6 Cities to Explore If You Need a Self-Care Getaway

Written and Contributed by Jesse Clark

If the daily grind is getting you down, a self-care getaway can be the answer. Taking a break to explore new surroundings can be a wonderful way to press pause and refresh both mentally and physically. That said, different people recharge differently. Some people get energized by the beauty of nature, while others find inspiration in buzzing cities. Read on for a roundup of diverse locations to suit every taste, courtesy of TravelWise.
 
Enjoy French joie de vivre in Paris, France
 
The City of Love is full of great food, romantic cityscapes, and fantastic culture. Paris For Seniors offers a comprehensive guide to the French capital, covering everything from health and safety to sightseeing highlights. Before you go, try to master a few useful phrases for traveling. This list covers the must-know terms, from greetings to introductions and directions. Plus, if you move there, you'll have Europe at your doorstep.
 
Relax on a quiet beach getaway in Kennebunkport, Maine
 
Maine is a great pick if you want to get away from the crowds and explore remote areas. The coastal towns are especially tourist-free in the chillier fall and spring months. Make sure to enjoy a lobster roll and stroll along the picturesque coastline. If you find yourself falling in love with the place, you might even buy a vacation home here. Keep in mind that you'll typically need to make a down payment of at least 20 percent when buying a vacation home. If that's out of reach financially, you can take out a second mortgage on your current home.
 
Rediscover the meaning of fun at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida
 
Of course, no list of adventures is complete without mentioning Universal Studios! This is a great place for kids and adults alike, and sites like The Penny Hoarder can help you plan your itinerary in advance in order to save money on your next memory-building getaway.
 
Get energized by the mountains of Boulder, Colorado
 
If you prefer snowy winter wonderlands to craggy beaches, Boulder, Colorado may be more your speed. You'll have easy access to the gorgeous mountains, which are great for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. There are plenty of other things to do in Boulder, too. In the summer months, consider taking an e-bike tour or visiting the Boulder Farmers Market. The Flatirons is another popular district worth exploring.
 
Try a spa getaway in Napa Valley, California
 
If your idea of self-care involves a glass of wine, there's no better place to go than Napa Valley. You can schedule tours that take you through the rolling green hills and give you a taste of the many different wines grown in the region. Napa Valley also offers opportunities for biking, golf, hiking, and even hot air balloon rides. There are also kid-friendly activities, like a visit to Old Faithful Geyser and horseback riding.
 
Refuel with great food in Charleston, South Carolina
 
If great food is what nurtures your soul, consider heading down south. Charleston, South Carolina, has gained renown as a foodie favorite. This guide covers some top picks, like Leon's Oyster Shop, Circa 1886, and Beardcat's Sweet Shop. Other than eating, other things you can do and see in Charleston include visiting Waterfront Park, checking out the South Carolina Aquarium, and taking a sunset cruise on the water.
 
Wherever you go, plan in advance
 
If you're going traveling, it's important to prepare beforehand. Make sure you have essentials like travel insurance if you're going abroad. You also want to bring healthcare essentials when packing. This list from Johns Hopkins covers the basics, from antibacterial wipes to prescription medications. If you have a job, book time off. If you're self-employed, make provisions like hiring a temporary virtual assistant to field emails, so you can really unplug.
 
Traveling can be a wonderful way to gain a fresh perspective on the world and take a little break from the mundanity of everyday life. The above guide highlights six locations that make for a great self-care trip. Pick the one that suits your style and pack your suitcase.
 
TravelWise is here to help you plan your next well-deserved adventure. If you have any questions, call 516-300-9924.