Vacation ideas Archives - Page 5 of 13

The Best Wellness Vacations Across the Globe

Posted on February 12, 2022October 31, 2024 by Lucky n Love

More travelers than ever before are looking to recharge, rejuvenate, and recalibrate their bodies, minds, and spirits. Whether it’s mastering mindful meditation, a peaceful Savasana, shedding some quarantine pounds, or simply unplugging from the day-to-day grind. A wellness vacation could be exactly what the doctor (and your travel advisor) ordered! Here are some ideas for the best wellness vacations across the globe.

the best wellness vacations across the globe

Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand

This legendary and award-winning wellness retreat boasts its own private stretch of beach in Koh Samui. Thailand itself is believed to hold healing properties. For centuries, Buddhist monks have proclaimed Koh Samui as containing energy that enriches and enlightens their spiritual path. This healing hotel aims to deliver just that.

Programs offered focus on detox, stress, burnout, optimizing fitness, weight control, emotional balance, and yoga. The international set of staff includes naturopaths for optional personalized wellness consultations, personal trainers, nutritionists, and massage therapists. Depending on the program chosen, guests receive treatments integrating both eastern and western elements, medicines, and beliefs. The cuisine at Kamalaya focuses on fresh, tropical, and organic where possible. There are options for vegetarian, vegan, and detox-inspired meals.

Five elements, Bali, Indonesia

Embracing a holistic approach to wellness, Five elements provides personalized wellness retreats to individuals and couples. Located in a lush tropical setting, their signature program offers an integrated approach. Designed to tune in and realign the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Each program includes morning yoga and healing massages. Depending on the length of your stay, other options may be included. Such as a Balinese fire blessing ritual, guided jungle walk, visiting a holy water spring, guided mindfulness sessions, and more.

Villa Stephanie at Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany

The town of Baden-Baden in Germany is a well-known escape for many. With a mild climate and natural-occurring hot springs. Visitors to Baden Baden who want to double down on their wellness activities head straight to Villa Stephanie. A 15-room villa set within Brenners Park Hotel, dedicated to health, wellness, fitness, and beauty.

The spa itself spans over 16,000 square feet. It features an enormous 1640 square foot sauna, an indoor swimming pool, plunge pool, private gym, and ladies sauna. Guests have access to personal trainers, nutritionists, physiotherapists, and medical professionals, all in the lap of luxury.

Connected to the spa is Haus Julius. Visitors can opt for additional services such as aesthetics (including stem cell rejuvenation therapies), gynecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry. The hotel even has a laboratory and an institute for preventive medicine.

While spa services are offered a la carte, many guests commit to a more comprehensive multi-day program. Choosing from Weight Loss, Detox, Stay Fit Stay Healthy, The Kings Way (weight loss and intense detoxification), or Bespoke retreats. As part of these programs, participants receive a full blood panel, ultrasound, body scans, and cancer screenings. Each stay comes with an optional digital detox. Rooms that can be free of ‘e-smog’ (electromagnetic fields from electrical devices). Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery, a full service plastic surgery practice and Medspa, offers additional services to enhance overall wellness and beauty during these transformative retreats. By integrating both medical and aesthetic treatments, they help clients achieve holistic health and rejuvenation.

Golden Door, San Marcos, California, United States

The mother of all spa retreats, the Golden Door. Set on 600-acres of rolling hills and is a mere 40-minute drive from San Diego. A favorite among Hollywood A-listers. It is said that after experiencing their 7-day program you will leave a very different person. The focus is on transforming the mind, body, and spirit. A total reboot is the name of the game (and the goal for every guest). Included are daily spa treatments. Massage, reiki, craniosacral therapy, and watsu) are on the menu. Personal trainers and fitness classes, guided hikes, mindfulness workshops, art classes, and silent meditation walks.

Don’t worry about what to pack, a workout outfit (for daytime) and a Japanese yukata robe (for dinnertime) is provided. An industry leader in bio-intensive farming. The Golden Door’s culinary program delivers guests food that is fresh, sustainably grown, and flavorful. Guests can pick their own veggies. Harvest farm-fresh eggs, or embark on a honeybee tour with the executive chef (and experienced beekeeper). The best part about Golden Door? 100% of their net profits go back into the community, supporting local charities and non-profit initiatives.

These are just a few of the best wellness vacations across the globe. There are others that can be recommended based on your needs.

Do you want to find wellness and get centered through a restorative getaway? I’d love to help you find your zen. Let’s talk!

