If you're going on vacay for some serious R&R, tourists traps and popular destinations are best avoided. You want laid-back, a place where there's no frenzy to the pace of life, where the living is easy. That means places like these:
1 LANDMANNALAUGAR,ICELAND
Iceland is a place where chillax could be the national motto. Other than the capital Reykjavik, everything seems to happen in slow motion. But if you can believe it, life is even easier in Lanmannalaugar. The stunning scenery is perfect for gentle hikes, followed by a soothing, restorative soak in a hot pool where you can soak until nightfall when you can stargaze and hope to catch sight of the Northern Lights.
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2 Vancouver, Canada
With its glorious setting by the water ringed by mountains, Vancouver offers much for every type of holidaymaker. For those who want some serious rest and relaxation but with the option of vibrant life close to hand, Vancouver offers the best of both worlds. Escape into the stunning nature or enjoy the laid back vibe of the city with its beaches, parks and bike trails as well as top class restaurants and nightlife.
3 Bay of Islands, New Zealand
If any country rivals Iceland and Canada for their laid-back attitude, it has to be New Zealand. The Land of the Long White Cloud probably doesn't even have stress in its vocabulary. It may be the land of adventure but it's also the epitome of tranquility and nowhere more so that the Bay of Islands. This subtropical region in the far north is perfect for commune with nature and marine wildlife.
4 Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If you can afford it, Bora Bora is paradise on Earth. Can there be a more relaxing getaway than a stay in an over-water bungalow? Sit on your own deck, dangle your feet in water, swim when you want and view gloriously atmospheric sunrises and sunsets. Snorkel crystal clear lagoons, say hi to the fish and lunch on a deserted beach only reachable by boat. Deep sigh!
5 Kosi Bay, South Africa
Because it is a bit of adventure getting here, Kosi Bay is happily undiscovered by tourists. In this tranquil place in the far northeastern corner of South Africa, close to the border with Mozambique, you can watch hippos wallow, snorkel in the waters and stretch out on the secluded beaches.
6 Ang Thong National Park, Thailand
Thailand is so much more than Bangkok and Phuket. And though there are some fabulous beaches on the main tourist drag, for really getting it away from it all Ang Thong National Park is awesome. Spread across 42 small, lush islands, here you will find a winning combination of soft sand, coral reefs, crystalline waters and rainforest.
7 Budapest, Hungary
You might not imagine that one of the grandest European capital cities would make for a relaxing getaway. That's before you know that apart from the huge square, large parks and busy boulevards, Budapest has a wealth of restorative spas fed by subterranean springs. You can't but feel soothed in the exclusive-feeling Gellért Baths with its Art Nouveau style with its mosaics and stained glass. Visit the hottest bath destination in the city - the Széchenyi Baths - to enjoy outdoor pools and water rapids.
8 Caye Caulker, Belize
One of the more affordable destinations in this country that's making waves as a hot destination Caye Caulker is just 23 miles northeast of Belize City. With its gorgeous white-sand beaches and the amazing snorkeling among coral canyons, it's easy to see why the motto here is "go slow".
9 Ubud, Indonesia
Recognized as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud languishes in a picturesque setting among paddy fields and lush hillsides. In recent years Ubud has developed into one of the premier destinations for retreats and spas. Here you can enjoy a taste of traditional Balinese life in everything from massages to dance shows.
10 The Seychelles
Away from the wedding hotels and honeymoon resorts there is more budget-friendly accommodation for those stressed out by the rate race to find some welcome relief in a dream tropical destination. You don't have to stay in a classy over the water bungalow to benefit from the crazily soft white sand, clear azure waters and lush interior.
11 Valladolid, Mexico
Valladolid in the Yucatán is light years away from Cancun and Mexico City. If you want to get personal with the local side of Mexico, this colorful place will delight you. It's full of charming streets where you won't be able to resist ducking into little shops and stopping for authentic Mexican lunch. And Cenote Samula on the edge of town is the perfect place to cool off.
12 Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
The beauty of the UK's largest national park is undeniable. Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the only thing you have to worry about is the weather, But even in the mist and snow, the scenery is jaw dropping. Blow the cobwebs from your brain with a brisk hike then cozy up with a wee dram by a roaring fire in a welcoming local hostelry.
13 Treasure Beach, Jamaica
Although Jamaica is synonymous with a chilled out vibe the best beaches can be crowded. If you want laid-back rather than laid out in rows of sun beds, and want to see Jamaica's gentler side, head for Treasure Beach. The beaches are blissfully quiet by Jamaican standards, and there's extra appeal in that there’s still a local heart to the beachside community.
14 The Dordogne, France
This wine-growing region of France is dominated by the eponymous river. It creates an enchanting scene as it winds past dramatically-sited chateaux and through medieval villages. This is France relaxed style. Drive quiet country roads or leisurely paddle a canoe down the river before enjoying a delicious repast in an ancient town square accompanied by locally-made Bergerac wines.
15 Joshua Tree National Park, USA
There's something about the silence of a desert that instantly lifts the weight off your shoulders. This US national park, named for its yucca plants, is almost unworldly and when night falls and the sky's wide open you feel like the tiniest speck in the Universe without a care. A must-do is a hike over the giant boulders which turn all colors of red, orange and pink at dusk with a sojourn at an oasis.
16 Las Alpujarras, Spain
Give the Costas a miss and head into the mountainous part of Andalucia. Sit back and enjoy the views as you wind along hairpin bends in the Sierra Nevada, explore white-washed villages where speed isn't a factor, ramble along mountain paths and dine on delicious, traditional cuisine.
17 Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
This is a place I've been lusting after. How can you not be blown away by the majesty of the landscape of the Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia? Dominated by the Torres del Paine mountains and the reflective waters of Lago Nordenskjöld, it's hard not to feel instantly relaxed.
