You don’t have to scale a mountain to encounter the effects of altitude. In fact, plenty of bucket-list travel destinations are located well above sea level where the air is thin and catching your breath can be a struggle. The effects of being at a high altitude can range from shortness of breath to dizziness, and worse in more extreme circumstances. That said, a little advance knowledge on how to stay fit and safe when vacationing above 8,000 feet is essential. Here are seven tips for visiting a high-altitude destination. 

1. Research your destination.

If you’re trekking in Tibet or hiking in Nepal, you likely won’t need a reminder to research the physical effects that high altitude can have on your body. However, although urban destinations like Bogota and La Paz might not present you with the dramatic ascents and descents that climbing alpine trails will, you should still read up on the effects you might encounter when flying into a city that sits over 8,000 feet.

2. Get Fit in Advance 

Although being super-fit won’t prevent altitude sickness altogether, it helps to prepare your body in advance of any trip to a high-altitude destination. Yes, even athletes can be impacted by high altitudes, but it’s smart to travel healthy with at least some aerobic capability under your belt. 

RELATED: The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Hiking Packing List

3. Stay Hydrated

High altitudes cause dehydration, which can lead to acute sickness. So, in the week before your trip, begin to consume more water every day and keep it going once you arrive. In fact, drinking more than four liters a day isn’t excessive. 

4. Watch Your Alcohol Intake

While we’re not saying you can’t enjoy a drink here and there, alcohol dehydrates the body, so it’s important to be careful of your intake when at a high altitude. When you arrive at your destination, it can take two or three days to acclimatize. That said, try and hold off on sampling the local tipple until then. It’s also a good idea to avoid caffeine, meaning you should plan on skipping your daily cup of coffee, too.  

5. Keep Eating

You might have to forego the alcohol, but at least you can eat more. At high altitudes, not only will your body burn more calories, but you’ll need the extra energy that comes with snacking on complex carbs and other slow-burning energy foods to keep you going.  

RELATED: 10 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

6. Take it Easy

During the first three days of your trip, make sure to take things slow, as your body needs time to acclimatize to the new altitude. Even short strolls can leave you out of breath, so wait a few days before attempting that hike along the Inca trail. 

7. Visit Your Doctor Beforehand

Medications that prevent altitude sickness can be prescribed by your doctor. Acetazolamide (or Diamox) is the main drug used for treating the effects of high altitude in advance, but paracetamol and ibuprofen can also be helpful for tempering headaches that might arise. If conventional medicine isn’t your thing, you can try alternative remedies like ginger tea for nausea, lavender oil for calming anxiety, and, if you can find them, coca leaves, which are chewed or consumed in tea to soothe headaches and breathlessness.

Cashmere Blanket

Sure, it’s a splurge, but cashmere is always worth the price tag. This cuddly blanket is made from 100-percent cashmere fabric, making it an ideal cozy companion for hotel room naps. It even brings a touch of luxury to a coach airplane seat. The fringe detail and four neutral colors add a dash of sophistication. Imagine wrapping up in it while you sip on hot tea or write in your gratitude journal. 

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Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader

A wellness trip is the perfect excuse to unplug from the TV and catch up on your reading list. But packing several hardcover books isn’t practical or convenient. Enter: The Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader. It’s loaded with smart features like a six-week battery charge, glare reduction, and a lightweight design that can be held in one hand. Amazon Prime subscribers, take note: The membership comes with book deals and lots of freebies that include traditional books and audiobooks. If you’re looking for some wellness-inspired reading, may we suggest “The Spirit Almanac: A Modern Guide to Ancient Self-Care” (complete with seasonal healing rituals). 

Spiky Massage Balls

Whether or not your wellness trip incorporates physical activities that might cause some muscle tension (like hiking or yoga), it’s a good idea to pack these spiky massage balls. Rolling them under the feet helps with circulation and cramps that may occur from air travel. Use the wall as an aid to roll them down your back, or enlist a travel buddy to work out any kinks. And at $6.99 a pair, these massage balls are much cheaper than an actual massage. 

Plush Robe

Nothing says “it’s time to relax” more than donning a super-soft robe — especially after a bubble bath or steam room visit. This Coyuchi Cloud Loom robe is appropriately named after a cloud because that’s how soft the 100-percent organic cotton, which is spun in a special Aerospin process, feels. The robe comes in sizes for men and women, and is available in gray, white, or light blue. The adjustable belt, side pockets, and shawl collar allow for a comfortable fit. 

Rose Quartz Crystal Facial Roller

Face rollers have been used since the 17th century to battle under-eye circles, puffiness, and poor circulation. Basically, it’s a mini-massage for your face that promotes lymphatic drainage. This rose quartz crystal facial roller has both large and small stones which allow users to roll the tool around the nose and under the eyes with ease. The crystal is cooling, and best of all, you can use the roller while lying in bed. 

Stylish Leggings

It’s all about athleisure on wellness trips, where you’ll want to be dressed comfortably enough to walk, do Pilates, and cuddle up with a book in front of the fireplace. These stylish leggings from Outdoor Voices offer four-way stretch for maximum comfort, plus sweat-wicking capabilities. And the cute polka dot print makes them fashionable enough for brunch. Outdoor Voices also makes matching tops, sports bras, and exercise dresses to round out your wellness wardrobe. 

Silk Pillow and Eye Mask

Silk is far gentler on hair and skin than cotton. So why are you sleeping on a cotton pillowcase? Upgrade your sleeping game with this luxe silk travel pillow and matching eye mask. Both are made from the highest grade (6A) long fiber mulberry silk and non-toxic dye. Silk is also less absorbent than cotton, so it’s less likely to pull moisture from your expensive face serum onto the pillowcase, saving you money in the long run. 

Lavender Shower Spray

Turn your hotel shower into a calming sensory experience with a bottle of lavender shower spray. Simply let the water get steamy and spray a few bursts of the product near the showerhead. The scent will mix with the steam, creating a wonderfully soothing bathroom environment that smells amazing. Bonus: Lavender is known for its sleep-inducing properties, so this is an excellent way to unwind before bed. 

BeLive Turmeric and Ginger Gummies

A wellness trip is an ideal time to start a healthy habit, so why not give these tropical flavored ginger gummies a try? They’re infused with vitamins B and C, and ginger is hyped for benefits like regulating mood and blood sugar, providing mental clarity and lifting the spirit. 

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1. The Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Nosara region could rival Los Angeles for number of yoga studios per capita. This surfing mecca has drawn the healthy-living set in droves, and they’re often making a beeline for The Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort. The resort offers no fewer than six yoga shalas (both open-air and air-conditioned), a modern fitness center with classes like barre and Pilates, and a restaurant and juice bar serving up organic foods. While guests can keep active with workouts and surf lessons, they can also doze by the pool or grab a hammock for the afternoon. Double and triple rooms with shared bathrooms keep rates lower than a roadside Holiday Inn.

2. Aqua Wellness Resort, Nicaragua

Nicaragua might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you’re hunting for a healthy getaway, but this affordable, eco-friendly resort should change that. The property itself is a “Swiss Family Robinson” fantasy complete with treetop rooms and a white-sand beach. Group yoga classes, included in rates, make the most of this backdrop with a platform overlooking the coastline. Freshly squeezed juices and plant-focused dishes are served at Bromelia Restaurant, but there’s still plenty of room for indulgence, as the on-site bakery turns out banana bread and cinnamon rolls. Guests can also treat themselves to lavish spa treatments such as a scrub made from local cocoa beans, yogurt, and honey. Rates are inexpensive enough that a private studio is less than the average airport hotel.

3. Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa, Dominican Republic

Parked on one of the Dominican Republic’s best beaches, Natura Cabana would be a restorative getaway just for its location alone. But combined with outstanding fresh food, regular yoga classes, and a fantastic spa, it’s hard to top. Guests can either get active — rolling out their yoga mats in the open-air pavilion, horseback riding on trails, or trekking to waterfalls — or they can nap on the beach or wander down garden paths. Both camps fuel up on dishes like airy pancakes and local coffee for breakfast and ceviche or sandwiches for lunch and dinner. Every room here comes decked out with a hammock or swing, and rates are regularly below the $200 mark.

4. Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Bahamas

Sivananda Ashram is the real deal — an old-school retreat with 5:30 a.m. wake-up calls so guests can gather to focus on meditation, chanting, breathing, and (of course) yoga poses. And that’s perfect for travelers looking for a serious, structured reboot. For them, Sivananda’s program and fees can’t be beat. Guests can expect two free (mandatory) yoga classes per day, each two hours long, plus two more sessions of spiritual lessons and meditation. Lacto-vegetarian meals are also included in rates, with plenty of homemade yogurt and granola at brunch and soups and salads at dinnertime. While the itinerary is rather set, there’s still time to put your toes in the sand of the property’s beach, take a dip in the pool, or book a Thai massage or other spa treatment. Rooms are basic, which translates to extra low rates, particularly in dorms which are under $100. An even cheaper option is to pitch your own tent for half the price.

5. Maya Tulum Resort, Mexico

Tulum is tops when it comes to wellness retreats, with top resorts, top beaches, and often top prices. But that last one isn’t the case at this mid-range resort, where sunny seclusion doesn’t come with hefty nightly rates. Everything at Maya is set up for maximum relaxation. Even the grounds — with lush vegetation crisscrossed with sandy pathways and dotted with thatched-roof huts — prompt a deep exhale. Traditional temazcal saunas here give a spot to sweat out the stress, and the on-site spa doles out the usual treatments along with ones that use Mayan medicine. Yoga classes (for a fee) are held regularly, with free loaner mats and props. A beachside labyrinth also provides a scenic spot for walking meditation — or a striking selfie.

6. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, California

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs proves you don’t have to bust out your passport to have an affordable, restorative getaway. Travelers that want to keep things domestic can head here to plunge into four geothermal mineral pools. A humongous whirlpool housed in a glass-topped gazebo gives another spot for a relaxing soak. Apart from its aquatic perks, the property also holds a full-service spa that offers warm mud baths using local volcanic ash. Active guests can take advantage of the fitness center with yoga and Pilates classes, too. Naturally, the setting itself, in California’s wine country by the Palisade Mountains, adds another soothing element, as does the easy access to local wine. (Hey, grapes are an antioxidant.) If you’re willing to go off-season (March through May), you’ll shave off about $100 from your room rate and get more of the pool to yourself.

7. Hotel Borinquen Mountain Resort, Costa Rica

It’s easy to spend your vacation days at Hotel Borinquen in sleepy tranquility — drifting from your personal hammock to the forested spa and back. But Borinquen also appeals to travelers that prefer to unplug by reconnecting with nature. Horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking, and even water tubing provide plenty of outdoor adventures. The hot springs pool on the grounds even has a natural “slide” for zooming into the warm waters, although guests are also seen relaxing here after slathering themselves in volcanic mud. Rates can be under $100 in the summer, and include a full breakfast.

8. Costa Rica Yoga Spa

Another Nosara gem, and a worthy alternative to Bodhi Tree, this mountaintop resort has daily yoga classes and plant-powered meals included in the rates. (An on-site organic garden provides fresh herbs to top dishes.) When they’re not heading to the teakwood yoga pavilion to kick off a round of sun salutations, guests can be spotted swaying in hammocks, journaling, or indulging in massages. The surrounding terrain, a wildlife refuge, encourages unplugging — as does an absence of TVs or phones in rooms. Bunk rooms with shared bathrooms can accommodate up to four guests, keeping rates suitably low so everyone can get their “om” on.

What to Pack for a Wellness Retreat: Workout Set

No matter what you have on your wellness retreat agenda, Girlfriend Collective offers a number of sustainable options for active women in all sizes.

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Hotel Room Glasses

Looking forward to that chilled beer as soon as you arrive at your hotel room? Just don’t pour it into one of the provided glasses. When it comes to germs in hotels, room glasses are one of the worst offenders, as they don’t always get a proper wash. Many are simply rinsed with water or sprayed with cleaning fluid. That’s why a wrapped plastic cup is a better prospect, even if it looks out of place in that swanky hotel room.    

Hotel Room Light Switches

It’s the first thing you touch when entering your hotel room and one of the parts of a room that’s left untouched by housekeeping — because who cleans a light switch? Tests have shown that the light switches in hotel rooms come up positive for bacteria present in fecal matter. That said, you might just want to keep the lights turned off, or wash your hands after switching them on.    

Hotel Room Remote Control

You can’t avoid the remote control in your hotel room, but given the number of people who have handled it before you — coupled with the fact that it has likely never been disinfected — you should consider washing your hands after changing the channel. Did the guest before you wash their hands after returning from that bathroom visit for more in-room entertainment? Who knows. 

Blanket Topper

You can feel confident that the bedding, including sheets and duvets, is cleaned. However, this confidence shouldn’t extend to the decorative comforters and blanket toppers that cover the duvet, as they don’t receive the same attention from housekeeping. Given the amount of people that have slept under that blanket, stripping it off should be the first order of business when climbing into a hotel bed if you’re worried about germs.  

Plane Toilets

We all want our flights to operate on time, as do the airlines, but the quick turnarounds that keep departures running smoothly sometimes come with cutting corners. If you’ve ever waited to board a flight at the front while watching the arriving passengers disembark in the back, then you can imagine the cursory cleaning the interior received between each flight. And the plane toilet is the worst. Given the large number of people who have used the facilities, the close proximity of the sink to the toilet basin, the high levels of moisture (and therefore, germs), and the perfunctory cleaning it may have received prior to take-off, the airplane bathroom is certainly one of the dirtiest places you’ll encounter while traveling.

Money

It has long been established that money around the world is teeming with bacteria. The good news is, if you keep your dough dry, germs have less of a chance to multiply and migrate. That being said, don’t go flashing the cash when it’s raining.  

Plane Tray Tables and Seat-Back Pockets

Pro tip: Wipe down your plane’s tray table before eating on it. These unsanitary stations might not receive the proper attention they deserve from the cleaning crew, especially if it’s a tight turnaround between flights. The next part to focus on is the seat-back pocket, which may have collected tons of garbage and old morsels of food in its recent history.  

Public Transport

Whether you’re climbing onto an old subway car in Manhattan or a slick new MTR in Hong Kong, you’re about to step into a germ fest. Even if one looks cleaner than the other, the presence of thousands of people passing through every day means that the space is unhygienic. The bars and handles are obviously filthy but don’t even think about sitting down, because the seats are equally as bad (and come with the potential risk of taking home bed bugs).

Keyboards

Whether it’s in your hotel lobby or in the local internet cafe, the keyboard your happily tapping away on is likely riddled with germs amassed by the dirty fingers of all those who have come before you. While keyboards are actually disinfected now and again, we still recommend washing your hands after spending time at a public computer. 

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Before the Trip

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1. Try to reframe any feeling of anxiety. Instead of saying, “I’m nervous about this trip,” say, “I’m excited about this trip.” Labeling jumpy, jittery feelings in a positive light can actually reduce your stress, and it’s backed by science.

2. Consider taking a 72-hour break from the news before you leave home, sparing yourself the constant turmoil. (The nonstop churn of our political situation will still be there when you’re back from your trip.)

3. Forward the confirmation emails from your airline and hotel to three loved ones, so they’re aware of where you’ll be and can reach you with ease.

4. Immerse yourself in travel inspiration to focus on all the positive reasons why you’re taking your trip, whether it’s a movie set in the place you’re visiting or a gorgeous slideshow.

5. Make a plan for someone to stop by your home while you’re away. Ask them to text or email you post-visit with an “all good”–or just a thumbs up emoji.

6. Have pets? Hire a pet sitter that’ll give daily updates on the well-being of your four-legged family member and send along plenty of fluffy photos! (A bonus stress-buster!)

7. Announce your travel plans on social media. Other people’s excitement about your travels will help shift your perspective toward the positive aspects of the trip, versus any stressful logistics.

