Inspirational Escapes for Relaxation and Detoxing

Whether you believe in the ‘new year, new you’ ethos or not, start the coming year as you mean to go on with some well-deserved R & R.

Why not treat yourself to some sunshine or unwind at a restorative yoga retreat? If a detox is what you had in mind, we’ve got everything from thermal baths to holistic mud treatments to soothe the body and soul. However you intend to ‘chillax’, these inspirational escapes will help take the stress out of planning that perfect getaway.

Snag a Slice of Warm Sunshine in Florida, USA

Florida’s glitzy city Miami serves as the ultimate antidote to dreary winter days. Experience the vibrant Art Deco Weekend at South Beach in mid-January: head to Ocean Drive and prepare to groove like it’s 1929, with jazz music, shows, talks, tours, outdoor movies and vintage shopping. Beyond the beautiful beaches and lively bars, Miami offers a calmer side worth exploring. To the northwest, dive into Crystal River, where manatees gather around the warm springs from November to March. Alternatively, grab a paddle and kayak through the tea-colored waters of the Everglades, spotting alligators and diverse birdlife while enjoying the milder winter dry season.

• Trip plan: Base yourself at South Beach to be in the heart of the Art Deco festivities.

• Need to know: The Art Deco Weekend (artdecoweekend.com) lasts for three days in mid-January.

• Other months: Oct-May is pleasantly warm; Jun-Sep can be hot and humid.

Find Your Inner Glow on a Winter Sun and Yoga Break in Kerala, India

In recent years, the scenic beaches of Varkala and Kovalam have transformed from quiet fishing spots into vibrant backpacker havens, evolving into full-blown resorts with luxurious hotels. Still, the area retains serene stretches of sand, and you can easily choose between exciting trance parties, upscale accommodations, and relaxing homestays. Following the holiday indulgences, Kerala provides a serene environment perfect for detoxing during a yoga retreat, while also offering opportunities to explore the backwaters on a rice barge or venture into the Western Ghats for wildlife watching amidst lush tea plantations.

• Trip plan: Fly to Kochi via Delhi or Mumbai, then proceed to Varkala, Kovalam, or opt for a homestay in the tranquil inland foothills. Alleppey is a great starting point for backwater cruises, while Munnar serves as an excellent base for hiking and wildlife experiences in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Need to know: Most visitors to India require a visa; applying for an e-visa at least a week before travel is recommended.

• Other months: Dec-Mar is dry and not too hot; Apr-May can be very hot; Jun-Jul is quite wet; and Aug-Nov can be slightly less rainy, warming up.

Soak Amid Steam in Budapest, the City of Thermal Baths

Hungary’s magnificent capital promises warmth with its abundance of over 120 hot springs, many accessible as thermal baths, including the Turkish-style Rudas Baths and the art nouveau splendor of the Gellért and vast Széchenyi. The city captivates at any time of year, with Buda’s medieval marvels contrasting with Pest’s stunning Secessionist architecture. With an energetic nightlife ranging from hip bars to outstanding performances at the neo-Renaissance State Opera House, there is much to enjoy during the long winter nights.

• Trip plan: Decide whether to stay on the west bank of the Danube in Buda, known for its medieval sights, or in art nouveau Pest across the river. Exploring is simple via the extensive metro, train, and tram network.

• Need to know: Not all baths operate daily, and a few are designated men-only or women-only on certain days—check in advance. Generally, you can stay for two hours on weekdays and 90 minutes on weekends.

• Other months: Jan-Jun & Aug-Oct are most pleasant; Jul-Aug can be hot and crowded; Nov-Dec often brings cold and rainy weather.

Enjoy a New Year Detox in the Warm, Dry Caribbean

The emerald island of St Lucia, adorned with lush rainforests and plantations, welcomes the dry season in January—a prime time for holidaymakers wishing to escape the winter chill and the residual effects of holiday feasting. This volcanic island is rightly famous for its pristine beaches, but it is the expanding array of unique spa treatments and fitness programs that enrich its appeal. In addition to traditional Ayurvedic massages, hot-rock therapies, and yoga sessions, you might enjoy mud treatments from sulphurous hot springs, indulge in a cacao massage, or embark on a comprehensive fitness program that includes VO2 max testing, personal training, and even a quadrathlon. Alternatively, simply relax on the stunning beaches.

• Trip plan: Choose between the breathtaking beaches of the northwest or the luxurious resorts near Soufrière Bay in the southwest, providing captivating views of the Pitons.

• Need to know: Most long-haul flights arrive at Hewanorra Airport, located in the island’s far south, while flights from other Caribbean islands usually land at George F. L. Charles Airport near the capital, Castries.

• Other months: Dec-May is the driest and warmest period (late-Dec-Mar is the busiest); Jun-Nov marks the rainy season.