There are a few destinations where wellness isn't just a goal, but a traditional way of life. They're called 'blue zones' and are the places on the planet where people live the longest. Ikaria is among them
Wellness travel is one of the most dynamic trends of recent years. Even before the coronavirus pandemic, many travelers began adopting habits that focus on health and wellness on their getaways – from yoga retreats to trips for vegans. In fact, there are quite a few destinations around the world where wellness isn't just a goal but a traditional way of life, reports Lonely Planet in its feature on the planet’s «Blue Zones» or, in other words, those places where people live longer than average. The list of 'Blue Zones' includes five places around the world, among which is a Greek island: Ikaria. But what's the secret of their residents' longevity?
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What are the «Blue Zones»
The Blue Zones (Blue Zones) are regions of the world where people live far longer than average. In the early 2000s, National Geographic contributor and bestselling author Dan Buettner began to research specific parts of the world where high rates of longevity are recorded. Buettner found five regions, the so-called 'blue zones' (a term coined by the original demographic study that inspired him) where people live into their 90s and 100s, and he tried to understand why residents there reach a ripe old age while enjoying a good life. What makes these particular areas stand out? The answer varies, reports Lonely Planet, but, generally speaking, people in all five of the planet's 'blue zones' enjoy an active lifestyle, with friends and family by their side, while basing their diets on plant foods. They also stand out for certain geographic and cultural characteristics. Let's see which are the world's five 'blue zones' and what Lonely Planet's feature says about each of them.
The 5 'Blue Zones' of the planet
Ikaria, Greece
The longevity of Ikaria's residents is attributed in part to years of isolation and to the island preserving its traditional character, with locals learning to be self-sufficient, notes Lonely Planet, adding that one third of Ikaria's population reaches 90. This goes hand in hand with a healthy Mediterranean diet (olive oil, red wine, vegetables, local honey, and goat's milk) and an easygoing pace of life that seems to support longevity. Ikaria's inclusion among the 'blue zones' has attracted visitors from all over the world. Lonely Planet suggests, among other things, a dip in the thermal springs at Therma and at Nas Beach. It also recommends tasting the local wine and joining the island's famous festivals, where even the eldest dance till dawn. And it offers a small tip: Leave your watch at home!
Okinawa, Japan
This Japanese archipelago has the highest number of centenarians in the world. Residents of Okinawa are three times more likely to reach 100 than Americans. What's their secret? According to Dan Buettner, social bonds play a major role. Okinawans stay true to traditional Japanese culture and place special emphasis on maintaining lifelong friendships (called moais), which provide emotional and social support. They also tend to grow their own fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, goya (bitter melon) and pumpkins, all known for their health benefits.
Sardinia, Italy
In Sardinia there are almost ten times more centenarians compared to the U.S., but experts believe this isn't simply down to biology, notes Lonely Planet. In the mountainous province of Nuoro, the traditional way of life prevails. Locals do gentle daily exercise, eat fresh, seasonal foods that include plenty of whole grains and a little meat, and enjoy the local wine (the Cannonau variety has two or three times more flavonoids than other wines). Residents attribute their good health in part to physical work and the island's strong winds, which keep the air they breathe clean.
Nicoya, Costa Rica
On the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, home to the longest-lived people in all the Americas, beans, corn, and pumpkins play a key role in the diet, which is considered well balanced. A sense of purpose, an optimistic outlook, strong family ties, and regular exercise are also thought to contribute to longevity in the area. The 'recipe' also includes a hearty dose of vitamin D thanks to the sunshine and tropical fruits packed with nutrients.
Loma Linda, California
You'll need to head about 100 km east of Los Angeles to find the healthiest people in California. In Loma Linda, the residents have adopted a healthy lifestyle and diet, while most are devout and participate in church groups. They avoid alcohol, and the majority exercise regularly and eat fresh vegetables and grains. Here, a population of about 9,000 people, members of the Seventh-day Adventist religious community, is known to live about a decade longer than other U.S. citizens.
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