When it’s time to get away and enjoy a relaxing break from the daily grind, these European destinations are sure to offer visitors the perfect setting to relax and re-energize.

1. Greek Islands

Paxos Island - Image by Marite2007

Stunning white sand beaches and breathtaking scenery, intertwined with a wealth of historical sites, make the Greek Islands a truly unique destination. Paxos Island, unlike many of the Greek Isles, is largely untouched by tourism. With its stunning beaches and sensational sea caves, it is a superb place to relax and get away from the stresses of life.

2. Costa del Sol, Spain

This beautiful stretch of Spanish coastline is blessed by a warm, mild climate and incredible beaches. Although best known for its beaches, Costa del Sol has numerous attractions that cater to nearly everyone. These include a variety of traditional and luxury spa services, culinary delights and a vibrant cultural scene.

3. Scottish Highlands

Caledonian Canal - Image by _Bandit

Serene forests, majestic natural beauty and the proud heritage of Scotland await. Walk in the footsteps of the fierce Pictish clans and discover the rich culture of the Highlands. Be regaled by enchanting folk legends, told in true Scottish fashion as you cruise the Caledonian Canal of the Great Glen on your way to Loch Ness. You might even catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie!

4. Monchique, Portugal

Nestled in the mountains of Portugal’s Algarve region is the lovely town of Monchique. With its slow pace of life, this sleepy hamlet remains largely untouched by tourism, making it the perfect hideaway for a relaxing respite. Nearby is the centuries old Roman spa, Caldas de Monchique, a natural hot spring famed for its healing properties. Surrounding Monchique are dense woodlands, picturesque villages, and a number of historical religious sites.

5. Harz Mountains, Germany

Harz Mountains - Image by *Ev*

Step into a land of folklore and fairy tales, where scenes from children’s stories by the Brothers Grimm come alive. This picturesque region of Germany boasts many lovely villages, narrow cobblestone lanes and deep, dense forests that have inspired many colorful fables. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the scenic town of Thale, or take a step back in time as you wander the lanes of medieval Wernigerode, situated in the shadow of The Brocken.

6. Tuscany Hot Springs

When thinking of Tuscany, images of sprawling vineyards and olive groves usually come to mind, but to those seeking a relaxing holiday, the region’s natural hot springs may elicit greater appeal. Scattered throughout the southern region of Tuscany are numerous therapeutic hot springs. The most popular of these are located at Saturnia and Sorano in the historic Maremma. Archaeological evidence shows that these springs have been frequented since the Etruscan era.

7. Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower - Image by ♀Μøỳαл_Bгεлл♂

Paris may be a bustling metropolis, but it is easy to forget this when enjoying a late afternoon stroll along the banks of the Seine River, the sunset reflecting on the tranquil water. Culture abounds in the many museums and galleries, where works from the great masters are on display. Beautiful parks and lovely architecture characterize the City of Lights.

8. Malta

The lovely year round weather of the ruggedly beautiful Maltese Islands makes them the perfect escape any time. Explore the natural beauty of the unspoiled countryside, stunning views and many ancient ruins, while hiking the numerous scenic trails. Add to this an excellent selection of relaxing spas and wellness retreats to energize even the most weary traveler.

9. Iceland

Blue Lagoon - Image by travelingbastards

The ultimate in relaxation is sometimes found in unusual places. In this case, think Iceland. Beautiful scenery, plentiful wildlife and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere, although most visitors come to Iceland for a soak in the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal pool is renowned for its amazing healing properties, with gorgeous scenery adding to its allure. Imagine watching the northern lights as you soak in pristine 98 degree sea water.

10. Bregenzerwald, Austria 

The Bregenzerwald region of Austria is characterized by majestic Alps surrounding its lush, green valleys. The serene atmosphere provides a haven for those seeking the ultimate in relaxation. Indulge yourself at one of the region’s aromatherapy saunas, or explore the landscape on over 1,200 miles of scenic hiking trails that transform during the winter to become a skier’s paradise. At day’s end, relax with a classic schnitzel and sample a glass of fine Bregenzerwald wine.

Sol Hudson is an avid blogger and frequent contributor to a number of publications on subjects ranging from general business guides to how to play guitar.

