iOS and Android.

HotelTonight

If something should go wrong last minute, like a cancellation, flight delay, or a room that doesn’t live up to your expectations, HotelTonight can save the day. This app seeks out the best last-minute deals at partnered hotels, offering discounts on unfilled rooms.
“HotelTonight saved me when I planned to crash at an apartment of a friend in Washington, D.C. I walked in and the place was such a pigsty that there was no way I could have slept there. A couple of taps in HotelTonight and I was able to book a chic hotel room at a discount right in the heart of the city. It saved me so much stress and money. I continue to use it when I travel,” says Jenna, a lawyer based in San Francisco.
Download HotelTonight for free for iOS and Android.

Travel Apps for When You’re En Route

Getting from Point A to Point B can have a lot of steps in between. These are our favorite travel apps for making the trip a bit smoother.

Grab

From flight delays to close connections to long security lines, travel can be a very last-minute experience. We don’t always have time to wait in line at the airport to get a quick bite, let alone sit down at an airport restaurant outside our gate. This app lets travelers order food on the go: Pay from your phone and pick up your meal at the counter without waiting in line. The app also has maps of each airport and a list of the restaurants available.
“Racing between flights just comes with the territory sometimes when you travel for a living,” says Lauren, a bi-coastal personal assistant to a wealthy Los Angeles family. “Sometimes you have less than half an hour between connections. I can literally order food when my plane lands and scoop it up as I pass by racing to my next gate.”
Download Grab for free for iOS and Android.

LoungeBuddy

Of course, there are the instances when you have too much time between flights. For that, LoungeBuddy is a perfect go-to. This app has saved me time and time again when I’ve booked discount flights that are priced so cheap because of inconveniently long layovers. The app allows for entrance to almost any airport lounge for a one-time fee. Select the airport and day, purchase a pass, and show it to the staff upon entry. Often meals at airport restaurants are more expensive than the passes to the lounge, which are stocked with free food and beverages. Score!
Download LoungeBuddy for free for iOS.

Travel Apps to Use on Location

Finally, you’ve arrived at your destination. Now what? Here are the travel apps that every traveler should have on the ground to make their stay the best it can be.

Guides by Lonely Planet

These downloadable guides are tailored to specific cities. Choose from hundreds of destinations around the world and get the world-famous guidebook’s recommendations on activities, restaurants, museums, outdoor experiences, and more. You can download the info to your phone so you can use them without a wifi connection, as well.
“Most travel writers became travel writers because of the Lonely Planet guides. We know that they are incredibly well researched, and often everything in the book has been tested by a destination expert. It’s like having a local in your pocket,” says Rebecca, a freelance travel writer based in Seattle.
Download Guides by Lonely Planet for free for iOS and Android.

Google Translate

Traveling to a country where you don’t speak the language? Google Translate solves all (or at least most) of your problems. You can download an entire dictionary to your phone to use while offline, which will translate back and forth between English and the local lingua franca. Plus there is a “talk” feature that will speak the language for you if you’re uncomfortable practicing or truly have no experience with it.
On a recent trip to Japan, Google Translate proved invaluable in getting me around town with taxi drivers. Since I have no experience reading or speaking Japanese, I was able to type what I wanted to convey in English and have the app translate it directly into Japanese. It’s not always an exact science, but it was certainly more effective than pointing and motioning.
Download Google Translate for free for iOS and Android.

Travel Apps for Food and Drink

HappyCow

For those who are vegetarian or vegan, it can often be a struggle to find a place to meet your dietary needs, especially when traveling out of the country. HappyCow curates a list of vegan options and healthy food in more than 180 countries. Find restaurants, health food stores, vegan shops, vegetarian-friendly hotels, bakeries, farmers markets, delivery services, and more.
Download HappyCow for free for iOS and Android.

Yelp

The late, great Anthony Bourdain may have hated Yelp, but it’s still the international go-to for restaurant and bar reviews. You can get a fairly accurate feel for a place by the overwhelming volume of reviews from past diners. Even if you’re wary of relying on other travelers’ reviews, each listing contains the restaurant’s hours of operation, a phone number, and often a menu so you can decide for yourself.
Download Yelp for free for iOS and Android.

Travel Apps for Staying Active

For many of us, an active lifestyle is very much a part of our daily routine. And as much as we want to indulge on vacation, we don’t want to completely undo our fitness schedules.

Beachbody On Demand

The fitness craze that was the Beachbody videos is still going strong, with popular at-home workout sessions like 21 Day Fix and Core de Force. The Beachbody On Demand app takes the workouts online so that they can be accessed from anywhere.
“I really love this app because I can download the workouts ahead of time, and they have so many that don’t require equipment. I never need to worry about having wifi and I can do any of the workouts in a hotel room or another small space,” says Ann, an au pair from Ireland.
Download Beachbody On Demand for free for iOS and Android.

obé

obé, or Our Body Electric, brings signature classes to iPhones everywhere every morning at 6 a.m. EST (with a later morning start on weekends, thank goodness). There are seven hours of classes, with everything from circuit training and sculpting to yoga and dance.
“I love this app, which streams live workout classes with some of the best boutique fitness trainers in NYC. It’s nice, as you don’t really need equipment, so I can do it in my hotel room or go down to the gym and have a workout plan instead of trying to figure out what to do. Twenty-eight minutes and you’re done,” says Erina, a travel advisor based in New York City.
Download obé for free for iOS.
[related article_ids=1003493,1005839]

Categories
Well-Traveled

Wellness Retreats Are The Perfect Way To Travel Alone

Solo travel empowers women to step out of their comfort zones and see the world on their own terms. There’s nothing quite like having everything you need right on your back with a drive to see, do, and experience complete freedom in a foreign destination. But the idea of traveling alone is so scary that many people write it off altogether. Truth be told, they’re missing out—but there is a happy medium between hitting the road completely on your own and taking an organized vacation.
It’s called a wellness retreat, and it might be the most addictive travel experience on the planet.
Imagine a mix of cultural immersion, healthy eats, adventurous activities, and therapeutic treatments—those are just some of the amazing things you can expect on a wellness retreat. These kinds of trips nourish your mind, body, and soul with a diverse, structured itinerary and plenty of time for inward reflection. You’ll feel completely at peace and connected with the destination. Plus, when you go on a wellness retreat, you’ll meet other boss babes as deeply interested in experiencing all of the amazing things the world has to offer—without neglecting their self-care along the way.
Ready to hop on a plane, you jetsetter, you? Fab. We’re here to tease your wanderlust with a roundup of the best wellness retreats for solo women travelers eager to explore the world, both externally and internally. These are the wellness retreats that will help you heal your mind and soul, step outside your comfort zone, make new friends, and ultimately reconnect with yourself. Here are the wellness retreats that should be on your bucket list.

