5 Blissful Retreats for Detox and Self-Discovery
No matter the time of year, with our busy hyper-connected lives, we all could use a bit of a break or a boost every now and then. And for this precise purpose, there is an ever-growing number of blissful retreats all over the world that offer everything from relaxation and mental detoxes to self-discovery.
According to a recent global survey* conducted by Booking.com, while only 3.6% went on spa or wellness breaks in 2015, 45% of travellers said they wanted to do so in 2016. And a considerable 78% of all 36,000 nationally representative respondents said that going somewhere relaxing was a travel priority.
So to make it that bit easier for you to realise that spa and wellness break dream, Booking.com has picked five of the best accommodations to unwind from all over the world.
When it comes to detoxing the mind, you can’t do much better than relaxing in the confines of a former monastery. Escape the clutches of your work and daily stresses in the elegant rooms of the Sopron Monastery Retreat Centre, where you can stroll around the tranquil gardens or pay a visit to the monastery library.
As a 1,000-year-old Buddhist temple, a stay at Shukubo Koya-san Eko-in is invaluable for anyone keen to step back and take a look at their inner self. Amidst traditional Japanese décor, an invigorating spiritual atmosphere prevails with group meditation, the Goma fire ritual and more.
Surrounded by the peaceful garden of the Strahov Monastery, the Monastery Hotel feels wonderfully removed from a fast-paced world. Overlooking Prague Castle, the Old Town and the Vitava river, it is wonderfully placed if you fancy stepping out of the serene confines of the hotel to explore the Golden City.
A stay at the Yoga Hotel offers an enlightening experience in a stunning setting. Guests here are invited to explore their inner self through yoga and meditation classes that develop values such as gratitude and unity. The retreat is also perfectly placed to enjoy nature, with lush surroundings and superb views of the mountains or valley.
Looking out over the Andaman Sea, you’ll feel totally removed from your daily woes in the serene enclave that is the Phulay Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve. It is constructed almost entirely out of wood and in traditional Thai style, surrounded by tropical gardens and an infinity pool with ocean views. There’s also an exemplary spa and a choice of experiences to get you feeling creative and calm, including Thai cooking and batik painting lessons.
* Respondents had to be 18 or older, had to have travelled at least once in 2015 and planning at least one trip in 2016, and had to be at least part of the decision-making process when planning most of their trips.
Data was collected October 2015.