24 Ways To Live Like You’re on Holiday: The Rise of Resort-Core Living

Monica Gray - June 6, 2025
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Imagine turning every day at home into a mini getaway. Resort-core is the latest lifestyle trend that’s captivating those who crave vacation vibes without leaving their doorstep. This movement invites you to infuse your routine with relaxation, leisure, and subtle luxury. With social feeds brimming with lush linens, tropical greenery, and serene spaces, it’s no wonder more people want to live like they’re always on holiday.
From morning rituals to home décor, discover how you can channel resort-core and savor the art of everyday escapism.

1. Curate a Spa-Like Bathroom

1. Curate a Spa-Like Bathroom
Soft candlelight flickers around a serene spa bathroom, creating a tranquil space perfect for deep relaxation. | Image source: Photo by Monstera Production on Pexels

Step into a sanctuary every morning by transforming your bathroom into a spa-inspired retreat. Stock up on fluffy towels, arrange a cluster of scented candles, and consider upgrading to a rainfall showerhead for a true resort sensation. Simple touches like a bamboo bath tray or an essential oil diffuser elevate the ambiance, making your daily routine feel indulgent and serene.
For more inspiration, explore tips on creating a spa bathroom.

2. Embrace Resort-Worthy Bedding

2. Embrace Resort-Worthy Bedding
“Experience ultimate comfort and style with this lush luxury bedding, perfectly arranged on a pristine hotel bed.” | Image source: google

Transform your bedroom into a restful haven by investing in crisp, high-thread-count sheets, plush pillows, and a lightweight duvet. Layering different textures—think linen throws or a soft quilt—adds a tactile touch that echoes the comfort of a luxury hotel suite. Opt for calming, neutral shades to encourage relaxation and a sense of understated elegance.
For more advice, check out these bedding tips from Sleep Foundation.

3. Create Lush Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces

3. Create Lush Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces
Lush green plants spill from indoors onto a sunlit patio, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor oasis. | Image source: Photo by Pew Nguyen on Pexels

Blurring the line between indoors and outdoors is a hallmark of resort-core living. Install large windows or sliding glass doors to invite sunlight and fresh air, making your home feel open and inviting. Incorporate plenty of greenery, rattan or wicker furniture, and breezy, flowing curtains for a touch of tropical elegance. These elements evoke the feeling of a luxury getaway—right in your own backyard.
Explore more indoor-outdoor living inspiration from HGTV.

4. Prioritize Poolside Lounging (Even Without a Pool)

4. Prioritize Poolside Lounging (Even Without a Pool)
A cozy hammock lounger sways gently in a sun-dappled backyard, inviting an afternoon of pure relaxation. | Image source: Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels

You don’t need a pool to enjoy poolside vibes at home. Set up a comfortable sun lounger or hang a hammock in your backyard, patio, or even on a sunny balcony. Sip a cool drink, dive into a good book, and let yourself unwind as if you’re on holiday.
For more inspiration, check out poolside lounging ideas from Better Homes & Gardens.

5. Host Alfresco Dinners

5. Host Alfresco Dinners
A cozy alfresco dinner unfolds under glowing string lights, with friends gathered around a long outdoor table. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

Bring resort dining home by eating outdoors under twinkling string lights or lanterns. Arrange relaxed seating, add cozy throws, and enjoy fresh air as you serve grilled favorites or dishes inspired by global destinations. This simple shift transforms any meal into a festive, vacation-like experience.
Find more outdoor dining inspiration with these Epicurious tips.

6. Adopt a Resort-Inspired Dress Code

6. Adopt a Resort-Inspired Dress Code
“Embodying casual sophistication, resort wear styled with luxurious linen clothing radiates an air of chic summer relaxation.” | Image source: pexels

Channel holiday ease by slipping into breezy linen, airy kaftans, or a crisp polo shirt, even when you’re just relaxing at home. Resort-core fashion is all about comfort that looks polished—think relaxed silhouettes, soft fabrics, and effortless elegance. This style not only feels good but also sets a carefree, vacation-worthy mood for your days.
Explore more on resort wear trends with Vogue.

7. Master the Art of the Signature Cocktail

7. Master the Art of the Signature Cocktail
A vibrant selection of colorful tropical cocktails sits atop a stylish home bar, garnished with fresh fruit and umbrellas. | Image source: Photo by Engin Akyurt on Pexels

Elevate your evenings with a signature cocktail that channels vacation bliss. Whether it’s a homemade piña colada, refreshing mojito, or sparkling spritz, crafting your own drink adds a sense of fun and celebration to any night. Stock your bar cart with fresh garnishes and experiment with flavors inspired by your favorite destinations.
Find endless inspiration with cocktail recipes from Bon Appétit.

