Image by NinasCreativeCorner, used under Creative Commons license CC0 1.0
When Elizabeth Gilbert published her iconic memoir “Eat, Pray, Love” back in 2006, millions of women read about her journey – both physical and spiritual – and felt moved. The book seemed like a call to action, a call to every woman to take a good hard look at their lives and free themselves from all of the toxic influences and shackles that modern society places on our lives. Here are some destinations that can help you see life from a different perspective.
Where to Eat
Of course, when it comes to culinary delights, almost nothing beats Italy. One of the most beloved cuisines in the world, very popular for a reason and for this very same reason, you should visit it! Food should nourish the body and soul. Italy has been blessed with exquisite beauty, and Tuscany is one of its most stunning regions. The great rolling hills, the golden fields, the tall, proud cypresses and the almost bluish olive groves make up the breathtaking landscape of Tuscany. A medieval town seems to be perched on every hill, and every narrow stone street hides new secrets and delights. Small traditional shops sell fragrant herbs and spices, cheeses, quality oils and delicious local wines. Avoid the overpriced tourist traps and choose smaller, out of the way restaurants where locals go, and enjoy meals made with the freshest ingredients from the fertile Tuscan fields and orchards.
Where to Pray
If you are looking for spirituality, there is no better place to look than Nepal. This tiny country is the birthplace of Buddha, and everything there evokes this fact. From the monks with shaved heads and orange robes, to the thousands of fluttering flags, and the many temples. For thousands of years, this little patch of land has been the cradle with spirituality and tranquillity of Buddhism, this will change you forever once you visit Nepal. Perhaps it is no coincidence that this would be such a sacred place. How could it not have been? When you are in Nepal, you feel awestruck by the greatest mountain range on earth. With the Himalayas looming above you, it is easy to put lesser things into perspective, understand your place in the world and find inner peace.
Image by ruledis21, used under Creative Commons license CC0 1.0
Where to Love
For all those craving some time in paradise, the Maldives are the right fit. Once known mainly for their luxury resorts, the islands have finally been opened up to independent travellers – you no longer have to spend bucketloads of cash to enjoy this heaven on earth. Backpackers and other wanderers are finally welcome to explore the islands and enjoy the company of friendly locals. With an astonishing but fragile ecosystem, the nature of the Maldives has to be seen to be believed. Its white sandy beaches and bright turquoise water are the perfect spots to relax and refresh, to regain the balance your life may have lost. Witnessing all the beauty of the archipelago will bring you serenity, replenish your energy and help you get back in touch with nature.
If you feel exhausted or incomplete, if your life somehow doesn’t feel genuine, maybe it’s time to change. It’s easy to get wrapped up in things that feel important, but that don’t actually bring us happiness. If this is how you feel, waste no time and get on the first flight to the destination that will meet your needs. Life should be enjoyed and cherished and not just a list of things that society dictates we should be, do or have. If you don’t feel at peace with yourself, maybe it’s time to start your journey, and find yourself.