Where are you going next? Want to know how to pack for your ultimate dream vacation? Read on for some great ideas to help you perfect your own packing.
14 Ingenious Packing Tips From People Who Travel For A Living
Photo by STIL on Unsplash
Ahh, organization. Here are 14 no-nonsense , easy to implement packing tips.
Want to take a break from reading? Here’s a great video on how to pack.
Finally! Your vacation is here, but the thought of packing all your stuff into one suitcase is freaking you out. Howdini Hacks shares some space-saving travel packing tips so that you won’t have to leave anything behind — except for the stress.
10 packing tips every traveler should know
Caroline Costello, SmarterTravel.com Published 5:00 a.m. ET Dec. 13, 2012
Packing is pivotal. Forget an essential item and you’re left disappointed and scrambling to find the nearest store in your destination. Pack too much and you end up disorganized, burdened with heavy bags, and hemorrhaging money to pay for pricey airline baggage fees. So we thought it best to revisit the most basic—and most useful—packing rules. Here are 10 fundamental packing strategies that every traveler should learn.
Whether you’re packing for a weekend city break or a two week beach holiday, these are all of the tips you’ll ever need for stress-free packing. Take our advice, download our handy packing list and start your holiday happier!
Planning a vacation can seem daunting, especially when you have an entire family to consider. Packing efficiently thus makes traveling less stressful. In addition, an organized approach to packing can save you money.
If you plan for every eventuality, and pack your bags accordingly, you can eliminate stress, and enjoy your travels. Use these packing tips to make your next vacation less expensive and less stressful.
Sir Richard is at it again; introducing Virgin Voyages. Virgin Voyages debuts in 2020; Virgin Voyages is an adults only line with many of the unique twists you’d expect from Virgin Brands. Have you flown on Virgin Atlantic? Or, the former Virgin America? Get ready for Virgin voyages’ new twist on adults only cruising.
Fun, hip & not for everyone: Why Virgin Voyages is banking on being different
Fun, hip & not for everyone: Why Virgin Voyages is banking on being different – Posted by Travel Week Cindy Sosroutomo
Virgin Voyages is going to bank on a strong partnership wit the travel trade. They will start with the “Scarlett Lady out of Miami in 2020”. Further, Virgin Voyages target is young at heart adults…read more.
Virgin Voyages released the first pics from its first ship and it looks insane
Sir Richard is aiming to have this ship appear like a wellness retreat. As far as wellness goes, there are exciting new twists on onboard including fitness, and how about a spa with a DJ? Read More
Cruises: New cruise liner to DITCH buffet dining – and have this unusual option instead
Virgin Voyages will do away with buffet dining and formal attire! One of the ramifications of “buffet-less” dining is less food waste as this new cruise line seeks to be sustainable. Get ready to explore 20 different eateries and NO main dining room. READ MORE
Think of some of the best meals you’ve had at the best places. That is what Virgin Voyages is trying to create for their onboard experience. They’ve searched cities all over the world for their best dining experiences! Next, they set up theme dining experiences with Hollywood set designers. Read More
Virgin Voyages Will Build Fourth Ship
Travel Pulse Ana Figueroa (rendering courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
Virgin Voyages now has 4 ships on order even though their first voyage is not until 2020! There are two ships currently under production. Read More
Interested in further developments ? Future booking opportunities to experience Virgin Voyages for yourself? Be sure to contact me! And while you’re reading this, please check out another article about different types of cruise styles.
Want to know how to legally travel to Cuba? While there are many ways to cruise to or around Cuba, what about land tours? Until recently, you could go on your own custom designed trip to Cuba. The laws on travel to Cuba have changed recently. After I was all trained up and prepared to book custom land trips to Cuba, the laws changed.
I’m going to share how to legally travel to Cuba via land tours as there a many options. I received the following article via email from Jane Montano, Sales Director with Caribbean Destination Travels Inc. regarding how to legally travel to Cuba.
How to legally travel to Cuba Photo by Alexander Kunze on Unsplash
The recent changes are through OFAC. What is OFAC?
OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) is an office of the U.S. Treasury that administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy against foreign countries (Cuba), this includes travel restrictions.
