In two weeks, I’m heading on vacation, and for the first time, alcohol won’t be a part of it – this will be my first alcohol-free summer vacation. Last year, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to enjoy myself without drinking, but now I’m genuinely looking forward to it. My first piece of advice: take this step only when you feel truly ready.
The Uprise Of Sober Tourism
I’m grateful that not drinking is becoming more accepted these days. It seems like the harmful effects of alcohol are more widely recognized, so you’re no longer treated like an alien for choosing not to drink.Yay! Isn’t that a refreshing change?
While researching this topic, I stumbled upon the term “Sober Tourism.” It was new to me, but apparently, this trend started gaining traction around 2018-2020, with the rise of the “sober curious” movement.
During this time, more people began exploring the idea of living and vacationing without alcohol. The COVID-19 pandemic further pushed this trend as people started prioritizing their health and seeking out wellness-focused vacations over boozy vacations.
It’s amazing to see this shift! It feels like there’s a new wave of travel where holidays are about more than just drinking and partying—they’re about relaxing, wellness, and being present in the moment.
Love it.
Benefits Of A Booze-Free Holiday
- You’ll save a significant amount of money, which can be better spent on other fun activities like excursions!
- By shifting your focus away from alcohol-related activities, you’ll find countless new opportunities to explore your destination. Naturally, you’ll start making different choices.
- You will meet interesting people who might be on the same path as you are.
- You’ll wake up feeling fresh and energized every day :).
Planning Your Sober Vacation
Successfully enjoying your booze-free holiday starts with planning. Whether you’re exploring a new city or lounging on a tropical beach, taking time to prepare can help you avoid potential triggers and ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible.
- Research Destinations
Look for destinations that cater to sober travelers or have a reputation for wellness tourism. Cities with a thriving food scene, rich cultural experiences, or stunning natural landscapes are perfect for a sober vacation. For instance, wellness retreats or yoga centers are great places to relax and recharge. - Choose Your Travel Companions Wisely
Who you travel with can make a big difference in your experience. If possible, choose companions who support your sober lifestyle or are open to a booze-free holiday. If you’re traveling with people who do drink, communicate your boundaries ahead of time to avoid any uncomfortable situations. We will get into that more in the tips later in this post. - Prepare for Triggers
Think ahead about situations where you might feel tempted to drink. Whether it’s a dinner or a social gathering, having a plan in place will help you stay committed to your sober journey. You could bring a favorite non-alcoholic drink, have your sober friends on speed dial, or even plan an exit strategy if things get overwhelming.
Tips For Succes
- Take Your Own Room
Speaking from experience, sharing a room with family during a ski trip wasn’t the best choice for me, even though I love them. It’s important to have your own space so you can retreat whenever you need to recharge. - Communicate Your Needs
Remember, it’s okay to have your own agenda. If you’re traveling with a group, it’s perfectly fine to take some time for yourself. Make sure to communicate your plans clearly with your friends or family beforehand so there are no misunderstandings. - Be Prepared To Say No
It’s crucial to stay honest with yourself. If your friends are heading out to dinner but you’re not feeling up for it, don’t be afraid to say no. Instead, enjoy a cozy night in with a good series and get some early rest. The most important thing is to prioritize your well-being. - Be Prepared For Misunderstanding
Building on the previous tip, you might find yourself saying no to your friends at some point, and they might not understand. If that happens, try not to get defensive. They’re likely just feeling a bit disappointed that you’re not joining them, and that’s perfectly okay - Check Local Communities
If you are in to fellowship meetings, check Google to see where the local meetings take place. I think it’s pretty cool to know that fellowship exists in almost every corner of the world. If meetings aren’t your thing, look online for local sober communities or events that might interest you.
I don’t know about you, but when I first started my recovery journey, I found it a bit frustrating to realize that recovery is something I have to work on every single day. I kept hearing that you can’t take a break from your recovery—and it’s true. That’s why it’s so important to bring your routines, like meditation, exercise, breath work, or whatever helps you, along with you to your destination.
Have you taken a sober vacation? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! Your advice could help others on their journey toward a booze-free holiday.