Part of you wants to be mature and take a little trip to an amazing getaway and savior the experience for yourself. However, there is another part of you that wants to make your friends jealous with your tales of a fabulous weekend retreat and how much fun you had while they were taking the kids to soccer practice and watching the latest episode of whatever reality show is in season. For the purpose of this article, let’s go with option number two. Get ready to make your friends jealous with these vacation destinations this year.

Heavenly spa by Westin

1. Day Spas

The Spa At CopperWynd Resort, Fountain Hills (Scottsdale, Arizona), Heavenly Spa By Westin (Hilton Head, South Carolina) and Montage Resort Spa (Laguna Beach, CA) are considered some of the best day spas in the United States. Fortunately, the great thing about day spas is that they can be found just about anywhere these days. Do a little research and find one close to you. Make an appointment for a day of pampering. You don’t need a lot of pre-planning to make the arrangements to visit a day spa. It’s a relatively inexpensive destination spot with many amenities that will surely make your friends jealous.

2. Disney Cruise

Got some vacation days saved up? Why not plan a Disney cruise? Believe it or not, some packages are very reasonable. You should book a cruise at least 3-4 months in advance to get a good rate. The amenities are first rate. Depending on the particular ship you choose, you could find yourself with a front row seat to some top-notch entertainment from magic shows to well-known entertainers from around the world. This is from the Disney people, so you know the service will be great. If you want something a little less family oriented, skip the Disney cruise and book a more adult-oriented getaway on any of the major cruise lines operating in and around the United States.

3. Wine Tasting Tour

What a way to spend your day off. Wine tours are becoming an increasingly popular weekend destination in many cities in towns. Doing a search of major wineries will take you to just about any area of the country you want to go. Take a day long tour of California’s famed Napa Valley or tour the rich and diverse Texas Wine Country, yes Texas has a wine country. You are sure to meet others with similar interests and have plenty to talk about with your friends when you get back. If you are feeling generous, bring a bottle back for a special night with your friends. Make sure you dazzle them with your new found knowledge of all things wine related.

4. Las Vegas

Las Vegas Skyline

Feeling lucky? Why not head to Vegas? Las Vegas is not just the gambling capital of the U.S. anymore. You will find plenty of entertainment from veteran stars such as Wayne Newton to more contemporary stars such as Elton John and Celine Dion. Check out the latest Cirque du Soleil show or be dazzled by the magic of David Copperfield. Again, this is a destination that is not as expensive as you might think. Plenty of Vegas deals can be found online or through a travel agent.

5. Hawaii

Go in the off season and you will find plenty of deals and more than enough stories to share with your friends to make them green with envy. Honestly, is there really an off season in Hawaii? Even if you go in the middle of winter, you are likely to find sun, surf, sand and mild temperatures. All the usual tourist things can be found. Consider mixing it up with a tour of local villages and famous island volcanoes. Don’t forget to sample of the many classic Hawaiian dishes and enjoy some of the ancient island customs.

New Orleans

6. New Orleans

Can’t get away for Valentine’s Day in 2012? How about some fun for Mardi Gras instead? New Orleans is back better than ever. All the rich customs and traditions are alive and well from iconic foods to some of the best jazz you will ever hear. With all the rowdy celebrations and many one-of-a-kind clubs, you are sure to have a lot of juicy tidbits to share with your friends. Bring them back some beads! Add to the experience by arranging a tour of historic New Orleans mansions and homes. You can also impress your friends with your newly-acquired knowledge of local history.

7. Cape Cod

With a little planning, a Cape Code getaway can be packed into one weekend. Some of the most picturesque towns in Massachusetts are found here. Aside from classic New England charm, you will find plenty of award-winning restaurants and unique little shops along the way. It can get a little nippy in winter, but generally the weather is pleasant. Get around by bus, train, car or boat. You are sure to have plenty of experiences here to make your friends a little green with envy — and that’s just from the food alone.

8. Beach Retreat

You do not have to wait until summer to enjoy the beach. Pull up a Google map and find the nearest beach. Give yourself at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy this little destination. You want to have at least one full day when you are not worrying about either getting there or coming back. If you do a little research before you go, you can get enjoy some local activities while you are at the beach. Many beach communities plan events such as festivals and fairs throughout the year to attract visitors. You are likely to find plenty of local charm and some unique souvenirs to bring back with you.

