How Orchids to Olives selects Wellbeing Places
for midlife women and chronic illness travellers
Not all wellbeing places are the same
My Guiding Principle
I believe a place is only a wellbeing place if you can rest there without having to justify yourself.
That means no pressure to keep up, socialise, or push through discomfort in order to feel that the trip was “worth it”.
It’s a place where you can drop the mask and simply be.
The Wellbeing Place Criteria
Every place I feature is considered through the same set of questions.
I don’t expect perfection — I look for supportive conditions:
1. Energy demand
- Does this place allow for slow mornings and early nights?
- Can you enjoy being there without a packed schedule?
- Is it still satisfying on a low-energy day?
A wellbeing place should meet you where you are, not ask you to perform.
2. Nervous system & atmosphere
- Is the environment calm, quiet, or gently paced?
- Are there natural elements (sea, gardens, mountains, thermal waters)?
- Is there space to be alone without feeling conspicuous?
True rest happens when the nervous system feels safe.
3. Safety for solo midlife women
- Would I feel comfortable here arriving alone?
- Is the area walkable and well-lit?
- Is the staff presence reassuring rather than intrusive?
Feeling safe is foundational — without it, rest isn’t possible.
4. Physical comfort & accessibility
- Are rooms quiet, well-designed, and comfortable enough to stay in for long stretches?
- If needed, are there lifts, handrails, seating, or short distances where possible?
- Is the terrain forgiving, or does it require constant effort?
Comfort is not indulgence — it’s a form of care.
5. Food & flexibility
- Are meals nourishing?
- Is there flexibility for dietary needs without fuss?
- Is eating here calming rather than anxiety-inducing?
Food should support healing, not create stress.
6. Permission to rest
- Is it socially acceptable to do very little here?
- Are there quiet spaces without expectations?
- Can you opt out without explanation?
A wellbeing place offers permission, not pressure.
7. Who this place is – and is not for
For every place, I ask:
- Do midlife women and beyond feel comfortable here? Or is it a younger crowd where I feel out of place?
- Is it a space I feel comfortable in with a chronic health condition?
- Do I feel good as a woman alone?
A sense of belonging is essential to comfort
What I don’t prioritise
I intentionally do not select places based on:
- Trendiness — if there are loud, repetitive beats blaring, I walk away quickly!
- High-adrenaline activities
- Luxury that prioritises appearance over care
- Family focused places
These things aren’t wrong — they’re simply not the focus here.
How Wellbeing Places Are Reviewed
Every place featured is included through one of the following routes:
Personally Reviewed
(by Jenny)
Wellbeing places I’ve visited myself, with detailed personal insights and experiences.
Community Reviewed
(Guest & Reader Reviews)
Places shared by women in the community, highlighting real experiences and diverse perspectives.
Wellbeing Provider Approved
(Place Partner Feature)
These places haven’t been personally visited, but have been verified in partnership with the host to ensure they meet my Wellbeing Place criteria.
✨ Every listing is clearly labelled so you always know whether it’s personally reviewed, community reviewed, or wellbeing provider verified.
A final note: You can read reviews anywhere
What I offer here is interpretation — grounded in lived experience, sensitivity to the body, and an understanding that travel can be both nourishing and demanding.
I also invite guest midlife women to share their experiences, so you can hear a variety of perspectives from midlife women with different needs, journeys, and insights.
If a place appears on this site, it’s because I believe it can hold you gently. And if it’s not right for you, I’ll say that too.
Orchids to Olives
Journeys of self-discovery, wisdom, healing and friendship