8. Consider medication if you suffer from panic attacks. No shame in taking a prescription, and it can make the difference between traveling with ease and traveling with your heart in your throat. Benzodiazepine is a common medication that tamps down oncoming anxiety. Other prescriptions can lend a hand, too.

9. If you’re traveling to a non-English-speaking country, learn at least three phrases, including “Do you speak English?” Test them out on friends before you go, so you can get over any apprehension around pronunciation.

10. Learn the local emergency number for where you’re heading (i.e. the country’s 911). For example, in the United Kingdom, it’s 999.

11. Nervous that weather, medical needs, or (god forbid) an act of terrorism will mess up your trip? Travel insurance can give you some peace of mind that you won’t lose whatever money you’ve spent on reservations.

12. Solo travelers, nominate a close friend to be your texting buddy if and when your anxiety starts to creep up while out of town. (If you’re traveling internationally, consider WhatsApp, so you can stay in touch without texting surcharges.)

13. Reflect on past moments when you’ve successfully navigated travel hurdles — the airports, the public transportation, the languages. Keep those instances top of mind when you have doubts about your current trip.

14. Go public with your anxiety: Post about it on social media. You may be surprised by how many other people in your social circle suffer through this exact thing and can lend support and their own coping strategies.

15. Plan out everything for the first day of travel, from the transportation you’ll take to the hotel to the meal you’ll order at dinner. Research as many details as possible, so you can envision your arrival going smoothly.

16. Write down an emergency plan with a close friend or family member — both for an emergency you experience on the road or one that happens at home. Having a plan in place will help you know what steps to take in your worst-case scenario. This can also help you feel more confident about traveling when your life is in flux (e.g. a sick relative or workplace upheaval).

17. Find a support group that can help you sort through your travel anxiety. Loads of options exist from formal support groups via the Anxiety and Depression Association of America to casual Meetups.

18. Think about hiring a guide for your first day in a new place. Meeting a friendly local and leaving the navigation to them will help you get oriented. It’ll also provide structure for that first day when you’ll feel the most lost. (The same applies for a hiring a local driver.)

Packing Tips and Helpful Things to Bring and Download

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19. Last-minute packing scrambles can hike up your stress. Avoid a big rush and lay out your suitcase a week in advance, so you can pack and add things to it slowly.

20. Designate a specific pocket as your passport and wallet spot, so you can avoid that dreaded heart-plunging moment when you dig through all of your pockets thinking you’ve lost them.

21. Invest in a money belt and/or a secure crossbody bag, so you can confidently carry your cash, credit cards, and passport without fretting about pickpockets.

22. Pack your pillowcase or other items that have the feeling of home and could help you relax and sleep in your hotel. (Feel free to pack any keepsakes or stuffed animals, too — we won’t judge.)

23. Download the map for the place you’re visiting, so you’ll always have it, even if you’re off-line with no cell signal or Wi-Fi.

24. Pack a door jam that you can use on your hotel room door. Knowing your door is doubly secure from intruders can help you feel safe in new surroundings and allow you to fall asleep.

25. Bring a mix of reading material to keep you distracted during any stressful moments. Load up on books and magazines. You can even download one-off articles using the Pocket app. This is the perfect time to read that think piece your friends have all emailed you.

26. Download entertaining, positive podcasts before you take off. (Our favorites include the Happier podcast and Judge John Hodgman.) These can come in handy when you’re trapped in the TSA line or strap-hanging on public transportation without a free hand.

27. Don’t forget a first-aid kit and bring along doubles of any of the medication or vitamins you take. It can also help to learn the foreign names for basic medicines when you travel abroad. Knowing aspirin is “aspirina” in Spanish is muy bueno, if you’re hitting up the local pharmacy when you’re unwell.

28. Loud conversations, crying babies, and beeping devices can fry your nerves, especially if you’re already jumpy. Invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones to limit any audio turbulence.

29. Look up the address and phone number for the American consulate, if you’re traveling internationally. Then, copy that info into your phone and/or on a slip of paper you can tuck into a pocket.

30. Scan your passport, ID, and credit card info and email it to yourself as an attachment. Should they be stolen, you can log into any computer and retrieve the info to contact the consulate, police, and/or your bank.

31. If you’re really out of your depths with the language, consider downloading a talking translator app, like the top-rated iTranslate, which can work off-line as well.

At the Airport and During the Flight

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32. Using your phone as an alarm for an early morning flight? Choose something like gentle, soft chimes, versus the blaring “Beep! Beep! Beep!” The latter can be an electric jolt to start the day.

33. Set a backup alarm for any early flights, so you can sleep easy. Consider an old-school alarm clock like this one by Marathon, which has a bonus nightlight feature.

34. Don’t guess when it comes to travel time to the airport. Use Google Maps to calculate when you need to leave the house to head to the airport. Plug in the airport and get directions from your home address. Set the “arrive by” time. Then, add another 20 minutes of buffer time, just in case.

35. The rule of thumb for flying is to arrive at the airport two hours early for international flights and between 60 to 90 minutes for domestic ones. But consider cushioning your airport time even more. Having ample time to get a coffee, hit the bathroom, and collect any magazines or gum you might want will put you in a better state of mind.

36. If you have time before your flight, consider going for a run, doing yoga, or hitting the gym. Exercise is a good way to redirect any pent-up energy and sweat it out.

37. Lines can be a huge trigger for those with anxiety. One way to skirt them? Sign up for CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, or Global Entry, so you can avoid stewing in the TSA queue, wondering if you’ll make it to your gate on time.

38. Anxiety is often carried in the body. Do a body scan: Start from the top of your head and focus on each body part all the way down to your toes, working on relaxing and opening up any muscles that are tight and tense. Don’t forget the little squinting muscles around your eyes!

39. Nervous up in the air? Try watching calming YouTube videos that present flying as a soothing passage through the clouds. These also work pre-flight to help undo any associations of flying equaling turbulent bad times.

40. Flying offers a good time to test out various meditation apps. When else will you have a few spare hours? Our favorites are Headspace, Calm, and 10% Happier.

41. On a red-eye flight? Skip the drink cart. Although fun cocktails might seem like a good idea, alcohol can actually disrupt your ability to get a good night’s sleep and can heighten anxiety for some.

42. Breathing exercises can be a simple, helpful way to cope with any flight stress. Try running through a simple breathing exercise during takeoff or landing.

43. Journal your way through negative emotions. Writing down fears can go a long way toward dispelling them. Doodling and coloring can also be incredibly calming. (Who could be stressed while coloring in unicorns?)

44. On a layover? Allow yourself some splurges. A chair massage, a glass of wine, a massive Cinnabon — these things can move your brain away from negative thoughts and focus it on something positive.

45. Work out a mantra that you can repeat when your emotions are starting to swing out. A few simple phrases you could try: “I am calm,” “This will pass,” or “A bump in the road is normal.”

46. If turbulence is especially triggering for your anxiety, it can help to learn about it from a scientific standpoint and keep that knowledge in mind when the plane jerks around. Tell yourself, “Turbulence is just disturbed air masses.”

On the Ground and After

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47. Don’t feel guilty about settling into a routine. Visiting the same coffee shop every day will give you a touchstone of something familiar when everything else is new and disorienting.

48. Do certain situations, such as crowded public transportation or an endless line at the museum, trigger a meltdown? Try to take a step back and consider it theoretically, as an anthropologist would. Doing that will give you some emotional distance from the situation and help you put things in a neutral place.

49. Make friends with the hotel staff. Learn the names of the front-desk clerks or bellhops, and feel free to tell them your whereabouts for the day, if it helps you feel secure. You can also save the hotel’s number as one of the contacts in your phone.

50. If your anxiety gets in the way of your enjoyment while you’re on the trip, consider hitting up a therapist on the go with Talkspace and working through some of your feelings that are keeping you from being in the moment.

51. After the trip, take a moment to reflect on your travels, and for every struggle, name three positive things. Linger on those positive memories and soak them in. (It’s scientifically proven that the brain needs extra help remembering good moments over bad ones!)

