10 Healing Places to Visit This Year
With travelling finally back on the table, here are 10 places to reconnect with each other and nature
Text: Shin Yee Koh
Restrictions have lifted, and travel is once again back on the table. Revenge travel, in particular, is experiencing a boom – we’re all more desperate than ever to travel and make up for the lost time due to lockdowns and restrictions. With nearly every country opening its borders again, we're spoiled for choice when it comes to making travel plans. The healing power of nature after being locked up in a concrete jungle is ever more important for our physical and mental health. If you're at a loss on where to go and what to do, here are our top 10 places to visit this year with your loved ones to reconnect with each other and nature.
1. Maldives
Pristine beaches, sprawling greenery, and fascinating landmarks – is there any wonder why water sports are so popular in Maldives? Parasailing is one of my personal favourites. You get to enjoy the salty air whipping around you as you speed across the ocean and take in the awe-inspiring scenery. Kayaking is also one thing you definitely shouldn't miss. The pureness of Maldives' waters is like no other – marine life thrives in its clear blue waters, making it easy to spot fishes darting by. If a relaxing getaway is what you're searching for, here are the top 5 wellness retreats in Maldives to R&R.
Kayaking in Maldives (Credit: Pexel)
2. Hutt Lagoon, Western Australia
From baffling rock formations and ancient Aboriginal sites to sweeping green vineyards of world-class wineries and unbelievably clear ocean waters, Western Australia is the land of endless exploration. Whilst the dreamlike Hutt Lagoon is stunning from the ground, it's otherworldly when seen from above. There's a range of stunning scenic flight options that allow you to take in the enormity of the lake, offered by Geraldton Air Charter, Shine Aviation and Kalbarri Scenic Flights. Western Australia is incredibly vast and diverse; as the largest state, it covers nearly one-third of the country. There are plenty of activities perfect for refreshing your soul in Western Australia – what better way than to do it outdoors? Here are our top 10 outdoor spots to fully immerse in the healing benefits of mother earth.
Soaring above Hutt Lagoon (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)
The Gili Islands are famous for their fantastic visibility, gorgeous coral reefs, and diverse marine wildlife. You can literally go swimming right off the beaches of Gili Trawangan, and you're almost guaranteed to spot a few turtles. They are most commonly seen in the early mornings, so after a sumptuous breakfast, go out for a morning snorkel and watch these beautiful creatures swim around! The sunset views are also nothing to scoff at, especially when you’re strolling down the beach with a cocktail in hand.
Breakfast with turtles on Gili Island (Credit: Go Guides)
Langkawi is a picturesque island located off the coast of Penang in Malaysia and is a great place to visit if you want to sample some island living. It has a laid back atmosphere that makes it very different from other parts of Malaysia, but when the night has fallen is when the fun truly starts. Night markets are the highlight of any trip to South-East Asia, and Langkawi boasts a variety of markets specialising in different cuisines every evening. Unfortunately, single-use plastic is norm here, so bring your own reusable bags and containers to help reduce single-use plastic.
Catch eagle-eye views of Langkawi (Credit: Klook)
5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is an extinct volcano that emerged 13 million years ago from the ocean. Today, it sits amidst a lagoon that glimmers in vibrant shades of blue, while the verdant silhouettes of Mounts Otemanu, Pahia and Hue dominate this mesmerising horizon. Framed by coral reefs, Bora Bora and its necklace of islets uncoil into white sandy beaches great and small. Make sure to give paddle-boarding a try while you’re here. The water is flat and calm most of the time in Bora Bora’s lagoon, so it’s an ideal place to learn. And if you fall off, well, isn’t that all part of the fun anyways?
Splashing around in Bora Bora (Credit: Pexel)
Marrakesh is a Moroccan city that aims for every one of the senses and doesn't hold back. It’s an 'exhausted in the best way' sort of place that enchants from sunrise to long after sunset. Also famous for its food, Moroccan cuisine is a reflection of the country’s colorful history, with strong influences from Africa, Arabia, and the Mediterranean. Take a cooking class to learn how to whip up a sumptuous meal. They rely on whole grains, lentils, spices and fruit rather than refined sugar and deep-frying, ingredients that are wonderful for your gut health and body.
Cooking in Marrakesh (Credit: Pexel)
Home to iconic mountain ranges, stunning natural wonders, thrilling landscapes and ocean vistas, Cape Town offers no shortage of adventures. Dubbed the adventure capital of South Africa, the lifestyle of locals and visitors alike centres around the outdoors and an active lifestyle. Here, you'll find South Africa's most famous hiking trails. From windswept coastal wanders to invigorating ascents with spectacular views, there’s a trail for everyone at Cape Town.
Hiking in Cape Town (Credit: Pexel)
You can't think of Southern Italy without dreaming of a trip to the Amalfi Coast. The most beautiful places in the world have always been linked to this Mediterranean landscape. It may only stretch for 30 miles, but the Amalfi Coast offers enough idyllic beauty and Italian luxury for a standalone trip. Driving its winding seaside roads will take you to charming coastal towns, scenic beaches, villas and gardens, and world renowned spa retreats – perfect for a reinvigorating holiday and get pampered by professionals.
Unwinding in Amalfi Coast (Credit: Pexel)
From unconventional restaurants and local craft beers to a wealth of world-class museums, it's easy to see why Amsterdam is a top tourist destination. Its bike culture, charming canals and lax attitude towards marijuana are also part of the city's universal appeal. The city is also a short drive away from Keukenhof, the world's biggest flower garden. Studies have shown that being out in nature is also associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression, so take this chance to enjoy a leisurely drive by the coast to view a sea of tulips in full bloom.
Be one with nature in Amsterdam (Credit: Pexel)
Halong Bay is the most popular destination in Vietnam, and there is a reason for it. The enchanting sight of thousands of limestone islets dotting the green ocean of Halong is definitely not one to be missed. The floating villages and fish farms of Ha Long Bay are among the highlights of any visit there, but cycling is a fantastic way to explore the island as well. Whether you choose to bike alone or explore with a tour group, there is no better way to end a long bike ride than taking a refreshing dip into one of their many beaches.
Cycle past beaches in Ha Long Bay (Credit: TTR Weekly)
If you want to stay healthy on your holiday, look for things to do outdoors. Go on a hike, swim with turtles, and spend more time in nature. Otherwise here’s a list of luxe wellness-focused destinations you can embark on your next vacation so that you can sweat in style.