How have our organization’s Cuba-related transactions been impacted due to the President’s changes in regards to travel to Cuba?
Our company has not been impacted by these changes. Specifically, OFAC issued changes to travel for individuals and groups. Travelers under U.S. jurisdiction are to engage in travel transactions in Cuba under the auspices of an organization that sponsors such exchanges, such as tours and travel with Caribbean Destination Travels. This is to promote people-to-people contact and must be accompanied by a representative of Caribbean Destination Travels. The representative of Caribbean Destination Travels must accompany each people-to-people educational group traveling to Cuba. This ensures that each traveler has a full-time schedule of educational exchange activities. Our company will provide you with your printed full time schedule to meet your record-keeping obligation for the trip.
Why should I travel with Caribbean Destination Travels if I’m researching how To legally Travel To Cuba?
Because we have already been providing excellent travel experiences that have always met any and all US OFAC guidelines. All travel arrangements to Cuba must be made and conducted by an organization such as Caribbean Destination Travels, that is subject to U.S. jurisdiction and that sponsors such exchanges to promote people-to-people contact. Travelers – either individuals or groups- will be accompanied by one of our employees. These employees are all subject to U.S. jurisdiction and who are representatives of the organization, Caribbean Destination Travels. Consistent with the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 (TSRA), travel-related transactions involving Cuba are only permitted for the 12 categories of activities identified in the CACR. Travel-related transactions for other purposes remain prohibited. We are happy to provide the same quality tours that fall within the 12 categories as we have in the past.
Cuba Legally travel Photo by Thuur Kurvers on Unsplash
What else is new?
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) restricts persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction from engaging in direct transactions with companies identified on the Cuba Restricted List.
What is the Cuba Restricted List?
The State Department is publishing a list of Cuban companies that are under the control of, or act for or on behalf of, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services or personnel, and with which direct financial transactions would disproportionately benefit the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services or personnel at the expense of the Cuban people or private enterprise in Cuba. This list is called the Cuba Restricted List. The list is available on the State Department’s website at:
In its tours, Caribbean Destination Travels provides their clients with luxury lodging & service options that are NOT part of this List.
Is it safe to travel to Cuba?
Absolutely, we feel it is safe to travel to Cuba. It is safer than traveling to many major US cities. There were concerns over mysterious illnesses experienced by American diplomatic personnel and a State department warning. Investigations by both the Cuban authorities and US FBI have are inconclusive. Given that the issues raised by the State Department have not affected any U.S. travelers going to Cuba, travel to Cuba is still permitted and we consider it safe.
Can I purchase a ticket to Cuba directly from an airline based or operating out of the United States?
Yes, provided that you are authorized to travel to Cuba pursuant to an OFAC general or specific license. Airlines and travelers are responsible for maintaining records of their full time Cuba-related transactions for at least five years.
Are there any spending limits for authorized U.S. travelers while in Cuba?
There is no specific dollar limit on authorized expenses. Travelers may engage in transactions ordinarily incident to travel within Cuba, including payment of living expenses and the acquisition in Cuba of goods for personal consumption there. In addition, travelers are authorized to acquire in Cuba and import as accompanied baggage into the United States merchandise for personal use only.
Can I purchase Cuban-origin cigars and/or Cuban-origin rum or other Cuban-origin alcohol while in a third country (i.e. not Cuba)?
legally travel Cuba Cigar Photo by Ellen Carlson Hanse on Unsplash
Yes, persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction may purchase or acquire Cuban-origin merchandise, including alcohol and tobacco products, while in the country for personal consumption. Such products may be consumed or imported into the United States as accompanied baggage for personal use only.
Now you know How To legally Travel To Cuba – via land. Keep in mind that some cruises also call on Cuba while other cruise options offer an extended stay by visiting multiple ports around the Island nation.
Looking for ways to maximize your traveling experiences? Not quite sure how to get there? I’d love to help! If planning stresses you out, I can be your best ally. I love this work and can help connect you with the places and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Let’s talk today — you can reach me by clicking here to set-up your dream trip design session.
Want to read more before chatting? Please check out my post on helpful travel apps.
Ever feel stuck in a vacation rut? Read on for five easy ways to boost the joy of every trip.
