We may be months past "Dry January," but the collective shift toward a life of sobriety is here to stay. Being sober isn’t just a way to start the year off; it can be a way to reset your lifestyle, no matter how social or celebratory the season is. While alcohol often seems like a default component of vacations and beachside relaxation, more travelers are exploring the joys of an alcohol-free, "dry vacation" or “dry tripping.”
According to a recent survey conducted by Hotels.com, an increase in “dry tripping,” or taking part in an alcohol-free vacation, has occurred among younger travelers. The trend highlights a growing interest in a more mindful approach to travel that centers one’s well-being over high alcohol consumption. The survey adds that more than 40% of travelers are considering booking a detox trip in the next year.
A report from Expedia found that “half of travelers say they would be interested in staying at a hotel that offers easily accessible alcohol-free options like mocktails or nonalcoholic beer.” This rise in sober-curious and fully-dry vacations has been linked to traveler’s desire to “stay in control,” and feel better emotionally and physically, with a greater focus on their overall experiences rather than the drinks themselves.
When it comes to a dry vacation, the benefits are clear. Not only can you enjoy the ease of a hangover-free travel experience, but sleep improves, you save more money from not buying drinks, and you can have more relaxation and recovery without the all-too-familiar haze of alcohol.
Whether you're looking to maintain your sobriety or simply want to try something new, here’s how you can enjoy a dry vacation of your own!
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Plan activities that don't center around drinking.
One of the best ways to enjoy a dry vacation is to plan activities that don’t revolve around alcohol. While being on the beach or poolside is a great way to relax, it can often bring the need to sip a pina colada or two. Instead, try booking excursions, going off-roading, and exploring the city's cultural art scene and museums. These are easy ways to immerse yourself in the culture and leave with lasting memories.
Connect with like-minded travelers.
Traveling sober can be easier when you connect with others who share your lifestyle. Look for travel groups or tours that cater to sober travelers; these groups can offer support and camaraderie, making your dry vacation more enjoyable.
Explore non-alcoholic beverage options.
Just because you’re not drinking alcohol doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious beverage. Many hotels and resorts now offer a variety of elevated, non-alcoholic options to support your sober vacationing experience. Your next virgin cocktail or mocktail awaits.
Enjoy quality wellness-focused experiences.
As a sober-curious traveler, you now have the option to book vacations that leave you feeling rejuvenated and well-rested, and with wellness trips, resorts, and retreats on the rise, these health-enhancing holidays often place alcohol low on the agenda, while prioritizing overall well-being.
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
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