Last year (2020) was a doozy. Wouldn't it be nice to leave all of your worries behind from the stressful year and just get away from it all?

Imagine having the luxury of sitting on the beach for hours with the gulf breeze brushing your face or taking a sunset cruise on the Gulf of Mexico. Sounds relaxing, right? 

Now is your chance to enter the Alabama Tourism Department's Most Relaxing Trip Ever contest for a chance to win a 4-day, 3-night stay at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel along Alabama's pristine coastline. The grand-prize winner will get to experience a Southern beach retreat that inspires relaxation and an opportunity to take in all the beauty the Gulf Coast has to offer. 

The Lodge at Gulf State Park was built as part of Alabama's focus on sustainable tourism. It was designed to incorporate the principles of ecotourism into the overall guest experience. The hotel is environmentally friendly and operates within the natural habitats that surround the property. It also provides guests with lots of natural lighting and a constant flow of gulf breezes. It is the perfect spot to relax and wash your cares away.  

The winner will get to go bike riding through wetlands to discover the eco-diversity of the Gulf State Park and relax on the beach with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas. The prize package includes one hour of professional instruction from the Sandcastle University to learn how to build world-class sandcastles and enjoy a sunset cruise, compliments of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. The winner will receive incidental allowances, some on-site meals at the resort restaurants, amenities, and a travel allowance that can be applied to airfare or other transportation.

While the winner experiences the most relaxing trip ever, things back home will be managed by a group of professional service contractors who will come in for housekeeping, lawn care service and grocery shopping.   

To enter, submit a 250-word essay on why you deserve The Most Relaxing Trip Ever. A complete list of contest rules, regulations, eligibility and submissions can be found and made at Alabama.Travel/Relax. Photos and video submissions are optional with applications.  

Entries for The Most Relaxing Trip Ever contest will be accepted from June 6 through Aug. 1. Winners must agree to the official rules and be a resident of an eligible state.