Looking for a sober summer getaway this year? You deserve it! We all deserve the chance to rest, unwind, and relax.
With that said, many typical summer activities can be triggering- with all the alcohol, focus on partying, and pervasive messages to let go and indulge.
However, you can definitely stay strong in your program and enjoy seeing the world at the same. Let's get to our top favorite getaway ideas!
Sober Cruises
Although they may be typically synonymous with free-flowing booze and all-you-can-eat buffets, several companies, including Sober Cruises and Sober Celebrations, focus on balancing on recovery with fun.
In general, even if alcohol is present onboard, these companies aim for spiritual fitness and creating a tight safety net for all members.
There are meetings, special events, and the opportunity to meet and connect with like-minded individuals. These events are not sponsored or endorsed by any 12-step group or treatment center.
If you want to sail throughout the Caribbean or lounge on the Hawaiian beaches, these are the trips for you to consider!
Sober Resorts & Hotels
Did you know that there are several sober hotels and resorts all around the world? You're just a few Expedia clicks away from finding a charming inn or bed-and-breakfast that maximizes fun without drugs and alcohol.
Gather up your friends and loved ones, and get out there! No need to worry about dicey hotel bars or minibars in the bedroom.
Unsure if it's really sober? Just call the hotel and ask. The concierge will let you know what the sober scene looks like (or doesn't look like). Be proactive in taking care of what you need!
Meditation Retreat
Are you interested in embracing your sober lifestyle by staying spiritually fit and connected with nature and your Hig?er Power.
Consider looking into meditation or silent retreats. Both religious and secular organizations host different events all around the world, and you can often choose from lengths ranging from a half-day to several weeks.
Not only will you get to experience a new place (and typically take in some gorgeous scenes), you'll actually get to learn and grow through your summer getaway.
Best of all? You don't need to go with anyone to have a good time. These retreats are typically designed for you to go within yourselves and deepen your internal relationship.
Travel Agency Tours
Did you know that there are entire companies devoted to sober travel arrangements? That's right- you can have someone else completely plan out your summer getaway free from drugs and alcohol.
For example, In this Life Travel has its own Recovery Travel division. You can take advantage of their 20+ years in the industry to book some of the best private and guided tours around the world.
Furthermore, you'll also have access to different meetings and fantastic recovery speakers throughout your trip.
While these trips may cost more money than, say, planning travel out on your own, you won't have to worry about all the organizational details.
If you've never been to a foreign country, this may be the best option for you. No worries about language barriers, planning out transportation options, or figuring out your hotel accomodations. These tours handle all of that for you.
Camping Trips
Travel doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. You don't need to jump on an airplane to have a blast.
Grab your group of sober friends and head out to the national parks for a cheap, easy, and fun summer getaway.
Depending on where you live, there are probably several awesome nature spots within a few hours of your location.
Take it back to your summer childhood, pitch a few tents, roll out the sleeping bags, and get your s'more roasting skills ready.
After all, there's nothing like a summer getaway like lying out under the stars with the people you love the most, right?
Fitness/Athletic-Based Trips
Now that you're sober, perhaps you've picked up running or rock climbing or surfing. What about planning a summer getaway surrounding your new hobby?
For example, maybe you've always wanted to complete a marathon or hike Mt. Whitney. Maybe you've had dreams of surfing in Hawaii or bouldering in Colorado.
Whatever it is, now is the time to do it! You're healthy, you've got a quest for life, and you hopefully now have the time(and mental sanity) to actually pursue your adventures.
It's time to start ticking some of those items off your bucket list!
Staycation
Don't have a ton of free time or disposable income? Don't stress- you can still plan an awesome summer getaway, even with short notice or limited funds.
Chances are, there's plenty to see or do within your own city- or just within an hour or so away.
If you've never played tourist in your own home, now just may be the time to take advantage of your own surroundings.
Book a local hotel (or just plan your own day trip and stay in an Airbnb or at home to save money). Check out Yelp to see what places are trending. Visit that park you've always driven by but never stopped at.
Bring your camera and make it a point to take pictures- after all, you're playing tourist! You're on vacation, right? Have fun with it!
Final Thoughts on Planning the Perfect Sober Summer Getaway
They say travel is one of the only purchases that can actually make you richer. Best of all? When you're sober, you can actually remember all the novel experiences and exciting adventures!
Interested in more inspirational blog posts about recovery and growth? Be sure to check out our blog today!