Yoga much? There are so many places to bring your downward dog!
I’ve always found Yoga to be like the broccoli of physical activity. I know I should eat it more, but for some reason hot chips always win out (hot chips in this metaphor represent me sitting on the couch watching The Bachelorette).
But for some people yoga is the thing that gives them a rosy inner glow and connects them to Mother Gaia’s spirit energy. Different strokes for different strokes, I suppose.
If you fall into the latter group, here are seven of the best destinations around the world to do yoga.
1. Ubud, Indonesia
Indonesia is a pretty spiritual place in general, but its central chakra point is definitely Ubud. There’s a reason it was chosen for the Pray leg of Eat, Pray Love. Set among rice paddies, jungle slopes, Julia Roberts and mist-covered temples, you’ll find a world-renowned yoga scene. Pick a studio (Intuitive Flow and Yoga Barn are a good start), book a class and begin to channel your inner Zen. As opposed to the outer one. That Zen sucks.
2. Rishikesh, India
Rishikesh in India is probably yoga’s spiritual home, which is partly The Beatles’ fault. Their ashram antics became the stuff of legend, and these days you can’t swing a joss stick by the Ganges without hitting at least five yoga pros. There are plenty of ashrams to choose from, some specialising in core strength, others on breathing or meditation. The tough bit will be picking your fav and relaxing that rubber soul of yours.
3. Kerala, India
India earns a second gong, thanks to a fantastic yoga retreat near Neyyar Dam Tiger Reserve in the southern water world of Kerala. Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram may be a mouthful, but it’s got a rep for being one of the best retreats in the world. The schedule is pretty intense though – a gruelling gauntlet of yoga, meditation and chanting – but the beautiful setting is a sweet trade.
4. The Bahamas
Who wouldn’t want to baby pose in front of light blue waves and the occasional dolphin? Enter The Bahamas. Not a classic yoga destination, granted, but on the little island of Bimini they’re definitely making up for lost time. It’s the only place on the planet (so we’ve heard) to combine dolphin swims with downward dogs. Relax with a bit of porpoise (stop looking at me like that).
5. The West Coast of Ireland
For those in the know, Ireland’s remote west coast is a seriously underrated destination. Most travellers hop on the faceless big bus tour and drink their way from Dublin to Belfast via a trial of Guinness. But if that’s not for you, check out the Clare Island Yoga Retreat in the eggy sounding region of County Mayo. So what’s the craic Ireland? Nourishment for the soul.
6. Tulum, Mexico
Like Tulum could get any cooler, AM I RIGHT? Not only do you get cliff top Mayan ruins overlooking the waters of the Caribbean, but there’s also a world-class yoga retreat just down the coast. Book into a beachfront cabana, grab a freshly squeezed juice and purge yourself of impure thoughts. For more recommendations view my travel guide to Mexico.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the spiritual heart of Japanese Buddhism. Betcha didn’t know that one, eh? So while most people come for clip-clopping Geishas and the epic temple scene, there are also a number of tranquil studios to practice your crane (Tamisa gets our vote). Plus you can reward your hard work with a virtuous sushi dinner. Winning at life. Plan a trip to Japan today!
If you are looking to book a yoga break, check out BookYogaRetreats where you can find and book yoga retreats, holidays and classes worldwide. This site is easy to navigate and allows you to search for retreats based on categories such as yoga style and destination.
