A new year brings reflections on the past, which tends to leads to thoughts of ways that we want to change and improve ourselves and our lives, which can become bogged down at times with stresses of everyday life, work, putting kids through college, caring for our aging parent. When we think of everyone else first, we tend to push our needs and the needs of our relationship with our partner to a back burner – if they are even on the stove anymore.

New Year, New You

This new year, make it a new you. Commit yourself to do those things that you always wanted to do – explore the world, see foreign countries or stay local. Texas is a big, diverse state – see what is in your backyard that you may not have known about. Just get out and DO something fun. Reconnect with your partner. Rekindle the flame that maybe isn’t as hot as it used to be. When you make the time to reconnect and strengthen the bond between the two of you, it will ease some of the stress of life.

One of the best ways that I have found to rekindle, reconnect, and strengthen that bond is through travel and specialized couple’s retreats. Travel “forces” you to take distractions out of your “life equation” leaving just the two of you to focus on what is important – the two of you. Couples retreats create an avenue for you to learn ways to bond, reconnect, relax and feel rejuvenated.

I will let you in on a little secret; it is entirely acceptable for men to be pampered too. Yes, they go to spas. Yes, they get manis, pedis, facials, massages and do yoga. Real men even eat quiche.

Ready to reconnect, relax, and feel that happy rejuvenated step in your walk again? Grab a glass of champagne and have a look at some of these resorts that offer retreats, spa packages and yoga classes for couples.

Thailand

Empowering couples to concentrate each other and their relationship, Thae Retreats provides exclusivity and privacy with groups of less than ten couples per retreat in Thailand. Offering packages with dates throughout the year Thae Retreats is a good option for those couples really looking to focus in on their relationship.

While you are in Thailand, make time to explore these sights and things to do – be sure to check out the spectacular Grand Palace in Bangkok, built in 1782 and home of the Royal court for 150 years. Erawan National Park, one of the most famous national parks in Thailand has streams, waterfalls, emerald green pools, and home to the annual Songkran Festival in April where the waterfall tiers turn into a place of celebration with water fights. It is highly recommended that you do not bring any electronics that are not waterproof. Not far from Bangkok is Amphawa Floating Market, one of Thailand’s oldest floating markets where you can sample local dishes, pick up a few souvenirs for home, or take a boat tour of the canals.

Ecuador

Cancion del Corazon Wholistic Lifepath Center located in the lush tropical mountains of Vilcabamba, Ecuador, offers numerous all-inclusive couples retreats with healthy cooking, hot springs aqua-massage, yoga and meditation. While in Ecuador be sure to check out Ingapirca, the most significant and best preserved archaeological site in Ecuador and home to the Canari, a matriarchal society that dates back to the pre-Inca period. Ingapirca is the Machu Picchu of Ecuador. No trip to Ecuador is complete without a visit to Quito. Founded in the 16th century, Quito is the capital city of Ecuador and offers numerous museums, parks, cathedrals and markets for visitors to explore.

New Jersey

Nestled in the picturesque rolling garden farmland of New Jersey, Crystal Springs Resort is an excellent getaway that offers couple spa packages dedicated to easing your stress and help you unwind opening the door for you to have a new perspective on life. My favorite was the Fall In Love Package with a couples massage, dinner, golf, and chocolate covered strawberries. What is not to love? If New Jersey is your destination, then the glowing rocks of Sterling Hill Mining in Ogdensburg is a must see. The mine became operational in 1739 with tunnels totaling more than 35 miles in length going down to depths of 2,550 feet below the surface. Sterling Hill Mine is known for its phosphorescent rocks that glow under black lights in neon-bright blue, pink, red, green and yellow colors. Quite a sight to see if you are a rock hound.

New Mexico

Located in the heart of enchanting New Mexico with stunning sunsets in what seems like an unending sky is Four Seasons Santa Fe that delivers a variety of luxury spa and massage packages perfectly suited for couples. Santa Fe has an abundance of activities whether you want to experience the colorful desert mountain formations with vibrant reds and yellows, sample Santa Fe’s unique signature dishes that combines Anglo frontier cooking with Pueblo Indian and Spanish Colonial flavors, explore the cliff dwellings of Bandelier National Monument or even get in some shopping therapy, there is something for both of you.

Washington

Situated 900 feet above the Columbia River in central Quincy, Washington, Cave B Inn has a substantial selection of luxurious couple spa packages and outdoor activities to help you relax and unwind. Overlooking their own estate vineyard with breathtaking views of Gorge Amphitheater, stunning cliffside swimming pool, yurts for glamping as well as romantic guestrooms, Cave B Inn is perfect for a “pamper” weekend. Central Washington is a great place to hike with numerous trails ranging from easy to more strenuous up to 12 miles in length.

This is a new year and a perfect time to make it a new you. Take the time to travel, explore and pamper yourself. You deserve it.