If you have been longing, begging, hinting or otherwise dearly wanting a trip to the best tropical isle in the U.S., we have all the justification you need. Whether you are trying to convince yourself or others, there are some very valid scientific and emotional reasons to schedule that Maui vacation now. When else in history can you say we just came through a pandemic any you need a break? People in the U.S. are working more hours and taking less time off, which can be stressful. Even if you are retired or happily not working, you likely missed out on a lot of travel the past two years. When your life balance feels out of whack, it’s time to get away to Maui.
1. Improved physical health
Stress can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure. For both men and women, the New York Times reported, taking a vacation every two years compared to every six will lessen the risk of coronary heart disease or heart attacks.
2. Improved mental health
Neuroscientists have found that chronic exposure to stress can alter your brain structure and bring on anxiety and depression. When you take a vacation, feelings of calm arise and relieve stress, which allows the body and mind to heal in ways that it couldn’t if it were still under pressure.
3. Greater well-being
According to a Gallup study, people who “always make time for regular trips” had a 68.4 score on the Gallup-Heathway’s Well-Being Index, in comparison to a 51.4 Well-Being score for less frequent travelers. One study found that three days after vacation, subjects’ physical complaints, quality of sleep, and mood had improved compared to before vacation. These gains were still present five weeks later, especially in those who had more personal time and overall satisfaction during their vacation.
4. Increased mental motivation
Many who return from vacation are more focused and productive. Studies have found that chronic stress can make it difficult to achieve certain tasks and cause memory problems. Taking time off can be like getting a tune-up for the brain, improving your mental health and cognition.
5. Improved family relationships
Spending time enjoying life with loved ones can keep relationships strong. A study by the Arizona Department of Health and Human Services found that women who took vacations were more satisfied with their marriages.
6. Decreased burnout
Employees who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience burnout, making them more creative and productive than their overworked, under-rested counterparts. Another way to manage burnout is through the Oxygen Mask Rule: “Secure your masks before assisting others.” In other words, address your mental, physical and spiritual needs before committing to responsibilities benefitting others outside of your immediate family.
7. Boosted happiness
Research shows planning a vacation can boost your happiness. Some people experience an elevated mood up to eight weeks before the trip.
8. Maui is unique
Maui is the most exotic location you could visit while still in the U.S. Everyone speaks English, you don’t have to convert money or get a visa. Hawaii is the only state in the union once ruled by a monarchy. The Hawaiian culture is still very much alive, in song, dance, language and spirit. We have (up to) 14 micro-climates, so you could be laying on the beach in the morning, drive through a rainforest and hike up a 10,000ft volcano all in the same day. And this is a four-island county, so you can see the islands of Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe from the sunny south and west shores, or even take a day trip to Lanai on the ferry.
9. The island has something for everyone
From extreme sports to lounging with a Mai Tai, Maui offers something for everyone at every age and stage of life. Check our comprehensive Things to Do guide for some ideas.
10. Maui can be affordable!
When you stay at a fully equipped Destination Maui Vacations condo, you can be self sufficient and save money. Even if you don’t want to cook every meal in the complete kitchen, grilling oceanside is always an option. Plus, we love to fill up on fresh fruits and produce from island farmers markets. For families, groups or two couples, splitting costs can save even more (our website has a split cost calculator you can access before checking out). Not only will you save far more than a hotel, there are no hidden fees, no parking fees, pool or recreation costs, and no tipping valets, etc. Most condos also have supplies like beach chairs and towels and more, so you don’t have to spend time and money shopping for those items. There are a ton of activities to do outdoors in nature, and even free cultural events to take part in.
Vacation now if you can- we are a long-standing, on-island management company with over 100 condos to choose from at different price points. When you take time away from the stresses of work and daily life, it can improve our physical and mental health, motivation, relationships, job performance and perspective. A vacation can help you feel refreshed and more prepared to handle whatever comes when you return.
