I created the “50/50 Rule” to allow for some alone time when I’m on vacation with others.

I created the “50/50 Rule” to allow for some alone time when I’m on vacation with others. Nicole Benedettini

I created the “50/50 Rule” to allow for some alone time when I’m on vacation with others. Nicole Benedettini

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When I was a teenager, my family and I traveled more than 5,000 miles from San Marino (the country, not the city in California) to Seattle for vacation.

One of the places I was most excited to visit was the Museum of Pop Culture, but unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to fully enjoy it.

As I slowly took my time admiring the artwork and taking in the many exhibits, my group rushed through the experience — and I felt pressured to keep up. I left the stunning electric guitar display I was interested in behind for fear of holding everyone back.

Now that I’m well into my 20s and can set my own boundaries on trips, I’ve decided things will be different thanks to what I call the “50/50 Rule.”

Spending some time alone is key to maximizing my vacations — and my rule is already paying off

I enjoyed visiting the Church of San Nicolás by myself. Julian Monrabal/Shutterstock

My rule is simple: When I’m on vacation with others, I’ll spend about half my time with them and the other half alone.

This allows me to see things I’m interested in that my travel companions don’t care about, and gives me an opportunity to explore places in greater depth.

In March, I put the “50/50 Rule” to the test for the first time during a trip to Valencia, Spain, with my aunt, my cousin, and my cousin’s friend. Although we spent a big chunk of the trip together, I made time to visit two museums, the Church of San Nicolás, and a show at the Hemisfèric alone.

It was lovely wandering through the exhibits at the Centro de Arte Hortensia Herrero, admiring the works of art at my own pace. I was especially grateful to be alone when a big group of chatty tourists made it challenging to see the various pieces.

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Since I was alone, I had the opportunity to wait for them to go into the next room so I could enjoy everything in silence.

If I’d been with my family, they probably would’ve rushed through the exhibits, as they often do. Instead, I got to calmly enjoy the museum, and I was glad to have this break to myself.

It might sound selfish, but I think the rule benefits everyone

I think implementing the rule helped everyone make the most of their time in Valencia, Spain. Nicole Benedettini

Initially, I worried that wanting to spend time alone would cause friction among the group, but I think clear communication helped prevent this.

Before we left for Spain, I made a list of places that interested me, and my family and I discussed our preferences on our way to the airport.

From there, we planned a loose schedule of landmarks to visit together, and I established that I would spend the last morning and, if possible, part of the first day alone. I clarified that my solo time would benefit everyone since no one would get bored or annoyed by the itinerary.

Although my aunt agreed to the plan, she was worried the vacation would become too difficult to coordinate. In the end, though, everyone seemed happy with how the trip went. My cousin and his friend got to spend some time wandering the city just the two of them and my aunt actually got to enjoy some alone time, too.

Someday, I hope to spend a long weekend solo traveling through a city in Europe. But for now, I love that my “50/50 Rule” gives me a taste of the experience without causing me to feel lonely or unsafe — and I still get to bond with the ones I love most.

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This is our list of the top 7 travel trends happening right now (in 2024).

Along with expert predictions about trends that are likely to blow up in 2025.

1. Travelers go it alone

A survey by American Express found that 69% of travelers are planning a solo trip this year.

A majority of travelers are interested in traveling alone.

Notably, younger generations are more open to traveling on their own.

The same survey discovered that 76% of Gen Z and Millennials were open to solo travel.

There are other signs that this trend is on the rise.

Google searches for “solo travel” have increased by 223% over the last 10 years.

Google searches for “solo travel” over time.

Solo travelers are big on social media too. We’re seeing a large increase in videos and images posted on social media that feature solo adventures.

The #solotravel hashtag has been used on Instagram over 9 million times.

The big question is: why are more people planning trips alone?

Self-care: AMEX’s recent Global Travel Trends Report found that 66% travelers planning to go solo did so to focus on treating themselves.

AMEX’s recent Global Travel Trends Report found that 66% travelers planning to go solo did so to focus on treating themselves. Less hassle: No need to coordinate agendas or competing interests. Solo travelers can book the exact trip they desire without compromise.

No need to coordinate agendas or competing interests. Solo travelers can book the exact trip they desire without compromise. Quick refresh: Most solo trips are for smaller getaways. Which makes them ideal for a weekend or single-week trip. Travelers still prefer a partner for longer journeys.

Most solo trips are for smaller getaways. Which makes them ideal for a weekend or single-week trip. Travelers still prefer a partner for longer journeys. Meeting new people: Traveling alone makes it more likely to make new connections with locals or with other travelers.