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Pool at The Breakers, Palm Beach

The Palm Beaches Area Is Located Along Florida’s Coast

First things first: The Palm Beaches area consists of cities such as West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Jupiter, and Boca Raton. Located about a two-hour drive north of Miami, the region is home to lovely, sandy beaches that provide a more peaceful alternative to spots like South Beach. Also on the upside, the Palm Beach International Airport offers direct flights to cities such as New York City, Dallas, Chicago, and Atlanta. Plus, the fact that many West Palm Beach and Palm Beach hotels are within a 10- to 20-minute drive of the airport means you can get to a pool, beach, or spa soon after landing. The greater Palm Beach area is well-known for its stunning mansions, European-inspired architecture, and miles of coastline dotted with beaches and golf courses.

Spas in Palm Beach Are Numerous

There are dozens of spas throughout The Palm Beaches, from luxury options within hotels to specialized stand-alone spots. Top picks include the spa at Eau Palm Beach Resort, where travelers who book a treatment are offered a glass of Champagne on arrival and access to numerous wellness facilities. The 42,000-square-foot spa houses a rainfall whirlpool, heated lounge chairs, sauna and steam rooms, and an outdoor garden where chairs hang above dipping pools.

Garden at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa; Photo courtesy of Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Additional favorites for massages, facials, and other wellness therapies include the spa at The Breakers Palm Beach, which is set along the ocean, the spa at the Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach, which has couples’ rooms and uses local ingredients like Key lime oil, and the spa At PGA National Resort, which has outdoor mineral pools and separate men’s and women’s lounges with whirlpools, steam rooms, and saunas. While these spas offer stellar treatments year-round, in October, all of the above (plus many more) offer specials for October’s Spa and Wellness Month. In addition to reduced prices, you’ll find pink-inspired treatments to coincide with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A portion of the proceeds from participating spas will go to a related nonprofit organization.

Palm Beach Fitness Classes Are Fun and Inexpensive

Whether you like Pilates, yoga, Zumba, or CrossFit, there’s a fitness class for you in Palm Beach. For the yogis out there, there’s outdoor yoga, kids’ yoga (at Manatee Lagoon), stand-up paddleboard yoga (via Blueline Surf & Paddle Co.), and full moon yoga, to name a few. While many of these are offered year-round, for Spa and Wellness Month, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is offering Yoga in the Wild and the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County is hosting yoga surrounded by sculptures and murals for an artsy flow. The Hilton West Palm Beach also offers poolside Pilates and yoga throughout the week, while the nearby Rosemary Square shopping center hosts free Wellness Wednesday classes such as Pound (using weighted drumsticks) on the rooftop parking lot.

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It’s my favorite time of the week! ???? Grab your besties and head on over to @hiltonwestpalmbeach Saturday @ 9am for an awesome Poolside Pilates class! Can’t wait to see you there! Xoxo ✨ #empoweringextraordinaryhealth

A post shared by Ginelle Ruffa (@ginelleruffa) on Sep 13, 2019 at 7:35pm PDT

District Fit, an annual wellness-themed festival in Palm Beach, hosts primarily free fitness classes every October. This year, the weekend of October 10 to 13 will feature a packed lineup of free or inexpensive fitness classes and wellness events. Highlights include a trampoline class with Ginelle Ruffa, a trainer and Miss Palm Beach 2019, an evening Full Moon yoga class with Shelly Saunier that acts as a moving meditation, and a Barre at the Bar class with Nicole Wesenberg, which ends with pink-colored beer from Florida-based Mathews Brewing Company.

Other Fun Wellness Activities in Palm Beach Abound

In addition to fitness classes, there are plenty of other wellness activities in Palm Beach and the surrounding area. The easy-to-maneuver bike paths and stunning Palm Beach architecture visible from the road make bike tours an attractive, family-friendly option. Travelers can rent a bike from the Palm Beach Bicycle Trail Shop and take their own tour, or book a private bike tour with an operator such as Island Living Tours and its host, local resident Leslie Diver, who provides historical info and fun facts about the town while strolling past sights like the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum and Worth Avenue shopping destination.

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Love the outdoors? Are you looking for a job on the water? You are in luck, JOC is looking for a reliable and experienced guide to help with our ECO TOURS. Tour guide must be knowledgeable about the local fauna, reptiles, mammals, and sea life. Must be experienced kayaker and paddleboarder and have flexible hours. If this sounds like you, please send your resume and questions to rick@jupiteroutdoorcenter.com and Rob@jupiteroutdoorcenter.com. Looking to fill the position ASAP

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Those looking to get on the water can head to the Jupiter Outdoor Center, where kayak rentals and guided kayak tours are available. Kayaks are taken on the Loxahatchee River, which makes its way downstream from Riverbend Park toward the Atlantic Ocean, passing lots of wildlife — alligators, turtles, river otters, bald eagles, owls, and gopher tortoises — along the way. Meanwhile, green thumbs or aspiring artists can head to The Garden Shoppe, a store that offers tons of plant- and gardening-based classes and art workshops with resident artist Sarah LaPierre.

Fresh, Local Food in Palm Beach Is Abundant

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Breakfast is served. #organic #vegan #local

A post shared by Celis Produce (@celisproduce) on Oct 5, 2018 at 6:27am PDT

There are tons of healthy and locally minded restaurants and cafes around town. Meraki Juice Kitchen is popular for its variety of cold-pressed juices, warm bowls, and healthier sweets. Celis Produce is another health-focused cafe serving smoothies, acai bowls, and avocado toasts, plus market goods such as granola, local coffee, and nutrition bars. Restaurants in Palm Beach are excellent and varied, but favorites include the upscale PB Catch, which is renowned for its seafood offerings and happy hour specials. Avocado Grill is a charming, tropical-themed eatery serving up everything from curried cauliflower to lamb sliders to Korean barbecue steak lettuce wraps. For groups with varying tastes, Grandview Public Market in West Palm Beach is a food market with Cuban, ramen, Greek, and Mexican eateries, plus coffee shops and a boutique for home goods and cute gifts. Housed in a renovated warehouse, the market has indoor seating and a covered outdoor deck with picnic tables and cornhole.

Our Favorite Palm Beach Hotels

Hilton West Palm Beach

Located a 10-minute drive from the airport, and a four-minute walk from the Rosemary Square (formerly CityPlace) dining and shopping center, the upscale Hilton West Palm Beach is a great pick for all types of travelers. Spacious, modern rooms have all the expected amenities, plus guests have access to a happening outdoor pool, fitness classes, and excellent dining options that include Galley, an eatery serving pizza, burgers, and lobster mac n’ cheese alongside live music on Fridays, the poolside La Playa grill, a grab-and-go market for coffee, and Manor, an indoor/outdoor spot for breakfast buffets and a la carte fare.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Luxurious and palatial, the beachfront Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is an elegant property ideal for a relaxing getaway. The bold Jonathan Adler-designed rooms have swish marble bathrooms, private furnished balconies, and free Wi-Fi. Extensive resort features include an impressive spa, multiple top-notch restaurants, and a quality fitness center with classes. A pretty beach, gorgeous ocean-view pool, and tons of loungers and daybeds overlooking the water provide ample spaces for peaceful sunbathing.

Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach

A luxurious, family-friendly property, the Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach sits on a fairly tranquil beach lined with loungers. Rooms have a sophisticated, beach-inspired style, terry bathrobes, free Wi-Fi, and furnished balconies. Wellness features include two outdoor ocean-view pools with adjacent cabanas, water sports, a full-service spa with extensive facilities, and free fitness classes and bike rentals.

What to Pack for Your Wellness Getaway: Jade Facial Roller

Jade Facial Roller from Herbivore Botanicals

Add a little self-care to your regimen with a tool helpful for both inner and outer beauty.

