People go on vacations to relax and unwind, but have you ever had a vacation that completely missed the mark and left you feeling more stressed than before? The whirlwind of planning, booking, and traveling from point A to points B, C, and so on can be an exhausting experience, so much so that not even the fun activities you have planned can make up for the stress that has built up along the way. 

So, how do you plan an island vacation that really feels like a proper vacation? Here are a few tips on how to do your next getaway right so that you can come back home feeling truly rested and refreshed.

1. Choose an Island Destination Where Everything Just Works

Look for a destination that’s proven to be tourist-friendly, in terms of safety, security, and reliability. Aruba, for example, is a lovely choice for a relaxing island getaway because of its modern infrastructure and network of services. Worried about slow transportation? Aruba has reliable transportation options, such as buses and taxis, that will get you where you need to go in a flash. Anxious about sanitary concerns? Aruba has clean and completely drinkable tap water, as well as several ongoing environmental projects to preserve the cleanliness of the island. And to top it off, the island also has a low crime rate, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without any worries for your safety.

2. Avoid The Temptation to Overplan

Sometimes, you can get so caught up in planning the perfect vacation that you end up trying to jam in as many activities in your itinerary as you can. While planning is fun at first, following through with the schedule you’ve made may turn out to be a different story. Keeping up with your cramped schedule and knowing you don’t have wiggle room to adjust for incorrect time estimations could turn a fun vacation day into a frustrating experience. Instead of planning everything yourself, look for vacation packages that bundle up different activities and attractions together. If you’re going to Aruba, for example, look for Aruba vacation deals that have all of your dream activities and attractions in one package. 

3. Pick an Accommodation That Prioritizes Comfort and Calm 

International hotels are bustling places that could actually be more overwhelming than relaxing, especially if they double as a venue for parties, weddings, or corporate events. What you really need for this vacation is a private vacation home where you can enjoy some peace and quiet with your loved ones. Consider looking for a private villa from a locally operated vacation rental agency. This not only supports the local community but also gives you access to insider knowledge and personalized recommendations that can make your trip truly meaningful and unforgettable.

4. Pack Light to Free Your Body and Soul

Overpacking can quickly turn into a literal burden while traveling. Lugging around heavy suitcases, digging through cluttered bags to find what you need, and worrying about airline weight limits can all chip away at your peace of mind. Traveling light isn’t just easier for you physically, but it also lessens your mental load throughout your trip, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings without unnecessary stress.

When packing, stick to versatile clothing pieces that you can mix and match. Also look for accommodations with a laundry machine or have laundry services close by so that you can wash and reuse your clothes during your vacation. With fewer bags and less load to worry about, you’ll move through airports, hotel check-ins, and day trips with ease, making your vacation feel a lot less like work and a lot more like rest.

5. Go Off The Beaten Path

All destinations have popular attractions that see millions of tourists every year. While going to these attractions will certainly add to your overall experience, it could also be quite stressful. The exhaustion of dealing with the crowds can turn a supposedly fun experience into something that isn’t worth the trip at all. 

If you’re looking for a truly relaxing vacation, avoid the most popular tourist destinations. Look for the hidden gems that see less foot traffic for a more memorable and stress-free trip. You can ask the locals for any recommendations on less popular destinations that you can explore.

6. Let Nature Heal Your Troubles

Many of us spend so much of our time indoors that we don’t have many chances to soak in and appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer. Going on an island vacation is the perfect chance to reconnect with the great outdoors again. Aruba, for example, has plenty of beaches, forest areas, and parks that will make you feel more connected with nature.

You’d be surprised to see how much nature can help your physical and mental health. Simply being outside helps your mental health by decreasing anxiety levels and easing symptoms of depression. Plus, many activities associated with being outside, like walking, hiking, or swimming, are all great forms of exercise. Spending time in nature is a wonderful way to relax, and it’s a great habit to pick up and take home with you long after your trip ends.

Preparing Properly Can Lead to a Truly Relaxing Vacation

It’s time to say goodbye to those hectic and restless vacations that leave you even more exhausted than before you left home. A good vacation should recharge and energize you so that you can come back home feeling refreshed and ready for anything life throws at you. Every small choice you make can help create a more meaningful getaway, from choosing the right accommodations to simplifying your itinerary. So take it slow, plan the details out with care and intention, and turn your next island vacation into the kind of rest you’ve really been needing.