Maybe you:
try out different places, but they all kind of seem the same
find the planning exhausting
stress out over small things so your energy gets sapped
cram too many things in too little time, and you come back more tired than when you left
bring work with you, even when you say you’re not going to, so that you wind up giving away precious vacationing hours to your job
I’m going to be bold and say: This is not how a vacation should feel.
Here are 5 secrets to becoming a Zen master of vacationing. You won’t regret taking these five easy steps to boost the joy of every trip.
My Joyful group over New Year’s 2018
Move a little bit every day you’re on holiday, especially if your job is the kind that has you sitting at a desk all day long. This isn’t about working out; it’s just about doing what your body and brain want you to do, which is move around a little. Lounging is great — there should definitely be time for lounging — but only lounging for days on end has an ironic de-energizing effect on the body. (It’s part of why desk work can be insanely exhausting, even though you technically didn’t do anything physical all day long.) Whatever your level of mobility or fitness, pick something to do every day that gives you a burst of activity: walking, swimming in the ocean, a bike ride, playing with your kids, morning yoga or stretching. If you have some physical limitations, plan ahead and find walker- or wheelchair-friendly spaces to explore, even if it’s just for 20 minutes each day. Your body and your brain will thank you. Activity actually helps boost your body’s ability to fully relax and soak up the restorative purpose of vacationing.
Get present to real, peaceful, natural beauty. You might not be the camping type. Or the sporty type. Or the outdoorsy type. That’s 100% okay! You don’t have to hike the Grand Canyon to sit in total awe of it. Even the biggest, loudest city has peaceful places to just be in the presence of natural beauty. If the weather’s nice and you have the option, sit outside for your meal or pack a picnic. Just soak in your surroundings and the view; pay attention to light, sounds, sensations, and smells. Claudio Fernández-Aráoz, a senior adviser and business author, recently wrote in the Harvard Business Review about a CEO friend of his who swore by “intentional time in nature” to up his business game: “Before retiring from his CEO role, John would try to take these breaks just before his global partners’ meetings because he found that his ideas, initiatives, and even speeches would become much more focused, rich, clear and powerful as a result—even though he didn’t spend any time actively working on them!” We can’t underestimate the power that being in nature has for bringing out the best in our thinking and seeing.
Cultivate your appetite for “different.” This one can be challenging — but it pays huge dividends when it comes to creating vacations that are full, satisfying, and memorable. This is less about booking some extreme trip and more about being willing to approach every trip as a learning experience, to being open to the possibility that every vacation can actually make you a better person. Seek out conversations with interesting strangers. Learn some phrases in a new language and practice them and see what happens. Try new foods. Take in a performance that features local music or dance. Take the risk of not knowing and being willing to ask. As Fernández-Aráoz observes, “The world’s most productive people are deeply curious and collaborative and constantly seek out new acquaintances and allies — even when they’re on vacation.”
Put your money into experiences, not things. Again, this one can be challenging. We’re taught in our culture that having more stuff will make us happier, even though research has proven this over and over again to not be true. Vacations in and of themselves are experiences — so that’s one step in the best direction — and getting a few small things to remember your trip is certainly not a bad thing. But keep an eye out for ways to maximize your experience of each moment within your holiday. When the moment comes to decide if you want to blow a ton of cash at the duty free shop or a souvenir shop — ask yourself what kinds of experiences you could buy that will be with you forever and that will continue to bring you happiness long after they’re over.
Treat your vacation like a vocation. Notice there’s only one letter that separates the time you spend relaxing, re-energizing, and reconnecting and the thing you were born to do. The word “vacation” comes from the Latin vacare, which means “freedom from obligation and duty, release, to be free and at leisure.” The word “vocation” comes from the Latin vocare, which means “to call” — as in, your personal calling, your purpose, the things that bring you deep joy and bring out the best in you and everyone around you. Think of the joyful energy you would put into your calling — the intention, the planning, the attention to detail, the gratitude. Consider the other word we frequently use for vacation — “holiday” — and note that it means “holy day.” It’s okay to approach your upcoming trip as something that can hold a bit of magic, because it just might. As Fernández-Aráoz writes, your vacation can be the thing that actually brings you back better than you were before — better for yourself, your family and friends, your work, your life.
