Travel Planning Tip #1 - Set a Travel Intention:
Before you really start planning you’re trip and getting in the weeds, let’s take out a piece of paper or notebook (maybe even the one you can turn into your travel journal) and write out your why.
Now do it again. And again. And again.
In fact ask yourself but, why? 5 times.
Keep digging deeper until you’ve really discovered your inner reason for traveling, or for your trip.
Setting an intention focuses you on your trip. It provides, meaning, clarity and commitment. By setting an intention we can identify which locations and activities are on our “YASSSS” list and what’s on our “NOPE, NOT FOR ME” list.
Why is this important? . Because if you don’t, you’re going to get FOMO. You’re going to see a bright shiny excursion or tour and get distracted. But if you have your intention you can evaluate every opportunity if it’s for you, and will serve you and your intention.
Sometimes the point of the trip is to wander, to find inspiration or see what you can stumble on to. That’s fine, but recognize if that’s your intention, you’re not going to feel grounded throughout the trip.
Set your intention. Write it down somewhere you’ll see it such as over your computer or on your phone screensaver then use that as your guide, and every time you book something look at that statement and ask yourself “Will this serve my intention for this trip?”.
Not only will this method prevent FOMO, but it’ll keep you ON BUDGET!
Travel Planning Tip #2 - Accommodation
It’s so easy to book an Airbnb these days, but I think the trick is finding the right one that is going to help you have an amazing trip.
So I put together my list of 5 things to look for when booking an Airbnb
1) Location. Location. Location - will always trump everything else. You have be in the right spot to be in striking distance of the best bars, restaurants, and sights a city has to offer, but if you’re too close, good luck getting a decent night sleep. I try to look at the periphery of a city, that’s the area between the city center and suburbs. It’s usually a decent walking distance to all the major sights. But the real reason I like the periphery is because it’s usually where all the young professionals hang out, I.e. the local watering holes, because down town is where all the tourists stay in in the suburbs are where the families are at. So next time look for something in between!
2) Amenities and finishes - Look for places that have some finishes to them and looks like someone put some thought into it, but aren’t trying hard. If it’s decked out in fancy appliances and expensive furniture, it’s either too good to be true or they are compensating for something. Which brings me to my next point. .
3) Character - Look for the places that have some fun quirks to them. Like funny cabinets or a retro vibe to them. In my experience, I’ve learned the more character the better and the better the stay.
4) The Devils in the details - Maybe it’s making sure the linens are Egyptian cotton. Or leaving a cheese board out for you when you arrive. The best hosts know it’s these little details that make you remember staying at their home and will leave a good impression. The more detailed the host is with the guest experience, the more likely you are to enjoy your stay.
5) That little something extra - Maybe it’s a killer view. A rooftop pool. Exciting outdoor furniture. A hot tub time machine. You never know what’ll find in an Airbnb, but having something fun to enjoy all weekend will make your stay memorable!
Travel Planning Tip #3 - Transportation
Planes. Trains. And automobiles. Oh the places you will go and the ways you’ll get there…
If there’s anything I’ve learned, the best way to travel is like a local.
I’ve used public transportation, horseback, pack animals, boats (I’m on a boat man), and even golf carts to get to my destinations.
But the best way to get to and in/around your destination is how the locals do it.
It gives you the full experience, and gives you insight to the culture you can’t get from traveling around in a bubble.
So look for the shady guy with the rickety boat or rickshaw and buckle up as you open your eyes to the under belly of a culture.
Travel Planning Tip #4 Morning Routine
Your time is your most valuable asset. And as such how you spend your time, especially while traveling, should be something you are intentional with.
That’s why I have a morning routine when I travel. It keeps me focused on goals that I want to continue to make progress on, while giving me peace of mind to enjoy my time that I get to spend in a new locale.
Here’s what my routine usually looks like:
Wake up (resist reaching for that phone, enjoy some quiet time!) .
Make a morning drink such as coffee or tea or whatever the accommodations has available. I also bring small packets of either an energy supplement or Four Sigmatic mushroom coffee in case there isn’t something available I can make my own.
Spend sometime in the scripture, preferably looking at a peaceful scene and sipping my coffee.
Pray and meditate on some things I’m grateful for that day.
Grind! Whether it’s just writing a few pages, answering email or any projects I’m working on I still put in work because it helps me continue to make progress on some goals. Plus I think you’ll find being in a new location gives you massively new inspiration and creativity! So take advantage of it! .
Workout! Don’t lose sight of those fitness goals! Once I start to lose my focus while working I know it’s time to transition to something physical. This change in state helps me stay productive and gives me an energy boost and good feeling going into a days worth of activities! .
Take some photos! Whether it’s of the hotel room or Airbnb, your view from the balcony, or going to for a quick photo walk around your area you’re staying in, morning is the best time to take a few photos as there are less people on the streets and you can get raw shots. I’ve found these are some of my favorite shots I get in all my travels. .
Change into my best spelunking outfit and get out there and explore! . Once you crush your morning you can enjoy the day seeing the sites taking it all in, tasting wines and just enjoying each moment!
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