After the year the world has had, it's not surprising that the one thing on everyone's minds right now is how soon a person can travel. With so many countries allowing vaccinated travelers, and many locations slowly beginning to ease restrictions, it's time for a new travel series: themed destinations based on the mood, or vibe, a traveler is seeking. This week, we're starting with chill, laid-back, and absolutely serene destinations around the world. Any of these are perfect for a traveler who's just looking to get away from it all and not necessarily be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of tourism, urban life, or activities (not to say there aren't many things to do in these places!).
With scenic views, generous accommodations, and a plethora of options, these destinations stand at the top of the list for 2021's most tranquil getaways. And, believe it or not, they're not all beaches or tropical locales; there's something for everyone in this series and you might just find your next perfect vacation.
Ubud, Bali
Ubud is often called one of the most beautiful places in the world and any traveler who has gone there would be hard-pressed to say otherwise. There is a number of things to do here but the best part is that they're optional experiences; Ubud is a place rooted in tranquility and enlightenment.
Travelers seeking a peaceful getaway will find that they might leave Ubud with so much more than that, including a renewed sense of self, hope, and inner peace. It's also the most popular spa destination in Asia, offering a number of ways to sit back, relax, and absorb the destination and all it offers.
Banff National Park
Banff is a well-known destination in Canada and one of the most popular, thanks to its breathtaking views of the nearby Canadian Rockies. This national park has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors year after year and while it sounds like it's a tourist hotspot, the vast expanse of this park, and the surrounding area, are more than big enough to still allow travelers to feel remote and tranquil among nature.
It's the perfect destination for hikers but one certainly doesn't need to be hitting the trails in order to appreciate the beauty of Banff. Nearby destinations such as Jasper and Calgary also offer travelers plenty to see and do, so this is a Canadian trip worth taking.
Molokai, Hawaii
The best part about Molokai is while most people head to Maui to see Hawaii, Molokai is located not too far away (less than ten miles!). It has everything there is to love about Hawaii without the crowds one would find in bigger cities, and without many of the nighttime attractions of the other cities.
In exchange, travelers will get true peace and quiet, with beaches that always have great places to sprawl out and plenty of time to explore these lesser-known parts. It's truly the perfect destination for beach lovers and Hawaii is an ideal place for that laid-back, casual vacation getaway.
Vis Island, Croatia
While Vis Island is part of Croatia, it's far enough from the mainland that it's easy enough to forget it's actually part of a larger country. The isolation of this island is exactly what makes it so alluring to those seeking a remote destination to relax, unwind, and be away from everything that reminds them of the stressors of daily life.
The island wasn't open to visitors until 1989 which means that it's still very much untouched, in a sense, as it hasn't become a haven for tourists heading to Croatia with so many people opting for the mainland instead. The secluded destinations throughout this island offer perfect serene spots to enjoy Croatia's vistas, food, and culture.
Fogo Island, Newfoundland, Canada
Some might consider this part of Newfoundland to feel sleepy and as though it's stopped moving throughout time but for others, it's the perfect place to unwind. The most amazing thing about Fogo Island is how diverse it is with only 11 different communities in this northeast corner of Newfoundland.
The blending of cultures and communities makes this a wonderful place to explore, especially when it comes to local flavors and experiences. Fishing is a big part of life here, as well, and travelers will be happy to just stroll through town or relax on the beach, which feels surprisingly like the Bahamas rather than the Canadian coastline. Walking the local trails, observing wildlife, and visiting local shops are all wonderful ways to pass the time here.