Redefine Travel Trends: Travel, Pray and Reset

To redefine travel trends in the forthcoming year, muster up the courage to step out of your comfort zone. When you change your mindset, the universe responds by providing options that cater to your requirements. Often this implies going off the usual beaten path in search of something that seems strangely elusive. Today’s traveler does not settle for the conventional travel itineraries that entail simply ticking off the well-known landmarks. Travelling needs to be fulfilling in every way, and is meant to be a wholesome experience.

With the intention to help you reset inside out, listed as follows are destinations that revive your spirituality while stretching your horizons –  

Ubud, Bali

For someone who truly wishes to redefine travel trends, Ubud – a semi-rural hub in Bali – emerges as a particularly attractive option. The Balinese name translates to ‘medication’ in English, and true to its name, this destination features every kind of therapy to relieve stress and release in every way.

Most travelers who visit Bali remain content with basking in the tropical sun at one of the pristine sandy beaches. Only when you leave the beaches behind and travel inland to find yourself in a natural haven that true healing begins to take effect. From the verdant paddy fields and forests inhabited by monkeys to traditional temples, yoga programs and cultural exhibits, every aspect of Ubud soothes the soul. As compared to the feisty and bustling beaches, your holiday at this rural locale might seem quiet. It is this stillness that calms you down physically, mentally and emotionally once you embrace it.

Kairali, Kerala

How about undertaking a break that allows you to reset inside out through deep cleansing? Kerala remains the quintessential destination for Ayurveda, and Kairali in Palakkad upholds this age-old tradition through holistic practices and health-driven activities. Redefine travel trends by opting for an Ayurvedic detox in the lap of lush green forests. Rid yourself of various health issues through specific diet and exercise regimes. Spend your days practicing yoga-asanas, and figuring out the inner workings of your body from experts.

What renders this getaway unique is its ability to provide long-term cures. During the stay, relax in the calming presence of conch shells and waterfalls in your living space. Also try recipes that trigger gradual internal healing and continue to benefit from their goodness even after the trip.

Rotorua, New Zealand

Imagine being holed up in a volcanic crater, and having loads of fun. As bizarre as this thought might seem, it is indeed possible to reset inside out while holidaying in the mouth of a volcano. Rotorua, in North Island, New Zealand, enables you to redefine travel trends, given its location on top of a volcano and at the banks of a lake. Brace yourself to encounter geysers and mineral springs as you walk towards the edge, and absorb their therapeutic vapors.

Just as vibrant as the volcanic pools are the Maori, New Zealand’s original inhabitants, whom you can interact with at one of the nearby villages. In addition to appreciating their handicrafts, you can also swing to their traditional beats and dig into their ethnic feasts.

Being at Rotorua is like standing at the edge of the world, a feeling that can be liberating and humbling at the same time. This destination represents the epitome of diversity, and challenges you to cultivate unconditional acceptance.

Okawango Delta, Botswana

Usually waters of a delta empty into the sea, unless you travel to Okavango in Botswana. Prepare to be amazed at the rare phenomenon of all tributaries that form the vast inland delta simply vanish into the Kalahari sands. Even more amazing are the buzzing wetlands that have sprung into existence courtesy of this huge tapestry of crisscrossing rivers. Teeming with a multitude of life-forms, the swamps and grasslands of the delta sustain a diverse habitat that is unique to the region.

At Okavango, watch the elements of nature at their creative beat, as they carve and sculpt the landscape into a lively canvas. You can reset inside out in multiple ways, namely observing the flora and fauna, practicing fitness regimes in the lap of nature, or setting out on a mokoro trip. Not only does this destination redefine travel trends, but also provides practical tips on survival and co-existence.

Mount Shasta, USA

Mention California, and a number of terms pop up, ranging from Hollywood and infotech to beautiful beaches and redwood forests. But did you know that tucked away into the Cascade Range of Northern Rockies is a spot that blends healing with myths and mysteries? Mount Shasta, in Siskiyou County, is a volcanic peak located in close proximity of a town that shares its name. Although labelled as dormant, the peak continues to release ash, and regularly spurts steam. Thanks to this activity, as also glaciers, it remains a popular choice among climbers and geologists.

