We all have our go-to in-flight beverage, whether it’s coffee, ginger ale, or tomato juice. (There’s a scientific reason for that last one). But have you ever paused to consider just how many drinks are consumed on a single flight — and how many disposable cups are used on planes around the world each year? According to statistics from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in 2018 the airline industry was responsible for 6.1 million tons of plastic waste, accounting for about 2% of global plastic waste. Fortunately, several airlines are taking steps to reduce waste onboard — it’s one small way you can help make your next trip a little friendlier for the planet.

Which U.S. Airlines Are Eliminating Plastic Cups?

In 2023, Seattle-based Alaska Airlines became the first U.S. carrier to switch to paper cups for on-board beverage service. In a press release, the airline announced that the move would eliminate “more than 55 million plastic cups annually and replaces them with a more planet-friendly alternative.” The airline says switching from plastic to paper — including serving Boxed Water instead of water in plastic bottles — prevents 2.2 million pounds of plastic waste from ending up in landfills every year, the equivalent weight of 24 Boeing 737s.

In 2024, Delta Air Lines swapped to new recyclable and compostable paper cups for all international flights, followed by domestic flights in the first half of 2025. In total, the airline — one of the world’s largest — said that the switch eliminated nearly 7 million pounds of single-use plastic. Delta also replaced the plastic packaging with paper wrapping on nearly 60 million complimentary earbuds handed out for in-flight entertainment. 

Southwest Airlines also joined the no-plastics party in 2024, replacing the plastic cups it previously used to serve cold beverages with new cups made from a blend of bamboo and paper, along with a drink stirrer made from birch wood. The airline said it “expects these changes to reduce its in-flight single-use plastics by more than 1.5 million pounds annually” and “aims to eliminate single-use plastics from in-flight service by 2030.”

While you can expect other airlines to adopt similar policies in the near future, there’s a reason that some are still sticking with plastic, at least for the time being. According to Delta’s press release, the airline’s new cups required an extensive testing, research, and design process. The cups needed to be durable enough to hold both hot and cold beverages and easily stackable for flight attendants to fit in existing beverage carts. 

According to Delta, “One of the most important considerations in the transition to paper cups is that many versions include a plastic-based liner that can make them harder to recycle. This is made even more challenging with international regulations and mandates regarding single-use plastic varying significantly, resulting in a patchwork of rules Delta has to consider as a global airline.”

Other Aviation Sustainability Efforts

Reducing single-use plastics isn’t the only way airlines are looking ahead toward a greener future. Carriers are replacing many older jets with newer models that can be up to 20% more fuel-efficient, and some also see electric planes as the future for sustainable, short-haul air travel. 

While electric planes are still in development, in the meantime many airlines are investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). According to Sustainability Magazine, this type of fuel “has a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional jet fuel, and airlines can use it and invest in its development to reduce carbon emissions.”

In the U.S., United Airlines is leading the way when it comes to SAF. In 2009, it was the first U.S. airline to test SAF and the first to introduce it on regularly scheduled flights in 2016. The SAF program is a big part of United’s ambitious goal to reduce carbon emissions by 100% by 2050. United is also the launch customer for the eVTOL, an electric aircraft that takes off and lands vertically, which could be used for commuter flights. 

Across the pond, Lufthansa is another pioneer when it comes to aviation sustainability. Not only does the airline plan to completely eliminate single-use plastic on board by the end of 2025, but it has also launched a first-of-its-kind “green fare.” When a customer chooses one of these fares, part of the fare goes toward reducing CO2 emissions by using SAFs on Lufthansa planes and by contributing to climate protection projects around the globe. 

How To Reduce Your Waste on a Plane 

Of course, even with the reduction in single-use plastics, there’s still a lot of waste on a plane. If you’re curious about how you can do your part to reduce that waste, here are a few simple suggestions: 

• Bring your own reusable water bottle or travel coffee mug and fill it up at the airport before you board your flight (but after you go through security). Once on board, you can ask flight attendants for refills. 
• Bring your own snacks and supplies: Instead of eating packaged snacks served on board, you can pack your own food in reusable containers. Similarly, instead of the disposable earbuds wrapped in plastic, remember to bring your own pair. (Plus, the sound quality will be better!)
• Opt for reusable travel-size toiletry bottles — it’s easy to find TSA-approved bottles, so you know you’ll always be complying with liquid rules. 
• Consider the aircraft: When you search for flights on Google Flights, a helpful feature notes the estimated CO2 emissions of each aircraft, highlighting newer models you can choose that are more fuel-efficient.

Feature image credit: Image courtesy of Alaska Airlines

In the United States, airline passengers are required to abide by the TSA’s rules and regulations, no matter how confusing or time-consuming they may be. But these security procedures are always subject to change, and in fact, the TSA just announced that it is doing away with a long-standing rule that many flyers found cumbersome. Even better: You won’t have to wait long for this change to take effect, as airports across the U.S. have already begun making the switch.

Keep Your Shoes On

In August 2006, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) instituted a new rule requiring all airline passengers to remove their shoes during the security screening process. This rule was enacted in the wake of the infamous “shoe bomber” Richard Reid, who tried and failed to ignite his bomb-filled footwear on a 2001 flight. The change in policy aimed to address concerns over other passengers potentially packing explosives into their footwear. 

But after nearly two decades of flyers going through the hassle of removing their shoes, the TSA is doing away with this rule. On July 8, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, whose department oversees the TSA, announced in a press conference at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., that the TSA will no longer require travelers to remove their shoes when they go through U.S. airport security checkpoints.

This is a notable shift from the TSA’s previous guidelines, which mandated that all flyers remove their footwear except in certain circumstances. One such exception was for those signed up for TSA PreCheck, an expedited screening program that allows trusted travelers to pass through security checkpoints without having to remove their shoes, belts, or laptops. If you weren’t signed up for that program, most flyers were left with no choice but to remove their shoes.

When Will the Change Go Into Effect?

While some changes in governmental agency policy can take weeks, if not months or years, to implement, that’s not the case here. The TSA is changing its shoe removal policy effective immediately, according to Noem. On July 7, even before the formal press conference, CNN reported that travelers at Hancock International Airport in Syracuse, New York, were allowed to keep their shoes on while passing through security. Of note, travelers may still be asked to remove their shoes for additional screening if they trigger any alarms or sensors. 

Why You No Longer Have To Remove Shoes

The TSA explains that this change is about improving the passenger experience, without compromising safety. In an official statement, Noem shared, “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

The TSA says the change will have no negative impact on passenger safety. In her press conference, Noem said, “The key to our approach is layered security,” adding, “In those 20 years since that policy was put in place, our security technology has changed dramatically. It’s evolved.”

The enhanced security measures include the recent implementation of REAL ID, which allows TSA to verify each passenger’s identity and in turn flag potential risks. Many airports are also outfitted with advanced technology such as computed tomography, a scanning mechanism capable of producing detailed X-rays much like a medical CAT scan, allowing TSA officers to know exactly what’s passing through each checkpoint.

Tipping is second nature for many Americans, but once outside the United States, the rules can change. In some countries, like Japan, tipping is actually considered rude. In others, a gratuity might be appreciated but isn’t expected. Elsewhere, tipping works much the same as it does at home. Whether you’re dining at a cafe in Paris, catching a cab in Mexico City, or getting help with your luggage in Rome, knowing when and how much to tip can go a long way toward respectful travel and mutual kindness. Here’s how much to tip in five of the most popular countries for U.S. tourists.

Mexico

Adding a tip (known as la propina) in Mexico is largely similar to tipping in the U.S., especially in restaurants and hotels where service workers often depend on gratuities to supplement generally lower wages. According to the travel experts at Frommer’s, it’s useful to pre-budget for tips and keep small bills on hand, ideally in pesos, the local currency. 

