Not all time off is created equal. Here's what the latest research shows you can do to make your next getaway as salubrious as possible

A week is all you need: Trips of seven days or more are the most restorative. Taking fewer trips of longer duration is better for you than taking multiple mini-holidays.

Keep travel through time zones to a minimum: Jet lag is a form of stress and can undo most of the health benefits of getting away. If you want to get far away and return to the office refreshed and ready to work, travel north or south to avoid a painful reentry. (Note: The time it takes to reach a destination neither diminishes nor increases the benefits of travel.)

Maximize your free time: Any type of commitment—meeting with friends or family, checking e-mails, calling the office, or even following an itinerary—will reduce the curative effects of travel. Freedom from obligations is key to a healthy holiday.

Choose a resort or cruise over a remote cabin in the woods: We might crave time alone, but making new acquaintances has been shown to increase the restorative power of a vacation. So go ahead and attend the manager's cocktail party—it's good for you.

Get off your beach chair: You'll feel more rejuvenated if you incorporate a moderate amount of physical activity (regular walking tours or other light exercise) into your vacation than if you spend the whole time lounging.

Keep it warm and light: We don't need scientific research to figure this one out, but studies confirm that, in general, staying in a sunny destination provides greater health benefits than staying in one that has shorter days.