There you have it – five easy ways to boost the joy of every trip. Realistically, these may not be the easiest things to accomplish, but try them out on your next journey.
Five easy ways to boost the joy of every trip Photo by Markos Mant on Unsplash
If you’re looking for ways to maximize your traveling experiences, but you’re not quite sure how to get there, I’d love to help! If planning stresses you out, I can be your best ally. I love this work and can help connect you with the places and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Let’s talk today — you can reach me by clicking here to set-up your dream trip design session.
This article focuses on how to plan your multi-city land vacation with me. Winter/early Spring is when I have the highest requests to begin planning multi-city custom trips – a.k.a. built from scratch. These include places like the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and Costa Rica.
Plan your multi-city land vacation Photo by Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash
You’ll learn more about what goes into the making of these custom trips. I’ll share one little secret – it takes time! Hours and hours go into your custom trips as I try to build out the trips multiple ways to get you the best options for your specific trip objectives. You may not even see some of the earlier attempts as I plan out your itinerary.
Question: Have you ever been on a multi-city land vacation? This could be on an escorted or organized tour. Or, you may have traveled without an organized group such as visiting Rome/Florence/Venice independently.
Plan your multi-city land vacation Photo by Asli Yilmaz on Unsplash
Have you ever planned a multi-city trip with me? If not, let’s get planning your dream trip today. Just click here.
While I mentioned Rome/Florence/Venice above as an example, how about Reykjavik, Iceland, Edinburgh Scotland, and a side tour to the Isle of Skye? (Planned for a client earlier in the year.)
Have you spent hours online doing research?
Are you looking for someone to help you organize all of the details of your dream trip? We’re talking:
airfare with different cabins/classes of service
transfers
hotels with complicated room configurations
tours/excursions
dining
trains
travel insurance
golf
theater/event tickets
And, how about if I wrap up all of the details into an app you can download onto your smart phone? Click here to start planning your multi-city dream trip today.
Learn more about my travel planning packages. Click here to dig even deeper into multi city land vacation travel. Finally, read this post on how to pack for great tips.
You can celebrate Mama Mia in the Greek Islands; beginning in May, 2019, Star Clippers will pay homage to the beloved romantic comedy Mamma Mia with their new “Mamma Mia Highlights” sailings through the Greek isles. This seven-night itinerary, sailing round trip out of Athens, will visit several of the islands where Mamma Mia—as well as the highly anticipated Mamma Mia 2—were filmed.
Celebrate Mamma Mia in the Greek Islands
Celebrate Mamma Mia in the Greek Islands
For fans of the beloved romantic comedy Mamma Mia , Star Clippers is introducing special sailings visiting several of the islands where Mamma Mia—as well as the highly anticipated Mamma Mia 2—were filmed. Guests will visit the island of Skopelos, home to the most iconic
Celebrate Mamma Mia in the Greek Islands – Skopelos
Mamma Mia location—the tiny chapel of Agios Ioannis sto Kastr,. Perched atop a rock cliff more than 300 feet above the Aegean Sea, this picturesque church features 100 steps carved into rock leading to its entrance as well as panoramic views from all sides. Also located on Skopelos is the sweeping view from “Villa Donna” (the actual house was a Hollywood set) and Kastani, the beach where Tanya sings “Does Your Mother Know.”
Celebrate Mamma Mia in the Greek Islands – Skopelos
A verdant island blessed with olive, almond and fruit trees. As you sail into the bay surrounding Skopelos town, it reminds you of a giant Greek amphitheatre. 120 churches nestle beneath the ruins of the Venetian castle, and two convents and a monastery cling to hills above the bay.
Celebrate Mamma Mia in the Greek Islands – Skiathos
This special itinerary will also call on the island of Skiathos, where the charming Old Port was the setting for the scene where the three fathers meet for the first time, and the area around the St. Nikolaos Bell Tower was the spot where Sophie mailed her letters. Star Clippers will offer four departures of the Mamma Mia Highlights itinerary in 2019: May 18, June 8, June 29 and August 17.
The most sophisticated of the Sporades, abounds with trendy shops where barely-clad visitors taking time off from the nearby beaches shop for expensive wisps of clothing and jewelry. Go a few blocks inland and you’ll find charming flower-decked houses and gardens overflowing with fruit trees.
