Everyone has their vacation style. What seems ideal to you may not be the same for others. If you’re the type that defines a holiday as a chance to unwind, disconnect from everyday stress, and truly feel as though you’ve taken a break, then we’ve got some fabulous destinations for you to consider. Each of these specializes in hassle-free travel, not just during the planning stage, but throughout your stay. These are the kinds of trips where you can make the most of your time and never feel overwhelmed.
So let’s jump in and look at some of the best places to travel when you just want a simple, stress-free holiday.
Portugal
If you’ve been dreaming of the ultimate European getaway but don’t love the hustle and bustle of popular tourist cities like Paris, London, and Rome, we’ve got another idea for you. Portugal is one of those destinations that consistently flies under the radar, yet it packs a real punch in European charm, culture, and history. You can visit the mainland or one of its islands. Both offer memorable yet completely different experiences.
Lisbon is the most popular city in Portugal, and thanks to its international airport, you should be able to easily find direct flights. Once you arrive in Lisbon, you’ll love how easy it is to traverse the city. There are plenty of centrally located hotels, all within walking distance of the top attractions or easily accessible by public transit.
Other destinations in Portugal you may want to visit include:
You can easily travel between cities by car, domestic flight, or train. In terms of safety, this is one of the safest countries in Europe, so you can put your mind at ease.
Iceland
Iceland is the kind of destination that attracts people who want to step outside of their regular lives and experience something completely different. Everything about Iceland feels relaxed and slow-paced compared to most people’s daily routines.
The country is home to diverse flora, fauna, and historic sites. Life seems to move a little slower here; the people are welcoming, and there is a focus on appreciating nature and the simple things in life. For those who want to unplug and have a digital-free holiday, Iceland will deliver. There’s no reason to scroll through your smartphone—even if there’s breaking news or you find out that Casinos.com has the best free SC coins promotion—when you could be admiring the natural beauty of the landscape.
The best way for tourists to navigate the island is to rent a car. The roads are well-maintained, easy to follow, and get you to all the most important attractions and points of interest. The most popular and useful road is Highway No. 1, known as the Ring Road. Most destinations can be reached via offshoots from the Ring Road.
A few things you may want to include when building your Icelandic itinerary include:
- Visiting the hot springs and geysers
- Taking a wildlife tour
- Viewing the fjords
- Exploring the ice caves
- Relaxing in a world-class spa
- Touring the national parks
- Staying in Reykjavik
New Zealand
Next on the list is New Zealand. People are quick to choose Australia when traveling to Oceania, but New Zealand might surprise you even more than Australia. New Zealand not only offers spectacular natural scenery but also tends to avoid the tourist crowds seen in Australia—making it more enjoyable for tourists seeking relaxation. It can also be more budget-friendly if that’s a concern.
You’ve got lots of reliable transportation options within New Zealand. You can travel by rental car, bus, train, or domestic flights. It depends on your budget and how quickly you want to get to the next destination. New Zealand also has a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world. Travelers will feel right at home.
The toughest part about traveling to New Zealand will be narrowing down your itinerary. We suggest going for at least two weeks to make up for the long flight from the United States and the time change.
Japan
When it comes to stress-free escapes, Asia offers many incredible options—Japan being one of the safest and most welcoming. Whether you like the idea of visiting one of the massive cities or you want to explore more of the quiet side of Japan, you won’t be disappointed. Part of what makes Japan such a unique destination is the blend of history and culture with today’s bustling modern lifestyle.
From lovely ancient pagodas dotting the countryside to the serene view of Mt. Fuji seen from both villages and cities, Japan showcases a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. It’s this constant clash of ancient and modern that makes tourists want to return again and again.
Chances are you’re already familiar with popular destinations like Osaka, Tokyo, and Kyoto, but make sure you also get off the beaten path. There are endless guided and themed tours to choose from that will give you a more in-depth look at Japan, its people, and its history.
The Cayman Islands
What happens if you don’t have a couple of weeks to travel and are looking for a destination closer to home? The Caribbean may be quick to come to mind, and if that’s the case, the Cayman Islands should stand out. These islands are a tropical paradise not just in scenery, but also in the atmosphere. You’ll feel safe, relaxed, and have all the modern conveniences of home.
Another unique aspect of these islands is the variety of accommodations. You can stay in a sprawling luxury resort, a smaller hotel, a boutique property, or even rent a villa or house. Simply choose what works best for your party and budget. If you’re planning a long stay, renting a villa is probably the best option. You’ll have extra space and a fully equipped kitchen. Getting around the islands is relatively simple as they’re highly walkable. There are also rental cars, a ferry system, a public bus system, bike rentals, and taxis.
Some of the standout attractions and destinations in the Cayman Islands include:
- Stingray City
- Cayman Turtle Centre
- Cayman Parrot Sanctuary
- Cayman Crystal Caves
- Seven Mile Beach
- Cemetery Beach
- Hell
A Stress-Free Holiday Is Easier to Plan Than You Think
This article offers a glimpse into several stress-free destinations that are perfect for travelers who prioritize safety, comfort, and memorable experiences. Each destination offers unique charm, making them all strong contenders for your travel bucket list.
