Vacations are the perfect time to relax, refresh and recharge the mind, body and soul. But for many of us, finding our Zen can mean different things. For some an escape to the beach is all that's needed while others seek activities that release endorphins. Whatever your preference, there is no better destination to zen-out than the city that has it all -- Los Angeles.
From luxury spas to tranquil scenery ideal for mediation, you'll be feeling stress-free in no time. So, head down to the sunny state for the ultimate retreat away and try out some of the city's top things to do to feel rejuvenated.
Credit: Terranea Resort
Luxury Living
You're on vacation, splurge a little. Resort hotels, such as the Terranea Resort are well worth a little extra cash. Tucked away in gorgeous Palos Verdes, Terranea has that other-worldly, Lotus-land kind of feel. With crashing waves, boutique shops, a signature restaurant and services galore, it's the ultimate place to let the stress melt away.
Meditation| Credit: fwtraining.com
The Power of Meditation
Sometimes you just need to shut out the world and get some peace and quiet. For a dose of spirituality, head to the Self-Realization Fellowship, where meditation classes and the temple's tranquil environment can help still your mind.
Relax on the Go
Staying in can be one of the most relaxing things to do, but that doesn't mean you can't get the perks of the spa. MobileSpa, a traveling spa company, can come to your hotel for drop-in relaxation treatments.
Credit: Pixabay
Cruising to Tranquility
We call the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) the answer for the quintessential L.A. experience. Whatever you have on your mind back home, cruising this coastal highway -- chock full of gorgeous views, palm trees and stretches of sand -- will leave you wondering why the heck you don't live here.
Live Love Laugh.
If laughter is the best medicine, the doctor is in L.A. Many of the city's legendary comedy clubs -- The Laugh Factory, The Comedy Store, the Improv -- all feature acts that will loosen you up with hilarious digs and punch lines.
Photo Credit: visitcatalinaisland.com
Island Life
Head to Catalina Island, where life is just ... different. The island, accessible from San Pedro via the Catalina Express, enchants visitors with sailing yachts, incredible golf courses, an abundance of wildlife, and a gentle, sleepy kind of atmosphere. There's tons to do, or nothing to do, and both will fit right into your mission of relaxation.
Credit: discoverlosangeles.com
Soar High into the Clouds
With more than 400 square miles to the breadth of L.A. County, a trip by helicopter will get you there; no matter where you want to go or what you want to see. Check out the Hollywood Sign and the hidden mansions of the Hollywood Hills, then circle the skyline of Downtown and beeline to the beach following the spine of the Santa Monica Mountains. Several companies, including Group 3 Helicopters, Anthelion Helicopters, Elite Helicopter Tours, Star Helicopters and Orbic Air Helicopter Tours can handle any sky-high request.
Credit: viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
Water Bliss
Luxury hotel + luxury pool = ultimate relaxation spot. Hotel pools are measures of sophistication now, and places such as the Viceroy Santa Monica, W Los Angeles and the Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows have created an oasis for lounging.
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