Discover the stunning beauty of the Greek Isles with Star Clippers!
The Northern and Southern Cyclades islands offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the Aegean Sea meant to be seen from a tall sailing ship. Carrying only 170 guests, the Star Flyer visits the iconic ports of Mykonos and Santorini, as well as off-the-beaten path places such as Spetsess and Amorgos. Stroll along the tranquil beach on Elafansios and admire the blue-green waters. Discover Hydra as you walk along the waterfront as history unfolds in every picturesque winding street. Visit Patmos, known for its rich history and monasteries.
Star Clippers offers sailings visiting the majestic beauty of the Northern and Southern Cyclades in May through August 2019, roundtrip Athens.
Experience the splendor of the Greek Isles on an authentic, tall sailing ship. Carrying only 170 guests in pampered comfort, the Star Flyer is a four-masted sailing vessel with spacious accommodations and expansive teak decks reminiscent of the golden age of sail with modern touches including two swimming pools. Relax in the bowsprit where dolphins frolic in the waves beneath, enjoy gourmet dining prepared by Michelin trained chefs and take advantage of the complimentary watersports. Sixteen sails billowing in the wind let all who come aboard know they are about to embark on a unique adventure. Life onboard is blissfully relaxed, much like traveling on a private yacht.
For those who cannot wait until 2019 to experience Star Clippers, there are a few staterooms available in August 2018 to the Northern Cyclades.Call me to reserve to reserve your stateroom now.
Want to learn more about Star Clippers? Click here for my companion article on Star Clippers
Is an Authentic Tall Ship Sailing Adventure right for you? Looking for a different vacation experience? I mean REALLY different which is what you will find in this post.
Authentic Tall Ship Sailing Adventure
I have even more questions for you to see if this is right for your vacation mix:
Looking for an experiential trip of a lifetime?
Are you looking for something different and unique?
Do you want to visit small (way small), off-the-beaten path destinations less traveled?
Are Interested in art, history and the cultures of other countries?
Like casual elegance at a fair price without crowds or formal nights?
Lead active lifestyles – sail, boat, hike, ski, golf, scuba or snorkel?
Are you a sailing enthusiast or a yacht club members?
Are you a solo traveler looking for vacations without extra fees?
Authentic Tall Ship Sailing Adventure
Introducing Star Clippers – authentic tall ship sailing. While there are cruise ships with sails. Star Clippers are true sailing ships with engines. As a former sailor myself, I can tell you that nothing feels like the exhilaration you get from sailing under the power of the wind!
Star Clipper’s tall ships answer a YES to the questions I asked above to offer a truly unique vacation experience. Star Clippers offers an alternative to the mega-cruise ships. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that!) This is an opportunity to try something uncrowded by design.
Why Star Clippers?
The most experiential vacation of your lifetime
Authentic Sailing adventures
Itineraries are created by Wind Charts
Take advantage of included Watersports
Casual, relaxed onboard ambiance
Comfortable, cozy cabins and luxurious suites
Mingle with outgoing, friendly guests and crew
Visit breathtaking vistas and intimate ports that you’ve never seen before
Immerse yourself in the local people, culture, art, history
Feel like you’re on your own private yacht
Feel the enrichment in your heart and soul
Here’s the Onboard Experience:
Authentic sailing adventures
Only 170 or 227 pampered guests
5-Star Service
5-Star Experience
International cuisine
Selection of fine wines (additional cost)
Michelin trained chefs
Open seating dining
Buffet breakfast, lunch
Dinner service with 4-5 courses
No formal-wear required
Casual, relaxed ambience – no need to dress up
Local performers play regional music
Nightly piano and other music/entertainment
Captain’s & Cruise Director’s daily briefing on deck
Here’s a couple of itineraries to show you how you truly experience the smaller, less crowded ports.
Western Mediterranean Example: 7 Nights – Cannes to Rome – Royal Clipper
Caribbean Example: Leeward Islands New Year Cruise – Star Flyer
How’s that for a change of pace? If you’d like to chat about the latest itineraries and promotions (including free and reduced airfare), click here to set-up a chat with me!
