With today’s relentless pace of life, burnout has become all too familiar for many of us. Whether it’s the extraordinary demands of our careers, the ceaseless responsibilities of parenting or the profound weight of personal grief, many yearn for an escape—a place to breathe, heal and rediscover our zest for life. 

During my 5+ years of nonstop travel, I discovered places—often quite by accident—that left my body and spirit gloriously rekindled. 

These are a few of those special places around the world that are perfect for travelers looking for a respite from the daily grind:

1. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Visitors to Lake Atitlán feel the magic of this volcanic lake from the very first water taxi ride to their chosen lake town. Surrounded by volcanoes in the highlands of Guatemala, Lake Atitlán is like a “choose your own adventure” for travelers looking to unwind. 

Stay in towns like San Marcos and fill your days with yoga by the water, or take Spanish lessons in San Pedro and enjoy the nightlife. In Santa Cruz, stay at Free Cerveza Hostel, where you can glamp in yurts on the lakeshore, meet new friends and utilize the free kayaks and SUPs to explore the waters.

Lake Atitlán is a place where time slows down and you’ll effortlessly reconnect with nature and yourself.

2. Punta del Diablo, Uruguay

Uruguay itself is a haven for relaxation. Everything about this country and its people will immediately remind burnt-out travelers what life is truly about: slowing down, sharing moments with loved ones and enjoying the outdoors. 

Punta del Diablo is a quaint beach town where simplicity reigns supreme. Stroll along unspoiled beaches and dine on freshly caught seafood. Play soccer on the beach with the locals and, if you’re lucky, join them after the sun sets for Asado. These gatherings are more than just meals; they’re about meaningful conversations and connections with others while you savor high-quality, slow-cooked meats straight off the grill.

3. Road Trip Through Norway

A road trip through Norway is like driving through a postcard. Dramatic fjords mirror the snow-capped mountains, and giant waterfalls cascade from lush cliffsides. 

Wild camping is legal throughout Norway. That means you can stop on any public land that suits your fancy and pitch a tent for the night. Whether it’s beside a tranquil fjord, beneath a cascading waterfall or atop a serene hill, unzipping your tent in the morning to the Norwegian wilderness will connect you with mind, body, and spirit in a way unlike anything else.

4. Pai, Thailand

Nestled in the north of Thailand, Pai is worth every twist and turn of the very windy road it takes to reach this blissful hippie-vibed town. Spend your days sliding down waterfalls, watching the sun set over epic vistas or taking a yoga class. 

Looking for something new to stimulate your senses? Try unicycling, juggling or plate spinning at Pai Circus School. Pai offers a gentle embrace to weary souls and is a safe haven for backpackers who tend to get “stuck” in this tiny town for much longer than planned.

5. Zambezi River, Zambia

Along the banks of the Zambezi River, lodges like the Royal Zambezi Lodge offer a harmonious blend of luxury and nature. Here, guests can head out on guided walking safaris, where experienced guides lead you through the bush, offering intimate encounters with elephants, antelopes and more. 

Alternatively, boat safaris on the Zambezi allow you to observe hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. After a day of exploration, retreat to the lodge’s spa for a relaxing massage, dine under the incredible sky full of stars and fall asleep to the sounds of the African wilderness. ​

6. Mirissa, Sri Lanka

On the southern coast of Sri Lanka, travelers will find a small town called Mirissa. With gentle waves, golden sands and towering palm trees, you’ll spend most of the day on the beach here. Replenish your spirit by trying something new, as this is one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf. Grab lunch at one of the many beach restaurants where you can keep your feet in the sand while you eat. 

By late afternoon, head to one of the many Ayurvedic spas, where you can choose from treatments designed specifically for your needs, like Shirodhara, a third eye oil therapy designed to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.