Experiential Travel

High Altitude Escape

By Amy Elisa Keith

Take the girls weekend up a notch with a helicopter ride up to the Columbia Mountains for yoga, mountain hikes, zip-lining, climbing and a five-star dinner.

DISCOVER NOW: Canadian Mountain Holiday’s Bodacious Gets Bo(u)lder, from $2500

Music in Istanbul

At the Ritz Carlton Istanbul, take advantage of a unique opportunity to give back at The Foundation of Disabled People. Music therapy is extremely helpful for these students and is an unforgettable addition to your travels.

DISCOVER NOW: Ritz Carlton Giveback Getaway, from $125 per day

Yoga in Bhutan

Find your center with a special program in mystical Bhutan, near the Himalayan Mountains. In addition to meditation and yoga sessions, guests can explore sacred monasteries and enjoy hiking in the lodges’ pristine surroundings.

DISCOVER NOW: Amankora Luxury Resort’s Yoga Retreat, from $9,100 for 7 nights

Building the Big Easy

Head down South for a volunteer vacation where you can help refurbish houses damaged by Hurricane Katrina, sort clothing at a homeless shelter or teach computer skills to unemployed people. Stay in a luxury boutique hotel in the French Quarter while exploring the flavors and splendor of the Crescent City.

DISCOVER NOW: Hands Up Holidays – New Orleans, from $2,980 for 8 days

Holiday in Jordan

While many people spend the day after Thanksgiving enjoying leftovers, it cannot match the satisfaction of traveling to Jordan to help Habitat for Humanity build homes. Give thanks with a meaningful trip to the Middle East to learn about the culture and spend the holidays in a constructive way.

DISCOVER NOW: Habitat for Humanity — Al Adessiah, Jordan, from $1,420 for 8 days

Interactive India

Volunteer at a charity associated with Tear Fund, working in impoverished areas, helping renovate and beautify the slums, or at a charity dedicated to improving the lives of India’s poorest children. Then, tour all of the remarkable sites of India including the Taj Mahal and the Deserted City.

DISCOVER NOW: Hands Up Holidays — India, from $5,700 for 14 days

Stateside Ashram in California

Embark on a inner journey with a stay at a traditional Ashram in Los Angeles. Self-imposed discipline is a requirement to get the most of the yoga, meditation, vegetarian diet, nature hikes and workouts.

DISCOVER NOW: The Ashram in Los Angeles, from $4,250 for 7 days

Relaxation and Ruins in Egypt

At the gateway to the horizon of the desert, al Moudira hotel is steps away from Karnak temple and the Valley of the Kings. The retreat offers archaeological tours and Turkish baths after a hot air balloon ride or camel ride.

DISCOVER NOW: al Moudira Resort in Luxor, Egypt, from $250 per night