The purpose of a vacation is to have fun and possibly catch up on some sleep. People define their best vacations in many ways to what personally appeals to them- the best beaches, the best restaurants, the most romantic, etc- and what they are looking to get out of the vacation.

For people looking for the best beaches, places like the Mayan Riviera and Australia can be top of the list. The best restaurants can be highlighted from New York to Chicago. The most romantic can range from Maui to Paris. Family vacations can vary from camping in some Canadian woods, to a fun-packed (yet debatably exhausting) whirl-wind tour with Mickey at Disneyland. Depending on the desired outcome, the definition of the best vacation is in the eyes of the beholder.

To me, the best vacation is one in which I am able to rest, relax and rejuvenate. Life is too busy with work, topped with the techie leashes of our iPhones, family demands and soccer practices, just to name a few things. The things that suffer are our sleep and health. We end up rushing around, stressing to accomplish the impossible, eating poorly and ending our days frazzled. Vacations should restore us back to feeling happy and healthy. Regular time-off, regardless if it’s a luxury Mediterranean cruise or a simply bed-and-breakfast weekend in Maine, is critical for our well-being. If I can return from a holiday and say that the best souvenir I brought back with me was myself- mind, body and soul- that to me is the best vacation ever!