Ski Getaway

9. Ski Getaway

While it is still winter, plan a ski vacation. This is another one of those trips that can be planned for a weekend. Again, give yourself at least 2-3 days to get the most out of the experience. Even if it’s not snowing, many ski resorts crank out all the extra powder you need to hit the slopes. Never skied before? Not a problem. Many resorts offer lessons. When you’re not shushing down the hill, spend some time in the ski lodge. You are likely to find a spa and maybe even massage service. Too cold to go skiing? Why not save it for the warmer seasons? Many ski resorts offer a wide selection of off-season activities such as camping, hiking, biking and festivals.

10. Bed and Breakfast

According to BedandBreakfast.com, some of the best B&Bs in the U.S. include Woolverton Inn (Stockton, New Jersey), Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast (Galveston, Texas) and Notchland Inn (Harts Location, New Hampshire). As you can see, B&Bs are found just about everywhere. Soak up some local flavor and spend a day shopping, sight-seeing, meeting new people, riding your bike through town, tasting local cuisine or simply watching the sunset. A bed and breakfast getaway can be romantic (a great weekend destination for Valentine’s Day) or just a place to go when you want to enjoy a little R&R.

About the Author:

Sol Hudson is a frequent contributor to a variety of publications including US Business Week, a news and informational publication that publishes news and how-to information on a variety of topics.

Festivals can be a great way to experience local customs, traditions and flavor. Some of the most colourful festivals of 2012 will delight you with more than enough entertainment, food and festivities to make visiting any of them a memorable experience. Here are ten colourful festivals you will not want to miss this year. Some festival cities offer special travel packages specially designed to give guests more bang for their buck. It’s never too early to start planning!

1. Holi: The Festival of Colours (March 8, 2012)

Festival of Colours - Image by anupama kinagi

Journey to Jaipur, the capital of the desert lands of Rajasthan, for Holi. The annual festival is the least religious of the Hindu celebrations. The festival is celebrated throughout India, but your best bet to enjoy the exhilarating experience of this festival is in India’s major cities. Colour is a big part of the festival in every way from the food to the decorations. The festival serves to welcome spring and celebrate several notable events in Hindu mythology. The real colour in this festival comes from the tradition of spraying friends and family members with coloured water and powder and really let loose. Add to that public bonfires and it is to see why this festival is such a memorable experience.

Elephant Festival

2. Lao Elephant Festival (February 17-19 2012)

Expect to see colourful processions of elephants at this annual Laos festival in the country known as the Land of a Million Elephants. The goal of the festival is to raise awareness of the importance of protecting the Asian elephant, which has played a part in the country’s culture for hundreds of years. The ceremonies associated with the festival are just as colourful and festive. Monk blessings and ancient Baci ceremonies only add to the diversity of the annual festival. Colourful native cuisine from locals is another big part of the events. Night markets and the Elephant of the Year contest round out the activities you need to see first hand to get the full experience of the Lao Elephant Festival.

Traditon Day

3. Tradition Day (November 10, 2012)

Tradition Day is considered the most colourful and popular of the many annual festivals taking place in Argentina. The festival features dances, competitions, folk music and bronco riding. The colourful part is the exhibitions of art and crafts from local merchants and artists. Some of the most popular items are handmade spurs and saddles. The festival has been described as Argentina’s unique take on a western theme focusing on horses, dancing and ceremonies involving traditional dress. The event is topped off with a lively parade through the streets where locals and visitors alike can participate or just observe.

4. Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling Festival (May 28, 2012)

The annual festival, held in the county of Gloucestershire in South West England, has been an annual event for hundreds of years. The colourful part of this festival is in some of the costumes worn by participants along with some of the side festivities that local villagers present to guests coming to watch the events. The festival itself starts with a single roll of cheese down a steep hillside. Originally, this festival was just for village residents. Today, it is a top draw for people all over the world. While the cheese is rolled first, the actual winner of the contest is the person who arrives at the foot of the hill after numerous tumbles and twists. The winner is awarded the 7-8 pound cheese round as a prize. A colourful procession is just one of the fun little side events connected to this annual festival. And, yes, cheese samples are included.

