The 23 most relaxing vacation destinations in the world Part 2

By Madeline Diamond, INSIDER From Business Insider

While the whole point of taking a vacation is to unwind, there are many resorts, retreats, and even entire cities known for their focus on health, wellness, and, of course, relaxation.
Via Yoga offers yoga and surf-themed retreats in Costa Rica and New Mexico for a relaxing getaway with a focus on staying active.
Sedona, Arizona, is a town bursting with natural beauty that many people associate with health and energy.

Chances are, any vacation you take will be relaxing to some extent — temporarily leaving work and the usual routine allows most travelers to escape the stresses of their everyday lives.

However, there are many resorts, retreats, and even entire cities that are known for their focus on health, wellness, and of course, relaxation.

Keep reading for the 23 best destinations in the world for a relaxing getaway. Here are the second EIGHT

Amanemu Resort, Shima, Japan
Sunset at the Amanemu Resort.Amanemu/Facebook

The Amanemu Resort’s beautiful natural surroundings combined with its sleek modern architecture are ideal conditions for a peaceful vacation in Japan.

Palm Springs, California
Modern architecture in Palm Springs.sirtravelalot/Shutterstock

Palm Springs is the perfect desert escape in Southern California. The area, which is known for mid-century architecture, is a great spot for design-lovers who are looking for a peaceful getaway.

Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal
Poolside at the Six Senses resort.Six Senses Douro Valley/Facebook

The Six Senses Douro Valley is located in a restored 19th-century manor house in the rolling hills of Portugal’s Douro Valley. The resort is so beautiful and self-contained that you won’t ever feel the need to leave the property.

Bar Harbor, Maine
Sailboats in Bar Harbor.Shutterstock

Maine has no shortage of charming small towns, although Bar Harbor is one of the best. With its close proximity to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor has the best of both worlds when it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and small town flair.

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat, Western Cape, South Africa
Fire pits at Bushmans Kloof.Bushmans Aloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat/Facebook

Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s history and local wildlife, or challenging yourself with exercise, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat is a unique property in South Africa for those don’t want to give up on relaxation even when on an adventurous vacation.

Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara’s classic architecture.iStock / Dima_Rogozhin

Santa Barbara is less than 100 miles from Los Angeles, but this coastal town has an entirely different feel than other Southern California cities.

There are many vineyards in the area for travelers who want to enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings and the local wine scene.

Kamalya Soh Samui, Thailand
The beachside property of Kamalaya Soh Samui.Kamalaya Soh Samui/Facebook

Kamalaya offers programs related to yoga, destressing, and finding an emotional balance, and has retreats with names like “life enhancement.”

Park City, Utah
Summertime in Park City.Shutterstock

Park City, Utah, may be a famous ski town, but its sunny summertime climate and many outdoor activities make it great for vacation year-round.

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