Wellness Retreats for Healing and Empowerment

Wellness retreats aren’t just about relaxing at the spa. Sometimes, you need a little healing and empowerment in a special place. Here’s where to find it.

The DEN Wellness Retreats (various global destinations)

Popular Los Angeles meditation studio The DEN hosts wellness retreats that infuse travel with a heavy dose of meditation and alternative healing treatments. Each retreat takes place in an invigorating destination with a theme to inspire the itinerary.
Palm Trees in Los Angeles
The Peru wellness retreat, themed around mysticism and the spirit, will set your heart on fire with a week of growth and discovery in the Sacred Valley that includes yoga, dharma talks, group healing with a Peruvian shaman, and meditation on sacred ruins. You can add a few extra days to the trip to tour Machu Picchu and Cusco with your new friends.
The DEN also has wellness retreats coming up in the Himalayas, the Adirondacks, and a special New Year’s celebration in Nicaragua, themed around “reiki, magik, and manifestation.” No matter which one you choose, these wellness retreats are sure to fill you with a deep sense of gratitude, inner peace, and wonder.
Price: Starts at $1,000

Pura Vida Retreat & Spa (Alajuela, Costa Rica)

With a mission to empower women and make them feel alive, Pura Vida wellness retreats celebrate community building and get you moving in yoga classes hosted by experienced teachers from around the world.
Woman hiking solo in Costa Rica
While every wellness retreat offers plenty of time on the mat and accommodations in calming, eco-chic rooms that overlook the San Jose Valley, no two itineraries are exactly alike—some include tours of coffee fields, self-care sessions, salsa dancing, wildlife boat tours, zip-lining, and surprise excursions. The beautiful natural setting in the lush mountains will give you the restoration your mind and body crave.
Price: Starts at $1,290

AdventureWomen (various global destinations)

What could be more empowering than getting up close with Mongolian eagle hunters, horseback riding through Viking trails in Iceland, and getting caught up in the whirlwind of Morocco’s famous marketplaces? How about doing it with a group of spirited, adventurous women like yourself?
That’s just the start of what AdventureWomen wellness retreats offers attendees, more than 70 percent of whom are repeat customers. The all-female team behind the company has taken women on inspired trips around the world for almost 40 years. From wildlife and adventure sports to immersive experiences with local communities, these wellness retreats offer a little something for everyone who wants to have an adventure. Don’t forget to pack your sense of humor!
Price: Starts at $3,290

Wellness Retreats With Adventure and Fitness

If stepping out of your comfort zone and getting your heart rate up puts you in a state of bliss, you’ve come to the right place. These adventure and fitness wellness retreats will indulge your sense of adventure.

SwellWomen Surf & Yoga Retreats (various global destinations)

This boutique wellness retreat organizer takes women to the best surfing destinations in the world, from Sri Lanka and Indonesia to Costa Rica and El Salvador, for wellness retreats that are as much about hanging 10 as they are about hitting your mat.
Woman taking surf lessons in the ocean
If you’re looking to make some pals, SwellWomen wellness retreats are for you—the company focuses on building tight-knit communities among members who expand one anothers’ passions and feel empowered to pursue the unknown. Expect daily yoga and surf lessons with pros, photo shoots capturing you on your board (get ready for lots of Instagram love!), massages, life coaching sessions, and accommodations in luxurious villas and bungalows right on the sea.
Price: Starts at $2,795

REI Women’s Adventures (various global destinations)

Beloved outdoor gear store REI has been taking people on adrenaline-boosting retreats for more than 30 years. They push groups of like-minded ladies to their limits on a huge array of women’s-only adventure retreats (led by women guides), which include climbs up Mount Shasta, safaris in South Africa, hiking and camping in Utah’s Zion National Park, and backpacking along the Pacific Crest Trail.
While each itinerary of these adventure–wellness retreats is different, attendees can expect plenty of female bonding, outdoor vistas, and experiences like none other. And you can feel good knowing that these retreats have an emphasis on responsible travel that strives to do good for local communities.
Price: From $749

Pursuit Series From the Outbound (various U.S. destinations)

Want to relive those childhood memories of summers spent at camp? Check out Outbound’s Pursuit Series—a range of wellness retreats that described as “outdoor adventure camps for grown-ups.”
The quickie three-day retreats kick off with unwinding under the stars. Then, make the experience your own, packing your days with adventurous activities like rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, stand-up paddle-boarding, and so much more. You can refresh your Girl Scout skills in outdoor first-aid classes, basecamp cooking lessons, and backpacking instruction. You’ll bond with other campers around nightly socials, the fire pit, and (of course) s’mores. Don’t forget to do a little forest-bathing while you’re there!
Price: Starts at $225

Cheap Wellness Retreats

Think you can’t get out of town without spending a fortune? Think again—these affordable wellness retreats give you plenty of opportunities to bliss out without breaking the bank.

Discover Calabria Retreats (Calabria, Italy)

Unwind under the southern Italian sun on five-day yoga retreats set in the ancient seaside village of Scilla. Each morning of these wellness retreats kicks off with 90-minute yoga sessions on a terrace overlooking the picturesque Tyrrhenian Sea. Explore the area’s shops and restaurants, or chill out on the beach during your free afternoons. Then, join the others on your wellness retreat for evening yoga and meditation, followed by a four-course meal at a local restaurant.
Not down with downward dogging all week? Consider jumping on Discover Calabria’s women’s-only wellness retreat. Hosted at a historic farmhouse, the retreat includes organic meals, nature walks, meditation, visits to a medieval village, and a sacred circle ceremony that will stimulate “the divine feminine within.” Talk about transformative!
Price: Starts around $900 for yoga retreats

Museflower Retreat & Spa Thailand Getaway (Chiang Rai, Thailand)

At Chiang Rai’s Museflower Retreat & Spa, you can get pampered from head to toe—without doing serious damage to your wallet. Four-day packages include daily herbal steams, signature massages, body scrubs, foot massages, and Japanese-style energy balancing.