2. Travelers crave local experiences

The “experience economy” is huge in the travel industry.

However, fewer travelers are seeking traditional sightseeing expeditions.

Instead, “consumers [will] pursue authentic experiences, distancing themselves from mainstream tourism providers and venturing into pastimes that feel more meaningful”.

Data insights company AirSage marks this as an emerging trend because “people no longer want boring and conventional travel experiences as much as they used to. Instead, they would rather pay for vacations that are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities”.

Airbnb is betting on this trend.

Their Experiences feature makes it easy for people to have unique experiences on their trip “hosted by locals”.

Examples of Experiences offered by Airbnb.

Airbnb currently offers around 50,000 experiences.

And it’s certainly done no harm. As of May 2025, Airbnb receives 91.8 million visits per month, and ranks as the #155 site in the US.

The company also recently launched “Icons”, which is essentially a VIP version of Experiences.

For example, travelers can book a night to hang out with comedian Kevin Hart.

One example of an Airbnb “Icon” experience currently offered.

Other companies are banking their entire business model on this trend.

GetYourGuide receives 31.8 million site visits per month.It offers more than 110,000 tours and excursions worldwide.

Withlocals offers “personalized traveling” — the opportunity for travelers to book private tours and activities with locals around the world.

Shot of tours and experiences on Withlocals.

Camping (and glamping) trips have also become a popular way for people to travel while experiencing the local culture.

Companies riding this trend include:

Outdoorsy has been called the “Airbnb of RV rentals”.

Under Canvas runs seven glamping camps in wilderness locations across the United States aimed at exploring the local landscape and inspiring human connections.

3. Travel tech adoption accelerates

Technology is presenting the travel industry with seemingly endless opportunities.

The pandemic served to increase the speed of tech adoption in the travel industry.

A McKinsey survey showed that “companies have accelerated the digitization of their customer and supply-chain interactions and of their internal operations by three to four years”.

One example: room service robots.

Two Chinese hotel giants invested in ExcelLand, a manufacturer that already had 3,000 robots in operation.

Hotel robots are already being used in a small number of hotels.

BTG Homeinnes is looking at these robots as a way to control costs and safeguard guests.

Hotels, airlines, booking sites, and others are using chatbots like never before.

Travelers can chat with providers during every stage of their journey.

And, they won’t (always) feel like they’re talking to a robot. Advances in generative AI have made this type of communication hassle-free.

Searches for “chatbot” have increased significantly since ChatGPT’s launch in late 2022.s.

United Airlines has launched an “Agent on Demand” service that allows travelers at the airport to video chat with a customer service representative simply by scanning a QR code.

More and more airlines and airports are deploying facial recognition technology.

Corporations and government entities tout this technology as a boon for travel safety.

But many privacy advocates have put a halt to this emerging trend. They warn that this type of surveillance could easily turn dystopian.

With all of this new tech, companies are also continuing to capitalize on an older piece of technology — the smartphone.

Stats show that travelers who book tours and activities on their phone spend 50% more than those who book elsewhere.

4. Consumers blend business and leisure travel

The latest statistics say there are nearly 17 million digital nomads in America.

The concept of being location-independent, traveling and working remotely, has become even more popular since the start of the pandemic.

The hospitality industry is starting to cater specifically to digital nomads.

Aruba is opening its beaches up to travelers who’d like to work remotely, calling the marketing campaign “One Happy Workation”.

Aruba is looking to attract the growing digital nomad community.

Visitors can stay for up to 90 days. And do not need any governmental documentation.

Barbados and the Cayman Islands will also let you work remotely from paradise for an extended period of time.

Booking.com reports that the “workation” trend is going strong.

More than 50% of travelers say they would extend their business trip to enjoy personal time at their destination.

Search growth for “workcation” fluctuates quite a bit. But is consistently growing (1,500% in the last 5 years).

Hotels are beginning to even cater to locals who needed a quiet place to work.

The Hamilton Hotel in Washington, DC, is just one example. It’s WFH-Work From Hamilton program offers rooms on a 6:00 am to 7:00 pm schedule.

5. The travel industry gets serious about sustainability

Recent data shows that more than half of US travelers believe there aren’t enough options when it comes to sustainable travel.

Searches for “sustainable travel” are up 92% over the last 5 years.

A poll conducted on behalf of Exodus Travels went even deeper into consumers’ attitudes.

It showed:

91% of travelers see the importance of taking ethical trips

56% believe in buying souvenirs from local merchants

44% want to support local businesses at their destination

Sustainable travel involves minimizing impact on the local cultural environment.