Restaurants and Bars:

• It’s customary to tip servers around 15% of the bill, but you can increase that amount to 20% for exceptional service.
• Note that a value-added tax or “IVA” (a 16% government tax) will also often appear on your bill, but this is usually already worked into the prices you see on the menu and not a service charge.
• Expect to tip your bartender around 20 pesos (approximately $1 USD) per drink, or 10% to 20% of the tab.
• Smaller street food vendors will often have a tip jar available, and while tipping isn’t mandatory, leaving a few pesos is appreciated.

Hotels and Resorts:

• A customary tip for housekeeping staff is about 40 to 60 pesos ($2 to $3 USD) for each day. 
• If you have hotel staff helping you with luggage, they should receive the same amount per bag, according to Frommer’s. 
• Tipping policies vary at different all-inclusive resorts, so make sure to check your resort’s policy in advance. Often, gratuities will be included in the cost of your package, and staff are not permitted to accept tips. But the lines can be blurry on whether you can or should leave a few extra dollars even with these policies in place. If allowed, aim to tip waitstaff and bartenders 10% to 15%, and housekeeping staff similar to standard hotel rates.

Taxis:

• Tipping for standard taxis isn’t common for locals, but if a driver helps with luggage, you can offer 10 to 20 pesos (up to $1 USD) per bag, or simply round up the fare. 
• For Uber or other app-based rides, you’ll have the option to tip through the app.

Other Considerations:

• If you plan to head out on excursions while on vacation in Mexico, feel free to tip your tour guide 15% to 20% of the cost of the outing.

Canada

Tipping in Canada is similar to tipping in the U.S. — it’s widely expected in restaurants, for personal services, and in other hospitality settings. Recently, digital payment screens have made tipping culture feel much more prominent, sometimes suggesting gratuities in places where tipping was once rare, including fast-food and coffee chains. Of course, tipping isn’t required, but if you’re in a situation where you’d like to add a gratuity, 15% to 20% is a solid baseline in most cases.

Restaurants and Bars:

• The standard for tipping at sit-down restaurants in Canada is 18% to 20% of the pretax total. You may be prompted for up to a 25% tip in larger cities such as Toronto, but it isn’t necessarily expected.
• For drinks grabbed at a bar, $1 CAD (about 75 cents USD) per drink or 10% to 20% of the bar tab is customary.
• If you’re ordering takeout or a treat at a cafe or bakery, Canada’s CTV News suggests a 10% to 15% tip.

Hotels:

• If you have bellhops helping you out with luggage, tipping them $2 to $3 CAD per bag is appreciated.
• Expect to tip housekeeping between $2 to $5 CAD per day — it helps to leave it daily as you likely won’t get the same staff member every day.

Taxis:

• In taxis and in rideshares, the etiquette experts at CTV News suggest rounding up your fare, or tipping 10% to 15% (especially if you have bags you need help with). App-based services such as Uber will also usually give you the option of a higher amount. 

United Kingdom

In general, tipping in the U.K. is less expected (and if you do tip, it’s more modest) than in North America, but it’s still customary in hospitality situations. Another difference is that service charges are sometimes added automatically, particularly in restaurants, so it’s worth scanning your bill before to avoid double-tipping.

Restaurants, Bars, and Pubs:

• A 10% to 15% tip is standard at sit-down restaurants in the U.K. However, many places add a service charge (usually around 12.5%) — you’re not obligated to tip on top of that, but you may want to add extra for exceptional service. 
• The service charge amount is set by individual businesses, and while it can be declined, refusing to pay one is rare and often seen as impolite unless the service was truly subpar. 
• Historically, tipping at U.K. bars and pubs has not been common, but recently, thanks to the proliferation of digital payments, more establishments are either adding 10% service fees to the tab or prompting for a tip. Ultimately, tipping is still voluntary.

Hotels:

• While tipping at hotels isn’t expected, guests may choose to do so at their discretion, especially for housekeeping and bellhops. A standard gratuity is around £2 to £3 GBP (or $3 to $4 USD) per day.
• In hotel restaurants, if no service charge has been added to your bill, it’s customary to tip between 10% and 15%.

