Guest blog post from Felicity Leo

What is soft travel, and is it for you?

You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the world, your schedule, or everyday stress. But is now the right time to rediscover travel? Absolutely! Now more than ever, travelers are seeking mental clarity and meaningful experiences.

Soft travel has emerged as one of the top travel trends for 2025–2026. It’s all about intentionally creating space to breathe, reflect, and reset.

Why soft travel matters

More than a trend, soft travel is a complete mindset shift. The Hilton Trend Reports said it’s rooted in simplicity, spontaneity, and self-care. Nearly a quarter of women travelers now plan trips specifically centered around mental wellness.

And the new travel luxury? Peace, privacy, and personal space, without sacrificing rich experiences. Vacations are no longer about checking boxes, more about feeling grounded, relaxed, and truly reconnected.

Instead of over-planning and over-scheduling, soft travelers embrace a slower rhythm: wandering with intention, pausing in nature, and exploring without pressure. These are the core values of the soft travel ethos.

As digital fatigue grows, more solo women are choosing to skip overcrowded destinations embracing JOMO: The Joy of Missing Out!

**Top soft travel destinations for women & solo travelers**

Lisbon, Portugal – where soulful culture meets sun-kissed charm

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most walkable cities—ideal for soft travel. With vibrant tile-lined streets, pastel buildings, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, it’s the ultimate solo-friendly destination.

It was such a thrill to visit Lisbon this summer! I loved relaxing on the cool beaches of Cascais and exploring the airy, fairytale-like mountain village of Sintra. Sunset views from the Miradouros were unforgettable, and the soulful sounds of live Fado music in Alfama made the evenings truly magical. Of course, I couldn’t get enough of the fresh seafood at the vibrant Time Out Market!

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and wandering around Lisbon’s hilly streets and mosaic sidewalks and for hands-free exploring, carry a crossbody bag, especially popular for solo travel spots like Alfama and Bairro Alto.

Iceland – soak, steam, and surrender in the Land of Fire & Ice

Iceland is a geothermal wonderland where you can soak in nature’s own healing waters or relax at boutique spa hotels. Top wellness spots include Blue Lagoon (Grindavík): Iconic mineral-rich waters in a lava field, for the private retreat for total calm. Sky Lagoon (Reykjavík): Oceanside spa with serene design and Icelandic bathing rituals.

Curaçao – Caribbean color and calm, without the crowds

Curaçao blends Dutch influence with Caribbean warmth. Willemstad’s UNESCO-listed architecture and calm coves offer laid-back luxury and vibrant culture—without the chaos. Pastel buildings, hidden beach clubs, and cocktails at sunset will have you wishing you booked a longer stay.

Pro Tip: For quieter, solo-friendly escapes, think of visiting local beaches like Playa Lagun. Choose brightly colored clothing for standout vacation photos.

Ljubljana, Slovenia - car-free capital and one of Europe’s most charming cities

Many have called it Europe’s Hidden Fairy Tale with riverside cafés, a thriving wellness culture, and vibrant local markets make it a hidden gem for soft travelers. An awesome itinerary would be scenic boat rides and golden hour hikes to Ljubljana Castle. You’ll want to unplug here longer than planned.

Pro Tip: Car-free Old Town is perfect for strolls, café hopping, and quiet time by the river. Local women often bike, so renting one is a scenic option.

Martinique – French elegance meets Caribbean ease

Martinique offers French sophistication with Caribbean soul. It’s a destination of quiet beaches, rainforests, Creole cuisine, and laid-back elegance. I loved starting my mornings with espresso by the beach, then exploring the lush landscapes, and ending my days with unforgettable meals full of tropical and French flavors.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip Fort-de-France markets for handmade goods. Especially the French meets Caribbean chic styles with breathable fabrics.

Seville, Spain - passionate, walkable, and warm

Perfect for small groups or solo travelers, Seville is all about intimate plazas, flamenco rhythms, and Moorish history. Why go? For the orange-blossomed courtyards, chocolate-dipped churros and the flamenco shows that if booked in advance will secure front-row magic in smaller, intimate venues.

Pro Tip: A great example of soft travel is discovering the soul of Southern Spain with a journey off the beaten path and rich with intention. This trip is all about slowing down and savoring every moment. It’s meaningful, magical, and made to reconnect you with the joy of travel.

Norway - forest saunas, fjord retreats, and mindful minimalism

Norway blends Scandinavian simplicity with untouched beauty. Here, wellness means quiet cabins, forest saunas, and slow mornings by the sea. The top wellness spots include: Farris Bad in Larvik, Norway is a luxurious oceanfront spa built over a mineral spring. The Well in Oslo is Norway’s largest spa with 15+ saunas and pools. Juvet Landscape Hotel: Glass-walled cabins surrounded by forest and fjord.

Pro Tip: Even for your winter travel, pack a swimsuit, because many forest saunas and fjord retreats offer cold plunges followed by cozy wellness lounges.

Ready for next-level travel?

Traveling with a small group of like-minded women is next-level because it offers built-in connection, shared laughs, and the freedom to explore safely and confidently.

Join us in April 2026 for the Wine, Chocolate & You in Sicily Women’s Group Tour with Olegana Travel Boutique: where culture, community, and comfort truly come together.

Grab a time on Anna’s calendar for a free consultation here!

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