And also taking an eco-friendly approach to the physical environment.

Nearly 70% of travelers say they are more likely to book accommodations if they know the property is planet-friendly.

Many in the travel industry have recently made commitments to preserving the environment.

For example, India-based ITC Hotels Group has LEED certified each of its hotels.

As of 2023, hotels in the state of California will no longer be allowed to provide single-use toiletries in plastic bottles to their guests.

Removing single-use plastic from hotel rooms is one relatively simple way that hotels are minimizing their environmental impact.

Marriott International has made a pledge to remove these types of plastics from all their hotels, too. But the pandemic has put a temporary stop to that plan.

A recent report from Skift made this summary statement regarding sustainable travel in the future:

“[It’s a] less flashy way of viewing and traveling the world . . . with an emphasis on safety, sustainability, and profound experiences while getting from point A to B without wrecking the climate and local quality of life in the process”.

Sustainability isn’t just about helping the environment.

Offering sustainable travel options has the potential to increase revenue as well.

A survey by Simon Kucher found that high net worth consumers are willing to pay up to 40% more for a travel option focused on sustainability.

Booking.com surveyed travelers and found that they’d be happy to pay a premium for accommodations that were certified sustainable.

The exact figure of how much consumers are willing to pay for sustainability varies from study to study.

But overall, we see that most travelers are happy to pay around 10-20% extra for vacations that have sustainability in mind.

6. Younger Travelers Seek Exotic Destinations

McKinsey recently discovered a generational divide among travel preferences.

Specifically, they found that Gen Z and Millenials were just as likely to book an international trip than a domestic one.

Members of Boomers and Generation X were 2x more likely to travel domestically.

A survey of 5,000 travelers found an interesting different in how younger and older folks prefer to travel.

Notably, older generations have different goals when it comes to travel.

Younger generations are primarily looking for fun, novel experiences.

While older folks are aiming to spend quality time with family.

In fact, older travelers specifically cite that having fun with loved ones is a bigger priority than seeing a new place.

Here are a few other reasons that younger generations are seeking destinations abroad more often:

Lower barrier to entry (literally): More and more countries are offering visa on arrival or other programs to encourage international visitors. Older generations likely remember the hassle of needing to arrange visa and other travel arrangements well before booking a trip.

More and more countries are offering visa on arrival or other programs to encourage international visitors. Older generations likely remember the hassle of needing to arrange visa and other travel arrangements well before booking a trip. Staying in touch: Smart phones and communication apps makes it easy for travelers to keep in touch with friends and family at home.

Smart phones and communication apps makes it easy for travelers to keep in touch with friends and family at home. Easy navigation: Travelers can use apps like Google Translate and Apple Maps to get around their destinations without hassle.

Travelers can use apps like Google Translate and Apple Maps to get around their destinations without hassle. Bragging rights: Showing off a video or picture from an exotic place is likely to get more engagement on social media compared to posts featuring local destinations.

7. AI Adoption Increases

Generative AI platforms (ChatGPT, Perplexity etc.) could see real world impacts on the travel industry in the very near future.

In fact, Skift recently asked 17 executives from the travel industry about their outlook on AI.

These executives largely saw tremendous promise in adopting AI and machine learning technology to their businesses.

Specifically, these executives saw a few areas that AI could be used to improve operations in the travel space:

Personalization: Generative AI tools can be used to help plan personalized itineraries for guests. For example, a travel agent could prompt ChatGPT with: “My client is a 40 year old single mother with a 10-year old son. They want to travel somewhere abroad that has plenty of gluten free eating options”. And the AI could provide a list of suggestions for that specific traveler.

Generative AI tools can be used to help plan personalized itineraries for guests. For example, a travel agent could prompt ChatGPT with: “My client is a 40 year old single mother with a 10-year old son. They want to travel somewhere abroad that has plenty of gluten free eating options”. And the AI could provide a list of suggestions for that specific traveler. Advanced segmentation: AI has the potential to offer hyper specific targeting options. Some even think that AI could even generate campaigns for a specific customer.

AI has the potential to offer hyper specific targeting options. Some even think that AI could even generate campaigns for a specific customer. Customer service: Incorporating AI tools into workflows can help improve the customer experience for both the traveler and staff members. For example, AI can automatically answer common questions that come in. Which empowers workers to spend more time on challenging situations or edge cases.

Other uses cases for AI in travel include:

Predictions: AI can analyze large amounts of data to help predict future demand at specific destinations.

