We each have our own ways of relaxing.
Scheduling a massage. Lighting a few candles. Rolling out a yoga mat.
Or—and we're just spitballing here—hopping on the nearest plane, train or automobile that's heading to the mountains of India or a valley in Mexico to take a dip in one of the world's most picturesque hot springs.
Specifically, these hot springs...
Grutas de Tolantongo, Hidalgo, Mexico
Perched alongside a cliff in Hidalgo, Mexico and overlooking the lush Mezquital Valley, you'll find a cluster of mineral-infused pools that are heated by the surrounding volcanic mountains. And since you love a good cave, there's also one of those carved out by a hot spring river.
Pamukkale, Turkey
White travertine terraces cascade down on this hillside in southwest Turkey. Each one is filled with warm, mineral-rich water. And then there's you, bathing in that vibrant blue water and overlooking it all. And possibly never leaving.
Khir Ganga, Himachal Pradesh, India
Sure, it takes four hours to hike to this Indian hot spring. But it'll all be worth it when you arrive in a meadow where Hindu god Shiva is said to have meditated for 3,000 years, and submerge yourself in sulfur-laced waters overlooking the Himalayas. God status optional.
Termas Geométricas, Pucon, Chile
Part labyrinth of Japanese architecture, part collection of thermal pools, all glorious. Each of the tepid baths is fed directly from the area's natural hot spring, while two waterfalls feed a trio of cold pools. It all makes for a solid day day of jungle pool-hopping.
Dunton Hot Springs, Dunton, Colorado
First, check into your private log cabin in a restored ghost town. Second, make your way to one of the six bicarbonate hot springs (one's located in a restored 19th-century bathhouse, another's under the stars). Finally, repeat step two as necessary.
Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano, Japan
This is one of Japan's most popular hot springs among tourists. And among monkeys. Steam rising off the steep, often snow-covered cliffs has attracted a friendly population of snow monkeys for centuries. You won't be getting in with them, but you also won't care.