Don’t forget to plan your travel experiences with a real travel pro.
Let’s take a look at four astonishing places that will amaze you. These four destinations are not your typical tourist hot spots.
Before we dive into these four astonishing places that you may have never heard of, here’s a full list from National Geographic of the best trips for 2018 – some familiar, some not – check it out here.
Credit : Destination BC/Owen Perry Description : Hot spring Island in Haida Gwaii http://circa1983.ca/
If you’re craving a break from the usual hustle and bustle along with the noise, Haida Gwaiiwill give you the silence you’re longing for. A 180-mile-long archipelago off the coast of British Columbia is the ultimate getaway for nature lovers. May-September is the summer season, with more tourist services available, and a greater chance of seeing spectacular wildlife like the Orca migration. But if you’re into surfing, try October-May for the best waves.
To get a feel for what life was like for the Vikings, hop a ferry from Denmark or Iceland (or select a cruise with a port stop) and check out the Faroe Islands.
Gasadalur, Faroe Islands Four astonishing places by Photo by Hollie Harmsworth on Unsplash
Located about 400 miles off the coast of Northern Europe and accessible by flights and ferries year-round, the Faroe Islands are ringed with dramatic green cliffs that plunge into the ocean, sparkling bays, and breathtaking Nordic scenery. In the city of Gjógv, stay in an authentic sod-roofed hotel and take hikes up into the mountains with a spectacular view of the gorge below. Go in July or August for mild temps and long days.
A hidden travel gem lies in the Western Baltics, which is already a somewhat-unknown region that is brimming with breathtaking scenery and a proud cultural heritage. The Via Dinarica is a year-round adventurer’s wonderland.
By Copyright (c) 2001 Pavle Cikovac (de:Benutzer:Orjen) – de.wikipedia (selbst fotografiert), CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=960328
Love gorgeous summer hikes and biking tours? May-September, this trail stretches through 1,200 miles of varied terrain and eight different countries. If you’re into skiing and snowshoeing, hit the Via Dinarica from January to mid-March for a pristine wonderland. Stay in remote mountain shelters, or immerse yourself in centuries-old tradition by staying with local host families.
We see a lot of Japan’s bustling cities, its towering skyscrapers, its industry, its bright lights. But if you’re interested in reclining into the contemplative heart of Japan, seek out Koyasan, a pristine monastic complex two hours south of Osaka by train and the seat of Japanese Shingon Buddhism.
Four astonishing places Photo by Meishang on Unsplash
Many temples here offer guest rooms, and you can get a feel for what monastic life is like in the lush, misty mountain interior. Savor the simple flavors of clean Buddhist eating, take in morning rituals, or hike by lantern and moonlight along winding green mountain paths. After the intense and amazing sensory experiences that the large urban areas of Japan provide, Koyasan really is the perfect retreat into silence, simplicity, and mystery.
One of the many reasons I love what I do as a travel agent is that there is just so much to see, to take in, and to learn. We all have the amazing opportunity to launch out into new places, to find some new adventure that will change us forever — and I love getting to be a part of that process by assisting YOU.
If you’re feeling that pull to places that are new to you, contact me today and let’s start planning your next adventure! You can also learn more about why I WANT to help you with your dream trip here.
Do you want to know how The Adventure Mindset will get you a better trip? Please read on to learn more about “the adventure mindset.”
Nobody loves standing in long security lines, and I don’t know one person who is thrilled by the fact that most airline seats only recline about four inches, if you’re lucky.
Airport Lines Adventure Mindset
But I do know people who love to travel, door to door — not just when they arrive at their destination. Some people who almost always have a great flight, no matter what. Some people whose trips got rained out, or who missed connecting flights, or who got lost, or who even had passports stolen — still say their trip was great.”
So what’s their secret? I’ll tell you: they’ve let go of the Perfectionist Mindset and adopted the Adventure Mindset. The difference between these two paradigms changes everything.
The Perfectionist sets unrealistically high expectations for themselves, others, and situations — and when things don’t go well, they often fall into self-blame or blaming others. The Adventurer makes a plan and is prepared, but is willing to roll with what comes along that might not fit with “The Plan.”