AI can analyze large amounts of data to help predict future demand at specific destinations. Booking agents: The process of booking a trip may change from manually buying airline tickets and hotel rooms online. Instead, AI agents may take care of all of the details on the traveler’s behalf.

The process of booking a trip may change from manually buying airline tickets and hotel rooms online. Instead, AI agents may take care of all of the details on the traveler’s behalf. Real-time translation: LLMs like ChatGPT-4o are capable of essentially real-time translation via audio.

Conclusion

That’s it for the top seven trends driving the travel and tourism industry forward into 2024 and beyond.

Through these trends, we can see a dynamic relationship between the travel industry and consumers.

It’s a push-and-pull that’s sure to continue in 2025 and companies that can adapt quickly to the changing wants and needs of travelers are the best suited for future success.

Everyone needs an escape from the city sometimes. Hop into the car (or grab the ferry) for these gorgeous weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

You don’t have to get on a plane to feel like you’re in another country. Southern California is dotted with gorgeous, quaint destinations—all of them perfect for a weekend getaway from L.A. These easy, mostly affordable road trips are all within a three-hour scenic drive (or ferry ride) of the city. Once you arrive at your destination, partake in some of the local specialties: beach-lounging, wine-drinking, hiking and dining. Oh ,and there’s some pretty good shopping and thrifting in the mix, too. Let these weekend getaways from L.A. be your roadmap to a magical world within SoCal.

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from L.A.

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1hr 30mins by car

Ojai is a perfect contender for a day trip—in less than two hours, you can get to the Ventura County city tucked in the Topatopa Mountains and lose yourself in its small-town charm.

Even though Ojai is laid-back, it’s home to a thriving creative community and a burgeoning dining scene. Start your day at the Dutchess, from Rustic Canyon’s Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb, where you can pick up coffee and pastries in the morning and head back for Burmese cuisine in the evening. For lunch, nearby Pinyon is a great option with its sourdough pizzas, bagels and hoagies. And L.A. all-day hot spot Highly Likely just opened a third location in Ojai, where it’s added pixie tangerine sorbet to the menu, inspired by the petite citrus fruits Ojai is famous for. West of the downtown strip, you’ll find the Farmer and the Cook, where you can pick up a smoothie or sandwich before driving north into Los Padres National Forest for a hike.

Book lovers will want to block out at least an hour for Bart’s Books—the largest outdoor bookstore in the world—where used tomes are arranged in a maze of bookshelves around a courtyard. Bart’s gets all the buzz, but there are lots of other shops selling locally made goods that are worth a visit. Get a cone at Ojai Ice Cream, a classic parlor open since 1979, and stroll to Pixie’s General Store and sister boutiques Bungalow by FiG and FiG Curated Living, which you enter through a whimsical garden. Another favorite is Summer Camp, a stand-alone shop a short drive away that inhabits a gas station from the 1950s. (I still wear the “Oh, hi” sweatshirt I picked up there years ago.)

Another big draw is the luxurious spa at Ojai Valley Inn, an award-winning escape that offers Chumash-inspired detoxifying Kuyams and sound therapy that taps into the “vortex energy of Ojai” in addition to the usual facials and massages—all amid a tranquil setting of oak trees, lavender fields and mountain views.

End the day with a sunset yoga session at the peaceful Meditation Mount ($27, preregistration required). If you’re lucky, you might catch Ojai’s famous “Pink Moment” when the sun dips behind the mountains, but either way, you’re in for a spectacular view of the Ojai Valley.

Time Out tip: If you’re driving up on a Sunday, get there in time for the Ojai Certified Farmers Market (9am– to 1pm) to stock up on fresh local produce and flowers. It’s also worth planning a visit around the Ojai Music Festival in June, which offers four days of unique aural experiences.

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

With both wellness travel and solo travel on the rise, it’s no surprise that solo wellness retreats are growing in popularity. Traveling alone in a way that benefits your physical and mental health is easy — with no one else in tow, you’re able to fully focus on yourself and your needs and travel exactly how you like. This article explains what a solo wellness retreat is, why you should consider going on one, and some of the best wellness retreats for solo travelers in the U.S.

What Is a Solo Wellness Retreat?

A solo retreat is a trip where you travel alone and stay somewhere or do activities that offer positive benefits for your physical or emotional health. Wellness solo retreats can be specific resorts that offer retreats or wellness-focused activities. Activities can include fitness, yoga, meditation, self-discovery workshops, breathwork, spa treatments, or outdoor experiences. Most retreats don’t have an official rule that you have to be alone, but all of the retreats on our list are especially welcoming or cater to solo travelers.

