Leisure can mean many different things. Some folks equate leisure to relaxing on the couch in the comfort of their own home; others prefer to take that bucket list trip or enjoy a day at an award-winning spa. Leisure is a necessity to having a balanced life, and the Leisure Lifestyle Awards (winners announced in May) highlight those key categories of leisure our readers cherish most.

Frequent travelers and those settled in one place for long periods of time, I urge you to remember a time when you truly felt at ease and engulfed in your own personal definition of luxury. The leisure lifestyle can be lived every day, and the best way to get in on the ease of the leisure lifestyle is first setting aside time to figure out what type of leisure fits into your lifestyle.

This concept seems foreign … I know. Today’s busy world rarely prioritizes leisure time, but let’s be honest, you can’t pour from an empty cup! Taking time for you and those you love is healthy, so here are a few ideas for a leisure lifestyle fit for a global traveler!

Cruising Along: I recently went on a cruise over the holidays, and let me tell you, the cruise life is so convenient and super-conducive to a relaxing yet engaging time. On our website, www.globaltravelerusa.com, we have many articles and content centered around cruise lines to match any person’s lifestyle or needs.

Earthly Explorations: Depending on where you are in the world or your schedule, you may not have much time to experience the natural beauty of the world. There are leisure trips that can assist you with reconnecting with nature. If you have the kids along for the leisure experience, why not take a trip to the pyramids of Egypt or an African safari? There are many tour operators who can tailor the experience to be one the family will never forget. Speaking of the family, check out family trip ideas on whereverfamily.com.

Simply Spa: Who says you need to leave the hotel? There is something to be said for nurturing your body and offering it a lovely rest. Each edition of Global Traveler features a Spas article, featuring a different location to pamper your leisure self! Check out our current issue and past ones for inspiration, and find your inner peace.

Cultural Calm: One does not need to be sedentary to be in the leisure lifestyle; cultural trips to cultivate your mind are also a great way to explore the leisure side of life. May I recommend a trip to a city such as NYC with various museums to explore and theater; or perhaps a stroll through historic London would be a cheery escape? Whichever location you select, leisure doesn’t need to be boring, and exploring a new place, aside from your occupation, is always a self-nurturing journey.

Retail Therapy: Madonna had it half right, we are living in a material world. The leisure lifestyle requires prep. Being totally prepared for a leisure lifestyle requires you look the part. A stellar timepiece, functional yet stylish clothes and a suitcase to get you wherever you are going are key! Stay tuned for the winners in some of these categories throughout the year in our various awards such as GT Tested Reader Survey awards (December announcement) and our Leisure Lifestyle Awards (May announcement).

I personally like to work hard and play hard, and the leisure lifestyle is achievable; you just have to prioritize and set the time aside to live your best life. I’m looking forward to hearing from you all regarding this topic. What is your definition of the leisure lifestyle, and how do you plan to incorporate leisure into your life this year?

As always, happy travels!

— Stephanie Makowski, account executive