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1. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur

Big Sur is considered one of the most healing places in the world, and no resort takes more advantage of this stunning natural setting than the Post Ranch Inn. The organic architecture is breathtaking, seeming to grow out of the ground beside the hotel’s surrounding redwoods, and the spacious, eco-sensitive rooms have ocean or mountain views, as well as wood-burning fireplaces and private decks. Free activities include yoga and stargazing, and the acclaimed spa has shamanistic services including illumination, soul retrieval, divination, and fire and drum ceremonies. This all helps make Post Ranch Inn is one of the most unique and luxe properties on this list, and the pristine Northern California setting is hard to top if you’re looking to recharge yourself.

2. Miraval Arizona, Tucson

The Miraval Arizona resort is one of the most famous wellness retreats in the United States — and for good reason. Tucked into the ruggedly beautiful Sonoran Desert, a stay here is individually customized from a weekly catalogue of 120 fitness and yoga classes, outdoor activities, and wellness workshops. The centerpiece of the pampering here is the stunning spa, which is one of the best in the country, as well as three swimming pools and a modern gym. Rates include excellent, healthy fare with an emphasis on organic produce, though certain wellness activities (like aerial yoga) will cost extra. The 118 rooms and suites are like big cocoons of modern luxury, with plush interiors and private patios. It might be worth splurging for the rooms with huge terraces and private plunge pools, as the desert setting and views are part of why Miraval Arizona is so stunning.

3. Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort, Costa Rica

Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort is one of Costa Rica’s most well-known retreat for serious yogis. It also has one of the Pacific Coast’s most stunning settings, overlooking the jungles of Nosara from countless spots throughout the property. While it has a more rustic atmosphere than the entries listed above, that down-to-earth vibe is part of the appeal. There are six indoor and outdoor shalas as well as an international staff of incredibly talented instructors, plus a wide menu of other diverse fitness offerings, like Pilates, indoor cycling, and dance. This is a wellness resort through and through — expect green smoothies and energy shots at the juice bar, and only healthy, organic food at the restaurant. Travelers who aren’t interested in a holistic vacation might feel out of place, though with incredible surfing and a beautiful beach just down the road, you’d be missing out if you give the Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort a pass.

4. Gora Kadan, Japan

One of Japan’s most well-known luxury ryokan, Gora Kadan is the kind of place that makes you feel spirited away from literally all of life’s problems. Tucked high in the mountains of Hakone, one of Japan’s most famous hot springs regions, Gora Kadan takes the spartan appeal of traditional Japanese ryokan — traditional inns outfitted with rice paper doors and tatami mats — and elevates is to posh heights. Here, aside from the stunning onsen, spacious rooms feature clean lines and outdoor areas meant to soak up the healing vibe of the region. Expect tubs hewn from giant boulders, steaming water amid rocky green landscapes, and amazing spa treatments. The restaurant is one of the most well-known in the region, serving kaiseki meals that subscribe to principles of freshness and local sourcing that add to the tranquil, balanced vibe of this beautiful property.

5. COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos

Accessed via a 30-minute boat ride from Providenciales, this 1,000-acre resort sits on a private island and is the definition of tranquility. The COMO brand — which appears twice on this list — knows what it’s doing when it comes to luxurious and beautiful wellness retreats. At COMO Parrot Cay, you’ll find an incredible spa, an infinity pool, waterfront Balinese-style villas, doting service, and more than three miles of pristine beaches. It’s especially known for its holistic spa treatments to help guests achieve both physical well-being and spiritual balance — including a a yoga room and Pilates studio. Be sure to inquire about packages that bundle various of the resort’s most popular classes together with meals and their special COMO Shambhala menu. Note that at the time of publishing, the resort was closed for a month of renovations. It’s slated to reopen October 1, 2019.

6. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman

While you’d do well for your health and wellbeing at almost any Six Senses resort, we particularly love the desert-meets-sea setting of the Six Senses Zighy Bay, in Oman. Here, rugged landscapes crash dramatically to the ocean and there’s almost nothing around to distract you from unwinding and nourishing your spirit. It’s an incredibly luxurious property, with villas that all feature private pools (and some that open directly to the beach), as well as dining options that include regional and international fare. On the wellness front, the Six Senses Zighy Bay has numerous programs ranging from three days to a week, and include options for detoxifying the body, weight loss, yoga, and sleep. Of course, the spa here is a stunner and includes two hammams. There are also numerous outdoor activities, like hiking and paragliding.

7. Aqua Wellness Resort, Nicaragua

Aqua Wellness Resort is a rustic-luxe, wellness-focused retreat set into a hillside overlooking Redondo Bay on Nicaragua‘s Pacific coast. The eco-friendly design of the resort is one of its major draws, with rooms inspired by tree houses set overlooking the surrounding jungle and the ocean. Expect to spot wildlife such as howler monkeys and iguanas during your stay here. The restaurant serves healthy cuisine the property features an ocean-view yoga platform where group classes are held. Other highlights include the spa, which uses local products alongside indigenous treatments and modern techniques to help guests unwind. Rooms are adorned with lots of natural wood, though we have to say that the best units include plunge pools and stunning ocean views. The white-sand beach is secluded and beautiful, and certain units open up directly onto it.

8. Haramara Retreat, Sayulita, Mexico

Haramara is arguably one of the most special hotels in Mexico. It is a luxurious yoga retreat located on 12 seaside acres of wild vegetation just outside Sayulita, one of the artsier hubs of the Riviera Nayarit. The structures have been built using traditional construction techniques to minimize the environmental impact, and there is no electricity anywhere besides the restaurant and the yoga studio — not even in the rooms. Each room is housed in a private standalone thatched hut with no window panes or screens separating it from the jungle, and only gauze curtains and mosquito nets to avoid bugs and critters. It is geared towards those in need of some detoxification and relaxation, with yoga and meditation classes, an open-air spa, a vegetarian and seafood restaurant, unpaved walking trails, and limited cell phone service.

9. Blackberry Farm, Tennessee

One of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the world, Blackberry Farm is a special place no matter how you cut it. And as the years pass — and the hotel continues to be one of the best in the United States — it’s still evolving. The most recent addition are Wellness Bootcamps, which take place seasonally and include personalized training schedules in a variety of focus areas from strength to meditation. Of course, the resort’s spa is one of the reasons people flock here, where its own products are used in a wide array of treatments and services. Delicious meals that focus on local, seasonal fare are included in rates here and score rave reviews from previous guests. The wellness vibe is only enhanced by the cozy, plush rooms amid the rolling hills of Tennessee.

10. COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali

Like its sister properties around the world — in Turks & Caicos, the Maldives, and Phuket — COMO’s Bali outpost is flush with wellness offerings. It also has some of the most stunning design details in the brand, along with a beautiful setting amid the jungle-clad mountains and ravines in central Bali. There are only 30 rooms at the Como Shambhala Estate, making it a peaceful oasis that attracts travelers seeking a health-conscious getaway. True to the brand, the spa here is excellent, offering a vast array of holistically inspired treatments and services. That ethos trickles into the hotel’s dining program as well, with delicious health-focused meals at two restaurants. One of the most striking aspects to this property, though, are the rooms, some of which have rich wood detailing that are likely to transport you to another era in time. If you’re in the mood to truly spoil yourself, opt for a villa in the jungle with its own plunge pool.

11. Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Bahamas

Those looking for a relaxed vacation with some yoga thrown in should look elsewhere. This is a serious ashram by an established group (there are nine Sivananda Yoga Ashrams throughout the world) and the 5:30 a.m. wake-up bell proves it. Guests focus on postures, breathing, positive thinking, and meditation, and have some free time to take advantage of the beautiful beach setting. Seemingly a world away from neighboring mega-resort Atlantis, this five-and-a-half acre oasis has a range of accommodations from tents to Beachfront Suites (most rooms have shared bathrooms, though). Two vegetarian meals are prepared daily right after each two-hour yoga class, while morning and evening satsangs (a mix of meditation, chanting, lectures, singing and dancing) help create a sense of community. Extra workshops and lectures are built into the daily schedule, and there’s a wellbeing center for massage treatments and Ayurvedic body treatments.

