The Blue Zones: Destinations for living a longer life
- Jason Carter
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Blue Zones are regions around the world where people consistently live past 100. From the hills of Sardinia, Italy, to the coast of Okinawa, Japan, these destinations are the ultimate hubs for wellness tourism.
By visiting spots like the Nicoya Peninsula or Ikaria, your family can discover the secrets to longevity firsthand. Whether it's tasting nutrient-rich Mediterranean diets or embracing the slow-paced lifestyle of Loma Linda, California, these trips offer more than just a vacation—they provide a blueprint for lifelong health.
Why visit a Blue Zone?
Culture: Experience community-driven lifestyles that reduce stress.
Cuisine: Savor authentic, plant-forward meals.
Adventure: Engage in natural movement through hiking and coastal walks.
The 5 Original Blue Zones
Okinawa, Japan
Secrets of the world's longest-living women.
The islands at the southern end of Japan have historically been known for longevity, earning them the nickname "the land of immortals." Okinawans have less cancer, heart disease, and dementia than Americans, and women there live longer than any women on the planet.
Perhaps their greatest secret is a strong dedication to friends and family. They maintain a powerful social network called a “moai,” a lifelong circle of friends that supports people well into old age. Okinawans also have a strong sense of purpose in life, a driving force that the Japanese call “ikigai.” Okinawa has one specific area where wellness principles truly take root: Ogimi Village, also known as the "Village of Longevity."
Where to stay
Ritz Carlton Okinawa
Escape to The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, a golf and spa resort within the premises of the Kise Country Club and surrounded on three sides by its 18-hole, championship course overlooking the ocean. This luxury resort in Okinawa, Japan, features 97 spacious guest rooms, 3 dining outlets offering unique culinary experiences, and an award-winning spa in a separate building.
Sardinia, Italy
Home to the world's longest-living men.
A cluster of villages in a kidney-shaped region on this island makes up the first blue zone region ever identified. In 2004, a research team set out to investigate a rare genetic quirk among its inhabitants. The M26 marker is linked to exceptional longevity, and due to geographic isolation, the genes of the residents in this area of Sardinia have remained mostly undiluted. The result: nearly 10 times as many centenarians per capita as in the U.S.
But even more importantly, residents of this area are culturally isolated and have maintained a very traditional, healthy lifestyle. Sardinians still hunt, fish, and harvest the food they eat. They remain close with friends and family throughout their lives. They laugh and drink wine together.
Where to stay
Belmond Romazzino
Romazzino gives a new meaning to life in Sardinia. Surrounded by the picturesque beauty of Porto Cervo, they lead you to botanical gardens to find out more about the local produce that has been enjoyed for generations. You share dinners at the beachfront grill while narrating the region's heritage. They show you vibrant colours from the privacy of your room, family suite, or large-group villas, displaying inspiring scenes in every corner of our gem. At Romazzino, they reconnect you with what matters the most.
The Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
A Latin American Blue Zones Hotspot.
This Central American nation isn’t that far from the U.S. geographically, but it is way ahead of us in longevity. The Caribbean nation is economically secure and has excellent health care. But other factors are at play, especially in Nicoya, an 80-mile peninsula just south of the Nicaraguan border.
One is the “plan de vida,” or reason to live, which propels a positive outlook among elders and helps keep them active. Another is a focus on family and a special ability to listen and laugh. Nicoyan centenarians frequently visit with neighbours, and they tend to live with families and children or grandchildren who provide support and a sense of purpose.
Where to stay
Bohemia
At Bohemia, every moment is meticulously designed to create indelible memories. Our unwavering commitment to excellence shines through in our three enchanting bungalows and three pristine glamping tents, offering the perfect fusion of quality and comfort. Picture yourself at your private table, where breakfast transforms into a cherished moment with the Pacific Ocean and the pool as your backdrop, stretching to the horizon.
Icaria, Greece
The island where people forget to die.
This tiny island’s long history has been as rocky as its topography. The outcropping in the Aegean Sea has been the target of invasions by Persians, Romans, and Turks, forcing its residents to move inland from the coast. The result: An isolated culture rich in tradition, family values, and longevity.
Today, Ikarians are almost entirely free of dementia and some of the chronic diseases that plague Americans; one in three makes it to their 90s. A combination of factors explains it, including geography, culture, diet, lifestyle, and outlook. They enjoy strong red wine, late-night domino games, and a relaxed pace of life that ignores clocks. Clean air, warm breezes, and rugged terrain draw them outdoors into an active lifestyle.
Where to stay
Myconian Utopia
Perched on the hillside above the famed golden sands of Elia Beach, Utopia Relais & Châteaux is a sublime escape into the island’s natural beauty and magical ambience – yet still within easy access to Mykonos Town and the top attractions in Mykonos.
Loma Linda, California
A group of Americans living 10 years longer
The Seventh-day Adventist church in this sunny pocket of Southern California was founded in the 1840s. The church flourished through the 20th century – and so did its members, who view health as central to their faith.
Today, a community of about 9,000 Adventists in the Loma Linda area is the core of America’s Blue Zones region. They live as much as a decade longer than the rest of us, and much of their longevity can be attributed to vegetarianism and regular exercise. Plus, Adventists don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
Where to stay
Yaamava Resort
From luxurious accommodations to world-class performances, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel has cemented itself as the best casino in California and the only AAA Five-Diamond casino hotel in the country. Whether you’re a foodie fanatic, gaming pro, or frequent weekend tripper, you’ll easily find a reason to call Yaamava’ your home. With top-tier service and exceptional attention to detail, there’s nothing left to question, except this.
