As part of our resolutions for a new year of travel we review what we did in the past in order to explore what we loved and what we hope to improve. This way our travel continues to evolve. One aspect of that is ensuring that every adventure includes a nod to what we have come to consider Our Top 5 Building Blocks for Travel.
As we travel more and more it is not unusual to return to a port or city that we have visited in the past. Sometimes it’s part of a new itinerary that includes destinations we’ve been looking for, or it’s a new destinations that offer so much there is never enough time to see it all. Other times its just because we loved it so much the first time around. As we plan for a new or return destination, we try to keep in mind our five (5) building blocks of good travel and develop an itinerary that allows for us to engage in all.
- History
Going to iconic sites for which your destination city or country is well known is one way to encompass its history. See the Acropolis in Athens and the Eiffel Tour in Paris, but know why they are important to the history of those cities. The amount of research that you do beforehand is dependent on your time and interest level, but any will surely increase your appreciation. Include in your travels learning opportunities such as visits to museums and tours with knowledgeable guides.
- Culture
Get to know the locals and engage in their way of life. Eat their food, drink their wine and enjoy their music. Engage in the coffee culture. Ride public transportation. Engage in their traditions and rituals whenever you can as it will help you to better understand. Always watch for the unexpected, such as a protest or parade, and find out why.
- Nature
Every major European city has its own green space. Even if you do not have plans to explore the country side spend a day in a park with the other locals. Find out if you can take a picnic. Walk among the carefully tended gardens and follow the twisty paths.
- Adventure
Adventure is whatever you define it. We are past the point where can can climb mountains or forge rapids, but we can try something that pushes our boundaries both physically and mentally. We have been spelunking through rivers in underground caves and walked up 300 steps to visit an ancient temple.
- Romance
I have talked about the romantic side of Europe before (see Our Top 5 Romantic Memories of Europe) but it is important that you find what is romantic for you. Sitting at an outdoor cafe and drinking wine as the sun fades into darkness is my new favourite, most romantic thing to do.
They say variety is the spice of life and your travels should reflect how spicy you like it. Whether you are working with a travel agent or are doing the planning predominately on your own, work into your itinerary something that will challenge you, something that feels comfortable and something that makes you think. If they can be all in the same trip that is even better.