This week: We're steaming our stress away.

I'm just back from our annual ski trip in Colorado and was reminded how much I love a hot soak after an activity-filled day, especially when it's invigoratingly chilly outside.

Tired and nearly numb with cold, I lower myself into the steaming water surrounded by diamond-dusted snow and instantly relax. 

Inhaling the heady vapors mixed with winter pine, I am saturated by the warmth, softened and cleansed. Afterward, I sleep the deepest, most refreshing sleep. 

While I prefer a hot stretch of river hidden among snow drifts to more public pools, I'm always on the hunt for a way to soak the cold out of my bones. Of course, Lonely Planet has a list of all the best hot springs in Europe we can steep in.

Sarah Stocking

Digital Editor

Warm up an ultimate weekend in Budapest with a soak at an opulent bathhouse. A winter trip is ideal for avoiding the crowds and enjoying atmospheric coffee houses.

How to soak your troubles away in Budapest

If you're looking to sink deep into Japan's onsen culture, head straight to Wakayama, where you'll be met with tradition mixed with incredible experiences.

You can even dig your own bath

Watching nature perform her most fabulous light show over Alaska while soaking in one of her healing tubs? Please and thank you!

Warm up in Chena Hot Springs

Last year my colleague Amy Lynch delved into sauna culture in Tampere, Finland, and I keep wanting to copy her trip so I can hike and soak too.

Add Tampere to a Finland itinerary

There are few experiences on earth that match watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. The blend of modern and ancient history throughout Cambodia makes for an exhilarating trip.

And don't stress about using your mobile device once you're there. Check out the eSIM service, Saily, to get a reliable, affordable and secure internet connection when traveling. 

Reader question:  I want to go to South America, but I don't know where to start.

LP recommendation: South America is home to some of the best adventures in the world. From hiking in Peru to partying in Rio, there are a number of not-to-be-missed experiences to look into. Check out these eight dream trips to get some inspiration and narrow down your options.

Photography by: Gorodisskij/Shutterstock, greiss design/Shutterstock, Lottie Davies for Lonely Planet, Stewart Westmorland/Getty Images, Laura Vanzo / Saunaravintola, treisdorfphoto/Shutterstock

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