How to Choose the Right Retreat for You in 2026

Kayla
5 hours ago
3 min read

Because your 2026 needs something better than another “maybe next year” trip.

Planning a vacation is a lot like choosing your next favorite book: there are dozens of great options, and you’re one scroll away from choice overload. If you’ve ever spent 40 minutes browsing Netflix only to rewatch Grey's Anatomy, you know the feeling.

So let’s make this easy, fun, and a little self-revealing.

Two women in swimsuits sit on a sailboat deck, arms raised in peace signs. Calm sea, bright sun, and clear blue sky set a joyful mood.

Here’s how to choose the right women’s retreat for you in 2026.

1. Choose a retreat that matches your energy (not your calendar)

Start with your vibe for the year ahead. Do you want:

Soft, calm, cozy energy like reading in a blanket and taking long morning coffees
Reset energy with sunshine, slower days, gentle adventure
Creative energy in places that spark ideas and give your brain space again

Your retreat should feel like a deep exhale, not another to-do.

2. Decide what type of traveler you want to be

Everyone travels differently, and can want (or need!) different styles of travel depending on where you are in your life. So, what type of traveler are you? Do you like structured activities and traveling with a group? Would you rather have more casual days to explore on your own? Or maybe you'd like lots of downtime to relax on a beach with a book and your bestie by your side.

Choosing the right rhythm ensures the retreat feels restorative, not crowded.

3. Pick the destination that supports the version of you you’re becoming

Pick the setting that gets you most excited:

Tropical & chill: perfect for unwinding, floating, napping, recharging
Countryside or nature-forward: ideal for deep rest, quiet, and reflection
Historic & educational: great for curiosity, learning, and experiencing a place with real depth
City life & filled with food: perfect for flavor-hunting, people-watching, and soaking in the energy of somewhere new

Your environment does more emotional heavy lifting in your decision-making than you think.

Three women laugh together outdoors, arms around each other. They wear glasses and coats. The background shows a blurred building, and the mood is joyful.

4. Consider how much structure feels good

Every retreat is different. Some offer more scheduled activities; others leave you free to wander, journal, or read all afternoon.

Do you want curated excursions?
Do you prefer unstructured rest time?
Are you craving wellness elements like movement or massage?
Are you looking to relax and read to your heart's content?

Choose the format that relaxes you, not one that gives you decision fatigue.

5. Think about who you want to travel with (even if you’re going solo)

Traveling with the right people is everything. Not everyone reading this will decide to choose a Slow Travel Co. Retreat! And we're okay with that! This is about finding the right retreat for you.

But, if you're looking for an experience with a small group of like-minded, curious, and thoughtful women, we might be the right fit for you!

Reading Retreats are for thoughtful, book-loving, curious women who like equal parts relaxation and adventure.
Slow Travel Retreats are for adventurers who like to take it at a relaxed pace. For this group, it's not about checking off things on a list, it's about experiencing a place to its fullest.

6. Choose the retreat that feels like a “yes” in your body

Close every tab. Take a breath. Notice which retreat you keep coming back to.

Not the one you should pick. The one that feels like: “Oh. That’s what I need.”

Group of six smiling people on a boat, holding drinks at sunset. Sea and distant boats in background. Vibrant clothing and relaxed mood.

Looking for the right 2026 retreat?

Slow Travel Co. creates women’s-only Reading Retreats and Slow Travel experiences designed for rest, inspiration, and connection. Each retreat includes: