Unwinding abroad: The best destinations for a relaxing getaway
Discover the best places to unwind in style with this one-stop guide to our top six destinations for a relaxing holiday.
While wish-list moments come in a range of sizes, the best are often those which allow you to unwind and appreciate the smaller things. Whether you’re coming to the end of a busy week’s exploration abroad, or need to take a break from everyday life, sometimes you need a little TLC. From spa stays on the coast to stargazing under the still night sky, these moments can often be just as memorable as your chosen destination’s major highlights.
With people across the globe celebrating World Relaxation Day, it's the perfect time to think about giving yourself a breather, so why not mark the occasion with a calming break of your own? To help you make the right choice on your own slower-paced escape, our team has been thinking about our favourite spots to unwind across the globe, and here are our top six picks.
1. Beppu, Japan – for thermal bathing
It’s no wonder that hot tubs are such a popular evening activity across the world. There’s just something so comforting about lounging in the warm water, but few man-made baths compare to the steamy, spring-fed waters found on Japan’s Kyushu island. The town of Beppu is a particular highlight when it comes to the country’s onsen (thermal bath) culture, with the city’s spring-fed spas offering an introduction to one of the country’s most popular traditions. With its nearby Jigoku (Hells), a series of seven multi-coloured geothermal pools, Beppu also promises the perfect setting for a post-bath stroll and certainly deserves to top any spa-lover’s travel wish-list.
Our recommended tour: Japan Unveiled
2. Bali, Indonesia – for spiritual rejuvenation
It’s no secret that Bali is a treasure trove for relaxation with a side of spirituality, but there’s more to this charming Indonesian island than its picturesque beaches. Known for its ties to spirituality and the natural world, this Asian gem offers the ideal setting to reconnect with the simple things in life. With Bali’s wide array of Hindu and Buddhist shrines, there are also plenty of traditional ceremonies you can take part in. While on the island, take part in an authentic purification ceremony at a local temple, believed by locals to promote inner peace. Whether you buy into the spiritual side of the rituals or are just after a bit of peace and quiet, Bali is a great choice for a relaxing holiday in East Asia.
Our recommended tour: Indonesia – Bali & Beyond
3. Mauritius – for beach retreats
The simplest things in life are sometimes the best, and Mauritius’ pristine, white-sand beaches certainly don’t disappoint. Pair this with a stay at one of the island’s five-star resorts, which offer all-inclusive service and first-class spa facilities against the backdrop of delightful coastal vistas, for a soothing break on the Indian Ocean. If a spot of leisurely exploration is more your speed, there are also a wealth of wildlife-spotting opportunities and historical highlights to be discovered, too. From tastings at nearby lychee wineries and visits to colonial-era sugar plantations to boat tours around Mauritius’ smaller surrounding islands, there are plenty of excursions to enjoy at your own pace.
Our recommended tour: Luxury Safari Plains with a Mauritian Beach Escape
4. Chobe, Botswana – for birdwatching
Few experiences compare to spotting the world’s most elusive animals in their natural habitats, and it can be a surprisingly relaxing day’s activity, too. With that in mind, Botswana’s Chobe River is a stand-out destination thanks to its gentle waters and diverse local wildlife. Where the Chobe National Park really shines, though, is in its birdwatching opportunities, with hundreds of endemic African species roaming the skies above. For a lasting memento, enjoy a specialist photography cruise for 360-degree views of the lush surrounding scenery and purpose-built camera rigs to help you capture the perfect photo.
Our recommended tour: On Safari in Botswana – Chobe National Park
5. Limpopo, South Africa – for stargazing
Nearby South Africa is another stellar option for unwinding in the wild, and it’s worth visiting as much for its evening skies as it is for its world-renowned safari experiences and wildlife-rich national parks. Heading out under a setting sun, you’ll experience the bush at its most serene, home to a completely different ecosystem of nocturnal creatures. With less light and sound pollution across its remote wilderness stretches, the country is also renowned for the quality of its stargazing opportunities, making it a go-to spot for a calming stay under the light of the Milky Way.
Our recommended tour: On Safari in South Africa – Mabula Lodge
6. The Rockies, North America – for scenic journeys
Numbering amongst North America’s most iconic natural landscapes, the Rocky Mountains promise more than just hiking trails and ski resorts. With the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer operating routes across the USA and Canada, and cruising opportunities on the Pacific Coast, this magnificent region is characterised by the continent’s most scenic journeys. Whether you’d prefer to travel by rail or the open ocean, an alpine getaway to the Rocky Mountains promises unparalleled relaxation amongst some breath-taking natural vistas.
Our recommended tour: Five-star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies
Escape the bustle with Newmarket Holidays
Feeling like you could use a break? Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help you pick the perfect getaway for you and are only a phone call away. Enjoy life in the slow lane and book your own escape today or check out our full range of award-winning escorted tours with our destinations page.
