The Rise of Sober Travel: From "Dry Countries" to "Dry Trips"
Years ago, a hotel manager in Koh Samui, Thailand, told me about an unusual booking. A traveler had flown his entire family via private jet from Brunei to Thailand after discovering upon landing in Brunei that it is a "dry country" – meaning alcohol sales are banned. This man clearly prioritized having a drink or two on vacation. He’s not alone, of course. Many people consume alcohol to relax and relieve stress, both top reasons people travel. Plus, alcohol is seemingly everywhere in many resorts, from poolside bars to Champagne brunches.
But drinking on vacation isn’t all about sipping cocktails on the beach; it can also be a coping mechanism for travel-related anxieties, from fear of flying to social anxiety. However, a growing number of people are embracing a "sober curious" lifestyle for reasons related to physical health, mental wellness, and work/life productivity. This trend is leading to a surge in non-alcoholic spirits, beers, and cocktails on bar and restaurant menus worldwide, with some bars even going completely alcohol-free.
Key Takeaways:
- Sober travel is gaining popularity: Conversations about "dry tripping," "sober travel," and "alcohol-free vacations" are rising on social media, with a notable increase in the past six months.
- Destinations cater to the trend: Some destinations are becoming more appealing to sober travelers, with features like hiking, wellness retreats, and national parks.
- It’s not just about "dry countries": The sober travel movement extends beyond places where alcohol is prohibited. It’s about individuals making conscious choices to prioritize their health and well-being during their travels.
Where to Take a Sober Trip: A New Ranking
While many people have no interest in trying, the "sober curious" trend is sparking interest in destinations that offer a more alcohol-free experience. A new ranking by the insurance agency InsureMyTrip has identified the "best destinations to travel sober" based on several factors, including the cost of domestic beer, average alcohol consumption, and availability of alternative activities.
Top 10 Destinations for Sober Travel:
- Nepal: Abundant hiking and cheap wellness retreats.
- Morocco: Scant drinking culture and high-rated national parks.
- Costa Rica: Outdoor tourism, eco-wellness, and emphasis on physical and mental health.
- Turkey: Rich history, cultural experiences, and abundant natural beauty.
- Greece: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, high-rated spas, and a focus on relaxation.
- Indonesia: Scarce alcohol availability due to religious beliefs.
- Jordan: Low alcohol consumption and numerous historical and cultural attractions.
- Italy: While known for wine regions, it offers diverse experiences beyond alcohol.
- Singapore: Widely available, but expensive alcohol, making alternatives more appealing.
- India: Scarce alcohol availability due to religious beliefs and a rich cultural experience.
"Waking Up Early and Feeling Great"
For those committed to abstaining, careful planning and a proactive mindset are crucial. The website for the New Dimensions Day Treatment Centers advises travelers to:
- Plan a mix of physical and relaxing activities to relieve stress.
- Tell everyone in your group about your decision to abstain for accountability.
- Keep a travel journal to stay present and mindful.
Jessica Watson, an American who stopped drinking four years ago, shared her experience. She realized that taking alcohol out of the equation completely changed her perception of certain destinations. "Once you take drinking out of the equation, you realize how much people revolve around it."
Watson found that she had more fun on a ski trip in Colorado after she quit drinking. "Taking alcohol out of vacations makes the focus far more about the actual destination, being a lot more active on the trip, waking up early and feeling great."
Breaking Down Stigmas and Embracing Choice
The rise of sober travel signifies a growing awareness of the potential benefits of a more mindful approach to travel. It challenges the stigma surrounding sobriety and encourages individuals to explore destinations and activities that resonate with their values and priorities. Whether driven by health, wellness, or simply a desire for a different kind of travel experience, sober travelers are redefining what it means to have a fulfilling vacation. As this trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see an increasing number of destinations and travel experiences catered specifically to those seeking a sober journey.