5. IntiRaymi (“Festival of the Sun”) (June 24, 2012)

The annual festival in Peru includes street fairs, colourful dances, expositions and live music. The week long celebration marks the beginning of a new year. The festival itself is linked to a celebration originated by the Incas. Today, the festival is the second largest in South America. Only Rio’s famed carnival season ranks higher in terms of crowds and popularity. Additional colour can be found in the costumes worn by the actors to portray historical figures. The biggest honour, however, is being selected to be the Emperor of the Inca Empire and his wife. Local food and colourful custom crafts only add to the festive experience.

6. Lavender Festival (August 3-7 2012)

Lavender Festival - Image by luvthecircle

The charming spa town of Digne-les-Bains in France comes to life every year with annual and colourful festival held in the region for more than 50 years. The festival is devoted to the abundant crops in the region and the multitude of colours found in the crops populating the fields in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region. Mix in colourful local gardens and regional customs, including rich food and wine and native attire, and it is easy to get drawn into the annual festivities. The town itself comes alive with colourful celebrations and parades with elaborate floats. A grand ball is a major attraction for those looking for a touch of class with their festivities.

JambayLhakhang Festival

7. JambayLhakhang Festival (October 29 – November 2, 2012)

Taking place at a centuries-old temple in Bhutan, this annual Buddhist religious festival embraces the colours of the autumn season much to the delight of a crowd of thousands. Locals run through a flaming gate constructed of dry grasses with burning grass falling down as people dash through the giant opening dressed in colourful local costumes. Dancers cover their face for Tercham or the Dance of the Treasure and perform a ceremonial dance wearing a colourful mask and nothing else. Add to that rich traditional food and unique keepsakes sold by local vendors and you have an experience that you are sure to remember.

Naadam Festival

8. Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar (The Three Games of Men) (July 11-13, 2012)

Celebrating Mongolia’s 1921 revolution that led to the country’s independence, this annual festival includes games and locals wearing colourful traditional garb. The games are meant to be a test of manhood for young men in the country. The “three games” — archery, wrestling and horse racing — are just as popular as soccer here, with spectators coming from around the world to witness the annual event. The real colourful part of the festival is the celebrations marking the country’s independence, which includes parades, dances and other local customs.

9. Chile’s New Year’s Festival (December 29-31, 2012)

More than a million visitors come from around the world for the annual three-day festival. The culmination of the event is a massive fireworks display with over 30,000 explosions lighting up the night sky. Add to that colourful costumes and live bands. Local traditions dating back hundreds of years, include writing down bad things from the previous year and burning the paper to symbolize letting go of the old and getting a fresh start in the new year. Other traditions include lentil dishes with 12 grapes representing each month and wearing a variety of lucky items, many of which tend to be bright and colourful.

10. Meskel: The Finding of the True Cross (September 27, 2012)

The Finding of the True Cross

Meskel commemorates the finding of the True Cross in the fourth century. The cross is said to be the cross on which Jesus was crucified. According to the Ethiopian Church, the cross is still around, but hidden at a remote monastery. Considered the most colourful of Ethiopia’s Christian festivals, the annual event attracts thousands of visitors and locals to witness priests, parishioners and nuns sing, dance and bang drums while putting on a truly unique show to the delight of the crowd. The festival includes parades, dances, food, drink and a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The colourful costumes date back hundreds of years. Meskel is definitely a memorable experience.

About the Author: 

Tom Demers is an avid blogger and frequent contributor to a number of sites, including Heating Oil Shopper, a leading provider of heating oil news and information such as heating oil prices in Massachusetts.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, one of the biggest trends in the travel industry in recent years is
adventure travel destinations. The concept of an adventurous getaway is not just men. Women can find plenty of adventurous destinations providing both thrills and memories that last a lifetime. If you are not one for relaxing on the beach or enjoying an afternoon of shopping and an evening of fine dining, you’re in luck. An adventure-packed vacation takes a little more planning than your typical getaway, but you will have more than enough experiences to share with your friends when you get back.

1. Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Island

Looking to get closer to nature? The Galapagos Islands is the perfect destination. The islands, located by the equator in the Pacific Ocean near Ecuador, is home to hundreds of species of rare birds, seagoing lizards and some of the most stunningly beautiful and rare species of flora and fauna in the world. Swim, snorkel and dive or take a minute to relax on the beach between adventures. It’s easy to see why this has been named one of the best adventure destinations in the world.

Namibia Safari

2. Namibia

Nothing says adventure like a safari. Namibia offers a wide range of animals in their natural habitat. Over the last decade, an effort has been made to keep animals in natural surroundings. Natural barricades have been created to keep you safe as you work your way through some of the most stunning parts of Namibia. Relax before your adventure in natural springs before exploring active volcanoes and climbing snow capped mountains. The people of Namibia are just as welcoming to adventure seeking women as they are to their male counterparts. Namibia has plenty of campgrounds where the truly independent woman can camp and become one with nature.

3. New Zealand

Looking for a bungee jumping experience in a land of stunning beauty? New Zealand is the destination for you. Quench your thirst for adventure with mountain treks, paddling, canoeing, swimming, mountain climbing and biking. You can’t have a New Zealand adventure without cave rafting. The twists and turns will keep you on your toes the entire time. The only light you’ll find in the caves comes from the glow worms. Need a moment to relax? Take a hot air balloon ride over Queensland and take in the sights of this majestic land and maybe spot a few new spots you’d like to explore.

Switzerland

4. Switzerland

Best known as a snow sports haven, Switzerland will keep the most avid thrill-seeker happy. Aside from the usual draws of snowboarding and skiing, those looking for adventure can do a little ice climbing, tobogganing, ice diving or dog sledding. The adventurous woman can find more than enough adrenaline charging activities to keep busy no matter what time of year it is in Switzerland. Summer adventures include hiking, fishing, biking, hang gliding, Nordic walking, cliff diving, mountaineering and even gold panning. For a little extra adventure, visit local medieval castles.


5. Colorado Ski Vacation

Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, Keystone, Vail and Winter Park are among the ski destinations in Colorado sure to impress any woman looking for adventure. Some of the mountains in Colorado are considered to be some of the most challenging in the world. In the off season, enjoy hiking, biking and camping in the same areas that welcome skiers from October through March. Take a little downtime with spas and other activities at some of Colorado’s top-rated resorts.

6. Machu Pichu

Machu |Pichu

Do a little exploring in the mysterious ruins found in Machu Pichu, located in the Cusco Region of Peru in South America. Go trekking in the Andes right through the Nazca lines in Peru. Hike along the Inca Trail and enjoy an impressive view that spans 24 miles. Even the most experienced adventurers may want to consider hiring a guide for some of the more challenging locations found here. It’s hard not to find a spectacular view from just about any vantage point in Machu Pichu.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

7. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

This California park features some of the largest tress in the world along with dramatic canyons and towering presence of Mount Whitney, the highest peak directly within the United States. Backpacking, hiking and camping can be enjoyed during the warmer mouths. Winter adventurers can go skiing, sledding and snowboarding. The terrain is some of the most beautiful and challenging you will find anywhere in the U.S.

8. Australia

Australia’s varied terrain is a dream come true for the adventurous woman. Water sports reign supreme in the land down under from swimming and surfing to white water rafting and kayaking. How about some scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Venture away from the coast and there is still plenty of adventure to be found in Australia’s famed Outback. When you are not hiking, camping or biking, climb the Harbor Bridge in Sydney. Add a little whale watching to your adventure agenda from July through October.

Croatia

9. Croatia

Croatia’s terrain ranges from flat plains to sprawling highlands and low mountains. How about a little adventure racing or maybe some horseback riding? If you still need more adventure in Croatia, there is always hunting, fishing, spelunking and white water rafting. Experienced guides are available, but if you are a do-it-yourself kind of girl, you will still find plenty to do here. Enjoy some camping in one of the country’s eight national parks and witness the country’s native animals in any of the ten nature parks scattered throughout Croatia. Hiking enthusiasts will find several unique mountain ranges ready to present a challenge to the adventurous woman.