Why Go on a Wellness Retreat Solo?

Going on a wellness retreat alone means that you can interpret and manifest wellness in whatever way you’d like. If wellness means hiking in the wilderness to you, your solo retreat can give you time to hike as much as you’d like and focus on your specific wellness needs without interruption.

Taking time to focus on yourself also allows for self-care in whatever way best serves you while you travel exactly how you like. When everything is organized your way, and you aren’t cutting your needs short to meet others’ needs, then relaxation, rejuvenation, and even healing can result. Solo wellness travel can increase your self-awareness and help you set goals for the future, encourage personal growth, improve confidence, and boost independence. It may also invigorate you to challenge yourself or try new things in a judgment-free space.

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The 16 Best Solo Retreats in the U.S.

Whether you’re in the market for a retreat getaway for fitness, bonding with horses, bringing your pet along with you, relaxing all day in the spa, or doing a digital detox, here are the best solo wellness retreats in the U.S.

1. Art of Living Retreat Center (North Carolina) — Best Solo Ayurvedic Wellness Retreat

Art of Living offers an ayurvedic solo retreat amid acres of beautiful forest. Image Credit: Art of Living

If you’re looking for a wellness getaway but not sure where to start, the Art of Living Retreat Center offers options for serious wellness fans, such as silent retreats or intense detox programs. It also has options for newbies, such as creativity escapes or rejuvenating weekends.

Art of Living is located along the Blue Ridge Mountains amid hundreds of acres of verdant forest — a setting that makes healthy living feel easy. While the center also does women-centered, male-catered, and even mother daughter-retreats, Art of Living also offers a few retreats specifically geared towards solo travelers, such as the Ayurveda Solo Escape, which melds Ayurveda treatments with yoga and meditation so you can discover your best and healthiest self and learn more about ayurvedic concepts like doshas, which are body types, and how to best nurture and heal your dosha.

Ayurveda Solo Escapes include 2 nights of accommodation, 3 meals per day, 3 ayurvedic treatments per person, workshops, meditation and yoga classes, and 1 lifestyle Ayurvedic consultation. Rates start at $1,445.

2. Castle Hot Springs (Arizona) — Best Luxury Solo Wellness Retreat

The hot springs at Castle Hot Springs are a luxurious way to relax in nature. Image Credit: Castle Hot Springs

If sharing a cabin or glamping just isn’t right for you, you can focus on yourself and your wellness needs in the lap of luxury at Castle Hot Springs. The resort is built around a collection of natural hot springs that refresh and revive guests with their unique geothermal properties.

Although you can stay at the resort in a non-traditional retreat setting, Castle Hot Springs offers a 3-day Yoga Retreat, which focuses on Sutras and Satsang, Yin, and Hatha yoga, plus mantras and meditation. Don’t worry; the retreat offers plenty of free time to enjoy the hot springs, spa treatments, and other resort activities such as guided hiking or archery.

Retreat rates include accommodation, meals, yoga, and activities, starting at $2,050 in a Sky View Cabin featuring a terrace with a view and telescope or $2,500 in a Spring Bungalow featuring a private, custom Sonoma stone soaking tub.

3. Honor’s Haven Retreat (New York) — Best Affordable Solo Wellness Retreat

A weekend escape in the Hudson Valley is perfect for a busy solo traveler. Image Credit: Honor’s Haven

Designed especially with solo travelers in mind, weekend wellness getaways at Honor’s Haven Retreat mean that you can focus on yourself for just a short getaway, making it an easy and affordable way to indulge in a little self-care. This eco-friendly resort is optimal for solo travelers who want to head out on their own but also connect with other like-minded travelers during workshops and classes.

Visitors can roam the onsite herb garden, walk along the lake, eat healthy meals, lounge in the indoor pool, outdoor pool, and sauna, and use the tennis courts or fitness center. Daily classes include energy yoga, healing qigong, guided meditations, and much more. Meanwhile, guestrooms offer lake, mountain, or garden views.

Rates inclusive of accommodation, wellness classes, guided nature walks, and 2 meals per day start at $280 per night.

Hot Tip: Since most wellness retreats may not be affiliated with a hotel loyalty program, it’s best to charge your retreat on a credit card that offers bonus points on travel purchases, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, which offers 2x points spent on travel.

