Exploring 7 Blue Mind-Inspired Travel Destinations
Close your eyes and imagine this scene: a vast expanse of shimmering crystal-clear water, beneath a wide, azure sky. This vision of pure beauty, with the rhythmic sound of waves and the gentle ocean breeze evokes a deep sense of calm, happiness, and peace. This is at the heart of "Blue Mind Theory" and to help you experience this serene sensation, we’ve selected seven travel destinations around the world that perfectly embody this calming theory. What is Blue Mind Theory?
7 Travel Spots for a Blue Mind Experience
- The Maldives
- Santorini, Greece
- Banff National Park, Canada
- Blue Lagoon, Canada
- Fiji Islands
- Cinque Terre, Italy
- Bali, Indonesia
What exactly is Blue Mind Theory?
Blue Mind Theory emphasizes how being near, in, on, or under water can positively impact our mental and physical well-being. This concept became more widely known through the research of marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols, who explored how interactions with water can bring both physical and psychological benefits. These benefits include:
- Increased Happiness: Engaging with water environments can elevate mood and create a sense of joy.
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Water-related activities help lower stress levels and alleviate anxiety.
- Relief from Mental Fatigue: Spending time by or in water can refresh the mind and combat mental exhaustion.
1. The Maldives
The Maldives, with its unparalleled visual appeal, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is often celebrated as the epitome of a dream getaway. It's probably one of the quintessential examples of a perfect Blue Mind inspired travel destination with various private resorts, overwater bungalows, and white sandy beaches.
Activities to enjoy: Relaxing by the beach or at your villa, water sports including, snorkeling, scuba diving, SUP, sunset cruises, dining at an undersea restaurant (reservation needed), explore the nightlife, etc.
Arriving international airport: Male Velana International Airport (MLE)
2. Santorini, Greece
Santorini, is another renowned destination, celebrated for its picturesque and stunning landscape of white-washed buildings and iconic blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea. The breathtaking scenery, with its blend of the sky and the deep blue waters, fosters a profound sense of peace and serenity. The mesmerizing sunsets further enhance this tranquil atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Activities to enjoy: Island cruising, kayaking and other water sports, relaxing by the beaches, hiking and exploring the streets of Oia, swim in the warm hot springs, etc.
Arriving international airport: Santorini Airport (JTR)
3. Banff, Canada
Located about a 1.5 - 2 hour drive from Calgary, Banff National Park, is an exceptional destination that offers tranquility year-round, but during the summer enjoy the water sports around the lakes. The park is renowned for its iconic turquoise lakes, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. With its breathtaking scenery and a total of 30 diverse lakes (both natural and artificial), Banff National Park provides a serene escape amidst majestic mountains and soothing thermal hot springs. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park throughout all seasons.
Activities to enjoy: Canoeing and kayaking, scuba diving, soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, hiking, etc.
Arriving international airport: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
4. Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Don't miss Iceland's healing oasis, the Blue Lagoon, on your list of inspired travel destinations. Surrounded by striking black volcanic lava fields, a soak in the lagoon’s milky-blue geothermal waters offers both your mind and body a profound sense of relaxation. This unique experience provides a calming and therapeutic effect, making it a perfect escape for rejuvenating from everyday mental fatigue. Not only will you immerse yourself in a stunning landscape, but you'll also find the Blue Lagoon to be an ideal retreat or a wonderful gift to yourself and your body, enhancing overall well-being and tranquility.
Activities to enjoy: Enjoy the therapeutic baths, float therapy (yes, trying floating on the salty water), and spa treatment.
Arriving international airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
5. Fiji Island
The Fiji Islands are a prime destination that also embodies this theory. Imagine snorkeling or swimming in their turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The water's clarity provides breathtaking views of vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life beneath the waters. One of the more challenging aspects of planning your trip will be choosing your ideal short-time "home away from home"—it depends on what you seek for your perfect, relaxing retreat.
Activities to enjoy: Relaxing by the beach and water sports: swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, surfing, flyboarding, SUP, parasailing, etc
Arriving international airport: Nadi international Airport (NAN)
6. Cinque Terre, Italy
Many will agree that Cinque Terre offers immense aesthetic pleasure or have come across a photo of the colorful buildings in these villages and thought, "How I would want to visit one day..." Overlooking the Ligurian Sea, the five seaside villages along the Italian Riviera (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare) provide mental rejuvenation. Due to its remote location, plan a longer stay to fully enjoy the trails and scenery this unique place has to offer. It may be challenging with toddlers, but the calming coastal walks and natural beauty make it worthwhile for those seeking relaxation.
Activities to enjoy: Hiking the trails between and exploring the unique charms of the five villages, water sports, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, sailing, or relaxing by the beach (in Monterosso al Mare)
Arriving international airport: Pisa Airport (PSA)
7. Bali, Indonesia
If you're considering a wellness retreat, Bali is a fantastic destination. A popular travel destination for its stunning beaches, Bali also offers spiritual experiences. For example, visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a water temple where you can appreciate both the natural beauty and the tranquil, calming effect of the scenery. Another experience to consider is the Balinese water purification ritual at Pura Tirta Empul, which is open to people of all faiths. However, participants must show respect for the temple and follow the customs of the ritual. Complement your spiritual journey with a visit to one of Bali’s famous beaches, which offer both relaxation and adventure.
Activities to enjoy: Enjoy and relax by the beaches, visiting temples, water purification ritual, visit famous waterfalls, spa, yoga, and water sports (swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing), etc
Arriving international airport:
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or Denpasar International Airport (DPS)
Your next Blue Mind adventure awaits
Whether you’re ready to dive into relaxation or simply want to drift away in nature’s calming embrace, remember to give yourself the gift of a refreshing vacation. As you plan your next getaway or time off, consider these destinations that embody the Blue Mind concept— where the calming power of water and natural beauty come together to offer a truly rejuvenating experience. Spending time at any of these destinations is a chance float away, recharge, and make waves of happiness, so I hope one of them inspires your next adventure.
Looking for flight tickets? Start exploring your travel dates and search for airline fares that'll fit your budget now! Compare flight deals on BudgetAir.com.
Wishing every traveler an enjoyable trip, and may the healing power of water guide you to a place of peace and well-being. As some say, "Peace and happiness are not just destinations, but a way of life." Safe travels! ✈️
Want to read more travel tips?
Ann
Hi. I always remind myself to discover or try something new when I travel. This always includes finding something delicious to eat. Some of my most memorable travel destinations so far include Japan, New Zealand, and the UAE.