The places we choose to travel are a reflection of the adventure and inspiration we are looking for in the world. Forget about traditional vacation destinations and try one of these off-the-beaten path spots that are sure to feed your soul, re-energize your spirit, and strengthen your faith in humanity.
Antigua, Guatemala – Cobblestone streets, mystical volcanoes, and small artisanal markets give this UNESCO World Heritage City old world charm that you could get lost in for weeks. We suggest grabbing a cup of fair trade coffee, taking a walking tour of the city, and dining on Fifth Avenue at one of the many specialty restaurants before heading back to your boutique hotel lined with bougainvillea and white candles.
Lamu, Kenya – The Lamu Archipelago is a chain of islands located in the Indian Ocean off the Eastern Coast of Kenya. Crystal clear waters, long stretches of white sand beaches, and untouched mangrove forests keep people coming back to this exotic locale year after year. The best thing about Lamu…no cars are allowed. Locals and tourists alike walk, hire a dhow, or ride on a donkey to get to their destination…making the breeze coming off the ocean as clean and pure as it gets in the oldest living Swahili settlement in the world. We suggest taking a yoga class with ShelaYogi to stretch and relax after a long day of sailing.
Kolkata, India – Kolkata is often regarded as the intellectual and cultural capital of the country, hosting the largest and most attended book fair in the world each year. Tourists can take in the colonial architecture from the time of the British Raj, haggle with Kashmiri vendors in the New Market, mingle at the many bars and restaurants on Park Street, visit a variety of temples throughout the city, or spoil themselves with an Ayurveda treatment.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – This is one place in the world where all the elements of your trip can be related to a worthy social justice issue relevant throughout the country. Whether it be landmine removal, fighting human-trafficking, or protecting street children, you can make a difference by simply taking the time to support hotels, shops, and restaurants with a mission. Be sure to grab a meal and a drink at the Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC) where travelers from all over, expats, and locals partake in interesting social justice conversations.
Luxor, Egypt – Nowhere do we feel that history comes more alive than sailing along the Nile River in Egypt. Our favorite spot: Luxor. Meander through the winding alleyways of the souk in search of traditional rugs, sparkling lanterns, wooden jewelry boxes, or hand-loomed scarves. Venture to the well preserved Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple to revel in the reign of Ramses II. Cross the valley to the West Bank and explore ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. Splurge a bit and schedule a hot air balloon ride over the valley – something you will remember for years to come. Fall asleep to the sound of the muezzin calling the faithful to prayer in the evening.