12. Lake Austin Spa Resort, Texas

Set on 19 lakeside acres amid the rolling hills outside of Austin, the Lake Austin Spa Resort offers more than just spa-centric relaxation and yoga. Here, guests can paddleboard, kayak, canoe, hike, or explore the lake — all with beautiful views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country. It’s one of the region’s most popular wellness getaways, and the hotel offers a wide array of fitness classes, wellness lectures, and yoga. There are also three swimming pools, and over a hundred spa and salon treatment options. Expect gourmet spa cuisine at the restaurant, with a particular focus on produce and herbs that are grown at the resort’s organic garden.

13. The Springs Resort and Spa, Costa Rica

If you thought Japan was the only hot springs destination with stunning resorts, you’re wrong. Costa Rica is home to some of the most beautiful hot springs resorts in the Eastern Hemisphere, especially around the volcanoes and lakes of the Arenal area. Of those, one of the most luxurious is The Springs Resort and Spa. Here, 28 different hot springs pools are strewn throughout lush jungle across 165 acres of land, dotted here and there with all sorts of amenities. You’ll find outdoor activities in spades at the resort, including rock climbing, kayaking, and a wildlife preserve. This is definitely wellness for travelers who prefer being active over unwinding in a sauna. Views of the Arenal Volcano are spectacular from many spots throughout the resort, including guest rooms. A spa and fitness center round out the wellness offerings.

14. Canyon Ranch Tucson

Canyon Ranch is a health spa and all-inclusive resort in north Tucson near the Santa Catalina Mountains. Here the focus is on wellness, nutrition, and fitness. Daily fitness classes along with informational lectures and a menu packed with healthy, low-calorie food help guests to jumpstart (or maintain) a healthy lifestyle. The color palette of the southwest inspired the decor of the rooms, which come complete with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and iPod docks. Immaculate, peaceful grounds and focused spa treatments all provide an incredibly relaxing environment. While many guests report feeling renewed after a visit — especially after spending time in the 80,000-square-foot spa complex — there is a three-night minimum stay.

15. The Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, Scottsdale

Considered one of the top resorts in the Southwest, the serene Sanctuary continues to impress its high-profile guests with its cuisine, spa, and gorgeous suites. The spa and fitness offerings include five tennis courts, a movement studio, extensive spa therapies, and various trails for hiking and biking. It undeniably has the most desirable location in Scottsdale, overlooking Praying Monk Rock and the desert — not suburban sprawl.

16. Hidden Pond, Maine

Spread over 60 acres, the Hidden Pond resort is one of those places that feels like it’s made for wellness, even if it’s not overtly a wellness retreat. The spa is set up to resemble a tree house, and sits among the forests outside of Kennebunkport, Maine. guests can pick veggies and flowers from the garden, regular nature walks, yoga classes, and kayak tours are offered, and the restaurant serves organic local cuisine from an acclaimed chef. Another outstanding feature is the outdoor bar and grill that sits on a “sand bar,” with chairs circled around fire pits. This upscale boutique hotel attracts couples with its tranquil environment and top-notch restaurants; families also love the resort, for its cottages that include full kitchens and washer/dryers. The hotel also provides a free shuttle to the beach, which is just a five-minute drive away.

17. The Rosewood Phuket, Thailand

While it’s not a wellness resort, per se, The Rosewood Phuket has enough pampering amenities, a stunning setting primed for relaxation, and a series of wellness packages that make this one of the most revitalizing resorts in all of Southeast Asia. Even if you don’t book a wellness package, the gorgeous pool, swish spa, fitness center and free classes, and spa-worthy bathrooms with indoor-outdoor showers all make this Rosewood one of the nicest in the brand portfolio. The made-to-order smoothies at breakfast are also hard to argue with. The resort’s wellness program has more formal offerings in the form of Asaya, Rosewood Phuket’s suite of wellness programs that include retreats, programs, workshops, and a variety of alternative therapies ranging from sound therapy to mindful movement practice.

18. Borgo San Pietro, Tuscany

They say wine, when consumed in moderation, is good for your health, and what better place to take that mantra to hear than Tuscany. Tucked within the picture-perfect rolling hills of Tuscany’s Chianti region, Borgo San Pietro is a luxuriously appointed boutique property that’s packed with amenities and style. It also happens to be one of the most incredible places to unwind, pushing its wellness ethos without any real fanfare. Instead, the Mediterranean traditions informing everything from cuisine to lifestyle are effortlessly worked into every aspect of your stay. And that lifestyle has been shown time and again to have profound health benefits. Perks include a Michelin-star restaurant that uses ingredients grown on-site and a spa that uses products crafted at the hotel itself. This Relais & Chateaux property is the kind of place where you’re really able to leave relaxed and recharged.

19. The BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

The BodyHoliday bills itself as a place to refresh, refocus, and reenergize, and the resort offers guests plenty of opportunity to accomplish these tasks. The upscale, all-inclusive resort is one of the most luxurious on St. Lucia, with daily rates that rise above nearby Sandals resorts and Rendezvous. Accommodations are set in a series of buildings built into the hillside overlooking Pigeon Island National Park and a secluded cove and white-sand beach. The huge temple-like wellness center is the hub for daily spa treatments, but there are also endless activities from yoga to archery to motivate guests to stay active.

20. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

Not everyone looking for a wellness vacation wants to hike out into the mountains and jungles of the world. With that in mind, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is one of the only urban picks on this list. However, it still manages to be a peaceful oasis in the bustling South Florida region. In fact, the hotel’s North Beach location is a far cry from the boozy indulgence found farther down the coast in South Beach. Wellness offerings are extensive, and include health-focused menus, a juice bar, one of the largest spas in Florida, and plenty of free fitness classes, workshops, and even access to the hydrotherapy circuit. Easy beach access, attentive beach service, and other perks like a rock-climbing wall and multiple pools all make this a complete wellness package.

What to Pack: A Yoga Mat

Begin Mat from Manduka

Bring along a yoga mat for any classes or scenic sessions you’ll be taking on your retreat.

Now get inspired by this video of stunning health and wellness retreats >>

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1. Indian Springs Resort and Spa

At Indian Springs Resort and Spa, a historic hotel at the northern end of Napa Valley, guests can simultaneously soak and stargaze. The Olympic-sized mineral pool — one of California’s largest — is fed from the on-site geysers and stays open until midnight. Take a dip here, or at the more intimate, but also mineral-loaded, adults-only pool. If privacy is your priority, the spa offers massages and restorative treatments, including mud baths using volcanic ash. The wellness-centric focus also spills into the farm-to-table restaurant, which serves healthy American cuisine, as well the rest of the tranquil grounds, which feature palm and olive trees, rosebushes, lavender plants, and ponds. Going back to your room — a bungalow, lodge, or private home — isn’t so bad either; the units feature cozy balconies or patios for relaxing.

2. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

A Michelin-starred restaurant, a 40,000-square-foot spa with its own thermal mineral spring, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a large outdoor pool put this Spanish Mission-style inn on many travelers’ hotel wish lists. The 226 stylish rooms also impress — some fireplaces and garden views, while others come with balconies. Still, the property’s crowning feature is its position 1,100 feet above a geothermal pool, which is used to provide guests with pampering treatments like mud baths and salt scrubs.

3. Solage, an Auberge Resort

With a picturesque address in northern Napa Valley, Solage provides plenty of perks for various personalities. Young guests tend to like the property’s studios with high-vaulted ceilings and in-room coffee, and families with kids appreciate the children’s pool, complimentary bikes, and larger suites with private patios. Meanwhile, luxury seekers can savor services like massages and oxygen facials in the 20,000-square-foot spa. Try the signature treatment — the Mudslide — which offers a twist on the traditional mud bath. The geothermal pools here range from cold to hot, and the steam room and adults-only pool present even more spots for R&R. Elsewhere, the farm-fresh Michelin-starred restaurant, Solbar, satisfies foodies, and the modern fitness center with group classes and outdoor equipment pleases health-conscious guests.

