Special Episode Blue Zone Travel

 

https://www.bluezones.com/exploration/#section-1

 

The five "Blue Zones" in the world, which are regions identified as having a high concentration of people living to a very old age, are: 

 

Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, USA. Notably, four of these Blue Zones are located near oceans, making them easily accessible by sea travel. 

 

• Ocean proximity: Blue Zones like Costa Rica and California are situated not too far from coastlines, making them ideal destinations for those interested in combining a healthy lifestyle exploration with beach vacations. 

• Mediterranean Sea: The regions of Sardinia (Italy) and Ikaria (Greece) are located in the Mediterranean Sea, which can be easily accessed by cruise ships or ferries. 

• Cultural immersion: Visiting a Blue Zone allows travelers to experience the local culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, which are often linked to longevity. 

 

My friend Kirsty mentioned this in January, so I’ve created a list of things to do for each. You are not guaranteed to have long life, or even a good time, but visiting one or more of the zones will require different types of travel.

1. Ikaria, Greece 🇬🇷

The island where people forget to die. It’s located off Athens, in the Icarian Sea. It’s on an island not fro from Mikonos or Patmos.

• Hike ancient trails to tiny stone chapels and mountain villages.

• Soak in natural hot springs in Therma.

• Join a panigiri (village festival)—you’ll eat, dance, and be pulled into the local scene, no invite needed.

• Try the local herbal teas and Mediterranean diet, rich in greens, olive oil, and goat’s milk.

🔍 Vibe: Rustic, serene, deeply communal. Great for introspection.

 

 

2. Okinawa, Japan 🇯🇵

Land of the world’s longest-living women. I’ve been to Japan, but not yet here.

 

 

3. Sardinia, Italy 🇮🇹

Mountain life, shepherds, and centenarians galore. I’ve been to Italy, but only the boot. This island is far from the mainland. It’s mountainous and has beaches. The cities are Cagliari to the south and Alghero to the north.

•  

 

 

4. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Pura Vida in every breath.

•  

 

 

5. Loma Linda, California, USA 🇺🇸

A health-conscious bubble in SoCal. I have been here, but I never really thought about living a long life. They do have an award-winning hospital here. It's not far from Big Bear Lake and San Bernadino Riverside area near Los Angeles.

•  

 

 

Skeptical Take: Are the Blue Zones Just Hype?

Not every Blue Zone is “set up” for tourism, and longevity isn’t guaranteed to rub off on you after a week. Infrastructure, language barriers, and culture gaps can pose challenges.

But if you’re looking for meaningful solo travel that reframes aging, fosters deep well-being, and introduces you to life lived at a different rhythm, these places are worth the trip. Just keep your expectations grounded—and your curiosity wide open.

 

Today’s Travel Advice- Find a blue Zone near you that’s not on the list. Perhaps you can adjust your lifestyle to make the most of your years here. Let me know if you discover another Blue Zone in your travels.

 

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news