The Best Wellness and Relaxation Destinations
Life moves fast, and sometimes, you just need to hit pause. A wellness vacation is not just about getting away. In fact, it is about actually feeling better. Whether you are craving sun-soaked beaches, spa destinations with deep-tissue massages, or places that make you breathe easier, these spots will help you de-stress, slow down, and recharge.
Bali, Indonesia: A Haven of Tranquility
Bali is the kind of place where your stress just melts. The rice terraces go on forever, the beaches glow at sunset, and everything feels a little slower in the best way possible. In Ubud, the island’s relaxation capital, you can start your day with a Balinese massage that works out tension you didn't even know you had.
Later, head to the Uluwatu Temple, one of the nine directional temples, perched high on a cliff, where the waves crash below and all your worries drift away. If you are up for it, visit the sacred springs at Tirta Empul, a Hindu Balinese water temple. For centuries, locals have been using the springs for purification rituals known as Melukat which is a cleansing of the mind, body, and spirit.
Do I need cash in Bali?
Yes, cash is the most popular and preferred method of payment in Bali, especially for tipping, small purchases, entrance fees, transportation, and food vendors. Many places do not accept cards. The Indonesian rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Bali, Indonesia.
Santorini, Greece: Sunsets and Serenity
Santorini looks like a postcard, and it feels just as dreamy. The whitewashed houses spill down the cliffs, the sea stretches forever, and the air smells like salt and blooming flowers. There is no rushing here.
Soak in the volcanic hot springs, let the minerals do their thing, and book a spa treatment at a resort that makes you question if the sky and sea actually touch. End your day with fresh Mediterranean food, a glass of wine, and a beautiful sunset.
Do I need cash in Santorini?
While credit cards are accepted, it is still recommended to take some local currency as the island has many small shops and restaurants which are cash only. You'll also need cash for tipping tour guides, waiters, and hotel staff. In addition, cash still reigns king in Greece with over 55% of people in the country using cash as their primary payment method. The euro (EUR) is the official currency of Santorini, Greece.
Finland: A Journey into Nature’s Embrace
Finland is all about slowing down and tuning into nature. Here, silence is not awkward. It's refreshing. The Finns know a thing or two about relaxation, and their sauna culture proves it. You sit, sweat, and then, if you are brave, jump into an icy lake. It sounds intense, but somehow, it leaves you feeling completely reset.
In Lapland, the Northern Lights light up the sky in a way that makes you forget your inbox even exists. And if you just want to clear your head, walking through one of Finland’s vast fairytale-like forests is a natural reset button.
Do I need cash in Finland?
In Finland, it is best to use a mix of credit cards and cash. The main cities are moving towards a cashless society while the rural areas still use cash quite a bit. While cards are widely accepted, they also come with hefty foreign transaction fees that can really eat into your budget. As well, it is always good to carry a bit of cash when traveling abroad in case of an emergency. The euro (EUR) is the official currency of Finland.
Morocco: A Sensory Escape
Morocco is a complete experience for all 5 of your senses. The hammam is a must. You will step into a steam-filled room, get scrubbed down until you feel brand new, and walk out wondering why this is not a weekly habit. Marrakech has its own calm spots like the Majorelle Garden, where blue walls and exotic plants make you forget the city’s chaos. And if you love a good spa day, Moroccan argan oil is magic in a bottle. Massage it in and let the stress disappear.
Do I need cash in Morocco?
Yes, you'll definitely need cash in Morocco. Over 70% of transactions in Morocco are cash-based. It is one of the most cash-reliant countries in the world. Everything from restaurants to spas to guided tours need to be paid for in cash so you'll want to grab some Moroccan dirham before you leave to ensure you have a smooth trip.
Related: Learn how spot counterfeit bills with our FREE Currency Travel Guide.
Seychelles: Paradise Found
Some places are so beautiful that they look surreal. Seychelles is one of them. Think beaches with sand so soft it feels like flour, water so clear you can see the fish before you put on a snorkel, and palm trees that sway just right. Start your morning doing yoga by the ocean with waves as your background music.
Snorkeling in Anse Lazio is like entering a whole other world, full of bright fish that do not seem to mind your presence. If you want to disconnect, head to the Vallée de Mai nature reserve, where massive palm trees make you feel like you have entered paradise.
Do I need cash in Seychelles?
Large establishments in tourist areas accept card, but you'll want to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases. Consistently using your card exposes it to fraud and skimming tactics. The Seychellois rupee (SCR) is the official currency of Seychelles.
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