4. Two Bunch Palms

A rumored retreat for Al Capone back in the day, Two Bunch Palms warrants a visit not only for its Hollywood past, but also for its top-notch wellness amenities. In fact, every aspect of the 77-acre property is designed to keep guests healthy and happy. The grotto — drawn from the Desert Hot Springs aquifer — has two soaking pools filled with mineral-rich water. The spa features everything from mud baths to Watsu pools. Other health-conscious highlights include hiking trails, a yoga dome, tennis courts, a lap pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine made with local ingredients. To top it off, guests under the age of 18 aren’t allowed, adding to the overall serene ambience.

5. Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort

California wine country comes with its fair share of luxury hotels, but Calistoga Ranch, tucked away on 157 acres in northern Napa Valley, stands out from the pack. Here, guests can rent private lodges — complete with outdoor showers and living rooms, plus floor-to-ceiling windows that let in uninterrupted views. Adding to the calm atmosphere is the spa, which features soaking pools fed with mineral water from Napa Valley’s hot springs. Outdoor mud baths and organic massage treatments are on offer for guests looking to recharge. There’s also a heated outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, private lake, bocce ball court, on-site restaurant with dishes starring seasonal produce, wine-tasting seminars, and hiking trails, but if you prefer to leave the property, loaner bikes (and even a loaner Mercedes-Benz) will help you access downtown Calistoga and other nearby attractions.

6. The Spring Resort & Spa

Well-regarded for its restorative waters, Desert Hot Springs is a town that lies between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Situate yourself close to the area’s natural springs by booking a stay at the low-key Spring Resort & Spa. Here, guests can take advantage of three small pools, each supplied by water from the hot springs (170 degrees at the source, and then cooled to different temperatures). The spa, which also welcomes non-guests, is ready to reinvigorate with massages, facials, and body treatments. A relaxation-centric vibe pervades throughout the grounds, though, thanks to the no-kids-allowed policy and small number of guest rooms.

7. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, near the base of Mount St. Helena, is proof that you can connect with nature without breaking the bank. It’s situated on the site of geothermal mineral pools that filter into a whirlpool, soaking pool, and multi-lane lap pool. Complement your soak with a massage, warm mud bath using locally harvested volcanic ash, or another one of the treatments at the full-service spa. There’s also a fitness center and an attached studio with weekly yoga and Pilates classes to further enhance your wellness getaway. Downsides? There’s no restaurant here, other than a snack bar, though the hotel is within walking distance of restaurants. Plus, the 57 motel-style rooms all have kitchenettes with two-burner stovetops if you prefer to cook.

8. Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort

Casual and comfortable, this laid-back resort located in a quiet area at the top of Napa Valley is the place to rest and recharge. The Baths here offer an array of services that use Calistoga’s mineral and geothermal waters, as do the indoor and outdoor pools. Take a dip, or unwind in the mud bath room. Come evening, have a barbecue in the outdoor picnic area with grills. The rooms and suites are equipped with kitchenettes for eating in, though the resort is located a block away from Calistoga’s main street with plenty of restaurants and shops, too.

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Think of your face as a fortress. Your first line of defense? An antioxidant base. Antioxidants are natural ingredients (think grape-seed and goji extracts) that shield your skin from free-radical damage caused by the sun. For my base, I love Mad Hippie Antioxidant Facial Oil, which is impressive for its totally natural ingredient list and its $25 price point. Its mix of organic argan and pomegranate seed oils (among many others) that hydrate the skin and help keep it safe. If you’re willing to spend a bit (okay three times) more, go for Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum, the absolute gold standard of antioxidant serums (and the product our executive editor swears by). Or, if you have a daily moisturizer that you love, consider souping it up with extra SPF, like Algenist’s UV Defense Fluid SPF 50. You can either mix in a few drops of the super-sheer, super-silky liquid directly into your face cream, or layer it on top.

Next up: eye cream, preferably one with SPF. It’s hard to find an SPF eye cream that doesn’t burn or sting if it gets into your eye, but I can say that I’ve had 100 percent success with the ones by PCA Skin (SPF 30), Supergoop (SPF 37), and SkinCeuticals (SPF 50). The PCA and SkinCeuticals picks both have a velvety texture and a natural-looking tint that works with most skin tones, while the Supergoop option is a light white cream that takes a little longer to soak in.

On top of that goes a BB cream, which is similar to a tinted moisturizer, but with extra SPF oomph. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I’ve tested about 100 different ones, and that MDSolarSciences MD Creme Mineral Balm is my favorite. It’s oil- and paraben-free and has a crazy-smooth, powdery matte finish that doesn’t make my face look chalky. And — drum roll, please — it’s loaded with sun protection (SPF 50). Best of all, it’s mineral-based, so it doesn’t contain chemicals that can cause damage to ocean reefs. A good drugstore pick is Revlon’s PhotoReady BB Cream Skin Perfector.

BB cream does not replace proper sunscreen. For your face and neck, try Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 50, or, if you’re feeling fancy, the zinc-based SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50. I like to toss a bottle of Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 into my daypack or beach bag for touch-ups: It’s so lightweight (and lightly tinted) and takes all of two seconds to completely sink in.

I tend to pick a big ol’ bottle of body sunscreen at the local supermarket or drugstore whenever I touch down. But if you have room in your carry-on or suitcase (and don’t want to take any chances), bring La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60. The fragrance-free lotion soaks in quickly, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and isn’t a bit slick or slimy. I’d also like to add that EIR Surf Mud was my MVP (most valuable product) on a recent Thailand trip. The zinc-based blocker has the consistency of silky mud and is fast to absorb. But here’s the best part: Bugs and mosquitoes hate the way it smells! Now, just throw on a hat and a pair of polarized sunnies, and grab a cotton scarf to toss over your shoulders. You’re good to go!

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1. The "Plus Ones" by Away

These days, it seems like there’s just no getting through airport security or your Instagram feed without spotting an Away bag or suitcase. It has been a big couple of years for the cult-favorite luggage company: In 2017, the brand’s millennial-pink collection famously sold out in a matter of days (and soon prompted a 5,000-person-long wait list). This year, they’ve debuted three travel bags — called the “Plus Ones” — to supplement their popular hard-side suitcases. The collection includes a carry-all, a garment bag, and a dopp kit, all made from sturdy, water-resistant nylon. The line’s weekender-style Everywhere Bag fastens to Away’s carry-ons and is available in black, navy, and gray, plus limited-edition camo, matte silver, and dreamy blush pink. The year 2018 also saw the launch of Away’s Carry-on with Pocket (their signature TSA-friendly suitcase improved with a front pocket for easy access) and The Aluminum Edition, a series of four suitcase sizes available in a gorgeous brushed-silver finish. 

2. Bose Sleepbuds

Wild guess here — you’ve lost sleep at least once to bad hotel acoustics, haven’t you? My personal list of offenders includes everything from elevator dings and rattling HVAC systems to loud neighbors and middle-of-the-night laundry deliveries. Whether you’re traveling or not, sleep quality is paramount, and noise inhibiting your shut-eye is a problem. Half a decade ago, Bose set out to apply its considerable audio knowledge to researching and developing a solution. The outcome? Sleepbuds: a set of tiny, wireless ear pieces that block, mask, and replace the noises that can keep people awake. Sleepbuds look like wireless earbuds, but they’re soft, bendy, and actually comfortable. (The pieces lie flat at the entrance of the ear canal so you can sleep happily in the fetal position, and they don’t shift if you switch sides.) Alone, they are super-effective at preventing noise from entering the ear, but the company went a step further by providing a set of calm sounds (accessed via the free Bose Sleep app) as a second line of defense. The app currently offers 10 soothing sounds and will release more soon. (Note that these sleepbuds do not play music.) Sleepbuds last 16 hours on a single charge, and their brushed-aluminum case provides extra battery life. Sweet dreams, here you come. 

3. Motorola Talkabout Two-Way Radio

If you haven’t thought about walkie-talkies since your childhood, it’s time for a revisit. Motorola has given the old-school gadgets a 2018 twist with the October release of the Talkabout, a Bluetooth-connected two-way radio and mobile app that allows for texting and location-sharing without a cellular signal. The most obvious use cases are off-the-cell-grid hiking, camping, or ski trips — Talkabouts have a range of up to 35 mountainous miles — but the weatherproof instruments can also change the game for friends at outdoor music festivals, where a signal is usually impossible to find, or travel companions trying to meet up somewhere on vast beach-resort grounds or on a cruise ship with spotty signal. (Say goodbye to waiting at designated meet-up points or roaming around looking for your companions.)

