Peaceful Vacations: How To Design A Sleep Tourism Escape That Actually Helps You Reset
I’m an expert at this point on how to relax on vacation. While holidays are supposed to be restorative, for many of us they can often turn into stress marathons. After a bout of burnout from traveling non-stop for work, I made a pact with myself a decade ago that I would no longer allow travel to trigger panic attacks and dread when returning home.
Whether you’re racking up miles as part of your job, or making that PTO count for a break from it, oftentimes there’s exhaustion and you might feel like you need a vacation from the vacation.
Sleep Tourism: Finding Ways To Make Vacationing Less Stressful
According to a recent survey conducted by market research company OnePoll, 49% of U.S. travelers who’ve been on vacation in the past six months said they came home “exhausted, in need of another break, or stressed” and 39% said they “always or often come home feeling they need another vacation to rest and recover.”
This is where sleep tourism comes in. It’s expected to grow by nearly 8% and by more than $400 billion by 2028.
A good solution? Tap into one of tourism’s “biggest travel trends” by creating your next vacation itinerary centered solely around real, quality rest (not just lounging). If you’re among the fewer than two-thirds of women who have been missing out on quality sleep, let’s dedicate your next trip to actual rest and quality restoration.
Tips For Travelers Prioritizing Sleep And Craving Rest On Vacation
I’ve pretty much mastered infusing rest into almost every trip itinerary (or even dedicating whole trips to nothing but rest and luxury bed rotting), so here are a few tips on pre-trip prep that have worked for me over the years:
1. Travel off-season.
Skip the crowds, lower your costs, and enjoy more peace. Do your research — off-season varies by destination. And if you’re worried about weather during those times, I’ve spent sunny weeks in Jamaica during its “rainy” season with no issue.
2. Don’t overbook activities.
Leave room to breathe and consider prep and commute times. I schedule downtime like I would any excursion — and unapologetically skip group plans that mess with my nap time. Always leave something unseen so you have a reason to return.
3. Have a full ‘Do-Nothing Day.’
Make zero plans. I save this day for the end of a trip and book a spa session or sleep in and order room service. It’s a great buffer before heading home.
4. Pack for peace.
Bring what calms you: your favorite scents, soothing music, cozy clothes. My go-to: a travel Alexa with playlists and wellness reminders, plus lavender oil tucked in my luggage.
5. Unapologetically redefine fun.
Whether a solo or group trip, ditch the party or landmark checklist and try one or two wellness experiences, or just be still. Every trip doesn’t need to be epic and you shouldn’t have to justify alone time. Sometimes, quiet is the adventure.
6. Vet your Stay.
Check Reddit or TripAdvisor for real traveler reviews. Make sure your “retreat” isn’t a Spring Break hotspot or the property isn’t under noisy renovation. Look for quiet hours, nature settings, and properties designed for actual rest.
Itineraries And Destinations For Sleep Tourism And Restful Travel
Big Water, Utah
Where To Stay:Amangiri
This remote high‑desert landscape offers very few distractions and epic night skies for stargazing. There are luxury pavilions, private plunge pools, opportunities for stargazing, and spa access.
Things To Do: Participate in a sunrise desert meditations or join a guided gentle hike through slot canyons. Soak in the mineral pools or hot springs, and have silent dinners under the stars in the evening. Go totally offline for a day or two and take in the crisp air.
Negril, Jamaica
Where To Stay: Tingalaya’s Retreat
Located on the West End, this Jamaican gem offers more than just peaceful serenity with its vibrant trails, TV-free lodgings, and organic farm-to-table menu.
Things To Do: Book one of the sea view cottages to enjoy solo yoga at the Cottonwood Pavilion or quiet swims just steps away at the cliffside pool. Enjoy journaling, meditating, or reading on a bungalow veranda among lush greenery and nature. At night, allow the sounds of tree frogs — or a special treat, rain — and rustling leaves to lull you into complete and deep sleep.
Asheboro, N.C.
Where To Stay: Postcard Cabins Asheboro, Outdoor Collection By Marriott Bonvoy
Nestled in the serene woods of Asheboro, this property offers a peaceful retreat designed for true rest and renewal. These thoughtfully crafted cabins blend rustic charm with modern comfort, creating a quiet haven ideal for unplugging.
Things To Do: Unwind by the firepit at night, and embrace the stillness during the day. Nearby, there’s the Uwharrie National Forest or you can visit the North Carolina Zoo if you want to change things up a bit. Have a digital-free day in your pod and simply enjoy your own company, drink an herbal tea helps you sleep, and enjoy the peace.
Little Cayman, Cayman Islands
Where To Stay:Southern Cross Club
This Caribbean destination takes pride in offering all the elements to recharge. The property is on the smallest of the three islands and has only 14 beach bungalows, allowing for peace and less crowds. It’s also a place that boasts one-to-one customer service attention for guests, making it a curated, personal experience for travelers.
Things To Do: Snooze in a porch hammock with an ocean view, sip a nightcap cocktail at their screened outdoor dining pavilion, or paddle out to the uninhibited Owen Island which is less than half a mile from shore. There are also opportunities to charter a boat
