Exploring the world’s “Blue Zones,” where longevity thrives

In these locations, highlighted in a new Netflix series, wellness is less about intent and more about a time-honored way of living.

As the contemporary wellness movement grows, more travelers are integrating health-oriented experiences, like yoga retreats and vegan culinary tours, into their journeys. However, a few places globally embrace wellness as a natural lifestyle, where residents enjoy exceptionally long and joyful lives.

These places are known as Blue Zones, featured in the hit Netflix docuseries, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, hosted by author and National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner.

What defines a Blue Zone?

Buettner has conducted in-depth research on the world’s five Blue Zones, uncovering some straightforward yet unexpected insights about these remote regions.

“I’ve discovered that many common beliefs about achieving a long, healthy life are misguided or simply incorrect,” Buettner states in the series, challenging the fitness trends and health fads we often encounter. “The reality is, many of us are missing out on valuable years.”

What is the key to the Blue Zones?

While the specifics differ, residents of all five Blue Zones exhibit common traits. They typically lead active lives, surrounded by loved ones. Generally, they practice a form of religious observance or follow a collective belief system. Their diets are primarily plant-based, often complemented by a glass or two of wine for relaxation.

However, each Blue Zone has distinct features that must be experienced firsthand (or at least through Netflix) to be truly appreciated. Here’s a brief overview of the world’s five Blue Zones.

Okinawa, Japan

Facing an aging population and millions living alone, Japan is grappling with a loneliness crisis, which correlates with increased rates of depression, dementia, and heart disease. However, on the island chain of Okinawa, close-knit communities are defying this trend and enjoying remarkable longevity. More individuals here reach the age of 100 than nearly anywhere else on the planet.

What’s their secret?

Some attribute it to moai, traditional social groups that begin in childhood and persist into adulthood through regular gatherings. These networks foster lifelong friendships and provide essential practical, spiritual, and financial support. Centenarians also highlight ikigai, or a sense of purpose, as key to their longevity, often derived from growing their own vegetables like sweet potatoes, goya (bitter melon), and kabocha squash, all recognized for their health benefits. Additionally, the mantra “hara hachi bu” – eat until you’re 80% full – may play a role.

You can immerse yourself in the art of longevity at a homestay in the rural Okinawan village of Ogimi, where you’ll experience the locals’ relaxed approach to time and hear the elders’ life stories. Enjoy lunch at Emi No Mise, known for its longevity bento set, or seek the fountain of youth on a hike to one of the region’s stunning waterfalls.

Sardinia, Italy

For Sardinians, longevity is partly genetic – specifically linked to the M26 genetic marker. This region boasts nearly ten times more centenarians per capita than the US, but experts believe it's influenced by more than just genetics.

In the mountainous province of Nuoro, the traditional Sardinian way of life thrives: daily gentle exercise, fresh seasonal foods with an emphasis on whole grains and minimal meat, and a deep respect for older generations. Locals attribute their long-lasting health to physical labor and the clean air brought by strong island winds. Additionally, the local grape variety, cannonau (a type of grenache), contains two to three times the artery-friendly flavonoids of other wines and is typically enjoyed in moderation during lunch and dinner.

Interested? Immerse yourself in nature by volunteering on an organic farm with organizations like WWOOF, where you’ll live with locals, enjoy home-cooked meals, and spend your days working the land. If time is limited (after all, we can’t all live to 109), visit Sella & Mosca vineyard or take a cooking class to learn how to make minestrone and other healthful recipes. There’s even a Longevity Tour for aspiring nonagenarians.

Nicoya, Costa Rica

Beans, beans, the magical fruit – the more you consume, the more you… enrich your life? That seems to be the case in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, home to the longest-lived individuals in the Americas. Here, the health-promoting trio of squash, corn, and beans, known as las tres hermanas (the three sisters), grow in harmony, providing an ideal mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Corn is still prepared in the traditional Mayan style: soaked in slaked lime or ash before grinding, which helps release niacin, decrease toxins, and enhance absorption of calcium, iron, and minerals.

A sense of purpose (plan de vida), an optimistic attitude, strong family bonds, and regular physical activity are all thought to enhance longevity here. Add in plenty of sunshine (vitamin D), nutrient-rich tropical fruits, calcium-rich water, and a culture of spirituality, and you’ve got a recipe for a long, joyful, and healthy life. Join the crowds before Easter to witness the vibrant Semana Santa festivities, or unwind on the beaches of Santa Teresa or Montezuma. Learn to make your own corn tortillas during a homestay or cooking class – and remember to enjoy your beans.

Ikaria, Greece

About one-third of the population of Ikaria reaches their 90s, and dementia is nearly unheard of. So, what is it about this lesser-known Greek island that fosters such longevity?

Years of isolation may play a role. Strong winds historically deterred sailors from landing, helping preserve traditional cultures and fostering self-sufficiency. During the Second World War, the island was occupied by Germans and Italians, and later served as a site of exile for communists, which cultivated a strong sense of solidarity among the people. Coupled with a wholesome Mediterranean diet – rich in olive oil, red wine, homegrown organic vegetables, local honey instead of refined sugar, and goat’s milk – along with a leisurely pace of life, these factors have contributed to extended life spans.

Ikaria’s status as a Blue Zone has attracted visitors from across the globe, yet this rugged island remains untouched. Come to unwind in the healing waters of the spa town Therma, or rediscover your love for life with a refreshing swim at the nudist-friendly Nas beach. Enjoy leisurely afternoon naps, sip on longevity-enhancing wine (after all, Ikaria is said to be the birthplace of Dionysos, the God of wine), and participate in panigyria (traditional feast days) filled with local delicacies, live music, and dancing, where even the elders often dance until dawn. One tip: leave your watch behind.

Loma Linda, California

While Los Angeles is famous for SoulCycle, smoothie bars, and joggers in Lululemon gear, you’ll need to head east to discover California’s healthiest residents. In Loma Linda, a community of about 9,000 Seventh-day Adventists is known to live around ten years longer than the average US citizen, likely due to their plant-based diets and religious practices. Regular church attendance and Bible study foster strong social connections, while observing the Sabbath provides time to relax. Their lifestyle includes avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, and consuming plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains, all of which help prevent illness.

Experience the essence of a long, fulfilling life at the Loma Linda farmers market (which offers no meat, poultry, or seafood), or enjoy a leisurely hike in Hulda Crooks Park. This park is named after a longtime resident and mountaineer known as Grandma Whitney, who climbed hundreds of peaks between the ages of 65 and 91 and lived to the impressive age of 101.