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Whilst holidays have long been synonymous with booze (think Piña Coladas on the beach in Bali and sipping Champers in the Swiss Alps), more of us than ever are swapping cocktails for mocktails and opting for slightly more sober curious vacations. Even Contiki’s Voice of a Generation survey found that 78% of Contiki travellers said they would consider teetotal or sober travel!
With over six years of sober tourism under my belt, embarking on alcohol-free adventures has meant making memories that I actually remember; discovering the joy in experiencing and engaging with new cultures on a deeper level and most importantly, coming back to work without the dreaded hangover. So, here’s why I think alcohol-free vacations are the best vacations, and my ultimate tips for embarking on sober travel!
What are the benefits of sober travel?
1. Dodging the tourist times
Ah, the serene bliss of morning—trust me, it’s a game-changer! When you trade in the late-night tipples for a good night’s sleep, you get to flirt with dawn. Waking up sans hangover is like a VIP ticket to the world’s busiest spots. Imagine having the Trevi Fountain all to yourself or being the first to lay footprints on a dewy Machu Picchu. While everyone else is nursing a wine headache, you’re out there, ticking off your bucket list before breakfast.
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
Image source:Millie Gooch
2. Finding your people
Sober vacations? They’re social superglue, I promise. When you’re out and about, you’re going to bump into all sorts of folks from sunrise yoga enthusiasts, hiking comrades, and cultural aficionados, who’d all rather have a deep convo over coffee than shout over a crowded bar. Saying “no” to a glass of bubbly might lead to saying “yes” to friendships that’ll probably outlast any holiday fling!
3. Saving money
Choosing the sober curious life will always give your bank balance a significant boost and all that cash you’re not splashing on booze? It’s your new travel fun fund! You can now afford to opt for that spontaneous salsa class, an extra night at that boujee hotel you’re loving or, if you’re like me, more side dishes at brunch.
Image source:Millie Gooch
Sober travel tips
1. Exploring alcohol-free drinks
Navigating the drink scene on holiday doesn’t have to be a dry experience. Start by doing a little pre-trip Googling to scope out the mocktail scene, or search hashtags like #SoberinParis (or wherever your destination!). Don’t be shy to ask your bartender to surprise you with a booze-free concoction— it’s good to challenge their mixology skills! Lastly, if the bar scene leaves you empty-handed, be sure to check out supermarkets, local shops and even liquor stores.
2. Dealing with peer pressure
It can be daunting, but dealing with peer pressure gets easier when you remember your ‘why.’ Stand firm in your sober curious choice with a confident, “I’m all about alcohol-free vacations.” This can set boundaries and may even inspire others, especially if they’re nursing a hangover. If you’re worried about temptation, be sure to book things in for early the next morning to help keep you accountable.
Image source:Millie Gooch
3. Lasting the nightlife
Sober doesn’t mean skipping the dance floor but it might mean becoming choosier. Always opt for places with music that you like and check out their menus beforehand to see if they have good alcohol-free options. Plus, many cities are nurturing a sober nightlife scene, with morning and evening events that are entirely booze free – check out global spaces like Dry Disco, Morning Gloryville and DAYBREAKER.
The best destinations for sober travel
1. London
London is a pioneer in sober tourism, offering a vibrant array of alcohol-free beverages, bars and events. From alcohol-free bottle shops like Club Soda, to gorgeous afternoon teas London serves up a teetotal experience that doesn’t skimp on the excitement. With the charity behind Dry January based in London, the month is always flooded with fun sober events too!
Image source:Millie Gooch
2. New York
The city that never sleeps is also the city that offers alcohol-free fun at any hour. New York’s scene is full of late-night diners and TONNES of alcohol-free bars that offer all the buzz without the hangover. Plus, it’s packed with great tourist experiences and shows that don’t require any alcohol whatsoever.
3. Barcelona
Barcelona might be famed for its nightlife, but it’s also a haven for sober travellers. Cruise lines docking here are increasingly promoting alcohol-free voyages, and the city’s cafes are teeming with tasty non-alcoholic beverage choices. You can even check out Sense, a new non-alcoholic bottle shop that’s opened in the city which offers alcohol-free goodness galore!
