Ditch Florida, Do Better - 5 Ethical Escapes for Summer
- mindyourwell
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Because where you go—and why—matters.
There are a lot of reasons people flock to Florida in the summer—sunshine, beaches, theme parks, wildlife. But not all sunshine is created equal, and after the recent disturbing revelations surrounding Florida’s so-called “Alligator Alcatraz,” many travelers (myself included) are choosing to take our travel dollars elsewhere this summer.
Because travel is not just about escape—it’s about alignment. Where we go matters. Who we support matters. And what we don’t support matters just as much. So if you’re looking to explore the U.S. this summer in a way that supports your values and fills your cup, Here are five soulful destinations that offer everything Florida doesn't right now—compassion included.
🌲 1. Olympic National Park, Washington
Trade the heat and crowds for towering evergreens, alpine lakes, and moody coastlines. Olympic offers a rare mix of ecosystems—from rainforest to rugged beaches—ideal for grounding, disconnecting, and breathing a little deeper. Whether you’re hiking the Hoh Rainforest or watching waves crash at Rialto Beach, it’s pure nature therapy.
Protect Your Energy—Because Aligned Travel Starts Within
Caring for your mental health doesn’t always mean changing everything—it often begins with one small, powerful decision to protect your peace. Saying no to what doesn’t align, including where you spend your time and energy, is a form of self-respect. Ready to reflect on what’s truly nourishing you—and what isn’t? Take our Wellness Assessment to explore how your boundaries are supporting (or draining) your well-being, and discover personalized ways to create more clarity, balance, and ease—both at home and on the road. 💚
🌉 2. Yosemite & the Sierra Nevada, California
If you love wide-open spaces and awe-inspiring natural beauty, head to the mountains. Yosemite’s granite cliffs, waterfalls, and quiet trails are the perfect setting for both physical movement and emotional clarity. It’s a landscape that invites presence and deep reflection—something no theme park can compete with.
🍁 3. Burlington & Lake Champlain, Vermont
Lakeside calm, mountain views, and artisan markets? Yes, please. Burlington is a low-key, high-vibe summer spot with bike paths, farm-to-table eats, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to slow down. Add in paddleboarding on Lake Champlain and a few quiet forest walks, and you’ve got a soul-nourishing escape.
Craving a Break to Breathe and Reset? Start with Where You Go.
If you’re feeling stretched too thin, choosing where not to go can be just as powerful as planning where to land. Whether it’s saying no to places that feel out of alignment or carving out time for a soul-nourishing escape, I’d love to support you. For travel ideas, encouragement, or help planning your next intentional getaway, email me at MindYourWell@gmail.com—let’s co-create a summer that honors your energy and your peace. 💗✨
🌊 4. Acadia National Park & Coastal Maine
For coastal beauty without the chaos, Acadia delivers. Think rocky beaches, wild blueberries, sunrises over Cadillac Mountain, and miles of scenic trails. The pace is slower, the air is crisp, and the seafood is fresh. It’s the kind of place that helps you reset from the inside out.
🌸 5. Cape Cod & Nantucket, Massachusetts
These iconic seaside destinations offer beach bliss with a dose of charm and intentional living. Stroll through historic towns, bike along sand dunes, and catch the breeze off the Atlantic. From indie bookstores to locally owned cafes, everything about this region invites thoughtful, feel-good summer travel.
Ready to Reclaim Your Peace—One Destination at a Time?
Supporting your mental health doesn’t always require a big life change—it can start with a conscious travel choice, a pause from the noise, or a decision to go where your values feel at home. We’re here to walk beside you. Explore our wellness resources for practices, encouragement, and soul-centered tools to help you reduce anxiety, protect your peace, and feel good about where—and how—you travel this summer. 💚
💚 Travel with Heart to These Ethical Summer Escapes
Choosing not to travel to Florida this summer isn’t just about protest—it’s about purpose. It’s about aligning your travel plans with your values, supporting places that care for their communities, animals, and environment, and finding joy in destinations that make you feel good about your choices.
This summer, let your vacation reflect your heart. Travel to one of these ethical summer escapes instead. Your journey can be just as restorative for the world as it is for you.
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