10. Grand Canyon National Park

Start with a helicopter tour high above this Arizona treasure to get an idea of the adventures awaiting you down below. Once you are back on land, enjoy calm water rafting along the canyon’s historic 277 miles of river. Take a mule ride to reach area campgrounds or enjoy some horseback riding along the many trails scattered throughout the canyon area. The adventurous woman will not be disappointed with a visit to the Grand Canyon.

Sol Hudson is a frequent contributor to a variety of publications including USA News Brief, a news and informational publication that publishes news and how-to information on a variety of topics.

When the hustle and bustle of everyday life becomes too stressful to bear, individuals look to tranquil vacations to melt away the stress and reinvigorate themselves. There are countless tourist destinations in the world, but not all of them provide a peaceful and relaxing vacation. For those looking to unwind and relax without feeling like they are surrounded by a sea of people who are pushing and shoving to take in the sites and tourist attractions, the following destinations are the perfect locations to discover oneself.

Natura Cabana - Image by lollipopgal

For those looking to reconnect with themselves and the environment, Natura Cabana in Cabarete, Dominican Republic is the perfect retreat. These cabanas are tucked away in gorgeous vegetation, located right by the beach. Visitors to this location feel as if they are secluded from the rest of the world, while still being provided the luxuries one should expect from a five-star hotel. There are 10 different bungalows to choose from, each of which have their own distinct style. If being surrounded by peace and quiet isn’t enough to fully unwind, Natura Cabana also has daily yoga sessions as well as beautiful spas and restaurants. With the price being $90 per person, it is the perfect vacation destination. [http://www.naturacabana.com/cabarete-hotel.php]

Sometimes simply getting away from modern technologies is enough to unwind and rediscover oneself. Without venturing outside of the United States, MaryJanesFarm in Moscow, Idaho offers the perfect opportunity to do so without having to spend a fortune. At this rustic bed & breakfast, visitors won’t find phones or electricity. Guests have their own private canvas tent and everything they need is located out doors, including a gorgeous claw-foot tub. While it certainly isn’t like anything one would experience during everyday life, it is a perfect way to escape from reality and get back to what truly matters – relaxation. [http://www.maryjanesfarm.org/bb/]

Casa La Sieta - Image by kayakin

Spain is known for their famous ‘siesta’, which is really just a glorified name for a two-hour nap. Casa La Siesta, located in Cadiz, Spain, is appropriately named because it provides guests the perfect opportunity to relax and catch up on sleep. It is located in the countryside of Andalusia, which is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Between the wine sampling available in Casa La Siesta’s private restaurant or it’s Old World Charm, guests can rest assured they will be able to find the perfect escape within the walls of Casa La Siesta. If or when relaxing begins to lose its charm, Cadiz is in a very convenient geographical location, with gorgeous tourist destinations, such as Granada, just a bus ride away. [http://www.casalasiesta.com/en/casa.html]

Who doesn’t enjoy the beach? But, often times it can lose its appeal when there are kids running around everywhere and not an inch of beach to spare. That is why French Polynesia is the perfect getaway for individuals who love the beach but don’t want the hassle that usually goes along with it. There are secluded islands where guests can enjoy their own private beach in a stunning villa. They are off the beaten path and away from the chaotic crowds. Perfect for guests looking to escape to another world and experience a new culture.

The Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado is located on a private island in the Dominican Republic. It takes guests away from the usual tourist crowds and whisks them away to a secluded adventure with crystal waters and breathtaking beaches. While it isn’t as secluded as some of the other destinations, it is perfect for those looking to getaway from massive groups of people while still enjoying a fantastic nightlife and outdoor activities. Visitors can golf or take advantage of a number of different restaurants, spas and beaches. [http://www.bahia-principe.com/BP/resorts/resort/CayoLevantado]

Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado

Relaxation doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. All of these destinations can be explored for a relatively inexpensive price. Why waste another moment overwhelmed and tense? Taking a much needed vacation is about more than just stunning beaches and awe-inspiring landscapes; it is about rediscovering oneself and recharging, so that everyday life doesn’t seem so overwhelming.

Brenda Ankney is an avid blogger and frequent contributor to a number of publications, including Assisted Living Today, a news and information site that covers a variety of elderly living topics such as assisted living in Texas.