As winter sets in, bringing with it early darkness and extended nights, many travelers may find themselves experiencing the effects of seasonal affective disorder. To combat the winter blues, taking a trip to a mood-boosting destination could be the ideal way to start the new year. In collaboration with clinical psychologist Gurpreet Kaur, Scenic Cruises recently conducted a new study identifying the top 10 destinations scientifically proven to boost mood and well-being. top of the list Split, Croatia,
With nearly 3,000 hours of annual sunshine and close proximity to four of Croatia’s eight national parks, it’s no surprise that this Dalmatian coast city is one of the world’s top feel-good destinations. Its car-free old town is an ideal place to explore on foot, offering a picturesque waterfront promenade and cobblestone streets lined with charming cafés, boutique shops and historic sites such as Diocletian’s Palace.
Not only is the city abundant with natural attractions like Marjan Forest Park and Kasuni Beach, but it also serves as a gateway to the stunning islands of Hvar and Brač. Additionally, the town and country are excellent places to taste authentic and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Second on the list is Amsterdam. Famous for its grand canals and beautiful green spaces like Vondelpark, the city has set a vision for 2050 to ensure that all residents can walk to a park within 10 minutes.
coming in third place tallinn, estoniaA charming Baltic city with an understated sauna culture. One place to experience the city’s sauna scene is Igloopark, where visitors can work up a good sweat and stay in a relaxing environment in a modern black igloo sauna. igloo-style housing overlooking the sea. New Orleans and Lisbon ranked fourth and fifth respectively, each renowned for their dynamic cuisines.
The study included five key metrics: hours of sunshine, air quality, green space, walkability and food. Each factor was carefully selected by Kaur for its ability to stimulate dopamine, aka the “feel-good” hormone. To view the full study, visit scenic.co.uk,
