Okay, how many of us slack off from our fitness regimen when we’re traveling? 🙋
When you’re in “vacation mode”, it can be easy to forgo your morning run to catch a few extra hours of sleep or indulge in some yummy, yet calorie-rich snacks and desserts. But it doesn’t have to be a matter of making healthy choices versus enjoying your holiday.
Yep, it’s possible to workout and work in a bit of “Me Time” – all you need is a fitness and wellness retreat that will rejuvenate both body and mind, better known as a “fitcation”. Get your blood pumping at these inspiring destinations:
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is quickly becoming one of Vietnam’s premier adventure destinations, with its hundreds of rocky limestone formations attracting climbing enthusiasts from around the world. There are several tour operators that can take you out to multiple climbing spots, some of which include deep water soloing.
While there are some easy routes, Halong Bay generally isn’t recommended for beginners as most of the routes require some experience. But if you’re an intermediate to advanced climber looking for a challenge, this is the place to find it. And the majestic vistas you’ll get from up above are definitely worth it.
Most tour operators are based on Cat Ba Island, which is a wonderful place to explore in itself, from chill beaches like Cat Co Beach to vast caves such as Trung Trang Cave.
Jeju Island’s staggering natural beauty makes it a popular destination for both locals from mainland South Korea and foreign travelers. The volcanic island was created tens of thousands of years ago from the lava flows of Hallasan Mountain, which now lies dormant and is the country’s highest mountain.
While the hike up Hallasan is a must-do for many visitors, if you’d prefer a more leisurely activity, you can explore the footpaths that circle all around the island. Known as the Olle Trails, there are up to 26 walking trails for you to choose from, with varying levels of difficulty and length. The trails will take you through a variety of breathtaking landscapes along the way, including small villages, farms, beaches and forests, allowing you to slowly appreciate the island’s wonders.
The island’s largest city, Jeju City, is a bustling hive of activity, but most of Jeju’s natural attractions are to the south, such as the honeycomb rock formations of Jusangjeolli Cliffs, or to the east, like Seongsan Ilchulbong, also called ‘Sunrise Peak’, as it’s got the best views of the sunrise on the island.
If you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf, then Bali is one of the best places to hit the waves. With world-class beaches and surfing spots galore, the island paradise also offers a swath of surf schools for you to choose from.
The best weather for surfing coincides with Bali’s peak tourist season, which runs from April to October. However, those looking to avoid the stifling crowds and soaring peak season prices can try their luck during the shoulder season, as some beaches will still have pretty good waves (if you don’t mind having to wait out the rain).
Check out Kuta and its neighboring beaches of Legian and Seminyak for some easy waves, or head to Bali’s surfing mecca of Canggu, which has beach breaks for all levels of surfers. There’s also Bukit Peninsula to the south – Padang Padang Right is suitable for newbies and intermediate surfers, and you can watch the pros surfing the barrel waves of Padang Padang Left.
Find your inner peace in Goa, one of the world’s top destinations for a rewarding yoga retreat. Here, pretty much all forms of yoga imaginable are available, from Hatha to Vinyasa, with various levels from beginners to experts.
These retreats often focus on holistic wellness, so besides yoga, they’ll also offer natural therapies, like Ayurveda and clean eating.
Most of the yoga retreats are located in North Goa, but there are plenty popping up in South Goa. Peak season runs from November to February, when the days are sunny and the nights are balmy.
Has work been wearing you down? Book a few classes or training sessions at a Muay Thai gym and punch all your stress and worries away. The best place to do it, of course, is in Thailand, where the sport originated from.
This martial art offers a total body workout, combining punches, kicks, elbows and knee strikes. You’ll also improve your agility as you dodge your opponent’s attacks. Phuket is a favorite destination for many hoping to hone their skills in the ring. And don't worry – they'll go easy on beginners!
For a fitcation that will leave you not only feeling good, but looking good, book your flights and hotel stay on Traveloka!