We all love them, but we don’t all love to plan them.
We turned to one of our team’s favorite travel advisors, Chelsea Martin of Passport to Friday, to get the inside scoop on where to go, where to stay, and what to do on your next girls’ trip.
To help you take your next girls’ trip out of the theoretical “We really ought to…” stage and into the “I am so excited we're actually doing this!” stage, we decided to break things down into three distinct categories: Spa / Health & Wellness, Food & Wine, and Going Out / Nightlife.
Then we let Chelsea do the rest. She shares three of her favorite places in each category to make it super-easy for you and your crew to plan the perfect getaway.
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Spa / Health & Wellness
If you’re looking to escape, reset, and recharge, a “spacation” just might be the thing for you. While we can’t promise that you’ll come back with that coveted dewy complexion or a newfound love of cardio, we can promise that you’ll love each of these three places to get your zen on, to be with your girls, and to come home feeling better than ever.
Sedona, Arizona- If you’re looking to get away to somewhere not only serene and relaxing but also stunning (hello, red rocks!), head to Sedona. You can hike, ride horses, go to the spa, and more. Try Mii Amo Spa's 3-day wellness program for the ultimate luxury wellness experience.
Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas- Lake Austin Spa is in my own backyard, so I may be biased, but I think it is perfect for a wellness weekend. They offer an all-inclusive experience, including three healthy meals per day, and endless activities such as stand-up paddle boarding, fitness classes, boat rides, cooking classes, stargazing, and more. You can take a look at what a spacation at Lake Austin Spa looks like here.
Ojai, California- This California hideaway, just outside of LA, is one of my favorite spots, with its hiking trails, vegan restaurants, and spa experiences. Stay at Ojai Valley Inn for an indulgent spacation, and check out my girls' weekend getaway guide to Ojai here!
Wine / Food
If a day spent wine tasting and an evening spent enjoying fabulous dinners is what you and your girls will love most, these three destinations will not disappoint.
Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley- More wine tasting than you could imagine, fine cuisine, amazing spas, and a breathtaking landscape are just a few of the reasons why Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are my favorite girls’ weekend getaway destinations. Check out my Napa Valley Guide here!
Charleston, South Carolina- I recently took my first trip to Charleston and fell in love with their culinary scene which extends way past your standard Southern fare. From oysters to biscuits, and rooftop bars to colorful Rainbow Row, Charleston's charm is perfect for a girls’ trip.
Portland / Willamette Valley, Oregon- Portland's unique, "weird" identity coupled with the incredible wineries in Willamette Valley (calling all Pinot Noir lovers!) is ideal for a girls’ weekend getaway. Start your weekend exploring Portland, then head out to Willamette Valley for a stay at The Allison and indulge in a day or two of wine tasting. Check out my Portland Food Guide here!
Going Out / Nightlife
Sometimes, all a girl wants is to dress up, go out, and have some big-time fun. And sometimes, the best people to do this with are your girls. Perfect for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, or girls’ reunions, these definitely fit the bill.
Nashville, Tennessee- Nashville is a great destination for you and your girls to pull out your cowboy boots and get your country on. Broadway is filled with honky-tonks and live music, but other neighborhoods like the Gulch, Midtown, and East Nashville have fun spots as well.
Austin, Texas- While I may be a little biased because I live here, Austin offers a little bit of everything, with a vibrant bar and dining scene. Head to South Congress for patio dining and live music at The Continental Club or go to the up and coming East Side for unique cocktail bars and restaurants. You could also try Rainey Street where the bar scene consists of converted bungalows and houses and to the famed 6th Street, where you never know what trouble you'll get into.
Miami, Florida- Miami is a girls’ weekend mecca, with the beach, the clubs, the dining, and more! Check out my weekend getaway guide to South Beach Miami here.
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We hope you take some of Chelsea's great suggestions to heart! And have fun making your next girls' trip perfect and one to remember.