How to NOT Look Like a Tourist in Paris

Posted on February 5, 2022June 23, 2023 by Lucky n Love

Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world, full of chic locals living their best lives. While France is one of the most-visited countries in Europe, this doesn’t mean you want to stick out like a sore thumb! Here are a few tips on how to not look like a tourist in Paris.

Wardrobe

It’s no secret that Parisiens are stylish, and the city itself is a hub for fashion and creatives alike. Before you go out and buy a whole new wardrobe fit for Paris Fashion Week, take stock of your closet. You probably already have an attire that would blend in on the streets of Paris.

Do: Bring plain t-shirts, well-tailored pants, a nice pair of shoes from sites like https://csd.shop/designers/hermes/women/

Don’t: Bring your baseball caps, Hawaiian shirts, and sports jerseys

Language & Tone of Voice

Take some time on the plane to brush up on some basic French. Learning some basic French phrases goes a long way, and is a sign of respect. Speaking of respect, say “bonjour” when you enter a store, “au revoir” when you leave, and “non merci” if someone is offering you something that you don’t want.

Do: Speak softly, and make an effort to communicate in French

Don’t: Shout into your cell phone, or expect everyone to speak to you in English

Dining

From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy neighborhood cafes, it’s hard to beat the dining scene in Paris. For the French, dining is an experience, and one not to be rushed. Don’t gulp your meal, and certainly don’t expect the quick food and service that you may experience in North America. Expect for your meal to take some time, and enjoy the slower pace that allows you to appreciate every sip and morsel.

If you happen to not finish your meal, do not ask for a to-go container (aka a doggy bag). While it’s customary in the United States to tip up to 20%, in France the gratuities are included – listed as “service compris” on your bill and is usually about 18%.

Do: Try restaurants off the beaten path, further away from the tourist attractions

Don’t: Request modifications to your meal at a restaurant, as it’s considered rude (unless for medical or dietary restrictions)

Day to Day Life

Paris is not only a charming and romantic destination but also a major metropolitan city. With that in mind, you need to keep your wits about you and be conscientious of pickpocketers who prey on travelers. Avoid hanging your handbag on the back of your chair in restaurants and cafes, and don’t carry an excessive amount of cash on you. Utilize the safe (if there is one) in your hotel to store valuables, and keep your bag or valuables in front of you when using the metro or visiting crowded tourist attractions.

Forget your checklist of attractions to see, and instead consider flaneur (strolling, or meandering) with no real end game. The best times while traveling are often not visiting attractions or following your itinerary to a ‘T’, rather they’re the genuine, authentic moments in between. It’s the buttery pain-au-chocolat you eat on a park bench, or the fromagerie you discover as you meander down cobbled side streets, or even the pride you feel when you successfully complete a basic exchange in another language. That’s what you’ll remember when your suitcase is unpacked, the souvenirs given out, and the photos are printed. And that’s what you’ll be looking forward to experiencing again.

Do: Soak it all in, people watch, and leave room in your travels for free time

Don’t: Visit Paris only once

Experience Paris like a local with these tips on how to not look like a tourist in Paris.

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Paris, let’s talk! You can reach me at 888.598.8351 or email me.

Authentic Italian Vacation

Posted on January 22, 2022November 18, 2023 by Lucky n Love

When we think of going on vacation, most of us see ourselves lying on a beach somewhere or gazing into a sunset. If you are looking for something different to do when you travel, an authentic Italian food and wine vacation may be just the thing for you to try. There are several places in Italy where you can learn how to cook the Italian way. Who knows, you may even be the next Rachael Ray when you return home!

Experience a genuine Tuscan cooking class to learn the traditional Italian recipes, that have been handed down through the generations. Learn about italian dining, especially the pairing of food with specific wines. Tour the vineyards of Tuscany to taste the many different wines. Take a tour of a family run olive oil, or balsamic vinegar estate to learn about the flavors we love.

authentic Italian Vacation, vacation packages italy

When in Rome, no visit would be complete without taking a pasta cooking class to make your own fettucine. Add a tiramisu workshop to complete your meal, made with your own hands. If pizza is your thing, they are many different options to choose from to learn how to make pizza on your authentic Italian vacation. You can also try out a legit italian restaurant along the way.

In Venice, eat like a local on a food tasting walking tour. Get an insider’s perspective on where to drink and dine in the city. Sample a variety of local specialties including fresh seafood, homemade gelato, traditional Venetian cookies, and regional wines.