Adventure mindset Photo by Simon Migaj on Unsplash
The Perfectionist often avoids risk and only goes with the obvious path in an attempt to avoid “failure.” The Adventurer is less concerned with control and more interested in creative approaches and critical thinking when it comes to problem solving.
The Perfectionist focuses on what isn’t working and is often impatient and critical. The Adventurer sees what’s going well and what there is to be grateful for and is quick to offer appreciation, flexibility, and help in tough situations.
As author and coach Naomi Teeter points out, the Adventurer knows how to ask “quality questions” when faced with a challenge, questions like:
What’s the best thing that could happen from this?
Hasn’t everything worked out just fine in the past? Aren’t I OK?
What if I chose to be happy and carefree about this instead?
What is this teaching me?
How can I use this experience to support others?
How could I turn this into a great story?
What can I do differently next time so that this doesn’t happen?
If I’m honest with myself, I know that there are times I fall into the Perfectionist Mindset, in travel and in life. But I also know that at any moment, I can choose something different. I can always choose an attitude of adventure. Here’s a little more on me if you’re interested
If you’re ready to plan your next great adventure, I’d love to help you get there. You can set-up your consultation today to begin planning your trip by clicking here.
This article shows the benefits of travel with the research to back-up the claim that travel can lead to more happiness.
We know that travel comes with a host of great benefits as you get to:
spend time with people you love
see new things and try new things
relax away from the pressures of work and everyday life; you get the thrill of realizing dreams you may have had for years and years.
A proven way to more happiness Photo by Sylwia Bartyzel on Unsplash
As it turns out, travel is the best way to spend your money. Of all the things you can buy, the experience of traveling gives you, by far, the most bang for your buck. All these great elements of travel have been proven to make people happier.
And even more than that, every part of the travel experience — before, during, and after — is more satisfying, more enjoyable, and has longer-lasting positive effects than buying stuff.
In 2003, Thomas Gilovich published his landmark study called “To Do or To Have? That Is the Question” – a study that, more than a decade on, continues to influence social psychology and the study of what brings us true contentment. Gilovich looked at how economic choices affect well-being and analyzed the differences between experiential and material purchases on human happiness. His unexpected discovery has changed the way we look at our buying habits: Across the board, doing things makes people way happier than having things.
The reason for this is that we get to live and re-live the joy of experiences. Buying an expensive TV or even a new car gives a momentary spike
proven way to more happiness Photo by Jérémie Crémer on Unsplash
in good feelings that lasts for a few days. But when you take an amazing trip, you get the memories and the good time together. And every time you think of that trip, or you see something that reminds you of it, or you look at the picture on your desktop, your brain registers those joyful times and releases mood-enhancing chemicals that make you feel like you’re re-living the happiness of the experience itself. It stays with you, and you get to access it whenever you want.
It’s not like we need another reason to start planning that dream trip — but another study out that Gilovich co-authored has found that even the anticipation of experiences outdoes the lead-up to material purchases. People waiting in line to get tickets to an event are happier and more excited than those who are waiting in line to buy something.
So, even something as boring as waiting in line is more fun when it’s connected to your travel experience.
But it makes sense when you think of it, doesn’t it? You’re waiting to, say, get your passport photo taken, and associated with that time are thoughts of where you’re going to go, what you’re going to see, and all the adventure that awaits. When you’re planning that trip with your agent, you get to make progress, take steps towards realizing your dream, and each step is actually a part of the adventure itself.
As travelers, we know the many positive benefits of getting out and seeing the world. And now we can feel even better knowing that those benefits continue to improve our lives, long after the trip is over.
Are you convinced? Ready to start taking the steps towards your next travel adventure?
Let’s chat – just click here now to let me bring a little more happiness to your life!
A verdant island blessed with olive, almond and fruit trees. As you sail into the bay surrounding Skopelos town, it reminds you of a giant Greek amphitheatre. 120 churches nestle beneath the ruins of the Venetian castle, and two convents and a monastery cling to hills above the bay.
The most sophisticated of the Sporades, abounds with trendy shops where barely-clad visitors taking time off from the nearby beaches shop for expensive wisps of clothing and jewelry. Go a few blocks inland and you’ll find charming flower-decked houses and gardens overflowing with fruit trees.