8. Enjoy Daily Afternoon Naps

8. Enjoy Daily Afternoon Naps
Sunlight streams through the window as a cat curls up on the couch, enjoying a lazy afternoon nap. | Image source: Photo by [A] [B] [S] on Pexels

Embrace the leisurely pace of vacation by making room for afternoon naps. A short, restorative rest can do wonders for your mood and clarity, echoing the relaxation of a resort siesta. Even just 20 minutes in a quiet, comfortable spot helps recharge your energy for the rest of the day.
Learn more about the benefits of napping from the Mayo Clinic.

9. Savor Breakfasts on the Balcony

9. Savor Breakfasts on the Balcony
A cozy balcony breakfast set for two, with steaming coffee and pastries basking in the gentle morning sunshine. | Image source: Photo by Alex P on Pexels

Transform your mornings by enjoying breakfast outdoors, whether it’s a cozy balcony or patio nook. Sipping coffee and nibbling on fresh pastries in the early sunlight brings a gentle, resort-like start to your day. A small table, comfy chair, and a plant or two are all you need to create a tranquil retreat.
Get inspired with balcony breakfast ideas from The Spruce.

10. Play Curated Resort-Style Playlists

10. Play Curated Resort-Style Playlists
A cozy setup with speakers and a phone displaying a music playlist, ready to fill the room with relaxing tunes. | Image source: Photo by Budgeron Bach on Pexels

Set the mood at home with music that evokes vacation vibes. Curate playlists featuring bossa nova, chill jazz, or tropical house beats to instantly transport yourself to a sun-soaked lounge or beachfront bar. The right soundtrack can transform your environment, making even everyday activities feel more relaxed and joyful.
Discover ready-made options with Spotify’s resort playlists.

11. Invest in Plush Robes and Slippers

11. Invest in Plush Robes and Slippers
A plush white bathrobe and cozy slippers await beside soothing candles, creating the perfect at-home spa retreat. | Image source: Photo by Diva Plavalaguna on Pexels

Elevate your daily comfort with plush, hotel-style robes and soft slippers. Wrapping yourself in luxurious fabrics after a shower or while lounging instantly adds a touch of pampering and relaxation. These small, tactile upgrades can make your routine feel indulgent—just like a stay at your favorite resort.
Browse Travel + Leisure’s picks for the best robes for inspiration.

12. Practice Mindful Morning Rituals

12. Practice Mindful Morning Rituals
Bathed in soft morning light, a woman stretches beside her open journal, embracing a peaceful start with meditation. | Image source: Photo by RF._.studio _ on Pexels

Begin each day with intention by incorporating mindful morning rituals into your routine. Whether you choose to meditate, journal, or gently stretch, these practices can bring a sense of peace that mirrors the slow, serene mornings at a resort. Even just a few minutes of mindfulness can reduce stress and set a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Explore more about mindfulness with Harvard Health’s guide.

13. Display Art and Decor from Favorite Destinations

13. Display Art and Decor from Favorite Destinations
A cozy living room shelf showcases vibrant travel souvenirs and unique artwork collected from journeys around the world. | Image source: Photo by M. DNC on Pexels

Surround yourself with art, ceramics, or souvenirs collected from your travels to infuse your home with personality and wanderlust. These unique accents serve as daily reminders of cherished adventures, creating a space that feels both personal and inspiring. A well-placed piece can evoke the spirit of your favorite destinations, making every day feel like a getaway.
Get creative ideas with decor tips from Apartment Therapy.

14. Use Scent to Evoke Vacation Memories

14. Use Scent to Evoke Vacation Memories
A soothing scene featuring a glowing scented candle and a sleek diffuser, perfect for relaxing aromatherapy moments. | Image source: Photo by Yan Krukau on Pexels

Harness the power of scent to instantly transport yourself to your favorite getaway. Light coconut, citrus, or floral candles, or use diffusers filled with vacation-inspired aromas. Scent is a subtle yet impactful way to evoke joyful memories and set a relaxing mood at home.
Discover more about the benefits of aromatherapy with Healthline’s guide.

15. Schedule Tech-Free Leisure Hours

15. Schedule Tech-Free Leisure Hours
“Engrossed in a riveting novel, amidst the tranquil embrace of nature, fostering a serene escape from reality.” | Image source: google

Fully embrace resort-core living by carving out dedicated tech-free time each day. Step away from screens and digital distractions to read, paint, or simply soak in the sights and sounds of nature. These mindful breaks help you recharge and recapture the sense of unhurried leisure you enjoy on vacation.
Explore the benefits of unplugging with Psychology Today’s digital detox insights.

16. Get Creative with Towel Origami

16. Get Creative with Towel Origami
“Delightful towel animals skillfully crafted, adding a playful touch to the serene bedroom decor.” | Image source: google

Bring a hint of resort playfulness home by folding towels into whimsical shapes, just like you’d find on cruises and getaways. This simple, creative activity delights both kids and adults, adding a touch of fun to your everyday routine.
Try your hand at new designs with this towel origami tutorial from Carnival.