4. Lake Austin Spa Retreat (Texas) — Best Solo Lake Wellness Retreat

Combine fitness activities with spa treatments and lakeside relaxation. Image Credit: Lake Austin Spa Resort

Lake Austin Spa Retreat is one of our all-around favorite U.S. retreats, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. The adults-only resort feels tranquil and intimate, with just 40 rooms. Its peaceful setting on Lake Austin makes it the ideal destination for solo reflection, wellness, and fitness, thanks to daily hikes, yoga, meditation, and workout classes. You can also participate in lake activities and cooking classes and choose from a variety of spa treatments.

Solo travelers should opt for the Fresh Start package, which starts from 2 nights and includes a nightly spa and experience credit for $100, a custom journal, meals, snacks, daily group activities and classes, and access to spa facilities, including steam rooms, gardens, pools, and relaxation areas.

Rates start around $775 per night for single occupancy.

Hot Tip: Flying in and out of Austin? Here’s a full list of all the airport lounges at AUS.

5. Lumeria Maui (Hawaii) — Best Solo Hawaiian Wellness Retreat

Indulge in a Hawaiian wellness escape at Lumeria. Image Credit: Lumeria Maui

Lumeria Maui offers different retreat options, from Healing the Hustle to Just Breathe to Fall Renewal. But solo travelers may be best served by just staying however many nights they’d like and participating in daily activities. Choose options such as yoga and alignment classes, ukelele workshops, sound baths, energy healing, and so much more. Spa treatments and massages also feel decidedly Hawaiian, from lomi lomi massages to Pohaku (traditional Hawaiian hot stones) sessions.

This beautiful Hawaiian property feels intimate and unique, with just 24 guestrooms that come with picturesque garden or ocean views. The resort and spa features treatments and classes such as bodywork, healing art and nature therapies, daily activities, plus fitness, yoga, and meditation options.

Nightly rates start at $479 per night and include accommodation and daily activities.

6. Menla Resort (New York) — Best Solo Spiritual Retreat

Clear your head and focus on yourself in a natural and beautiful space during a retreat at Menla. Image Credit: Menla

Escape to the Catskills to clear your mind at Menla, a Tibetan-inspired resort and retreat center. Set amid a verdant woodland on a 330-acre natural reserve, you’ll be encouraged to get in touch with your inner self and improve your mental and emotional health during retreats such as Autumnal Equinox Gatherings, Sound Healing and Hiking Retreats, Nurture Nature Experiences, and Mindful Living Immersions.

Rooms and suites are simple, luminous, and comfortable, and budget retreat-goers can opt for individual cabin rooms. The resort also features a 4,000-square-Dewa spa specializing in herbal bath therapies and ancient healing treatments. Menla’s cuisine is mostly plant-based and designed around locally-sourced ingredients, many of which come from the on-site organic gardens.

Retreat rates vary in price and inclusion, but you can probably expect to spend a minimum of $1,000 on a 3-night retreat, inclusive of meals, accommodation, and retreat activities.

7. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa — Best Solo Spa Retreat

The Life in Balance Spa at Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is a place to rest and rejuvenate. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

If you want to be pampered among a stunning landscape of cacti and the Sonoran sun, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is a resort home to the Life in Balance Spa, which offers a unique mixture of rejuvenating treatments blending therapies from Tibet, India, Europe, and China.

Choose from treatments such as Chi Nei Tsang (a Taoist digestion therapy), intuitive massage, desert-infused scrubs and wraps, and so much more. Plus, the spa facility offers access to saunas, serenity pools, steam rooms, and a quiet room.

A retreat can be organized however you’d like — it’s really just choosing to stay for however many nights you want. We recommend choosing the unlimited package, which includes accommodation, meals, wellness activities (everything from beekeeping to chakra balancing to equine therapy and drum circles), and a $175 credit to use however you’d like — opt for the spa. Rates for single occupancy start around $800 per night or 45,000 World of Hyatt points.

Hot Tip: Looking for wellness using points? Miraval is one of the few retreats on this list where you can stay using points. To earn more Hyatt points, apply for a credit card such as The World of Hyatt Credit Card. Or, earn points that can transfer to the World of Hyatt program using a card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Miraval also has its very own loyalty program if you think you’ll make more frequent visits: Miraval Authentic Circle. And if you’re itching to check out Miraval but live on the East Coast, consider visiting Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa instead.

8. Red Mountain Resort (Utah) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat in the Wilderness

Get inspired by Utah’s idyllic landscapes at Red Mountain Resort. Image Credit: Red Mountain

Greater Zion is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone who wants to relax among stunning desert and canyon scenery. Red Mountain Resort offers regular resort stays, but we love the Essential Retreat Package, a 3-night stay offering 3 healthy meals, fitness classes, discovery activities, and a choice of accommodation.

