Being a career girl has its many perks - but it can be busy. Every girl needs her time to relax and get away from the work, and there are plenty of ways to do it. From spa days to nights spent dancing, taking a break is always fun - but every now and then, we need to get away from it all and escape the bustle and drama of the city.
We've put together a list of five of our favorite ways to get away from city life and take a break from work. Whether you're a hardcore explorer or a more laid-back traveler, there's something here for you. So, pack your bags, turn off your phone, and let's get going!
#1: An Off-Road Adventure
It's amazing where modern transportation can take us. Planes can get us from one end of the world to the other in a matter of hours, and lightning-quick train systems are moving people across countries faster than ever before.
This first city break, though, isn't about getting from A to B - it's about the journey. Off-roading is one of the greatest pastimes of the American Southwest, and offers the perfect combination of incredible scenery, adrenaline, and calm. Roads like the White Rim Trail, a remote 70-mile road in Canyonlands National Park in Utah, offer a three- or four-day getaway into the heart of canyon country, complete with redrock arches, desert sunsets, and plenty of time to relax.
Off-road trips are a perfect way to see the world around you in depth - just make sure to stock up on camping gear, water, and emergency supplies. Oh, and if you don't have a jeep - you can always rent one!
#2: A Backpacking Tour
For those who want a more physically demanding getaway, there's no better way to connect with nature than backpacking. Setting aside even just one night to hike, think, and observe your surroundings is the perfect way to clear your head - and get in a little better shape while you're at it.
While the experienced will probably have no trouble planning a multi-night trek, those who want a little more laid out have plenty of options, too. Backcountry camps like those in Yosemite National Park in California come equipped with canvas tents and cots. Or, check out one of the hundreds of hike-in yurts and cabins offered to rent on many of National Forests - which often have even nicer amenities like wood-burning stoves.
Backpacking is one of the best ways to get out into nature and get into your happy place, but it requires a little preparation. If you're not sure where to start looking for the gear and gadgets you need, a peak at HikingMastery will give you all you need to know. Prepare before you go to make sure your trip is flawless.
#3: A Mountain Retreat
Mountains are beautiful - there's no denying it. The last two vacations were a little bit on the adventurous side, but there's no reason you can't see the majesty of the mountains without taking it easy - really easy.
From the high Alps in Europe to the Sierra Nevadas in California, the Colorado Rockies to the Highlands in Nicaragua, there are mountain resorts all across the world. You can take your pick of more rustic settings and minimalist cabins, or full-scale resorts with spas, restaurants, and live music. The one thing you're always guaranteed is fresh air, peace, and a refreshing experience.
#4: A Skiing Vacation
Skiing is one of the most popular pastimes of people all over the world. Wherever there's snow, you can bet that people will be strapping on their boots and getting to it, whether they prefer the downhill, cross-country, or backcountry variety.
Next time you need a break from city life, bundle up, grab your skis (or rent a pair), and get out into the powder. Many ski resorts, like Solitude in Salt Lake City, are just a short drive from home, and offer flexibility for even a couple hours of escape. Or, if you're the thrill-seeking type, seek out something more hardcore like heli-skiing in Banff National Park, just outside of Calgary, Canada. And yes, that's where you ski down a mountain after riding a helicopter to the top - talk about adrenaline.
If downhill isn't your speed, plenty of areas offer groomed cross-country trails - you can even combine your ski trip with one of those cabins mentioned above and make a cozy, rustic overnight of it.
#5: A Horse-packing Camp
We won't say we saved the best for last (because all these trips are, honestly, pretty great), but this vacation option is definitely up there. Horse packing offers the opportunity not only to experience horseback riding, but to travel deep into the wilderness to places inaccessible by car - without sacrificing comforts like hot food, warm bedding, and comfortable clothes.
Guided trips into areas like the stunning Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana make plenty of time for riding, so you have plenty of time for exploring. When you gear up for a horse trip, you'll want to make sure to grab a sturdy travel backpack so you can wander, fish, pick berries, and, of course, take a ton of pictures. On these kind of trips, the worst part is coming back home.
Pick Your Get Away!
Career girls are dedicated, strong, and committed to what we do. It can be hard to give ourselves time to get out of our routines - but it's important to take a break from the city every now and then and take care of ourselves. Try one of these five city breaks next time you need an escape!
Do you have a favorite destination outside of the city? Let us know in the comments!
This post was authored by Rebecca Crawford.
Rebecca lives in the USA, but loves hiking all over the world. Her favorite is Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal. It usually takes 16 days, but she likes to slow down, enjoy the mountains, the company of other adventurers and take more pictures, so it took her 28 days last time. Another of her passions is the ocean, so all short and long hikes along the ocean shore bring a lot of joy. She also writes for HikingMastery.com.
Ms. Career Girl was started in 2008 to help ambitious young professional women figure out who they are, what they want and how to get it.