Museflower Retreat & Spa in Chiang Rai, Thailand, at night
Museflower Retreat & Spa

These all-inclusive wellness retreats will also nourish you with organic vegetarian food from the on-site organic garden—perfect fuel for activities like visiting the nearby elephant sanctuary, biking around local villages, sweating it out in yoga classes, or splashing around the Himalayan crystal saltwater pool. If that doesn’t sound like a rejuvenating experience, we’re not sure what does.
Price: Starts around $513

Mountains & Mystics of India Tour (India)

Few places carry the mystical energy found in India, and you can take it all in on Intrepid Travel’s wellness retreat–style tour of some of the country’s holiest destinations. The 13-day tour kicks off in the capital, New Delhi, where you’ll visit temples, sacred tombs, and one of the country’s largest mosques. Then you’ll go up to the mountains via the World Heritage–listed train to chill out in Shimla for a couple of days. Next up, check out Dharamsala, the Dalai Lama’s home, where robed Buddhist monks stroll to monasteries and prayer flags flutter in the breeze.
Monkey Temple in Jaipur, India
You’ll then make your way to Amritsar to learn about Sikhism and see the famous Golden Temple before finally chilling out on the holy Ganges River in Rishikesh, a town that’s often referred to as the “yoga capital of the world.” This is one wellness retreat that’s as much about immersing yourself in culture as it is about getting in touch with your spiritual side.
Price: Starts at $1,280

Luxe Wellness Retreats

Got some cash to burn? Lucky you—with healing ceremonies, one-on-one attention from shamans, and accommodations fit for your inner queen, these luxurious wellness retreats are worth the splurge.

Holistic Wellness Retreats at Fivelements (Hong Kong)

If Fivelements’ recently opened urban retreat center in Hong Kong is anything like its well-reputed property in Bali, you’re in for a treat. The three-night rejuvenation retreats include gourmet raw foods, a wellness consultation, two massages, aquatic body work, yoga and meditation, sacred arts classes (like tea ceremonies and Qigong), and beautifying spa treatments. (The superfood facial is a must!)
A view of Hong Kong
It sounds like a jam-packed schedule, but Fivelements leaves plenty of time for quiet reflection and exploration of its beautiful grounds. These integrative wellness retreats are perfect for solo travelers who want a peaceful getaway with opportunities to develop intimate connections with like-minded folks on a path to healing.
Price: Around $2,200

Marry Yourself at Rosewood Mayakoba (Playa del Carmen, Mexico)

Do you ever dream of destination weddings? Now you can have one—for yourself—at Rosewood Mayakoba. The serene property, nestled along the Caribbean coast, is launching a “Marry Oneself Journey,” a four-day wellness retreat dedicated to cultivating self-love and steeping guests in ancient Mayan traditions. You’ll reconnect with your soul on a series of guided experiences led by a local shaman, water therapy treatments, purifying body rituals, and relaxing spa treatments, along with daily lessons focused on the four major elements of the universe (earth, water, fire, and air).
On your last day, you’ll have your own sacred “wedding ceremony,” wherein you’ll commit to personal vows and a promise to pursue happiness—no white gown required. Our only question is where to have a honeymoon after a wedding this incredible!
Price: Starts at $1,293 per suite per night

Como Parrot Cay (Turks and Caicos)

Wellness retreats go luxe at Como, a private island resort with airy, colonial-inspired rooms, a stunning spa with Ayurvedic treatments, and restaurants with diverse cuisines. Respected yogi Elena Brower, author of Art of Attention and Practice You: A Journal, is hosting a “Well of Grace Workshop” at the resort that sounds absolutely divine.
A palm tree in Turks & Caicos
The wellness retreat includes hours of daily yoga, meditation, and journaling. In between, check out Como’s other creative travel activities like snorkeling eco-tours, plantation trail walks, bike excursions, diving, and fly fishing—or use those options as the basis for your own personalized wellness retreat.
Price: Workshops start at $7,444
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Categories
Well-Traveled

15 Cheap Places To Travel In Style

Wouldn’t it be nice to have an endless travel fund? Dream with me: Hop your private jet to the Western Med, where you snuggle up for eight blissful days of wine, gourmet cuisine, massages, and 800-thread-count sheets on the Amalfi Coast. Yes, that would be nice.
But sadly, the majority of us dreaming of these champagne-taste trips are working with a Bud Light budgets. The good news, however, is that finding cheap places to travel does not mean you need to sacrifice comfort, style, or your wellness goals. Traveling on the cheap does not have to involve sharing a dingy hostel room while surviving on greasy street meat and shots of Jose Cuervo.
It turns out, we actually can have the best of both worlds. There are dozens of cheap places to travel that put an emphasis on wellbeing and comfort, in a variety of settings from beaches and jungles to cities.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping trek through the mountains of South America, a meditative, transformative experience on the beaches of India, a foodie tour through Europe, or a surf retreat off the coast of North Africa, we found 15 cheap places to travel in ultimate style.

Active Cheap Places to Travel

For many of us, testing our limits is a big part of what makes travel so life changing and special. Staying active is such an important part of our lives, and combining the two endeavors is a great way to learn both about a destination, and about your personal goals. These destinations are perfect cheap places to travel for those with an active mindset.

1. Yosemite, California

Yosemite National Park, located in eastern California’s epic Sierra Nevada mountain range, is 1,200 square miles of potential for pure active adventure (and endless Instagrammable moments), from hiking more than 750 miles of trails to rafting the Merced River or skiing the impressive Sierra Nevadas. The best part? Enjoying the great outdoors doesn’t have to cost you a dime (well, except for the entrance fee, which is a mere $35 for a seven-day pass).
Yosemite National Park at sunrise
How to travel cheap? Book a room or customized campsite at the Evergreen Lodge. The classically styled lodge gives off that vintage, log cabin vibe, but with comfy touches. Rooms begin at $200 per night. Campsites are decidedly cheaper (and slightly more rugged) at $90 per night. For dining, you can go as basic as a packed lunch you prepare yourself with fixings from the in-park sundries shops, peruse the casual variety at the food-court style Half Dome Village, or go truly elegant at the Victorian-era Big Trees Lodge.