Fitness and discovery activities include experiences such as guided hiking and rock climbing in national parks nearby, sound baths, yoga, and more. Activities such as shamanic energy healing, guided labyrinth experiences, Reiki, and others come at an additional cost. The resort’s Sagestone Spa offers unique, locally-inspired treatments, such as the adobe lavender hydrating cocoon skincare treatment and a turquoise sage salt scrub.

Rates for the retreat start at about $1,300 per stay, depending on room selection, which ranges from desert oasis king rooms to luxury villa suites.

9. The Resort at Paws Up (Montana) — Best Pet-Friendly Solo Retreat

Paws Up is a pet-friendly escape amid the gorgeous Montana landscape. Image Credit: The Resort at Paws Up

If you want to bring Fido along with you on your next wellness retreat, head to The Resort at Paws Up in Montana, set on thousands of wild acres of mountains, badlands, and prairie. Call it a wellness retreat, glamping, or a luxury hotel stay — but the important thing is that Paws Up offers your beloved pet some pretty awesome amenities, so it’ll be a wellness experience for everyone. Your prized pup will get a special dog bed, dish, locally-made treats, a tennis ball, and a special welcome card from the owner’s dog, Coco.

Paws Up has many all-inclusive packages ideal for a solo wellness getaway. From winter wellness inclusives to foodie-centric chef retreats, there’s a getaway perfect for you. Activities include horseback riding, wilderness workshops, stargazing, fly fishing, hiking, cattle drives, ice skating, and so much more.

Cabin rates start at $2,596 per night — expect a 2-night minimum stay in many cases. Many homes come with kitchens and laundry machines; you can participate in group activities or hole away for some alone time. However, pets cost an additional $50 per night and aren’t allowed in restaurants or tented accommodations, among other pet-related rules.

10. Retreat in the Pines (Texas) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat for Women

Accommodations at Retreat in the Pines are shared rooms in cozy cabins to build friendships and meet like-minded women. Image Credit: Retreat in the Pines

If you’re a woman looking for healing, connection, and support, consider visiting Retreat in the Pines in East Texas. The center has a number of retreats to choose from, with themes such as Mindfulness and Meditation, Grounding and Growth, Strength and Healing Yoga, Inner Goddess, and many more. Solo travelers may enjoy the Book Lovers retreat, where you read all your favorite books on your own but are surrounded by other women reading. Another favorite is the Love Yourself retreat, which includes a mini private healing session as well as group activities.

Although each type of retreat has its own itinerary, you can expect to see activities such as yoga, meditation, fireside chats, gardening, stargazing, mandala making, nature walks, affirmations, and more.

Most retreats are 1 weekend long and include meals, activities, and shared accommodation in a cozy cabin. Weekend rates range from $799 to $1,299, depending on the type of retreat.

Read our guide on the best wellness retreats for women for further ideas.

11. Retreat Ranch (Texas) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat With Horses

Enjoy yoga and horses in Texas at Retreat Ranch. Image Credit: Retreat Ranch

While some other wellness options on this list offer equine activities (such as Miraval and Paws Up), a horse-centric retreat may be the key to improving your wellness. Retreat Ranch‘s Yoga & Horse Retreat touts working alongside these gentle giants, noting they can improve connection and have restorative benefits.

If you’ve never ridden a horse or done a yoga pose, no problem. The retreat caters to beginners as well as more advanced riders and yogis, too. This particular retreat includes 3 nights of accommodation, daily yoga, meditation, a horse interaction workshop, meals, and a sound bath. Accommodation comes in the form of vintage trailers, cabins, luxury yurts, or affordable bunk rooms.

Rates start at $2,199 for the 3-night retreat (bunk rooms start at $1,299). Horses not for you? This center also runs other retreats, such as Mother/Daughter, Fall Eclipse, Yoga & Wine, and many others.

12. Road Scholar (Various U.S. Locations) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat for 50+

Wellness retreats can be an excellent way for 50+ adults to meet new people and focus on self-care. Image Credit: Road Scholar

Retreats aren’t just for 20-somethings looking to “find themselves” or Instagram influencers wanting to be captured in the perfect upside-down yoga pose. So many retreats around the U.S. welcome mature travelers, and if you’re hoping to travel solo alongside like-minded 50+ wellness enthusiasts, consider a Road Scholar retreat.

Road Scholar hosts retreats in more than 40 different locations around the U.S. Retreats begin with optional morning stretching and exercise, followed by community meet-ups, live performances and events, and farm-to-table meals. Some examples are a rustic lodge in Yosemite, perfect for gardening and nature enthusiasts, an arts training center in California, best for cultural events and plenty of sunshine, and island retreats in Virginia geared toward birders.