Taxis:

• It’s considered polite to round up your taxi fare in the U.K. to the nearest pound, or to tip around 10% to 15% of the total fare. 
• If you have a longer trip or your driver helped with luggage, consider tipping a bit more — up to about £5.

Italy

In Italy, tipping is not necessarily required, but it is, of course, appreciated — especially in places that regularly cater to tourists. While most Italian service workers receive a higher salary than their counterparts in North America, it hasn’t necessarily kept up with the cost of living over the years. Many establishments will also add fixed service fees to the bill, though that money doesn’t always go into servers’ pockets.

Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes:

• When dining in Italy, there will sometimes be a service charge, or servizio, included in your bill. This means the gratuity is already factored in, and there is no need to tip. 
• Another charge that may appear is a coperto, or a cover charge; this applies to bread, water, olives, or other table settings. Cover charges most often range from €1 to €3 euros (about $1.50 to $3.50 USD) but are not considered a tip. 
• If no service charge is listed, leaving around 10% to 15% as a tip is considered a nice gesture. Often, even when the charge is included, it’s common to round up or leave €5 to €10 per person at a sit-down dinner.
• At informal eateries, such as trattorias, rounding up to the nearest euro is considered sufficient.
• Tips aren’t expected at bars or cafes, but you may wish to leave a small amount of change (around €0.50 to €1) at the counter. If you’re receiving table service, you can tip around €2 to €3.

Hotels:

• A service charge of 15% to 20% is often included in hotel stays in Italy, especially in tourist-heavy areas; additional tipping is not expected.
• However, consider leaving an additional €1 to €2 per day in your room for housekeeping.
• Bellhops and porters will appreciate €2 to €3 per bag if helping with luggage.

Taxis:

• A standard tip for taxi drivers in Italy is around 10% to 15% of the fare, but it’s also common to just round up to the nearest euro note. So, if your fare is €12, you might pay them €15 as a simple way to say thanks.

Other Considerations:

• Frommer’s suggests not to skip out on the gratuity for one service in particular when traveling in Italy: tour guides. A good rule of thumb is to tip about €5 per person for a half-day tour and around €10 per person for a full day. If your guide went above and beyond, don’t hesitate to tip a little extra.

France

Tipping in France is appreciated but not expected in the same way as it is in the U.S. Prices at restaurants, salons, and hotels typically include service fees, but leaving a few euros for excellent service is always a thoughtful gesture. Note that tips are best given in cash, as many credit card machines or slips don’t offer a tipping option.

Restaurants and Bars:

• Tipping in France isn’t required, since French restaurants, bars, and cafes must legally include a 15% service charge (service compris) on all bills. That said, it’s still common to leave a bit extra — rounding up or leaving a couple of euros — as a gratuity.
• If you’re grabbing an espresso or a glass of wine from a counter and paying up front, tipping some small change or rounding up is a nice touch, but it’s not required.

Hotels:

• Modest tips for hotel staff, especially in more tourist-heavy areas, are appreciated — €1 or €2 per bag for bellhops, and €2 to €4 per day for housekeeping.
• If a concierge goes out of their way to help you with reservations or recommendations, €5 to €10 is considered a thoughtful thank-you.

Taxis:

• While tipping taxi drivers isn’t required in France, it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest euro. For longer trips or help with bags, you can add an extra €1 or €2.

Other Considerations:

• Here’s a situation we don’t often encounter in the U.S.: If an usher shows you to your seat in a theater or music venue while you’re visiting France, it’s customary to tip them around €2. 

France’s high-speed rail network is among the most advanced systems of its kind in Europe. It carries more than 122 million annual passengers across the nation at lightning-quick speeds, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel between major cities. Better yet: The country plans to unveil a new, state-of-the-art fleet of ultrafast trains in 2026. Here’s what travelers can expect when France’s high-speed trains undergo a major glow-up next year.

The State of High-Speed Trains in France

First, you might be wondering how France’s impressive high-speed rail network came to exist. The Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français (SNCF) is the state-owned railway company of France. In 1966, the SCNF began developing a high-speed train line called Trains à Grande Vitesse (TGV), which translates to “high-speed trains” in English.

