Four Countries You Should Visit Where Alcohol Isn’t A Priority
For many people who no longer drink alcohol, going on holiday can be a tricky experience to navigate. They’re breaks we often associate with alcohol, sitting by the pool, lager in hand or at the dinner table chatting over a bottle of wine.
That can be difficult to deal with for people who have been through alcohol rehab, and can often lead to relapse, especially for those going on holiday for the first time in recovery. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Visiting a country that is dry or there are strict laws can be revelationary, providing you with the break you need, exploring new places and all without the temptation of alcohol.
But where are the best destinations to visit?
Jordan
Located in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a country that’s bursting with history and natural beauty. While it is possible to drink alcohol in Jordan, as 90% of people living in the country are Muslim, it is never prominent within society.
Instead, you can explore the likes of Petra, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and many other otherworldly landscapes, such as Wadi Rum. There are also many other ancient ruins, desert safaris and the beautiful waters of the Dead Sea.
Morocco
Similarly, Morocco is legal in some parts of the country, but it is largely a Muslim country and therefore isn’t prominent. Situated at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, it’s always been an intriguing country that’s steeped in history. The Sahara stretches across the southern areas of Morocco which offer some beautiful explorations – guided of course – while cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca and Fez are incredible for exploring.
Here you’ll find souks, palaces, kasbahs and more. It’s a completely different way of live and one you can really thrive in sober.
United Arab Emirates
Alcohol laws are strict in the UAE and it is illegal to consume alcohol in public. Laws have relaxed more recently, but it’s not a place that is focused around alcohol and trips to the likes of Abu Dhabi and Dubai offer a different kind of relaxation and luxury.
One for the shoppers, the two cities are a great blend of the traditional and modern of the United Arab Emirates, with glamorous malls mixing with historic souks.
Norway
Norway isn’t a dry country, and, in fact, you can get your hands on some pretty hefty imperial stouts in the country. However, there are strict laws in place that make visiting the country not exactly an alcohol-prioritised trip. It can only be sold in stores during certain times of the day, it’s illegal to drink in public, and in some cases, certain alcohol can only be sold in certain stores.
Heading into the fjords and to the north of the country, bars also become more few and far between, so the temptation slims. And, what better way to end a sober trip than getting to experience the northern lights?