2. Playa Venao, Panama

A once wild beach has now emerged as a go-to destination for Panamanian adventure, and it’s a great cheap place to travel. Playa Venao, located on Panama’s west coast, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. From surfing and horseback riding to kayaking, snorkeling, and trekking, Playa Venao is the perfect home base for a Panamanian adventure.
The shore of a beach in Cambutal, Panama, near Playa Venao
How to travel cheap? Book a room at Selina Playa Venao, a fast-growing brand of high-end hostels designed for digital nomads. From offering zip-lining through the jungles to its own private surf club to opportunities to explore the hidden islands of Pedasi, Selina is perfect for adventure-seekers. Rates start at just $18 a night. Dine at El Sitio for its healthy menu, which focuses on fusion cuisine using seasonal ingredients. Breakfast starts at $8; lunch and dinner are around $10 for an entree.
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3. Portland, Oregon

There’s so much more to Portland than food trucks and flannel. Active travelers will love the city’s iconic bike culture as well as its proximity to Mount Hood, a favorite among skiers and snowboarders in the winter and kayakers and hikers in the summer. Don’t miss the Columbia River Gorge, a 4,000-foot gorge that cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range and offers ample opportunity for outdoor exploration.
A sign in Portland, Oregon
How to travel cheap? Stay uniquely at the Kennedy School, a converted former elementary school downtown. Rooms start at $145 and it ensures you get a dose of true Portland culture with its onsite brewery, locally sourced food, and movie theater.  

4. Sucre, Bolivia

Stunning, white-washed buildings set the tone in the capital city of Bolivia. While it’s garnered international interest, the city has retained its Bolivian history and charm and was actually declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in the ’90s. And though the city itself swings cultural, it’s the perfect jumping off point for active travelers to explore the Uyuni Salt Flats or Lake Titicaca.
Flamingos on the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia
How to travel cheap? Book a stay in the historic Parador Santa Maria La Real, housed in an 18th-century mansion with a spa, gym, and restaurant. Rates start at $83 a night. There is a cosmopolitan, international flare to this historic city, which trickles to its eclectic dining scene. Consider Condor Cafe, which has hand-drawn menus and a menu of locally sourced ingredients. Menu items start at just 75 cents.

Cheap Places to Travel for Wellness

Health travel doesn’t necessarily have to be hardcore. Travelers looking to maintain that mind-body medley can make the most of these cheap places to travel that focus more on overall wellness, from yoga and meditation to reiki.

5. Ometepe, Nicaragua

Unsure of where to start your wellness vacation? This volcanic island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua seems like a good place to begin. The two towering peaks that rise out of the lake have teased the minds of travelers since the time of the precolonial Aztecs.
Streets of Leon, Nicaragua
How to travel cheap? Book a stay an InanItah, a spiritual yoga community that focuses on meditation, yoga, and tantra. The island itself also offers ways to get in touch with your spiritual side, from exploring the waterfalls to community cleanups and group family dinners. Rates at InanItah start at $28 per night.

6. Isla Holbox, Mexico

Tulum might be one of the original spots for wellness travel in Mexico, but it’s become a tad overpriced. For a cheaper place to travel, head north to Isla Holbox, a tiny Caribbean-esque island off the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. With sugary shores and electric blue water, it’s difficult to imagine a place more primed for wellness. In fact, the island is surrounded by the Yum Balam nature reserve, making it one of the best places to immerse yourself in beauty and nature. It’s easy to see why this is one of the top destinations in Mexico for yoga retreats.
How to travel cheap? Check out Omm Retreats’ next getaway to Isla Holbox. Rates begin at $900.  

7. Goa, India

India’s southwestern shores are iconic for the white sand and turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea. Plus, if you’re looking for a wellness vacation with an emphasis on yoga and Ayurveda, India is the perfect place to pick.

Bedroom at Purple Valley Ashtanga Yoga Retreat in Goa, India
Purple Valley Ashtanga Yoga Retreat | Coni Hörler Photography

How to travel cheap? Goa’s Purple Valley Ashtanga Yoga Retreat is an oasis and home to some of the world’s best Ashtanga yoga courses and teachers. Rates begin at $750.

8. Paradise Island, Bahamas

Hitting the reset button on your body and spirit is pretty simple with the Bahamas as a backdrop. White sand, stunning water, and that laid-back Caribbean vibe are difficult to ignore. But instead of lazily lounging, make the most of the day at Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat.
How to travel cheap? This ashram has its own white sand beach and a full itinerary of morning meditations and yoga classes as well as yoga teacher training courses. Rates begin at $80 per night. The Yoga Vacation Program, which includes more classes and meals, is an additional $32 per day in winter and spring.

Cheap Places to Travel for Pure Relaxation

Indulgence is just as much a part of travel as overall wellness. For travelers who want to treat themselves to an iconic foodie experience or luxurious spa treatment, here are cheap places to travel for ultimate relaxation.

9. Bali, Indonesia

Nothing conjures up dreamy visuals quite like the coast of Bali. The Indonesian island getaway has been a long-time favorite escape for travelers in search of ultimate calm in a naturally luxurious setting—coveted for its volcanic mountains, beaches, and coral reefs as well as its deep-rooted Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Woman sitting in Indonesia
How to travel cheap? Stay at Bali Baliku Private Pool Villas. Each villa has its own private pool as well as indoor and outdoor showers. The resort has a private beach club, restaurant, and spa that offers treatments like aromatic foot baths, aromatherapy massage, facials, and more. Rates begin at $129 a night.

10. Bangkok, Thailand

Budget travelers have long flocked to Bangkok for its favorable exchange rate (1 Thai baht is less than a U.S. penny), tropical weather, nearby beaches, and delicious food. It’s a cost-effective happy medium between tranquil, Eastern vibes and 24/7 energy.
Woman on the street in Bangkok, Thailand
How to travel cheap? Stay at Ariyasom Villa, a small boutique hotel and spa in the heart of Bangkok near the iconic Sukhumvit Road. Rates begin at $143. Treat yourself to a shopping spree at Thonglor Art Village, a quaint and affordable treasure trove of vintage finds where you can score amazing pieces for under five bucks.

11. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal has been the budget-chic hotspot of western Europe for some time now. Travelers are drawn to the vintage glam of Lisbon, with its stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, dining scene, and shopping—all at a fraction of the cost of destinations like London, Paris, and Rome.

Hotel room at Casa do Principe Lisboa in Lisbon, Portugal
Casa do Príncipe

How to travel cheap? Stay at Casa do Principe, a beautifully restored 19th-century Neo-Moorish palace with just nine rooms. Rates begin at $129. Take in Lisbon’s delectable (and discount) dining scene at the Time Out Market Lisboa. This indoor eating frenzy is a gourmet hub of the best dining in Lisbon, all under one roof.

