Holistic holidays prove the most relaxing of all
With pennies running low, and our attitudes feeling a little deflated, many are picking themselves up by a bit of self improvement.
It seems that in harder times, the best cure is not winning the lottery, although we certainly wouldn’t be complaining if that happened, but a holistic holiday.
When luxury beach holidays are just plain out unaffordable and even a bit predictable, many are choosing an alternative way to spend their free time other than doing nothing.
Leading ethical travel company responsibletravel.com says that has been a dramatic year on year increase in ‘holistic and wellbeing’ holidays. In fact, the depressing economy is causing travellers to seek holidays that ‘renew their spiritual wellbeing’ and there was a 121% rise in these holidays in 2008 alone.
Justin Francis, MD of responsibletravel.com said: "More and more travellers are looking to re-connect with themselves on holiday - they are searching for some kind of sanity in the current economic madness. They want to feel re-energised in mind, body and soul. Yoga and Pilates holidays, mediation retreats, spas and holistic holidays can all help with stress relief - reminding us of the more important things in life and encouraging greater relaxation."
Think about going to the spa for just one day and how refreshed and relaxed you feel afterwards. Well, imagine that for a whole week. It’s not difficult to see why there’s been such a sharp increase in these types of breaks.
Some of responsibletravel.com customers have been particularly impressed with their breaks, giving the following comments to the leading online ethical travel company.
“Combining the health-giving values of Pilates with that of food grown within a few paces of the house, the accommodation offers a total experience for mind and body.†– Barry Woodward.
“It was brilliant. Mentally liberating as the island and the lodge are so peaceful and calming.†– Laila Manji
“I very much enjoyed the yoga sessions in the early morning which took place in a pavilion overlooking the river and paddy fields. With the mist over the river and sounds of birds, it was a magical experience.†– Rowan Foster
So if you’re thinking, why can’t it be me saying that? Then why not take a look at the website. Responsibletravel.com not only meets all specific tourism guidelines but it aims to create better places for people to live and visit. They campaign for positive change in the travel and tourism industry, which can only mean even more peace of mind for customers.
Here are some example of the type of holidays on offer:
A holistic meditation tour of Thailand
Learn about meditation with the Buddhists monks at the Thai Wisdom Centre, visit the ancient capital of Ayuthaya before boarding a rice barge for a gentle meander down the river, stopping off to enjoy the wildlife in Khao Yao National Park before taking time to relax on the lovely island of Koh Chang. The itinerary runs throughout the year at a time to suit you and departs with a minimum of two people.
Pilates and Italian cooking holiday in Piedmont
Stay in an old Piemontese farmhouse set within its own organic vineyard and kitchen gardens overlooking stunning hilltop villages in Southern Piedmonte, North West Italy. Enjoy both Pilates and Italian cooking courses under the guidance of Chef Gino Minacapilli. Additional facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms, a large south-facing terrace, a home cinema and a library.
Life coaching holidays in Greece
This centre nestles on the hillside at the edge of a village in the Sporades Islands, only accessible by foot through narrow, cobblestone streets. The centre's courtyard, shaded by fig and pomegranate trees, has a panoramic view of the valley and the Aegean. A typical day starts with yoga on the terrace followed by a late morning life coaching workshop. During the afternoon you can laze around on a long sandy beach, enjoy a massage, or just like the Greeks, take an afternoon nap!
For more holidays see www.responsibletravel.com/holistic
By Karen Asbury