Travel has always been my go-to remedy. Whether I’m in need of a fresh perspective, a break from the monotony, or just looking to reset, a change of scenery can do wonders. But when it comes to supporting a loved one in recovery, travel isn’t just about changing the view—it can be about changing the entire narrative. In this post, as part of our travel blog section, we’ll explore some travel strategies for supporting a loved one in recovery.
Imagine you and your loved one, embarking on a journey not just to a new destination, but to a new chapter in their life. It’s not about forgetting the past or running from problems; it’s about creating space to breathe, to heal, and to connect in ways that might not be possible at home. But before you pack your bags and head to the nearest airport, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. After all, recovery is a delicate process, and travel can either complement or complicate it.
Why Travel? The Healing Power of Movement
There’s something symbolic about travel and recovery going hand in hand. Both are journeys—one literal, the other metaphorical. When I think back on my travels, I’ve always felt that being somewhere new helped me shed my skin, if only for a moment. It’s like stepping outside of your own life and getting a fresh look at the world. For someone in recovery, that shift can be just as significant. Just read this article to understand home much.
But, and here’s the kicker, travel can also be stressful. New places, new routines, unpredictable situations—it’s the opposite of what someone might need when they’re working through recovery. That’s why the destination matters and the journey itself should feel more like a gentle stroll than a mad dash through the airport.
Watch this TED lecture to see how just being in nature can help:
Picking the Right Destination
Imagine you’ve just stepped off the plane into the serene English countryside. Maybe it’s somewhere like the Cotswolds—rolling hills, peaceful villages, and a slower pace of life. That’s the kind of place where healing can truly take root. A location that fosters peace, quiet, and a touch of nature is ideal.
But what about those who need more structure? For some, a nature retreat won’t cut it. Maybe they need a destination where they can continue their treatment and recovery plan while still getting away from the daily grind. That’s where places like Heartwood Recovery can come into play. A recovery center nestled in a tranquil setting offers the best of both worlds—an escape from the every day while maintaining the kind of support system that’s vital to long-term healing. For those in need of a structured, supportive environment, a place like Heartwood could be just what the doctor ordered. You can check them out here https://heartwoodrecovery.com/
Prioritising Comfort and Safety
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. You want your loved one to feel comfortable while travelling, but comfort means different things to different people. Some might need the familiar rhythm of home—a routine that keeps them grounded. Others might thrive on a bit of adventure.
When I travel with someone, especially someone who’s in a more vulnerable place, I try to keep things flexible. It’s like packing an umbrella even if the forecast calls for sunshine—you never know what might come up. Maybe they’ll have a bad day, or maybe the hustle of the trip will bring up old triggers. That’s why it’s important to create space for them to feel safe and to give them an out when they need it. Think of it like weaving a safety net into your travel plans.
Creating an Itinerary that Heals
Now, I know what you’re thinking—”itinerary” sounds like the opposite of a stress-free trip. But hear me out. I’m not talking about a rigid, hour-by-hour schedule. I’m talking about an itinerary that includes a mix of relaxing downtime and meaningful activities.
When my partner and I took a trip to the Scottish Highlands, I learned the importance of balance. We’d spend the mornings exploring the vast, open landscapes, and the afternoons just sitting by the fire in our cozy rental cottage, sipping tea and talking about everything and nothing. Those quiet moments are just as important as the adventurous ones. When travelling with someone in recovery, it’s essential to weave those moments of stillness into your plans.
Overall, I think Scotland is the perfect place for a relaxed holiday for someone in recovery. Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Staying Connected to Support Systems
Recovery doesn’t take a vacation, and neither do the needs that come with it. This is where a little planning ahead can make a big difference. Find out what resources are available at your destination—whether it’s a local support group, access to therapy, or simply a quiet place where your loved one can retreat if they need to.
During one of my trips to a wellness retreat in Spain, I found that the staff were well-versed in handling different dietary needs and offered mindfulness sessions that anyone could join. While it wasn’t specifically for those in recovery, it provided the kind of serene, supportive environment that could easily fit into a recovery plan. It’s about keeping those lines of support open, even while you’re away from home.
Managing Setbacks Along the Way
Let’s face it—no matter how well you plan, things can (and will) go wrong. Maybe your flight gets delayed, or you arrive to find that your hotel room doesn’t have the calming view of the ocean you’d promised. When travelling with someone in recovery, these little hiccups can feel like big roadblocks.
My advice? Roll with the punches. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary. When my partner and I got stuck in a remote part of Ireland with nothing but rain for company, we turned it into a joke. We bought cheap ponchos, wandered around in the drizzle, and let ourselves enjoy the absurdity of the situation. That moment of laughter did more for our spirits than any sunny beach ever could.
The Road Ahead
At the end of the day, travelling with a loved one in recovery isn’t about finding the perfect destination or avoiding stress altogether. It’s about being present with them, providing support when they need it, and letting the journey unfold naturally. Whether you’re hiking in the Highlands, retreating to a peaceful cottage, or visiting a place like Heartwood Recovery for structured support, the most important thing is that you’re there together.
Because sometimes, the best part of the journey isn’t the destination—it’s the company you keep along the way.