The TGV entered service from Paris to Lyon on September 22, 1981. The new high-speed service completed the 250-mile journey in just two hours — half the time that it previously took. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, TGV ridership grew by around 70%, with trains reaching peak speeds of 236 mph. The service expanded to include connections to neighboring countries such as Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, and Luxembourg. And in 1994, the Eurostar opened high-speed train service between France and the United Kingdom for the first time.

Today, there are around 230 high-speed rail stations located throughout France and neighboring countries, with approximately 400 high-speed trains in active service. Riders can depart the capital of Paris and make it to, say, Marseille, on the Mediterranean coast, in only three hours and two minutes.

French TGV trains are also known for setting records: On April 3, 2007, the nation’s LGV Est model hit speeds of 357.2 miles per hour, setting a world speed record for a wheeled passenger train on steel rails.

A High-Speed Makeover

In 2017, France unveiled a new model and brand name for their high-speed trains: TGV inOui, a play on the French word inouï, meaning “extraordinary.” SNCF executive Rachel Picard said of the introduction that the goal of the TGV inOui line was to provide “a new customer experience with more comfort, more services, and more connection, at the same price.” 

Now, less than a decade after the line’s debut, the SNCF is set to roll out a fifth-generation model of the TGV inOui in 2026. These new trains boast a gorgeous, high-tech design. A team of 2,000 designers worked to craft the cars from scratch, taking into account factors such as comfort, practicality, accessibility, and eco-efficiency. 

These new trains will be made from 97% recyclable materials and have the lowest carbon footprint of any train of their kind. The trains aim to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% compared to earlier models.  

The trains also will increase the number of individual coaches from eight to nine, boosting the total capacity by 20% to up to 740 seats per train. They’re designed with accessibility in mind — for the first time ever, passengers who require wheelchairs will be able to easily and independently access a dedicated autonomous car via an integrated lifting platform.

Designers tested 125 different body types to ensure maximum comfort with the foam used in the seats, and trains will be fully outfitted with Wi-Fi. Additionally, the café car will be renovated to feature two separate stories: The bottom floor will serve as a self-service grocery, while the top floor will be a bistro section with booths where riders can enjoy their meals. Bathrooms on the train have also been enlarged, and will now feature frosted windows to let in natural light.

The train’s decor, too, is striking. In renderings, cars are decorated with a soft color palette featuring red, blue, and yellow hues. Combined with the many rounded shapes, it gives the trains a jointly futuristic and retro vibe. The design was a combined effort from French engineering consultancy AREP and Japanese design firm NENDO. “The idea was to take a fresh look, to introduce a lasting break in the railway world and to re-enchant a technical and industrial environment,” the SNCF said in a statement. 

Wondering when you’ll be able to ride these new trains? Luckily, we won’t have to wait long — they are set to hit the rails on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille line in 2026 and will roll out on additional lines thereafter.

What To Know About High-Speed Rail in France

When booking a TGV inOui ticket, you can choose between first or second class, both of which are exchangeable or refundable under certain conditions until the time of departure. Prices start around €15 ($18 USD) for domestic travel, but according to travel expert Rick Steves, as seats sell out closer to the departure date, prices increase (similar to airline fares), so it’s best to make a reservation sooner rather than later. Tickets are available for booking three to four months in advance. 

It’s also worth noting that there are certain luggage restrictions on TGV inOui trains. You can bring either two suitcases and one small item — or one suitcase, one small item, and one special item (e.g., a musical instrument, folding bike, etc.). Check here for further information about luggage, along with answers to other commonly asked questions.

In addition to the TGV inOui line, SNCF offers a more affordable alternative: TGV OUIGO. This high-speed rail travels at up to 186 mph. There are two types of fares. The first is a basic option starting at just €10 ($11.50) for adults and €5 for children under 11. But for €9 more, you can upgrade to a fare that comes with seat selection, Wi-Fi, and a skip-the-line service. The trains service around 50 destinations throughout France.