12. Savannah, Georgia

History and southern charm come together on the banks of the Savannah River. Old world elegance meets urban flair, and Savannah exudes an affinity for the truly indulgent, from its foodie scene to its beaches and an island just out of town. Stroll rows of elegant antebellum mansions or marvel at the massive live oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
An old house in Savannah, Georgia, surrounded by live oak trees draped in Spanish moss
How to travel cheap? Sleep historically chic at the River Street Inn, where rates begin at $143. Stroll the Starland Arts District on the first Friday of every month as galleries, shops, and eateries open up, providing entertainment, food, and the chance to chat with local artists and creators.

Cheap Places to Travel as a Group

There’s a lot to be said for a DIY trip, but often the convenience that comes with organized retreats and tours is well worth the investment of time and money. For group travel with a wellness slant, turn to these cheap places to travel.

13. Surf Maroc Yoga Surf Retreats

Hop a plane to Taghazout, Morocco for a week of surfing and yoga with oceanfront accommodations. Surf Maroc Yoga Surf Retreats are week-long programs on the coast of Morocco that combine wellness with immersive exploration of the destination, from beach trips to souk shopping to mini road trips. Costs begin at $915.

14. El Camino Travel

Dive into Central and South America with El Camino Travel, a small group-tour company that emphasizes the pure local experience. El Camino visits destinations like Colombia, Nicaragua, and Cuba. Each itinerary highlights the destination’s cuisine, natural beauty, nightlife, and great hotels while folding in aspects of wellness like yoga, surfing, and more. Rates for these (typically) eight-day trips begin at $2,100 and include accommodation, excursions, and meals.

15. Zen Den Yoga & Wellness Retreat, Boca Raton, Florida

Just a bike ride from the beaches, this ongoing yoga retreat comes in packages of three, five, or seven nights during which travelers can enjoy daily yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage, and delicious natural smoothies. Add on extras like additional classes, more massages, or rounds of golf. Plus, a free bike rental program allows guests to explore the nearby beaches, which are all beautiful. Package rates begin at $600.
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Categories
Well-Traveled

Capturing The Journey: Travel Photography Tips For Your Next Getaway

Instagram has no dearth of inspiring travel photography. Scroll through your feed on any given day and you’re bound to spot a sunset painted a million different colors, a decadent brunch bursting with fresh fruit and pastries, hikers striking a triumphant pose at the peak of a mountain, and truly epic landmarks standing tall in all their glory. The overall effect is an idealized version of every vacation we take.
But for every amazing photo you or anyone else posts on social media, there are hundreds of others that didn’t quite make the cut: Perhaps the horizon line was askew, a selfie at the beach didn’t showcase your most flattering angle, or that famous statue you were so eager to see wasn’t in focus in your shot. It’s a total bummer.
These mistakes linger in our travel photography archives for eternity, embarrassing smudges on an otherwise picture-perfect gallery of the world. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just nail every single shot the first time?
While perfection is rarely achievable, practicing your travel photography skills can definitely improve your ratio of duds to wow-worthy shots. And you don’t need years of training or innate talent to hone these skills either.
To take better pics on your trips, you just need to learn a few basic tricks of the trade—and Robin Layton, a Pulitzer Prize–nominated photographer and Nikon ambassador, has some pro tips to help you get better at travel photography.
I spoke with Layton about how to capture every magical moment on a getaway and create images that will help you relive the experience for years to come. Read on to learn some travel photography tricks you can use on your next big adventure. And see what happened when I took a Nikon D3400 camera out for a spin and put Layton’s advice in action on a trip to Roanoke and Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

From Casual ’Grammer to Travel Photography Pro

So you’re pretty happy with the shots you’ve managed to take casually but you’re ready to take travel photography a little more seriously. How do you move up to the next level?
Start by upgrading from your smartphone, says Layton. While smartphone cameras have gotten better over the years, they just can’t deliver the crisp, dynamic shots that you can get from more powerful tools, like a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR). Which DSLR is the best option for people who want to take their travel photography to the next level?
“Amateurs should make sure that the camera they choose can shoot high-resolution photos and videos and is lightweight to travel with. The Nikon D3400 is a great entry-level camera for anyone looking to step up from smartphone photography,” she says. “The camera is sold in a two-lens kit, so you can experiment with different focal lengths. The camera also has a guide mode that gives step-by-step instructions to learn as [you] go.”
There are tons of great cameras on the market right now—work with the professionals at a well-established photo store, like B&H, to find the equipment that fits your needs and budget.
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In addition to making sure you’ve got the right tools, doing some advance planning for your trips can go a long way toward helping you take stunning shots. Do some online location scouting to find places to practice travel photography on your next trip, Layton suggests.
“Before traveling to a new city, make sure to research the area so you can capture the most picturesque spots. This will be different for everyone, depending on their individual passions and interests,” she says.
Love plants and flowers? Look up botanical gardens and natural parks on your next hiking trip. Are you obsessed with sunsets? Use Google Maps to research sites that face west. Or maybe you’re really into local artisans—make note of some craft markets and small workshops.
But those spots aren’t the only travel photography opportunities you’ll have on a trip, so be prepared to snap some pics anywhere you end up.
“Take your camera with you every place you go. You’ll never know what you’ll see, and if you don’t have your camera, you’ll kick yourself for it,” says Layton.

I tried it:

I have to admit: I didn’t love lugging around the camera all day. It was heavier than I was used to, and I like to travel light. But after seeing how much better my travel photography was compared to my usual iPhone pics, it felt worth the extra weight. I hardly noticed it after a couple of days.
As for research, I asked around and looked online for suggestions about the best places to watch the sunrise in Roanoke. It turns out that there are some fantastic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a majestic road that goes straight through the mountains. So I woke up bright and early and drove up there just before dawn to capture the sky turning from lavender to salmon to gold.

HealthyWay
Joni Sweet

Travel photography may have been the motive for the early wake-up call, but this adventure enhanced my experience in another way: enjoying the peaceful beauty of nature and breathing in the fresh mountain air while the rest of the world was fast asleep. I’ll never forget it.

Master of Light

The way you capture light is a dead giveaway for whether you understand the finer points of travel photography. How the light hits the subject has a direct impact on the overall mood of the photo. A high-contrast shot with dark, rich shadows gives a sense of drama, while softer light creates a more serene atmosphere.
“Lighting is everything in travel photography, so it’s important to take advantage of the best lighting to get the best quality photos,” says Layton.
If you’ve explored photography before, you may have heard the advice to shoot with your back to the sun. This principle helps you make sure your subjects are properly lit and your photo doesn’t end up blown out. But when it comes to travel photography, it’s worth throwing some of the old rules out the window, says Layton.
“Don’t be afraid to shoot into the light where your subject is backlit. You can get some beautiful images that way,” she says.
The quality of your travel photography can change depending on the time of day you’re taking pics. Bringing your camera to the beach at noon will create a completely different look than going to the same location at dusk.
“[For nature shots,] the best light to take photos is early morning (before the sun rises) and during and just after sunset,” says Layton. “Midday light can be harsh and challenging, so for beginner photographers, I’d recommend taking advantage of the time of day to capture the best shots.”

I tried it:

Throughout my time in Roanoke, I kept noticing this really striking steel sculpture on the outdoor balcony of the Taubman Museum of Art, an architecturally beautiful institution that puts an emphasis on local and regional artists. I knew I had to take it home with me (in photo form, of course).
So at about high noon (I know—not the ideal time for travel photography) I climbed up to the balcony, crept up close to artist Paul Villinski’s Self-Portrait, and took Layton’s advice, pointing my camera directly into the sun.

Joni Sweet

With one press of the button, I captured this cool shot—along with some artwork that I could actually squeeze into my carry-on.

Queen of Composition

How do you compose a beautiful shot when practicing travel photography? Spoiler: It definitely doesn’t involve putting your subject front and center. Think of travel photography as a way to show the subject in a setting—not shine a single spotlight on it.
“Compose your photo with your subject according to the ‘rule of thirds.’ Meaning, imagine your photo divided into nine equal parts using two vertical lines and two horizontal lines, making a grid. Place your subject at one of the four points in the middle of the grid,” says Layton.
Placing your travel photography subjects at one of the horizontal or vertical thirds of the photo gives the viewer’s eye a natural place to land when it hits your image. It also leaves plenty of space to tell a story with your photo.
And if you plan to include landscapes in your travel photography, you’ll rely on those horizontal lines for another purpose: keeping the horizon straight. A crooked horizon can ruin your sunset photo, says Layton.
The angle of your image is also important. Amateurs tend to take every image at eye level, which can look a little dull. Travel photography pros aren’t afraid to crouch down and shoot low or take images with their cameras pointed upward to capture a subject in a fresh way. The angle of your photos is especially important when shooting architecture and art, says Layton.
“Try different angles and distances from the monuments and buildings. Focus on the details, too—close-ups can be just as gripping as overall photos,” she says.
As for food, go for an overhead angle, says Layton.
“If you have one, use a 35mm or 50mm lens and stand above your plate for an interesting shot,” she says.

I tried it:

A tour of Black Dog Salvage, a treasure-filled salvage yard with cool furniture and art made from repurposed materials, proved to be a gold mine for practicing different travel photography angles. (You may have an idea of just how fascinating this place is if you’ve seen Salvage Dawgs, featured on the DIY Network and HGTV since 2012, but trust me when I say it’s even more visually captivating in real life!)

Joni Sweet

A piano just outside the building was waiting to be turned into something fabulous (maybe a cabinet?). As Layton suggested, I zoomed in on one of the more interesting details of the instrument—the mangled keys. It allowed me to explore the artsier side of my travel photography.
The inside of the salvage company was like a maze of junk-turned-to-gems. My photos from ground level couldn’t quite depict just how huge and packed this place was.
Joni Sweet

So I climbed to an upper level and shot at a bird’s-eye-view angle to get an image that showed a charming snippet of everything this unique store has to offer.

Selfie Improvement

Who doesn’t want fabulous photos of themselves and their friends on a trip? Travel photography should definitely include you as the subject at one point or another! But straight selfies can get monotonous after a while. Instead, plan your shot ahead of time and grab a friend.
“You could ask a friend to stand where you want to have the photo taken, focus on them, and then switch places. Or ask a stranger to do the same and either take a photo of you alone or with your friend,” says Layton.
But remember, you don’t have to be depicted in every single photo. Travel photography that shows your loved ones (or even strangers) enjoying themselves captures your perspective of the trip. Rather than asking everyone to line up for another cheesy group shot, try to be a little more discreet and spontaneous behind the camera, says Layton.
“Take candid photos of everyone having fun. It’s best to do when your subject doesn’t notice the camera is pointed at them,” she says.

I tried it:

For travel photography that included me in the picture, I ditched my selfie stick and instead set up a shot of me in front of a vintage bus at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Then I grabbed a friend and handed her my camera. Voilà—an adventurous shot of myself that’s far more interesting than a regular selfie.

Joni Sweet

Virginia’s Blue Ridge has a prominent craft beer scene. But I found that the friendly staff at the breweries were as much a part of the local food and drink culture as the flavors of the beers themselves.
I put some of Layton’s travel photography tips to the test when I snapped a few photos of the staff members at Deschutes Brewery as they brought out samples of one of their most popular beers.
Joni Sweet

Then I put my camera down and picked up a glass to savor this part of the culture in a more sensual way.

When to Put Your Camera Away

For some people (myself included), travel photography can help jog a memory of the experience a few months later. When I see that pic of a giant chocolate croissant, I remember the sweet fragrance and glimmering case of pastries at that bakery in Paris.
But sometimes we get so focused on travel photography that we forget to take in the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being in a new destination. Part of developing your travel photography skills is knowing when to put the camera away—such as at live performances, says Layton.
“When you’re at a concert nowadays, all you tend to see is a mob of people holding up their cameras rather than taking in the moment around them. As a photographer, I believe it is important to capture images to cherish our favorite memories. However, I also think there is a balance of capturing the moment and living in it. Know when to put the camera down and simply appreciate the music around you,” she says.

I tried it:

The activity I was most excited about on my trip to Virginia’s Blue Ridge was going to a live bluegrass concert at the Jefferson Center, an intimate venue for local arts set in a former high school. I had my camera out and ready when the opening act came on.
But as soon as I heard Claire Hitchins, a local musician who sings soulful folk melodies, start talking about how good it felt to be home and begin crooning her first song, chills ran up my spine. The camera hung from my neck for the entire mesmerizing performance.
Then it was time for the headliner, Grammy Award–winning bluegrass band The SteelDrivers, to kick off the main show. I could feel the excitement from the locals—who came out in droves—buzzing through my body, and my camera stayed just where it was. Travel photography means nothing if you don’t know when to live in the moment.

