Across Europe, the Middle East and Beyond, 9 Ways Travel Sparks Connection and Renewal

We travel for many reasons. For some, it’s a chance to escape the mundane and experience the unknown. Others travel to reconnect with their inner selves or loved ones. Even when travels are put on pause, the break allows us to reevaluate what, and more crucially who, is important to us.

If you’re looking to vacation solo on a remote Greek isle or travel back in Scottish history with the kids in tow, here are nine unique ways to reconnect with this wonderful world and everyone in it.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

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Planning trips to far-flung destinations allows travelers to take risks they typically wouldn’t, wholly embracing the unknown.

With access to a private fine-sand beach and rugged cliffs all around, the enchanting Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection offers guests an air of solitude on the otherwise busy Greek isle of Crete. Lounge in the outdoor pool of your plush villa after a private boat trip to Spinalonga, an off-the-beaten-path islet with medieval ruins.

Leave the towering capital skyline of Abu Dhabi behind for Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, a secluded retreat in the heart of the desert.

Reminiscent of a historic Emirati village, this tranquil resort offers several unique experiences, including discovering the local desert flora and fauna on horseback; interacting with falcons, the UAE’s national bird; and dining on traditional Bedouin snacks at its Emirati restaurant, Al Mabeet.

Romance Awaits

From strolling hand-in-hand on silken sand beaches to watching unforgettable sunsets from private Greek island terraces, thoughtfully planned trips with your partner in mind are a surefire way to ignite romance and rekindle intimacy.

Emulate a Hellenistic romance at Myconian Kyma, a Member of Design Hotels, a polished hilltop gem on the charming Greek isle of Mykonos. With enviable views of the island’s iconic windmills, this posh hotel’s suites offer private terraces with plunge pools and hot tubs — the perfect setting for nightly romantic cocktails as the sun sets over the blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

In search of an idyllic island getaway? Look no further than North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, a lush 496-acre property with just 11 oceanfront villas in the Seychelles archipelago. Expect views of the island’s dramatic bluffs and turquoise waters while a personal chef curates your bespoke candlelight dinner on one of the island’s most remote beaches, or simply indulge in a couples massage and leave all stress behind.

Spa Indulgence Is Around the Corner

Whether you prefer hot stone or deep tissue massages, planning a spa-themed getaway results in so much more than just a relaxed set of muscles. You’ll return with better circulation, lower stress levels and a much-needed boost to your body’s immunity.

There’s no better place to be pampered in Doha than at Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa‘s 150,000-square-foot spa. Highlights at the sprawling enclave include a women’s-only spa, New Age wellness modalities such as flotation tanks and hydrotherapy treatments, as well as traditional hammams, rejuvenating massages and full-body therapies.

Life’s a Beach

Between the curative properties of salty ocean air, exfoliating grains of sand beneath your feet and rays of sunshine filled with vitamin D, there’s nothing quite like a beach vacation to leave you experiencing life anew.

For a private beach retreat with striking views of the Arabian Gulf, check into The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. Situated in the city’s chic Dubai Marina neighborhood, this upscale three-acre property also boasts nine restaurants and bars, six pools and four tennis courts.

Views of Playa de Matas Verdes, one of Malaga, Spain’s, famed yellow-sand beaches, reign supreme at Marriott’s Playa Andaluza. A refined resort in Spain’s sunny Costa del Sol region, this property is also chock-full of family-friendly amenities, including two- and three-bedroom apartments, a baby pool and water sports such as sailing and snorkeling.

Adventure and Adrenaline Boost

Adventure travel not only helps you stay fit while on the road, but it can also result in transformative experiences that relieve your everyday stresses and anxieties.

West of London, and a short drive from the zip lining, hiking and off-road-cycling adventures at Black Park Country Park, is Residence Inn Slough. This conveniently located modern property has everything you would need to kick back and relax during your adventure-fueled vacation, including full kitchens, guest grocery shopping services and a contemporary bar with a curated selection of gin cocktails. It’s also pet-friendly, in case you’d like to bring your pup along.

Overlooking Lake Geneva in Switzerland, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel de la Paix has been a favorite choice for adventurous jet-setters looking to discover the Swiss outdoors since first opening in 1865. Just 12 miles away in neighboring France is the towering Mont Salève, a popular day trip option for paragliding, hiking and, in the winter months, cross-country skiing.

Hanging with Your Crew

A fundamental catalyst for forging stronger friendships, traveling with friends offers multiple benefits, including the chance to create lifelong memories with each other.

Whether you’re in the mood to shop till you drop at the adjacent Gateway Theatre Mall or spend an afternoon riding waves with your bestie at Umhlanga Beach, Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge is conveniently located in the heart of Durban, South Africa’s, action. From the verdant sun-drenched terrace lounge to the outdoor pool deck and beach-shack-themed bar, socializing with friends is key at this hip hotel.

In Portugal, skip the Lisbon crowds and head to Pine Cliffs Residence, a Luxury Collection Resort, an upscale property on the Algarve coast. You and your friends can enjoy everything from personalized yoga classes and restorative massages to al fresco seafood dining and exclusive beachside cocktails, all in the heart of Portugal’s famed southernmost region.

A Breath of Fresh Air

According to research, reconnecting with the outdoors can result in reduced stress and blood pressure levels, as well as improvements in mood and your overall mental well-being.

If you want to spend a thrilling day at the water park, shoot a round of golf or learn the art of tennis, the JW Marriott Hotel Cairo is the spot for outdoor travel enthusiasts. Looking for adventure beyond the city walls? The hotel concierge can also help coordinate trips to the Pyramids of Giza and other adrenaline-inducing activities.

Thanks to its ease of ski-in/ski-out access to Northern Spain’s Baqueira-Beret resort area, a beloved celebrity haunt, the Hotel AC Baqueira Ski Resort, Autograph Collection is a true haven for ski enthusiasts. After a day on the snowy Pyrenees slopes, sip après-ski cocktails at the cozy Sno Bar or head to the on-site spa and ease your sore muscles with a Turkish bath.

Family Time

Taking family vacations allows parents to connect with their kids away from life’s daily distractions, resulting in uninterrupted bonding experiences and memories that last a lifetime.

From exploring centuries-old Omani forts to collecting one-of-a-kind seashells along the Sea of Oman and learning how to sail, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, offers access to activities that appeal to the entire family.

Just a 10-minute drive from Disneyland Paris, Marriott’s Village d’Ile-de-France is the perfect family-friendly hotel to retreat to after an adventurous day at the park. Upgraded townhouses feature full kitchens with dishwashers, as well as in-room laundry facilities, allowing you to pack less and take more souvenirs home.

The Edinburgh Marriott Hotel is an excellent choice for families looking for a home base while exploring the historic Scottish capital. Situated just five miles from the hotel are Edinburgh Castle, the Edinburgh Dungeon and several other kid-friendly historical sites.

Getting in Touch with Yourself

From unique cultural experiences to tasting new cuisines, there’s no doubt that travel can broaden your horizons and enrich your soul. Especially when you’re off exploring on your own.

Fancy lounging by the pools — indoor or outdoor, take your pick — or on a private stretch of beach along the famed French Riviera? Monaco’s Le Méridien Beach Plaza has got you covered. After a day of sunshine, retreat to your contemporary suite where all-day dining and sublime views of the Mediterranean from your soaking tub await.

The United Arab Emirates lets you reconnect with your subconscious during a solo staycation at Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Surrounded by glitzy skyscrapers, this hotel has suites with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa. Treat yourself to 24-hour room service, soak up the sun at the outdoor rooftop pool or sip on sundowners at Level 43 Sky Lounge — the choice is entirely up to you!