California is one of the most popular states in the USA, as well as the world. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing Californian merchandise in foreign countries such as t-shirts that mention major cities in California such as Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco!  According to the LA Times, Los Angeles alone saw a record number of 50 million tourists in 2018!

California is somewhere I have spent seven weeks in total across two different road trips.  This was before meeting my husband and having a family, so I’d like to return as a family one day to experience all it has to offer once more.  There is also so much to see and do that I’ve barely even scratched the surface.  Ben has never been to America, so we definitely have to go one day and tick it off our family bucket list.

The benefits of a holiday in California

The landscapes are quite incredible in Cali and that is what attracts a lot of people to this southern state.  It can also be a great place to visit if you are looking to improve your health.  If you’re wondering why you should add California to your own bucket list, here are a few reasons:

San Francisco – All images in this post sourced from Canva

The benefits to your health by being in stunning natural surroundings

California is full of incredible and breath-taking landscapes from sun drenched sandy beaches to snowy mountain tops and postcard perfect lakes.  It’s also the perfect base for exploring surrounding states and landmarks such as the Grand Canyon.  If you love nature and the outdoors then California is the perfect state to visit and to call home whilst you explore the south west of the USA.

Everybody has felt the peace and serenity which nature can offer. Whether you’re climbing a large mountain or hiking in a dense forest, there’s something therapeutic about being in natural surroundings. Even a short walk in a park can provide a glimpse of this feeling.  If the hecticness of life is getting on top of you then look into a well-deserved break to California to take in all its beauty and rejuvenate yourself.

Basking in such scenic splendour can have miraculous effects for those struggling with addiction or depression too. Often, the hustle and bustle of daily life can make these conditions much worse. Nature can offer an escape from this toxic environment. The beauty throughout California can offer the perfect environment for recovery and reconnection. There are many facilities that focus on alcohol treatment in California with the goal of connecting people with nature. These areas usually take advantage of the state’s natural surroundings to improve their therapy.

A trip to California might not just satisfy the travel bug in you, but it can also be great for both your physical and mental health, as well as any addictions you may wish to recover from.  It really could be a life-changing travel adventure!

Lake Tahoe

Stunning diversity

In addition to being one of the most beautiful states in the country, California is also one of the largest. In fact, the Golden State only falls behind Alaska and Texas when comparing for size. Due to its impressive size, California has a wealth of natural diversity.

From snow-capped mountains and icy plains to dry deserts and sandy beaches, California has a stunning variety and a diverse variety of natural landscapes.  They really do have everything.  When I was there I was told it’s the only place where you can ski on a mountain top as well as sunbathe on a beach in the same day!

There’s nothing more rewarding and refreshing than spending time in nature. No other state can offer more landscapes for visitors who are searching for a life-changing trip.

La Jolla Shores Beach, San Diego

Classic national parks

In addition to having a diverse number of landscapes, California is also home to a large number of national parks. While most states only have one or two, California boasts a grand total of nine national parks.  The Golden State actually tops the list of states with the highest concentration of national parks. Like other national parks around the world, these parks are under special protection.

From hiking and mountain biking to camping and exploring, visitors have the freedom to use these parks as they see fit. These protected areas are the perfect places to relax and contemplate life. Whether you’re climbing to the top of El Capitan or watching the sunset over Death Valley, there’s something reassuring and comforting about these national parks. In California, you’ll always be within driving distance of one of these safe havens.

Death Valley

Outdoor activities

Visitors to the beautiful state of California will want to find a way to connect with the state’s stunning landscapes. Fortunately, there is no lack of outdoor activities throughout the Golden State. Whether you’re surfing in the south or skiing in the north, California isn’t a boring place to visit.

Outdoor activities are the best ways to connect with nature in an active manner. While looking at a landscape can always be therapeutic and relaxing, there is something special about venturing into and interacting with nature.

California is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. The Golden State is the perfect place for those looking for a life-changing trip into nature.

What to read next

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Victoria’s ultimate travel bucket list

Welcome to the Travel Vixta blog

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