In 2000 National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner set out to solve one of life’s great mysteries: why some communities produce so many centenarians. Working with scientists from epidemiology to anthropology, he identified five Blue zones places where people live longer, healthier and more engaged lives. Researchers studying these regions discovered daily habits (from diet and movement to strong social connections) play an important role in supporting both longevity and quality of life.

From the sunny hills of Ikaria, Greece, where villagers gather for long dinners and lively conversation well into the evening, to the rugged mountains of Sardinia, Italy, home to spry farmers in their 90s; from Okinawa, Japan, where elders maintain strong social networks and plant-forward diets, to villages of the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, guided by pura vida; and finally to Loma Linda, California, an American town with a remarkable focus on wellness, each Blue Zone provides a unique window into habits that help people live long, vibrant lives. For travelers, visiting a Blue Zone offers more than beautiful scenery; it is a glimpse into cultures where longevity is part of everyday life.

PHOTO: © ELENI SAITANIDI | DREAMSTIME.COM

IKARIA, GREECE
Steep green hills plunge into the Aegean Sea on Ikaria, one of Greece’s most relaxed destinations. Unlike glamorous neighbors such as Mykonos, Ikaria moves at its own unhurried pace. The island has long been associated with health and healing; ancient Athenians journeyed here to bathe in mineral hot springs, believed to restore vitality. Today, life remains rooted in traditional rhythms: Farmers tend vineyards and gardens; neighbors gather in village squares; and festivals stretch late into the night with music, wine and dancing. Meals feature olive oil, lentils, beans, wild greens, yogurt, local honey and herbs, often ending with herbal tea.

Info to Go
Ikaria Island National Airport offers connecting flights from Athens International Airport. Perched on cliffs overlooking clear blue water, Erofili Beach Hotel offers a peaceful seaside stay.

PHOTO: © MARTIN MOLCAN | DREAMSTIME

SARDINIA, ITALY
Inland from Sardinia’s famed beaches you’ll discover a rugged mountain landscape where some of the world’s longest-lived people reside. In villages like Villagrande Strisaili, shepherds and farmers remain active into their 80s and 90s. Daily life provides natural exercise: walking hills, tending livestock, chopping wood and baking bread in wood-fired ovens. Meals are simple but hearty. The Sardinian table features pecorino cheese, sourdough bread, chickpeas, fava beans, tomatoes and robust red wine made from local Grenache grapes.

Info to Go
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport lies about two hours from the Blue Zone villages. Su Gologone Experience Hotel, a charming countryside retreat, showcases Sardinian cuisine, crafts and mountain views.

OKINAWA, JAPAN
Nearly 1,000 miles south of Tokyo, Okinawa has a culture shaped by centuries as the Ryukyu Kingdom. Okinawans enjoy some of the lowest rates of heart disease and dementia in the developed world. Their diet is rich in vegetables, soy, seaweed and seafood, along with purple sweet potatoes, tofu, bitter melon and turmeric-infused green tea. Elders remain socially active, and milestone birthdays are celebrated with festive gatherings. Visitors can explore coral reefs, centuries-old castle ruins and local food markets.

Info to Go
The primary airport for visiting Okinawa is Naha Airport, located on the main island. The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa offers 5-star luxury with ocean views, refined amenities and a bountiful buffet breakfast.

PHOTO: ©EQROY| DREAMSTIME

NICOYA PENINSULA, COSTA RICA
Longevity weaves into daily life on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. Octogenarians tend cattle, nonagenarians garden, and centenarians greet neighbors from shaded porches. Residents embrace pura vida, meaning gratitude and enjoying the present. Meals revolve around homegrown staples: corn tortillas, tropical fruits, coffee and gallo pinto often topped with eggs or cheese.

Info to Go
Visitors arrive at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, the nearest airport. The ultra-luxury Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo features world-class service, beaches and wellness offerings.

LOMA LINDA, CALIFORNIA
The only American Blue Zone lies in Loma Linda, about an hour east of Los Angeles. Many residents belong to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which encourages healthy living and community service as well as a weekly day of rest — a pause for family, nature and spiritual renewal. Diets emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts while avoiding alcohol, tobacco and caffeine.

Info to Go
Visitors arrive at Ontario International Airport, about 20 minutes away, or Los Angeles International Airport, about a 1.5-hour drive. Ayres Hotel Redlands, a boutique-style hotel, boasts comfortable rooms and a pool — close to Loma Linda University and downtown Redlands.