In sharp contrast, the monastery on its slopes offers a perfect opportunity to heal in tranquil surroundings where time seems to stand still. Interact with the monks and you might eventually unravel what has been nagging at you for some time. Venture out and you might tumble upon the mythological city that is believed to exist under the volcanic exterior. At this location, redefine travel trends through activities that contradict each other and yet prove to be fulfilling.

Kagaonsen, Japan

‘Onsen’ – a Japanese word – translates to a hot spring, and Kagaonsen happens to be one of the many spots that dot the Japanese countryside. Located in the Ishikawa prefecture, Kagaonsen comprises of several hot springs, all of which embody the spiritual tradition of cleansing yourself in naturally hot water loaded with minerals. Ishikawa stands out as a reset destination because it offers traditional accommodation, and a first-hand experience of the Edo-era Japanese way of life.

An onsen can be public/private, but the unique set of etiquettes apply to all. To derive maximum benefit of the natural hot spring, nudity is mandatory, as is washing and rinsing thoroughly before stepping into the pool. Having entered, take gentle steps away from the edge and immerse yourself till the neck/shoulders for the soothing warmth to seep into your body. Do make sure to tie up your hair, and avoid conversations in order to feel the fatigue recede.  Not only does this destination redefine travel trends, but also allows you to reset inside out.

Tulum, Mexico

Redefine travel trends by taking a trip to the heart of the ancient Mayan heritage – Tulum – in Mexico.

Choose either the town or the beach and settle in for the next few days of rest and relaxation. Tulum offers plenty in terms of what you can do, so acquire your dose of wellness at this destination by exploring rituals and ceremonies that are unique to this region. The Mayans regarded Tulum as a spiritual hub, and sacred sites dedicated to deities such as Descending God and Wind God still echo a strong spiritual presence.

Truly unique to this corner of the world is the cacao ceremony, a holistic ritual that claims to dissolve all internal blocks and awaken senses. Conducted by shamans and priests at a cenote or a sacred site, it entails gulping down a cacao-based beverage and following the spiritual guidance that leads to emotional cleansing. If interested, also attend a Temazcal ceremony wherein the shaman uses hot stones and herbs to initiate a deep physical and emotional detox. After all, what could be more indicative of your intention to redefine travel trends than experiencing ethnic ceremonies?

Sacred Valley, Peru

Machu Pichu remains the top attraction in Peru, but deviate a bit and you end up in Sacred Valley. Drawing its heritage and identity from the Incas, this locale emanates a palpable aura of sacred energy. If channeled through proper Andean rituals conducted by qualified priests, this energy can heal, transform, energize and enable you to reset inside out.

Sacred Valley offers the option of a Ayahuasca detox to anyone who is willing to redefine travel trends by saying goodbye to the materialistic world for a few days. Standing amid a vista of Andean peaks, inhale the clean fresh air and relish a diet of organic products sourced from the neighboring villages. Usual activities like yoga, hiking along the popular trails, and meditation keep you busy throughout the stay. Alternatively, interact with the locals to tap into the ancient wisdom that has endured through centuries and experience its healing impact.

Explore the multitude of therapies that are prevalent in this region till you identify one that suits you best. Since these involve ingredients sourced from the surrounding greenery, they fill the soul with nature’s freshness.

Final Thoughts

No matter when you redefine travel trends, any of these destinations can serve as a suitable getaway option that would reset you inside out. For the saturated mind, body and soul, these options not only offer a glimpse into a new culture but also their traditional therapies and rituals. By the end of the trip. you will have gained valuable insights about the world that we live in, and also about your own inner self.

Ultimately, the objective of travelling is to evolve in every way. To this effect, your decision to redefine travel trends takes you off the oft-treaded track and encourages you to explore hidden gems that satisfy more than just the travel bug. Therefore, going on a holiday is not just a routine activity, but a deeply transformative and spiritually rewarding experience.

Flipside Leisure believes that every trip is a journey in itself. We understand your need to reset inside out, which is why we provide customized packages tailored to cater to your individual needs.