Three mindful getaways to inspire a new outlook on life
Embrace silent travel and reconnect with your sense of self while rejuvenating your body on a getaway that prioritizes peace and mindfulness.
By Jessica Poitevien | May 2, 2024
It’s no secret that traveling can have a myriad of benefits for the mind and body — whether that’s from taking on a physically challenging activity, flexing your brain muscles in a new language or simply taking the time to rest and recharge. If you’re looking to focus on the latter, we suggest embracing the silent travel trend in these top destinations around the world, where it’s easy to enjoy a mindfulness-focused getaway with just the right amount of indulgence.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui may be one of the most popular of the Hawaiian Islands but you can still find peaceful pockets that allow for some highly sought-after solitude and reflection. Trek on the less popular trails to have the mountains to yourself, visit the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm or escape the light pollution by stargazing on the remote Haleakalā peak. The moon and stars also play a vital role in treatments at the recently renovated Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Inspired by kaulana mahina, the Hawaiian moon calendar, the spa’s offerings are constantly evolving in accordance with the lunar phases, combining ancient Hawaiian therapies and mindfulness practices with modern techniques. This holistic approach is complemented by the oasis-like retreat of the resort itself, ensuring your moments of reflection carry through your entire getaway.
Bali, Indonesia
Mindfulness is baked into the Balinese lifestyle. Travelers can tap into that by visiting a Hindu temple for silent meditation or going on a hike to reconnect with themselves and nature while surrounded by a beautiful landscape. Plan your visit during Balinese New Year (Nyepi), when the entire island shuts down to allow for 24 hours of rest and reflection without distractions. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts is the ideal wellness-focused sanctuary — from the deluxe villas, each with its own private infinity pool, to holistic activities like sound healing, soul blessing and holotropic breathing. Rejuvenate the mind and body further with Indonesian-inspired massages and treatments at Lohma Spa.
Rabat, Morocco
Exploring a Moroccan city like Rabat is a feast for the senses. The scent of rich spices wafts from the restaurants, colorful rugs hang in the shops while vendors in the medina bargain to earn your business. When it’s time to quiet those senses and the mind, remember that Moroccans have taken self-care seriously for centuries, especially with elaborate bathing rituals that are still used today. Treat yourself to this soothing hammam experience at Conrad Spa at Conrad Rabat Arzana, where you’ll lie down on a marble slab while being pampered from head to toe. The oceanside resort’s spa also offers several other treatments focused on relaxation, aesthetics or overall wellness. No matter your choice, expect a decadent experience using locally sourced oils and products.
Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries (and counting!), including several solo trips, and also considers herself an expert in destination weddings and unique honeymoons — her own was two months long. When she's not traveling, she enjoys making social media content, trying new food and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.
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