Lately I’ve noticed more and more people signing off their Friday emails with wishes for a “quiet weekend” rather than a “nice weekend” or a “good weekend.” A sign perhaps that everyone wants to disconnect from the noise?
The data says the same thing: In a recent Booking.com survey of Singaporeans’ travel preferences for 2025, 62 percent of people said they were interested in longevity retreats, and two-thirds were considering dark-sky destinations for serene activities like stargazing.
If you are currently among those looking for peaceful travel, here are five of the best options in the world.
1. Grasslands National Park, Canada
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Why it’s special: As the name suggests, this Saskatchewan park (say “suss-catcher-one”) is one of the last remaining areas of undisturbed grasslands in North America.
It is also home to diverse wildlife, including bison, birds and the only remaining black-tailed prairie dog colonies in Canada. The park’s cultural history is also rich: Indigenous people lived here as far back as 10,000 years ago, and the area is home to remnants of early settler life.
Tranquil Experience: Grasslands’ vast, open spaces provide a peaceful environment, perfect for walking and birdwatching, while the absence of light pollution makes for incredible stargazing.
With fewer crowds than the more popular national parks, this is a good choice for those looking for connection with nature and solitude in beautiful surroundings.
2. Kunisaki Peninsula, Japan
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Why it’s special: The Kunisaki Peninsula in northern Oita is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and rich Buddhist heritage. Dominated by Mount Futago, it is dotted with valleys, forests, farmlands and temples, including Fukiji Temple, a national treasure dating back more than a thousand years.
This is also the birthplace of the spiritual practice of Rokugo Manzan, a unique religious culture that combines elements of Buddhism, Shinto and forest worship.
Peaceful experience: Here you can enjoy the serene environment and the natural beauty of the surrounding forests amid ancient temples, guarded by imposing stone statues that add to the mystical atmosphere.
Or explore Kitsuki, a former castle town where you can stroll through quiet streets in search of former samurai homes.
Tour operators like Walk Japan help make wandering the region easy, with guides or DIY walking trails so you can connect with nature and spirituality at your own pace.
3. Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
Why it’s special: This vast wilderness is located in New Zealand’s Southern Alps and its breathtaking scenery includes towering peaks, glaciers and alpine lakes.
It is a haven for bird watchers and is also home to numerous other wildlife such as wild goats, red deer and wild cats. But despite the remoteness of this place, it’s possible to spend a night (or five) in one of the many quaint lodges and hotels in the area.
Tranquil experience: The park is home to Aoraki, the country’s highest mountain, and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing and stargazing – a nature lover’s paradise. It is also recognized as a dark sky reserve and is one of the best places to observe the Milky Way.
4. Bali (during Nyepi), Indonesia
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Why it’s special: Bali’s Nyepi, or Day of Silence, is an annual cultural celebration during which the entire island shuts down. No flights arrive or depart and residents refrain from working, traveling, using their devices and even speaking, creating an atmosphere of special calm and silence.
Peaceful experience: For those on the island during Nyepi, the day offers an opportunity for introspection and peace. You can participate in meditation, yoga or simply enjoy the silence that envelops the island, so you experience Bali – often seen as a party place – in a deeper way.
For a better understanding of Nyepi, hotels such as Four Seasons Resort Bali are offering special programs during this period to take guests deeper into the experience.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Why it’s special: Chiang Mai may be known for its rich culture and beautiful temples, but it also has a reputation for wellness and mindfulness.
There’s something about the soothing backdrop of the mountains and gentle flow of the Ping River here that has transformed this town in Thailand’s northern highlands into a hub for silent retreats and meditation centers – a cocoon for those seeking silence .
Quiet Experience: Most retreats offer immersive experiences in meditation, yoga, and mindfulness practices, allowing you to disconnect from the outside world.
And while many are tied to a religion, almost all welcome visitors of any denomination. The quietest time to go is during the low season, from May to October, although the weather can be wet during this time.
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This article was first published in Wonderwall.sg.
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