Retreats usually range from 5 to 7 days and are inclusive of accommodation, meals, and activities. While prices vary based on retreat, they usually run between $1,000 and $2,000, and solo travelers can get rooms to themselves for a supplement of $200 or even less.

13. Rock Springs Retreat Center (Tennessee) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat for Weight Loss

Fit Farm Weight Loss Retreats at the Rock Springs Retreat Center can recharge your batteries. Image Credit: Fit Farm

If you’re hoping to reclaim your overall health, improve your body image, or have higher energy levels, the Rock Springs Fit Farm Weight Loss retreat at Rock Springs Retreat Center can encourage building muscle, losing weight, and having a healthier relationship with both food and your own body.

Weight loss retreat classes include stretching, mobility, cardio, boxing, strength training, wellness education, nutrition seminars, yoga, and spinning, plus activities such as paddle boating, team sports, and axe throwing. The property also has a library, spa, pool, and firepit on its nearly 200 acres of rolling Tennessee hills.

Retreats include accommodation, fitness classes, cooking classes, meals, and other wellness activities. There’s a 2-week minimum stay, and single occupancy rates start at $3,595 per week. Discounts are available for longer stays.

14. Sewall House (Maine) — Best Solo Yoga Retreat

Customize a retreat based on your needs at Sewall House in Maine. Image Credit: Sewall House

To finesse your yoga skills amid a picturesque New England landscape, head to Sewall House in Maine, where you can customize your own retreat based on your yoga expertise level and personal needs. It’s also ideal for solo travelers on the hunt for personal healing, sober travel, and/or addiction recovery, as it’s 100% alcohol- and drug-free.

A typical day at Sewall starts with coffee or tea, an optional silent meditation, and either restorative, Hatha, or vigorous Ashtanga yoga class. Before and after an included vegetarian lunch, you’ll have free time to journal, cycle, hike, or whatever you’d like among the beautiful grounds nearby Mattawamkeag and Pleasant Lakes. After more yoga, enjoy a vegetarian dinner and a soak in the Jacuzzi or sauna before returning to your private bedroom (and bathroom) for rest.

Rates at the historical house start at $399 per night and include accommodation, 3 vegetarian meals per day, and yoga/meditation classes.

15. SoCal Wellness Retreat (California) — Best Solo Digital Detox Retreat

We all need a break from digital devices. Enjoy one at SoCal Wellness Retreats. Image Credit: SoCal Wellness Retreats

Solo travelers who really need a break from social media, work, or just mindlessly scrolling their phones should consider SoCal Wellness Retreat in California. The retreat center offers digital detox retreats as well as retreats specifically catered to singles.

The digital detox retreat consists of a 4-day adventure that offers workshops and classes on tummo breathwork, meditation, stretching, and group connection. The center is a stunning mansion set upon 5 acres of olive groves and wooded areas, the ideal place to leave screens behind and fully immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.

With many accommodation options to choose from, travelers can stay in master suites, private rooms with private bathrooms, or, for those on a budget, shared dorm rooms. A 4-day retreat starts at $997 and runs up to $2,497, depending on your room type.

16. Vita Vie Retreat (Florida) — Best Solo Wellness Retreat for Fitness

Getting fit on the oceanside seems more appealing than working out at home. Image Credit: Vita Vie Retreat

If you’re ready to get fit, you may as well do so on the golden sands of Delray Beach beneath the Florida sunshine. Vita Vie Retreat‘s Vita Wellness Camp focuses on 4 health pillars: fitness, nutrition, stress management, and sleep, which are all manifested through beach workouts, toning, strengthening, flexibility, and recovery classes.

Retreat guests stay at the Seagate Hotel & Spa on a private beach with 2 pools and a spa. Let your body recover from all the intensity in guestrooms, complete with designer furnishings, Nespresso machines, Egyptian cotton linens, and private balconies.

A 6-night retreat inclusive of accommodation, 4.5 to 5 hours of fitness per day, 1 spa treatment, a $60 per night food and beverage credit, and a Vita Fit Guide and retreat journal starts at $4,190. You can also customize your own private retreat (prices upon request).

Final Thoughts

Wellness retreats are perfect for solo travelers. With catered activities and both group and private classes, you’ll never feel lonely. But you’ll still have plenty of alone time to reflect and relax.

And a solo wellness retreat doesn’t have to be far-flung. You can easily visit one of the wellness retreats in the U.S. for your next solo dose of rejuvenation.