Connect with Mother Earth
A selection of off-beat, secluded locations that offer a
pristine piece of nature for perfect rejuvenation
FLEE TO THE WILDERNESS
Forest Bathing, a Japanese
practice seeks to promote short leisurely visits to a forest for health
benefits. The mindful practice of absorbing the forest atmosphere through the
senses: touch, sight, scent, sound and taste is known to have great benefits. Most
people would agree that spending time in a forest imparts a sense of relaxation
and well-being. Head to a lush sanctuary and watch the stress lift off; try a
leisurely walk at Yosemite National Park. The Merced River, flowing through the
park, offers great opportunity to test the waters.
The
Cévennes, a national park located in southern France, allows you to walk through a
maze of deep river gorges featuring steep hillsides covered with forests of
sweet chestnut, beech and oak, then pine and spruce at higher altitude.
ENJOY CAMPING IN A FOREST
If you are a lover of wildlife and
safari fits your idea of unwinding, then glamping (luxury camping) in Shaba National Reserve, Kenya has
many perks.
When one talks about camping, it
is hard to miss New Zealand,
one of the most camping-friendly countries. It can be difficult to pinpoint
best camping spots in this country; its deserted beaches, scenic mountain
plateaus, and tree-lined canopies will leave you spoilt for choice. What’s
more? New Zealand’s ‘freedom camping’ system makes it possible to pitch a tent
just about anywhere on public land. Moving towards USA, camping at Haleakala National Park in Hawaii makes
sure the alarm replaces the roar of waves for a wake up call. Florida's Long Key State Park too
offers a chance to pitch a tent on the sandy beaches off the Atlantic coast.
The park has approximately 60 ocean-side campsites.
FOR THE LOVE OF ADVENTURE
If your idea of rejuvenation is
venturing into nature, a casual spin on a bicycle is just perfect. The 22-mile Marvin Braud Bike Trail is one
of Los Angeles’ most
iconic routes along the waterfront to enjoy a great landscape.
Japan’s
Shimanami Kaido Trail, snakes across a series of small,
wonderfully scenic islands as it connects the island of Honshu with Shikoku. With 14 cycle rental
terminals along the way, you have the liberty to hand your bike at the nearest
rental terminal.
Umbria, in Italy, with its
hills, rivers and ancient hilltop villages, provides an ideal terrain for a
leisurely bicycle exploration. If you find pedaling a daunting task, look for
electronic bikes that make for fun riding minus the constant peddling.
SURRENDER TO NATURE
A day out trying a soft adventure
amidst nature is perfect to renew your spirit. The fjords and islands of Norway allow you to navigate through a
landscape carved by glaciers and watch waterfalls tumble off sheer mountain
faces and there is no better time to explore them than in winter.
If you are not ready to brave icy
waters, Croatia offers
a warmer alternative for winter kayakers. Maldives stands as a synonym for leisure. Kayaking makes sure that you make
the most of the azure sight.
The tiny island of Menorca, Spain is dotted with 120
exquisite beaches. Apart from swimming in the crystal clear water, canoeing and
kayaking are perfect too.
Compiled by Shireen Kanchwala
ETTR20DEC18
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