As the new year approaches we are making our resolutions. We will keep some and justify discarding others. Travel remains prominent for us and hopefully for you as well.
My favourite resolution story, and I have told this before, was from 2013. Ken and I decided to try something new and on separate sheets of paper wrote our top three “pie in the sky” things we wanted to do in the New Year. Surprisingly we both listed a Mediterranean cruise. We had travelled in the past, but rarely and usually with the kids. This presented a whole new direction that we didn’t know the other wanted. We have never looked back.
As you sit to write your resolutions please consider starting, or adding to, your travel bucket list. To help you do so here are our recommendations to help you figure out what you truly want and need.
- It makes sense to start with where but be sure to add the why as part of this decision. If you’ve always wanted to go to Paris ask yourself why. Paris at the best of times is crowded, dirty and smells funny. It is also very expensive, yet it is the number one travel destination. Once you’ve seen the Eiffel Tour there needs to be more. Visiting a place just to “see” an iconic site or relic has to be just part of the reason. Do the research and know what else you can do while you are there.
- Now specifically discuss why you want to travel? You are you looking for relaxation then perhaps an all inclusive resort is the best option. If you want outdoor adventures consider a trip that includes camping, hiking, kayaking and other activities as part of the itinerary. If you want more history and culture book something that includes those iconic sites as well as museums and galleries.
- Your next consideration is when you will travel. Are you waiting until you retire or do you want to start ticking off the list now? How much vacation time do you get and when can you take it? You will need at least 2 weeks or more to really travel, especially to Europe, South America or Asia. Travel is usually cheaper in the shoulder season (April-May, September – November), as well as less crowded than anywhere in the summer months.
- Determining how you will travel is next on the agenda. Do you want to join a tour group, cruise, or go independently? There is also a why as part of this decision. If you want someone else do do all the planning for you than an organized bus tour is best. If you only want to book your activities consider a cruise. If you want to have full control over the daily planning and activities then be as independent as you can. Also consider if you are comfortable booking your flights and accommodations yourself or would you feel better using a Travel Agent.
- Lastly consider your budget. We have found that there are are economical ways to travel without compromising on the experience. Rent vacation homes instead of using hotels, book an inside room instead of a suite on a cruise ship and don’t be afraid to pack a picnic for your day out. If money is no object than by all means explore the luxury options for any kind of travel.
Since 2013 we have continued to travel and check off parts of our bucket list. Still our list remains long because I can always find new destinations and reasons to travel.