17. Savor Fresh Tropical Fruits

17. Savor Fresh Tropical Fruits
A vibrant assortment of tropical fruits, bursting with color, offers a delicious and healthy snack option. | Image source: Photo by Thought Catalog on Pexels

Brighten your meals and snacks with a selection of fresh tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, or papayas. Their vibrant colors and juicy flavors instantly evoke memories of beachside breakfasts and island escapes. Plus, they’re a healthy, energizing choice that adds a taste of vacation to your daily routine.
Learn more about tropical fruits with this BBC Good Food guide.

18. Indulge in Luxurious Skincare Routines

18. Indulge in Luxurious Skincare Routines
A collection of skincare products and a soothing face mask are arranged on marble counters in a luxury bathroom retreat. | Image source: Photo by Valeriia Miller on Pexels

Treat yourself to spa-worthy skincare rituals at home by using body scrubs, nourishing face masks, and deeply hydrating lotions. These indulgent routines not only improve skin health but also foster a sense of relaxation and self-care, echoing the pampered feeling you get at high-end resorts. Dedicate time each week to these luxurious treatments for a true touch of everyday escape.
Discover spa-inspired products with Allure’s skincare guide.

19. Upgrade Lighting for a Soft Glow

19. Upgrade Lighting for a Soft Glow
A cozy room glows warmly under soft lighting, with delicate fairy lights twinkling across the walls and ceiling. | Image source: Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels

Transform your space with soft, inviting lighting that mimics the tranquility of a luxury resort. Swap out harsh bulbs for warm-toned LEDs, install dimmer switches, or drape fairy lights for a gentle, ambient glow. This simple change instantly makes any room feel more relaxing and welcoming, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.
Find more ideas with lighting tips from Real Simple.

20. Incorporate Water Features

20. Incorporate Water Features
A tranquil garden fountain gently bubbles, creating soothing sounds as water cascades over smooth stone tiers. | Image source: Photo by cao jun on Pexels

Embrace the calming essence of resorts by adding water features to your home environment. A tabletop fountain, mini-pond, or even a sound machine that plays gentle water noises can create a peaceful, spa-like ambiance. The subtle sound of trickling water soothes the mind and mimics the tranquil atmosphere of luxury pools and coastal getaways. These features are easy to integrate indoors or out, instantly elevating your sense of relaxation.
Explore creative options with Garden Design’s water feature ideas.

21. Try Resort-Style Workouts

21. Try Resort-Style Workouts
A group of people practicing yoga on lush green grass, embracing wellness and fresh air in a peaceful outdoor setting. | Image source: Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

Bring a touch of vacation wellness home by practicing resort-inspired workouts like yoga, Pilates, or even aqua aerobics if you have access to a pool. Set up your mat outdoors for fresh air and a change of scenery, just as you would at a luxury retreat. These routines foster relaxation, boost energy, and keep fitness fun and engaging.
For more routine ideas, see Verywell Fit’s guide to hotel and resort workouts.

22. Keep a Travel-Inspired Reading List

22. Keep a Travel-Inspired Reading List
A cozy bookshelf brimming with colorful travel books invites you to explore the world one page at a time. | Image source: Photo by Tetiana Shevereva on Pexels

Curate a stack of travel-inspired books—novels set in far-off destinations or memoirs from global explorers. These stories offer a literary escape, letting your mind wander to new places even when you’re at home. Reading becomes another way to infuse your days with the spirit of adventure and discovery.
Discover recommendations from Penguin Random House’s travel book collection.

23. Celebrate with Mini Staycations

23. Celebrate with Mini Staycations
A cozy living room transforms into a tropical paradise with string lights, homemade snacks, and a beach-themed movie night. | Image source: Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

Bring the thrill of travel home by planning mini staycations. Dedicate a weekend to at-home pampering, themed dinners, and fun activities inspired by different countries or cultures. Whether it’s an Italian movie night or a tropical spa day, staycations are a creative, budget-friendly way to break out of routine and make memories without leaving your doorstep.
Get inspired with Forbes’ staycation planning tips.

24. Adopt a Slower, More Intentional Pace

24. Adopt a Slower, More Intentional Pace
A woman enjoys a quiet morning with tea and a book by the window, embracing a relaxed, mindful lifestyle. | Image source: Photo by Yan Krukau on Pexels

The true spirit of resort-core living lies in embracing a slower, more intentional rhythm. Enjoy meals without rushing, pause to notice the beauty around you, and release the need for constant productivity. Just as you do on holiday, let yourself truly experience each moment—whether it’s a morning coffee or a sunset stroll. This mindful approach allows you to savor life’s simple pleasures every day.
Explore more about slowing down with Mindful magazine’s guide.

Conclusion

Conclusion
A relaxed person lounges on a sunlit patio, enjoying the comforts of a happy home with resort-style luxury. | Image source: Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels

Embracing resort-core living is about weaving relaxation, wellness, and a touch of luxury into your everyday routines. By making small, intentional changes—from mindful rituals to playful décor and soothing environments—you can create a lasting sense of escape right at home.
Why wait for your next vacation to feel good? Start infusing your life with these resort-inspired touches and discover how easy it is to savor each day as if you’re always on holiday.

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