By Rachael Funk
Who needs February romance when you’ve got your girl gang? Instead of giving into the hype of a holiday, take a long weekend with your best buds! Thanks to the hit show, Parks and Rec, many of us have a new favorite celebration in February: Galentine’s Day!
Unofficially marked for February 13th, this is a day to revel in the friendships you've created with all the beautiful, talented, brilliant, powerful women in your life. Here are a few places where you and your besties can really treat yourselves this Galentine’s Day.
Marrakech, Morocco
Outdoor markets, vibrant culture, and unforgettable beauty are waiting in Morocco. Take a jaunt to the Sahara Desert together or shop locally in the city square, Djemaa el Fna. Indulge in luxurious accommodations in the guesthouses known as riads. Spend a spa day in a traditional hammam, where you can enjoy massages or skin and body treatments with essential oils and fragrant perfumes. And pick up (a few amazing souvenirs!)
Ibiza, Spain
A party hotspot, Ibiza is a great choice if your group wants to hit the clubs. The fun doesn't end there! You can join in on boat parties, explore sea caves, go on a yoga retreat, or indulge your inner foodie and explore the world of tapas every night. From bargain hunting at the Hippie Market to a one-of-a-kind experience at the Zoo Project, this girl's weekend won't soon be forgotten.
Tulum, Mexico
An unspoiled haven, Tulum is the place to go if you want to explore natural beauty without sacrificing nightlife. Tucked into Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, you can repel into cenotes, swim in underground rivers, or lay out on pristine beaches. With plenty of places to find top notch spa services, you and your besties can crash through the treetops on a zipline or whip through the jungle on an ATV and still come back home looking pampered and refreshed.
San Jose, Costa Rica
While it’s not near the beach, there are plenty of reasons to make San Jose your girl’s trip destination! This hip city is full of trendy places to visit. Choose from all kinds of day trips and thrill-seeking activities to explore the beautiful country. Spend time at the Arenal Hot Springs or venture through the jungle to the Arenal Volcano, where you can get a volcanic mud massage, splash in waterfalls, or go spelunking through Venado Caves.
Cape Town, South Africa
Are beachfront bars, perfect weather, and an exploding music scene more your style? Look no further than Cape Town for your Galentine’s getaway. Take a swim through the clear blue water of Boulders Beach and meet all 3,000 penguins which inhabit the area! Kirstenboch Gardens holds all kinds of exotic plants and flowers that beg to be photographed. Check out vineyards, music festivals, exotic animals, or go shark cage diving – Cape Town will never let you down!
Phuket, Thailand
Treat yourselves to delicious street food, cabarets, and Siam Niramit – a show featuring over 100 performers, wild costumes, and unbelievable set designs. Make your way to Promthep Cape, which is said to be one of the most beautiful places in the world to watch the sunset, then head back to Bangla Road for the crazy nightlife. The hedonistic atmosphere in Phuket is palpable, with tons of choices for discos, nightclubs, and all kinds of parties to attend. If you and your Galentines are looking for wild fun in a beautiful place, Phuket will be kind to you and your bank accounts.