If you’ve had your eye on a new carry-on or you’re looking to upgrade your travel game with the right accessories to make your trip more comfortable, now’s the time to buy. Amazon’s Prime Day runs from June 23 through June 26, 2026, and the retailer has slashed prices on luggage, gadgets, travel must-haves, and more. Here are 12 highly rated picks at some of the lowest prices we’ve seen.

Apple AirTag

Savvy travelers know that an Apple AirTag Bluetooth tracker is the ultimate travel accessory for peace of mind. Toss one in your checked luggage so you can easily keep track of your bag in case the airline loses it.

Buy a 4-pack at Amazon for $89

TravelWise 5-Piece Packing Cube Set

Looking for a clever way to fit more in your carry-on? Packing cubes are the answer. They can help you maximize space and avoid checked bag fees. This highly rated set is lightweight yet durable, and it comes with small, medium, and large cubes for maximum flexibility.

Buy at Amazon for $20

INIU Pocket-Size Portable Charger

This lightweight, palm-sized power bank is one of the smallest on the market, so keeping your electronics charged on the go is simple and easy. Use the TSA-approved device for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wireless headphones, and more.

Buy at Amazon for $28

Sure Lock TSA-Compatible Luggage Locks

Nothing ruins a great vacation quicker than being the victim of theft. Many travelers opt for luggage locks to help deter potential thieves. These TSA-approved locks allow officers to carry out security checks without causing any damage to the lock or the bag itself.

Buy at Amazon for $10

Samsonite Elevation Plus Hardside Luggage

Looking for a carry-on bag that’s both durable and stylish? This versatile, scratch-resistant bag made with polypropylene comes in a range of fun colors and has 360-degree spinner wheels that make it easy to navigate busy airport terminals.

Buy at Amazon for $132

FYY Cable Organizer Travel Bag

With all the tech gear we bring with us these days, charging cables can quickly turn into a tangled mess. Keep them all organized and save yourself the headache with this compact and lightweight cable pouch.

Buy at Amazon for $9.49

TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottle

Staying hydrated while traveling is essential, especially with dry airplane cabin air. This handy foldable silicone water bottle is easy to carry through TSA security and has a leak-resistant screw lid.

Buy at Amazon for $15

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Planning an international trip soon? Make sure your devices stay charged with this all-in-one adapter that works in over 200 countries. It includes USB-A and USB-C slots, in addition to a slot for more traditional power plugs. You can also plug in multiple devices and charge your computer, smartphone, and tablet all at once.

Buy at Amazon for $16

Bagsmart Women’s Travel Tote Bag

This stylish puffy tote bag is fitted with padded handles that make it comfortable to carry through the airport. It has multiple compartments, including a padded laptop compartment that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop.

Buy at Amazon for $22

Sony Wireless Headphones

Stay relaxed and focused on your travels with these wireless over-ear Bluetooth headphones designed with up to 50 hours of battery life.

Buy at Amazon for $33

Dr. Scholl’s Compression Knee-High Socks

The physical toll that flying takes on the body is very real, especially on longer journeys. Studies show that compression socks can help improve blood flow and prevent conditions such as swelling and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Buy on Amazon for $8.44

The Bucket List: 1,000 Adventures Big & Small

Perhaps the best travel gift — for a loved one or yourself — is the one that inspires. You can’t go wrong with this travel book, packed with adventure ideas on all seven continents and incredible photos that will make you want to see the real thing for yourself.

Buy at Amazon for $28

Editor’s note: Prices accurate at time of publication; subject to change.

Featured image credit: © DG PhotoStock/stock.adobe.com. All other image credits: Courtesy of vendor.

It’s not just your imagination: The feeling of calm that washes over us when we’re sunbathing at the beach, enjoying lake life on a boat, or soaking our muscles in a natural hot spring may actually be a semimeditative state affecting our bodies. Late marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols’ “Blue Mind Theory” suggests that being in or near water can impact overall quality of life by improving focus and creativity, bridging a connection to nature, reducing stress and anxiety, and elevating mood. Here’s everything you need to know about this travel trend that’s making waves in 2025.

