The Best Strategic Wellness Trips to Recharge Your Battery This Year

The best strategic wellness trip at a luxury resort featuring a serene infinity pool and lush greenery.

The Ultimate Desert Reset: Civana Wellness Resort & Spa

If you want to trade snow for saguaros, this is your spot. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Civana isn’t about restriction; it’s about “happiness as a choice.” It’s one of those rare places that feels high-end but completely unpretentious.

Why We Chose It

Highlighted by Fora Travel for its approachable luxury, Civana focuses on four pillars: movement, spa, nourishment, and discovery. Their hydrotherapy circuit is a game-changer for post-holiday inflammation, and the daily schedule is packed with everything from aerial yoga to guided sound baths.

How Far Away

Located in Carefree, Arizona, it is about a 35-minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).


Coastal Calm: Montage Laguna Beach

There is something about the Pacific breeze that just clears out the mental cobwebs. This property is a perennial Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star winner, and for good reason—the service is psychic, and the views are unmatched.

Why We Chose It

We love this for a strategic “recharge” because of Spa Montage. It’s a massive 20,000-square-foot sanctuary that uses the ocean as its muse. If your idea of wellness includes a cold plunge followed by a dry redwood sauna and a view of the sunset over the cliffs, this is your destination.

How Far Away

Situated in Southern California, it’s roughly one hour south of Los Angeles (LAX) or 30 minutes from John Wayne Airport (SNA).


Deep Mountain Healing: Amangiri

If you need to truly “disappear” to find yourself, Amangiri is the gold standard. It is frequently cited by travel advisors as the pinnacle of seclusion and architectural beauty.

Why We Chose It

The Aman Spa is influenced by Navajo healing traditions, focusing on the elements of earth, wind, fire, and water. It’s a Forbes Travel Guide favorite because it offers a “silent” kind of luxury. The Hozho healing treatments are specifically designed to bring you back into a state of harmony and balance—exactly what the “strategic traveler” needs in January.

How Far Away

Located in Canyon Point, Utah, it’s about a 25-minute drive from Page Municipal Airport (PGA) or a 4.5-hour scenic drive from Las Vegas.


Tropical Mindfulness: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Sometimes, wellness means putting your toes in the sand and letting a world-class staff handle the rest. This property is a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star legend.

Why We Chose It

Beyond the pools and the beach, they have a dedicated “Next Health” clinic on-site for things like IV therapy and longevity treatments. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a traditional vacation with data-backed wellness. It’s a top pick for bespoke travel planning because it caters to both relaxation and active recovery.

How Far Away

Located on the sunny south shore of Maui, it is about 30 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG).