It’s important to take a break and recharge, whether it’s for an afternoon or a long vacation. Studies show that those who take vacation time have lower stress and are more motivated—and even a short break can give you a fresh perspective on life.
But what type of vacation suits you? Does your ideal vacation involve a tropical beach with blue water and swaying palm trees? Or, do you prefer a hike with your best friend? No matter your leanings, we have inspiration for your next vacay.
If the white sand beaches and swaying palms of the tropics are calling you, then look no further than the Mayan Riviera. Covering approximately 50 miles of sun and sand from Cancun, Mexico to Tulum, Mexico, it’s easy to get to and has options galore. Active sorts can enjoy zip lining through the jungle or scuba diving. For others, there’s spa activities, Mayan ruins, and yes, beachside lounging while being waited on hand and foot.
Wondering where to stay? You can go the resort route for the ultimate pampering, or rent an Airbnb to build you own experience. And if you want to bring your dogs, the paperwork is easy to complete to bring them into Mexico. The toughest aspect is the flying. If you’re flying, then call your airline of choice to find out their current requirements, as they frequently change. Some airlines have a two-pet per flight limit.
For those on the West Coast who’d like to stay stateside and go upscale, why not book you and your pup into the Hotel Coronado? This iconic hotel has welcomed guests of the two–legged and four–legged variety since 1888. It presides across San Diego Bay and features Yappy Hours, a Bark Brunch and a nearby dog beach for a pup–friendly good time. Plus, San Diego is super dog-friendly so there are lots of welcoming shops and restaurants.
For those who don’t mind frigid temperatures, consider a visit to the Winter Carnival in Quebec City, Canada. Held over 17 days in January and February, there are life-size ice and snow sculptures, a canoe race along the St. Lawrence River, maple-tapping and more. Its French–style architecture and narrow streets make for a very European feel.
If it’s a warmer city experience you’d like to enjoy, then it’s hard to top New Orleans. Famous for its own carnival (Mardi Gras) and a general bon vivant cheer any time of the year, you can eat, drink and shop til you drop. Gallery-hop along Royal and Magazine Streets. Enjoy live music all over town, especially street musicians in the French Quarter and the jazz clubs tucked into Frenchmen Street after hours. Eat fried oysters and red beans and rice and walk it off admiring the 19th c. mansions in the Garden District. Expect to be charmed.
It is not too early to plan a summer or fall getaway. The Smokey Mountains are filled with hiking trails and pet-friendly options including river rafting. River Rat Tubing and Water Rafting reportedly has pet–friendly tubing. It’s best to call ahead of course, but if you have a water–loving pooch, this could be a fun option.
Enjoy all the fun you remember about camp, but dog-centric. Located about three hours from Chicago, Camp Dogwood in Lake Delton, Wisconsin, offers endless games of fetch, agility training and much more. There’s even a winter version with dog sledding and other outdoor sports.
Lions, elephants, rhinos, oh my! Many people dream of going on an African Safari. What holds them back is the time, distance and cost, which is considerable. If you aren’t able to leave your practice for 10 days or more, fly to Africa and spend $400–$1500/night/person once you get there, you may be interested in safari options closer to home.
The Out of Africa Wildlife Experience in Arizona mimics the Serengeti Preserve with free–roaming zebras and giraffes, and you can even camp within the preserve.
Arkansas is home to the Wild Wilderness Drive-Through Safari, which includes African Lions and Camels. They also have a petting zoo where you can get close to kangaroos and spider monkeys.
As you can see, there are plenty of vacation options for veterinarians who need to get away, with or without your pets.
Which of these do you find most enticing?+