Categories
Well-Traveled

How To Fight The Post-Vacation Blues (And Keep The Travel High Alive)

You know how some people cry when they leave home? The opposite’s true for me. As an avid traveler, I’m the one getting teary-eyed in the back of the plane as I watch whatever far-flung destination I just experienced fade into the distance. It’s like moving away from your new best friend or a passionate lover, never sure when (or if) you’ll meet again.
It’s not that I don’t want to go home—trust me, not even the penthouse suite in a five-star hotel feels quite as cozy as my own bed. The experience of traveling makes me feel more alive than anything else, and I hate when it ends. The thought of going back to work, taking care of everything on my to-do list, and just getting back into the swing of “real life” can make that vacation high evaporate all too quickly—and the post-vacation blues hit hard.
But traveling is about learning, growing, and thriving in ways that enrich us back home. Wallowing in your post-vacation blues defeats the entire point of exploring at all. To combat that after-travel sadness, we need strategies to carry the bliss from traveling back to our regular lives.
Fortunately, there are some easy ways to fight the post-vacation blues and keep that travel high alive. Here are some that work for me, along with clever suggestions from other travelers.

Go grocery shopping.

Arriving home to unseasonably chilly New York recently after five blissful days in Mexico was like a slap in the face—only to be made worse when I realized late at night that my fridge was empty. I went to bed totally bummed out (and hungry), wishing I were still traveling.
But the next morning, I went grocery shopping, and things started to feel better. There’s something about getting reacquainted with your go-to foods than can help banish the post-vacation blues. No matter how good the food tastes abroad, digging back into the meals you know and love will remind you how good a taste of home can be.
And if you’re still longing for adventure after filling your fridge, try making the food you ate on your last trip. Your homemade pad Thai might not taste quite as amazing as that meal from a street vendor in Bangkok, but it might ease the blow of coming back from vacation.

Unpack your bag pronto!

Are you guilty of leaving your suitcase in a heap on the floor when you’re suffering from the post-travel blues? Me too. But unpacking and settling back into your life can help you feel a lot better after a trip, says Natalie Tanner, travel blogger at The Educational Tourist.
“Bite the bullet and unpack quickly. Everyone dreads unpacking, but there isn’t anything quite as sad as a partially unpacked suitcase lying on the floor to remind you that you are back in the real world,” she says. “That half-packed suitcase keeps you from being in the present. Put that suitcase away and focus on the good in the here and now.”

Dig in to a great novel.

Reading a book that’s set in a destination you’re curious about will give your mind a welcome escape, and you don’t even need to leave home. The experience can also help you reconnect with a culture you fell in love with and feel the vibe of a foreign destination deep in your soul. Plus it’ll take your mind off the post-travel blues.
Where do you find books set in other countries? Goodreads has tons of thorough lists. Search the “shelves” section of the site for “books set in” and the country you’re looking for. The site has recommendations for stories in Cuba, South Africa, Italy, and tons of other fascinating places that just might inspire your next trip.

Share your experience.

I try to live in the moment (and off my phone) as much as I can when I travel. But when I get home, one of the best ways to fight off the travel-related blues is by sharing all my happy memories online.
“Find an outlet to share your travel stories,” suggests Tanner. “If you feel like your friends and co-workers have heard enough, then head to social media and join a group that focuses on your vacation destination. Share your stories, favorite dining spots, and sightseeing recommendations with others, and you’ll get to relive the happy moments.”
Come up with ways to share your experience off the screen too. Peggy Coonley, president of Serendipity Traveler, says she advises clients to fight the post-vacation blues by creating a memory book about their trip.
“Creating a book of your photos is a fun way to review and relive the highlights of your travels,” she says. “Reflect with gratitude that you were fortunate to be able to travel. Recount the numerous details that gave you pleasure and perhaps write these down and read them from time to time to cherish the memories.”
Mixbook, Shutterfly, and Blurb can all help you create vacation photo books. Or go old-school by picking up some scrapbooking supplies and doing it yourself.

Give yourself some TLC.

Post-vacation blues aren’t just confined to our mind—even our bodies can feel sluggish after we get home from a trip. Try to make time after your travels for some TLC, says Laura Hall, a formal travel writer who’s now director of communications at Kid & Coe.
“Be clever about how you book your trip. Leave a day when you return where you can chill, do the laundry, hang out, and sleep,” she says. “Booking a trip to come home on a Sunday night with work at 9 a.m. Monday morning is not the way to do it, and I’m speaking from experience.”
Have a little cash left over from your vacation fund? Consider booking a treatment at your favorite spa the week you get back home to ward off the post-vacation blues.

Meditate and journal.

Having unrealistic expectations about the ability for a trip to change your life is setting you up for experiencing post-vacation blues, says Christine Rosas, author of The Sensitive Edge: Learning to Trust Your Inner Voice and Thrive No Matter What. She recommends taking some time for deep personal reflection before and after your trip to help boost your mood.
“Take a quiet moment to sit with the version of yourself that’s here now. Honor yourself through meditation and journaling,” she says.
Sit quietly for five or six minutes and journal about your experience traveling, she suggests. Then practice peaceful, deep breathing for another few minutes. With every inhale, direct positive energy toward yourself. And with every exhale, send good vibes to your vacation destination.

Make plans.

There’s nothing like the thought of dealing with chores, bills, and work back at home to bring on the post-vacation blues. But being home has its plus sides, like being able to see your friends and family.
Jen Ambrose, travel blogger at Passions and Places, says that filling her schedule with plans with the people she loves helps her forget about the sadness of ending a trip.
“Organize brunch with friends, sign up for a spin class, buy tickets to a show, or plan to do whatever you love doing. Having things on the calendar you’re looking forward to will make coming home easier,” she says.
If you’re really organized, make the plans before you even go on your vacation. That way, coming home won’t feel so hard.

Travel at home.

You don’t need to hop on a plane or drive long distances to experience the joys of travel. Checking out a local spot you’ve never been to can help keep your travel high alive.
Think about what you love about taking a vacation. Maybe it’s dining out, or enjoying the outdoors, or just seeing a new place. Whatever it is that drives you to travel can be pursued back at home as well.
Living in New York, I like to venture out to the outer boroughs when I feel the post-vacation blues. It makes me feel like I’m far away from home—even when I can’t take a bunch of days off from work. And when I lived in California and had a car, I’d spend my weekends driving up and down the coast, losing myself in the beauty of the cliffs and crashing ocean waves. It seemed to scratch an itch for a new experience.
Try taking a bus to somewhere you’ve never been, tasting a cuisine that’s new to you, or going for a swim at a nearby lake. Any refreshing experience you can have back at home will help you recover from the post-vacation blues.

