Reconnecting With Nature on Holiday

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After spending a relaxing afternoon tubing down the Delaware River recently, I was reminded of how rewarding it is to unplug from technology for a while and enjoy all that nature has to offer.  The only thing better than getting outside for a few hours on a sunny afternoon is spending an entire week long holiday appreciating the outdoors.  Companies like International Vacation Home Exchange offer luxury properties around the world to help you do just that.  Whether you choose a log home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming or a luxury beachfront property in Anguilla there are many ways to be at one with nature.  Here are a few of my favorites. 

Biking

Whether your idea of biking is enjoying the rough terrane on a mountain bike or an easy glide on a beach cruiser, biking is one of my favorite ways to get out and breathe in some fresh air. 

Kayaking

Kayaking has always been one of my favorite activities.  We even own our own kayaks including  two tandem kayaks we used when our boys were younger.  They would always argue about which one “had” to ride with mom.  I may only be 5’ 4” but I did a pretty good job of keeping up with my 6’ 4” husband though my kids would disagree.  

SUP

No, that’s not short for “what’s up” but rather an acronym for “stand up paddle boarding”.  This activity has gained a lot of popularity in recent years.  I’ve tried my hand at it on the ocean a few times when the waters were calm.  It’s definitely a full body workout and mastering the balancing takes some practice but it’s great fun once you get the hang of it.

Al Fresco Dining

If rigorous outdoor activities aren’t your thing then there are many other way to enjoy nature.  Enjoying a nice meal on a beautiful day while dining Al Fresco is always one of my favorites.  If you are lucky enough to take in a scenic view than that’s an added bonus. It actually doesn’t matter what the view is when you are dining outside as long as you get to enjoy the warmth of the sun of your face while being cooled by a nice breeze.  Remember to leave your iPhone at home even though you might risk insulting the chef by not taking a picture of your plate when your food arrives. 

Watch a Sunset

You can enjoy the outdoors by doing something as simple as watching the sunset.  I have yet to actually experience the phenomenon of the green flash known to occur just after the sun sets but I always keep an eye out for it, maybe you’ll have better luck.

Walking

Last but certainly not least is just taking a simple walk.  A nice walk either in the early morning or just after dinner on a lovely evening is one of the best ways to enjoy nature.  Again, be sure to leave the technology behind while you appreciate the beauty of the trees, flowers, a hummingbird or whatever other wonders of nature you might come across. 

That should be enough to keep you busy for a week.  As much as technology has greatly enhanced our lives, it’s always a good reminder to take a “tech break” and give the beauty of nature your undivided attention, not to mention, it’s the only foolproof way to keep your phone out of the lake. 

Thank you to Travel Writer Lisa Medeiros.  Follow her on twitter @lisamedeiros_