Spiritual Tourism: Where to Explore Your Spiritual Side

A UNWTO-recognized category of cultural tourism, spiritual tourism ranges from traditional religious trips (such as mission trips or journeys to the Middle East to “walk in Jesus’s footprints”) to more secular versions, such as tours centered around meditation, yoga or other experiences. Other tour providers promise visits to popular spots — such as Machu Picchu or the Himalayas — with a focus on how these destinations can help you find your inner truth. Whatever your reason for exploring spiritual tourism, it’s not hard to find something that’s a good match. Here are a few destinations and tours that may pique your interest.

Sacred Earth Journeys

Sacred Earth Journeys don’t necessarily revolve around any particular belief system, but rather a rejuvenation of the body, mind and spirit through travel to sacred spots, exploration of other cultures and bonds formed within small groups. Some of the group’s upcoming trips for 2018 head to predictable spiritual destinations such as India, but others offer a new look at well-known destinations, such as Paris or Ireland.

Dancing Spirit Tours

Dancing Spirit Tours is similar, but a little more attuned to the luxury traveler. The itineraries include luxury accommodations, world-class cuisine and the modern amenities you expect. The spirituality comes in the form of activities meant to help travelers find clarity in regard to their own values and life path. With this more flexible definition, tours are focused on immersive experiences, rather than trying to find a higher power. Destinations include Vienna for Christmas, Iceland, France, England, Bavaria and more.

If you’d rather skip the group tour and head off to a spiritual retreat on your own, there are definitely destinations that can fit the bill, whether you want ultra-luxury or an intense immersion.

Ireland’s Galgorm Resort & Spa offers guestrooms and private outages on a huge estate, with an extremely impressive “spa village.” Likewise, Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia ups the luxury ante, with a rainforest-surrounded Buddhist paradise, offering personal wellness programs.

For something a little closer to home, The Clearing Folk School in Door County, Wis., is a socially-inspired retreat that sounds like an excellent place to relax, religious or not. Enjoy the Great Lakes shoreline, nearby hiking, family-style meals and an array of classes that go far beyond yoga. Try everything from classes on art journaling to origami to forging.