A vacation is something you should enjoy. It is a break from the stress of daily life, so it is important to relax and have fun. If you find that you don’t enjoy your vacations as much as you would like, here are some tips to help you enjoy one more.
Photo credit: easyandme on flickr
Anticipation
Participate in planning your vacation. This prepares you psychologically. Read a book about traveling to your destination or check out the city’s tourism website and make plans as you do. Planning your vacation is half the fun of the vacation itself.
Don’t Plan Every Moment of the Trip
Allow yourself free time to do the things you want, but don’t over schedule. Allow freedom for spontaneity. Plan only one attraction or activity per day and do what you feel like doing in the moment the rest of the trip. Most of the fun of a vacation takes place doing something you didn’t plan.
Take Care of Business
If worrying about work is going to keep you from enjoying yourself, choose specific times that you can work from the hotel. Keep work brief and do as little as possible so that you have enough time to do the things you enjoy.
It’s Your Vacation, Do it Your Way
Just because your friend recommends an activity or going to a specific attraction is the tourist “thing-to-do,” doesn’t mean you are obligated. For example, most coastal areas have rich histories in addition to beaches. If you prefer historic tours over the beach, don’t feel obligated to do what you think you should do. This is your vacation! Do what pleases you!
Save the Best for Last
Your last day will be the one you remember the most. So, unless weather is not on your side, save the things you anticipate the most for your last day. This also draws out the planning anticipation, which will make the vacation more enjoyable.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
If things don’t go according to plan, don’t sweat it. A bad attitude can quickly destroy an otherwise fun vacation. Instead, focus on the things that make you happy. Take lots of pictures of those things so that you can revisit those memories any time.
Following these steps will help you to enjoy your vacation and give you memories that make you smile.