4. The Tiko Carry-On

With a heavy-duty canvas exterior and premium, practically silent Japanese wheels (the same ones found on Away and Victorinox models), the new Tiko Carry-On is a minimalist soft-side case that’s as attractive as it is sensible. Tiko’s soft, flexible shell is made from handsome gray waxed canvas — a strong cotton and polyester blend that’s immune to tearing and even unexpected rain showers. Tiko’s four Hinomoto wheels spin 360 degrees, making the bag easy to maneuver, including when you’re making your way down cramped airplane aisles. Best of all, the quiet wheels won’t immediately announce your tourist-y presence, even when they’re rolling over rutted cobblestones or sidewalk subway grates. The carry-on is missing some of the flashy new-generation features popular in suitcases now, like USB chargers (see: Away) and aircraft-grade aluminum. But at the end of the day, it checks all of the essential boxes for carry-ons: weightless handling that doesn’t strain your shoulder or wrist joints, great construction, and the ability to fit into overhead bins. Oh, and eye appeal. The only noticeable branding on the bag is a small black leather tag subtly etched with the word “TIKO,” so don’t be surprised if you’re stopped by strangers inquiring where it’s from. (This happened to me. Twice. In Paris.)

5. The Nue Co. Topical C

Beauty products in powder form are a blessing for travelers. (Read: no TSA hassle, no chance of a gloopy mess). Beauty brands are catching on to this fact, with more and more starting to offer powderized versions of grooming essentials, like toothpaste, dry shampoo, face masks and cleansers, and deodorant. This crushed-up vitamin C is the latest to join the ranks, offering a TSA-friendly version of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that brightens skin and fights pollution and sun damage. For travelers constantly worried about skin protection, it more than earns its keep in a dopp kit. The product has the consistency of finely pulverized chalk, and mixes instantly with water, or face cream or serum, if you’ve brought any. (I usually tap two shakes over small blob of hotel-brand lotion and mix.) The formula is mild enough to use morning and night, but be sure to layer facial sunscreen on top during the day.

6. Tortuga Setout Divide Backpack

The Tortuga Setout is a beloved travel bag in the backpacking community, who deem the maximum-size carry-on pack worthy of a months-long trek through the Swiss Alps. So when the company released its latest travel backpack — the Setout Divide — earlier this year, the frenzy was real. Smaller than the 45L original, the Divide is a mid-size carry-on that can be expanded (from 26L to 34L) to fit extra gear. Since its debut, positive reviews have been pouring in from serious backpackers, many of whom going so far as to name the Divide their new all-time favorite backpack. Why all the devotion? The durable construction (the strong heathered polyester can weather a rainstorm), the lockable zippers, the removable hip belt, and the padded shoulder straps that contour to your body are all high on the list. People love that top and side grab handles allow it to be carried like a suitcase. The Divide can unzip fully to its two-section main compartment, and it also has an external front pocket, laptop and tablet sleeves, and a zippered compartment for other tech items. The smaller size makes it ideal for long weekend trips; minimalist packers like me find it perfect for full-week (and even a little longer) excursions. When not on the road, owners use the bag as an everyday carry, packing it with work items, lunch, and workout gear. The company also released the Setout Laptop Backpack and the Setout Duffle Bag this year.

7. TropicSport Sunscreen

On May 1 of this year, Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens made with chemicals thought to damage coral reefs. Hawaii is one of the only states that has taken legislative steps so far, but mark our words: The sun is setting on sunscreens containing chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone. Australian surfer Tony Palmer was ahead of the curve when he debuted his line of reef-safe sunscreens just a few months before the bill passed. TropicSport’s sunscreens are made from titanium dioxide and zinc oxide — natural minerals that are safe for the skin and sea. The lightweight, non-greasy SPF 30 lotions and sticks meet resistance times both in the U.S. and Australia, and are certified cruelty-free. TropicSport also features face products (tropical-scented cleanser, scrub, and moisturizer) and an aloe cooling gel to relieve overheated skin.

8. Osprey Rolling Transporters

Think of Osprey’s new Rolling Transporters as steerable duffel bags that can handle really hard wear. Part sports bag, part wheeled suitcase, the collection comes in three sizes — the 40 (carry-on-compliant), 90, and 120 — all built around a strong aluminum frame with wheels wide enough for off-roading. The flexible nylon covering is double-coated with the water- and abrasion-defiant material that’s found on kayaks, and even the lockable zippers are glazed to protect packed items from getting wet. But what owners seem to love the most are the padded handles placed on every end, allowing them to grab the bag comfortably when they’re not wheeling it like a suitcase.

9. Kodak Pocket Wireless Pico Projector

One of my favorite parts of staying in a hotel is watching TV in bed. It’s a little luxury that I do not allow myself at home. So it’s a bummer to snuggle in only to discover, as I so often do, that the hotel has a crummy cable package with zero decent options. This wireless two-inch cube saves the day (er, night): It’s a mini movie player with a built-in speaker that projects via Airplay (on iPhones) or Miracast (Androids), or an HDMI cable. As much as the Thai-language QVC equivalent grew on me on a recent three-week trip to Krabi, it would have been nice to mix it up (and feel connected to the larger world) by watching SNL skits and the newest episode of “Last Week Tonight.” Plus, projecting the HD videos or images on a wall or backdrop is fun, and I could imagine little kids enjoying it on family camping trips or hotel stays, as well as bachelor and bachelorette parties getting a kick out of looping flashback photos while pre-gaming at the hotel. 

10. Gretchen Ankle Boots

The Texas-based SAS Shoes is one of the few remaining American-made shoe companies. Their handcrafted Gretchen is a slip-resistant women’s shoe, styled like a work boot and made to handle inclement weather. Its contoured footbed absorbs shock and actively protects against microbes, moisture, and mugginess, while the leather uppers repel water. Consider it your MVP if going somewhere where rain is regularly part of the equation (hello, London, Seattle, and Paris). And I repeat: These guys are made by hand.

11. PCA Skin Sheer Tint Eye SPF 30

Whether your vacation involves snorkeling in Belize or wandering the streets of Paris, seeing the world means being outside. And being outside means actively protecting your skin. If you already layer your face with SPF, good for you! (And if you don’t, start.) Now make sure your eyelids and the skin surrounding your eyes are getting some love, too. The problem with applying sunscreen near the eyes is that it can burn or sting. PCA Skin Sheer Tint Eye SPF 30 is specially formulated to sink in in seconds with zero irritation. And the stuff won’t shift or melt, even on sweaty hikes. Do yourself a favor and get two — a daily one for behind your bathroom mirror, and a second for your travel bag.

12. ATOM Compression Socks

How I ever traveled before discovering compression socks, I’m not sure. The tightly knitted socks help keep calf muscles from getting too stiff and give your blood circulatory system a boost — alleviating discomfort on flights and lessening the chance of blood clots. This super-soft pick from Atom is made from milk fiber, a springy, eco-friendly fiber that is naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking. So while some compression socks are itchy and tight, this flexible pair is breathable and actually cooling.

13. Amika Reset Exfoliating Jelly Shampoo

I’ve spent so many precious beach-vacation hours trying to wash salt and sand from my hair and scalp. Then Amika released this super-detoxifying shampoo, and my beach-packing list has forever been improved. The gentle gel cleanser cuts through drying salt residue and ensnarled bits of sand with natural ingredients like French pink clay, charcoal, and salicylic acid. A thin-tip spout helps apply the shampoo directly onto the scalp, segment by segment, before it is worked through the ends. At first, the shampoo has a satisfyingly granular texture that scrubs out any lingering sand before being whipped into a creamy (and equally satisfying) froth. The end result is sexy beach hair that is also soft and clean.

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