Plan your next trip.

After realizing how stifled I feel at home when I’ve got no escapes to look forward to, I now rarely plan fewer than two trips at a time. If you’ve got a hard case of the post-vacation blues, there’s only one thing left to do: Start planning your next big adventure, whether you have time next week, next month, or next year. The important thing is figuring out what your next vacation will be so you can have something to look forward to.
Where do you get inspiration for a trip? I like to use Skyscanner, which can bring up a list of flight deals from your home airport to anywhere in the world. Just type “everywhere” in the space where you’d usually put in your chosen destination.
Travel magazines, Instagrammers, and bloggers can also inspire some serious wanderlust.
Finally, food can be another way to find your next destination. Love ravioli? Take a trip to Valletta, Malta, where the pillowy pasta is pretty much everywhere. Fan of fried rice? It’s the national dish of Indonesia! Or maybe you regularly crave beans and plantains. Nicaragua’s got you covered on that front, with some seriously addictive fried cheese on the side.
The post-vacation blues are one of the toughest side effects of having the travel bug. But with so many remedies available at home, you can channel the energy you felt on your vacation back into your everyday life—and use it to fuel your next getaway.
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Well-Traveled

What Every Woman Traveler Needs to Know Before Taking Her First Solo Trip

I’ve got a case of wanderlust, and a serious one at that. My dream lifestyle involves bouncing from one country to the next, with all the essentials right on my back. And while I haven’t gone full digital nomad…yet…I do travel a lot—more frequently than I can find a companion to come with me.
So what’s a wanderer to do? She hits the road on her own.
Getting the confidence to travel solo, though, is a trek in and of itself. The first day of my first solo trip in 2010 involved holing myself up in a hotel room. I had left the familiarity of New Delhi, where I studied Hindi and Indian art with 20 other American college kids, to conduct field research on local cuisine around India. An overnight train ride dropped me (and my unmanageably large backpack) off 900-ish miles south in Ahmedabad, and it hit me: I was alone. I felt vulnerable and intimidated, so when I arrived at the hotel, I struggled to leave. I felt like a failure.
But time was ticking and I needed to begin my research, stat. It took hours of giving myself an internal pep talk and making expensive long-distance calls to friends back home to finally work up the courage to leave my hotel room. But I did it, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, inspiring countless future trips around the world with no one’s hand to hold but my own.
Hopping on a plane to somewhere you’ve never been, where you don’t speak the language, and you have little idea where to go or what to do…it sounds ludicrous, I know. But there’s something deeply invigorating about getting up in the morning and having the entire day to explore the world alone. You have no one to answer to but yourself.
Trust me, you can do it. Any woman with a bit of grit and a lot of curiosity can (and should) take at least one solo trip.
When it comes time for yours, I’ve got some tips that can make your adventure easier and (hopefully) more fun.

Spin the globe.

The destination you choose will set the tone for your journey. If it’s your first time traveling solo, look for a place that has a strong tourism infrastructure: lots of hotels, restaurants, and things to do. That will make it easy for you to meet other people and enjoy the experience with minimal hassle.
Just as important is safety, especially when you’re a woman traveling alone. The U.S. Department of State publishes official travel advisories that can warn you about potential dangers in different parts of the world. TripAdvisor and travel forums can give you recent travelers’ perspectives of a place. The Lonely Planet destination guidebooks (a must-have on every trip I take) also offer traveler-specific guidance on dangers and annoyances you might experience on your trip.
Having never been the victim of a crime abroad, I genuinely believe many places in the world are safe and welcoming. Do your homework before you hop on the plane, leave your valuables at home, and remain assertive and confident no matter what the trip throws your way.

Dress the part.

What you wear plays a big role in how you experience foreign destinations. It’s a reality I don’t love, but it’s been my experience nonetheless.
I feel more comfortable when I cover up with cotton garments on my trips—often knee-length skirts (or longer), T-shirts, and jackets and scarves. However, if locals are wearing shorts and tank tops, I consider that a cue that it’s fine for me to do so too. Uniqlo and Zara have become my go-to stores for updating my travel wardrobe.
Dressing like a local is another way to show respect for host country and blend in. Visit a local mall or market early in your trip and see what clothes catch your eye.

Shop Travel Essentials:

 

Getting Around

Getting around in a foreign country is equal parts confusing, frustrating, fascinating, and fun. I recommend taking a private cab (or arranging a pickup from your hotel) when you go to a new country alone. It’ll help you get your bearings after a long flight.
But try using public transportation throughout the rest of your trip. Riding the subways or hopping on buses saves you money and immerses you in the culture, showing you what it’s actually like to live in a different place.
Some of my most vivid memories from my time in Jakarta, Indonesia, involve bumpy rides around the metropolis backed by the music of buskers on the crowded Kopaja buses, and it was a lot more colorful than sitting alone in a taxi.

You do you.

There’s nothing like the feeling of freedom you get when traveling solo. Feeling ambitious and want to take on a five-mile hike followed by an afternoon of museum hopping? Go for it! Has the trip worn you out and you need a break? Sip coffee and pore over a novel at a cafe all day—no judgment.
No matter how you choose to spend your days, you’ll learn about yourself, what you find fulfilling, and what it takes to live authentically—all skills that will continue enrich your life back home.
You can also consider diving deep into something that intrigues you. If you’re completely obsessed with the local cuisine, fill your itinerary with foodie activities and restaurant reservations. A cooking class, a stroll through a food market, and dinner at the place all the locals love are all musts. Immersing yourself in an area of interest will give your trip a greater sense of purpose.

Oh, the People You Meet!

It’s a fact: When you take a solo trip, you’re going to get lonely. But here’s another fact: You’re going to meet people.
Eager for some companionship after spending a few days alone, I made conversation with a woman playing solitaire in the hotel room of my guesthouse in Amritsar. She was friendly, and we decided we’d go see the festive border ceremony between India and Pakistan, a day trip I was nervous about taking on my own. There, we danced to Bollywood music with Indian women in the streets as tens of thousands of people showed pride for their countries, waving flags and chanting.
It was electrifying to share this experience with someone I’d only just met. Friends are surprisingly easy to come by when you’re traveling.
Take the plunge and book a flight to that place you’ve always dreamed of visiting. And take it from me: Leaving your hotel room will be the biggest challenge of your first trip alone.
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