New year, new you? Most of us have made a resolution to look after ourselves a little better at some point, and as 2019 gets underway, more people than ever are promising to be healthier, more mindful, and to indulge in a little more self-care. But whilst making the resolution might be easy, hectic lifestyles and busy schedules can make the reality a little more challenging – so just what can you do to make it stick this year?
A luxury wellness retreat – one of the hottest new travel trends to emerge over the past few years – could well be the answer, offering the chance to get away from it all for a while and focus on no-one but yourself. While it might sound like a selfish indulgence, it couldn’t be further from the truth; it’s true what they say – you really can’t pour from an empty cup, and so working on your own physical and mental health and happiness can have just as positive an impact on those around you as it can on your own life.
From far-flung destinations like the Maldives, to short-haul beauty spots such as the Spanish island of Ibiza, the wellness retreat will continue to be big news for 2019 – so if you haven’t been on one yet, then there’s no better time to join in. After all, the health benefits will last far longer than any tan – and will set you off on the right path for a truly successful year.
You don’t have to opt for an organised retreat; there are plenty of great destination choices where you can take a yoga class, be at one with nature or unwind in the spa all at your own pace. We spoke to the experts at Blue Bay Travel to get the low-down on the best resorts and destinations for the year ahead – and the good news is, they come complete with luxurious accommodation, high-tech accessories and happiness boosting as standard.
Excellence El Carmen – Dominican Republic
Culture, climate and cuisine combine to make the Dominican Republic an elite Caribbean gem. With the breath-taking architecture of its major settlements and over 1,000 miles of powder-white beaches, there’s an inspiring and invigorating sight to be seen everywhere you look.
It will be obvious during your time at the Miilé Spa that wellness of the mind and body is at the forefront of what they do. Natural Dominican Republic traditions are on offer at the spa to enhance your radiance and bring a bounce back into your step, leaving you feeling calm, relaxed, and truly ready to unwind.
One of the biggest contributing factors towards that perfect holiday is the quality of your flights, and booking with Blue Bay Travel means that the luxury begins long before you reach your hotel. Premium Class BA flights and transfers are included in their packages, promising the utmost in comfort from start to finish. Just the right way to begin and end a truly relaxing break.
Sandals Ochi – Jamaica
Jamaica is about so much more than just its iconic festivals and reggae music, and the Caribbean’s third largest island is equally renowned for the untouched beauty of its pristine beaches – with high-end, luxury accommodation coming almost as standard.
Epitomising all that contributes towards this vibrant nation’s charm and personality, the area of Ocho Rios – home to Sandals Ochi – beckons for a wellness holiday to remember. With its rolling mountains, gentle rivers, cascading waterfalls and picture- perfect coastline, each day at Sandals Ochi is idyllic.
During your time at the resort, those travelling with Blue Bay can enjoy Butler Elite luxuries which are included in your package. And this enhanced level of luxury can be felt throughout your time away thanks to free lounge passes and return Business Class Flights – all whilst saving 55%.
Excellence Riviera Cancun – Mexico
This adults-only all-inclusive resort was voted #7 worldwide in Tripadvisor’s 2018 Traveller’s Choice Awards, and it’s certainly not hard to see why. World-renowned for its exceptional service provided by passionate staff and extraordinary levels of luxury, Mexico does high-end holidays like no other – and the Excellence Riviera Cancun is no exception.
‘Paradise’ is the best word to describe every aspect of this breath-takingly beautiful resort, from its privileged location and Mediterranean design to the range of mouth-watering restaurants and diverse spa packages available to guests.
For a truly mindful morning, head for one of the regular beach yoga classes on offer. That zen feeling will stay with you for the rest of the day. And make the most of a Blue Bay Travel free room upgrade to a Swim Out Junior Suite with an outdoor jacuzzi and free spa coupons to use during your stay.
Board the flight then forget about schedules, Excellence Riviera Cancun is defined by you.
Club Hotel Dolphin – Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an up-and-coming destination for 2019, its natural beauty still relatively untouched by tourists compared to other popular places. Recently ranked top of Lonely Planet’s destination list for 2019 thanks to the countless historic landmarks, jungles, eight UNESCO world heritage sites and preserved exquisiteness it has to offer, it’s a special place in which to really immerse yourself in nature.
Club Dolphin is a quintessential Sri Lankan resort which pushes the boundaries of luxury with a range of superior rooms and suits. With outdoor pools, maintained internal beauty and excellent spa facilities, now is the perfect time to visit Sri Lanka. This All-Inclusive resort ticks all the boxes, and with flights from £800pp it would be almost rude not to.
Get away from it all in 2019 and you won’t regret it – and just for once, it really can be all about you.