Washing Away Stress and Sickness

According to Nichols, as little as 23 minutes of exposure to water can trigger the release of dopamine and oxytocin in the brain to prompt feelings of happiness, which may be why many hotels and resorts around the world are offering even more water-based activities and spa treatments than ever before. In 2020, the National Library of Medicine interviewed 184 customers of thermal spas and similar establishments and found that their interaction with water had a profound impact on their sense of well-being, leading them to positively rank their satisfaction with their vacation. 

But the science behind the health benefits of exposure to water goes beyond general feelings of contentment. In a 2025 study published in Environment International, scientists found that “sea spray aerosol (SSA) is a complex mixture of natural substances that can be inhaled by coastal residents.” Over the course of a year along the Ostend coast in Belgium, human bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to SSA samples leading to positive effects on overall health. And in another study by the National Trust in the United Kingdom, participants who took a seaside stroll before bed slept 47 minutes longer than those who took an evening walk inland.

Those who promote the benefits of water treatments, especially flotation therapies, highlight water’s ability to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and believe it reminds humans of floating in amniotic fluid in the womb, which could explain its tranquilizing effect. And you don’t need to even be in still water to feel the stress wash away. According to Dr. William Beecroft, the medical director of behavioral health for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, crashing waves can break apart water molecules, releasing negative ions that can decrease blood pressure and heart rate.

Where To Practice Blue Mind Travel

Water’s ability to both energize and calm is why many tourists seek out the perfect vacation near a river, stream, lake, waterfall, or ocean. Many properties around the world specialize in unique water access or treatments so that guests can experience the benefits of blue mind travel. Here are a few of our favorites.

Hôtel Royal – Évian-les-Bains, France

Guests can experience the restorative properties of Alpine water with exclusive therapeutic treatments at Hôtel Royal Evian in Évian-les-Bains. Evian water is sourced from the Alps and travels for approximately 15 years before reaching this five-star property in southeastern France, near the Swiss border. The on-site Evian Spa offers hydromassage baths, facials using Evian water, and massages beneath a water ramp.

Joali Being – The Maldives

Developed by aquatic bodyworker and poet Harold Dull in the 1980s, Watsu (water shiatsu) is a combination of stretches, massage techniques, and gentle movements in warm water. At wellness resort Joali Being in the Maldives, guests can experience this unique treatment in a pool with master Watsu practitioner Toru Ogasawara. Being submerged in the warm turquoise water while your body relaxes its muscles is said to deepen the connection between body, mind, and spirit. 

Chablé Yucatán – Chocholá, Mexico

Hidden in the heart of the Maya forest in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Chablé Yucatán features a spa built into a cenote, a natural pit or sinkhole possessing natural spring water that locals believe to have healing properties. Cenotes are unique to the Yucatán Península, which is why checking out the cool abyss surrounded by banyan trees and hydrotherapy treatments is popular among visitors. 

Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa – St. Barthélemy

Another popular wellness treatment featuring water, Janzu is an aquatic bodywork in which participants are guided into a meditative state using a series of gentle movements. At Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa in St. Barts, a French-speaking island in the Caribbean, guests can enjoy the spa service as well as private enclaves with ocean access and heated plunge pools for when the sun goes down. 

Ryokan Collection – Japan

For centuries, bathing at onsen (natural hot springs) has been a significant part of Japanese culture, associated with relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and therapeutic effects due to the water’s high mineral content. A ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn often featuring onsen, is a worthwhile experience for those seeking the rejuvenating benefits of water and practicing blue mindfulness. The Ryokan Collection is a group of 32 inns around Japan where guests can experience these traditional accommodations. 

Immelkartano – Sirkka, Finland

If you’ve ever tried cryotherapy in the U.S. — exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures to reduce inflammation and improve recovery — experiencing avantouinti (“ice swimming”) in Finland is a must. At Immelkartano in Sirkka, guests can brave the chilly water temperatures in Lapland with an arctic bath to cleanse the body and mind after they take a long soak in a hot tub.