Every woman with a best gal pal or tribe of wonderful women friends needs to plan regular “Girlfriend Getaways.”

They are, quite simply, the best! These trips are designed for women to get together and enjoy a retreat away from the responsibilities of daily life. They’re about bonding and renewing ourselves in the presence of like-minded friends. Happily, I have a best friend who also loves Girlfriend Getaways. We try to plan one at least once a year. If finances are a bit stretched, we plan a simple one. We choose a city and plan a few activities—but mostly we just hang out together.

Here’s my list of five Girlfriend Getaways that should top every woman’s bucket list:

1. The Spa Retreat.

Alas, I haven’t tried this one yet, but it tops my list. A Girlfriend Getaway at a spa is the ultimate choice for rest and relaxation. Get manicures and pedicures, sign up for massages, take a yoga class, hike, meditate, and enjoy a relaxing setting that’s sure to be included in a spa adventure.

2. The Cruise.

Cruises are among the most affordable Girlfriend Getaways, if your location is within driving distance of a port. Cruises have the benefit of including dining, accommodations, and entertainment into one ticket price. Go for a weekend or stay for a week or more. A cruise is definitely a must for any girlfriend bucket list.

3. The Agri-Tourism Adventure.

Go stay on a farm, learn about local agriculture, and participate in special events. These places offer tours, farm-to-table meals, fresh produce, and more! The scenic settings offer peace and quiet and a break from your normal routine. Don’t think agri-tourism isn’t comfortable either! Places like the Farmhouse Inn—an hour outside of Atlanta—offer comfort, relaxation, gorgeous views, and farm-to-table breakfasts. This stunning farm boasts sustainable farming methods, green energy, and spectacular views. They also have canoes and kayaks available for guests, farm animals to visit, and hiking trails. They keep their own bees, and the farm fresh food is served with their own delicious honey. This is just one example of a wonderful agri-tourist location that offers a peaceful place for friends to catch up.

4. The Outdoor Odyssey.

A Girlfriend Getaway doesn’t have to be all about relaxation. In fact, some trips can be about adrenaline, trying new things, and enjoying a spectacular adventure. Outdoor adventure options are nearly limitless. There are water sports like kayaking, white water rafting, canoeing, tubing, water skiing, surfing, and more. There are sports for those who don’t mind heights like zip-lining, aerial obstacle courses, bungee jumping, mountain climbing, sky diving, hang gliding, hot air ballooning, and taking a scenic helicopter ride. There are water parks and amusement parks with roller coasters. There’s always hiking and camping, too. And don’t forget the glamping option for those who don’t fancy full-on camping.

5. The Road Trip.

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a road trip! I’ve always fancied an East Coast trip starting from my town in coastal Georgia and ending in New England. Wherever you are, it’s easy to pick a place on the map and decide how far you want to go and what you’ll see along the way. Road trips are great for spending quality time together; they’re never about the destination. Stop along the way at places of interest, take detours, change direction, and keep the conversation (and the music) flowing.

I love my Girlfriend Getaway time for the valuable bonding it offers, just as much as I love a family trip with my kids or a romantic getaway with the man I love. It doesn’t matter what we do when we set aside special time; it really matters that we enjoy it and enjoy each other.

When you’re planning a Girlfriend Getaway (or Guy’s Trip), these five suggestions can turn a good trip into a great one.

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Author: Crystal Jackson
Image: Thelma & Louise/IMDB
Editor: Danielle Beutell
Copy Editor: Nicole Cameron
Social Editor: Travis May