Have you ever returned from a vacation and wondered how it went by so quickly? You spend months looking forward to a trip, and before you know it, you're packing your suitcase to come home!
One thing I've learned over my years of planning travel is that it's not always about how many days you have. It's about how you spend those days.
A little thoughtful planning can make a big difference in how much you experience and how relaxed you feel when you return home.
Here are five things I encourage travelers to consider when planning their next vacation.
1. Consider Visiting More Than One Destination
Sometimes splitting your time between two destinations can make your vacation feel like two separate trips!
Hawaii is a great example. If you have 10–14 days, why not experience two islands? You might spend the first part of your vacation exploring Maui and then head to Kauai, where the scenery and experiences are completely different.
The same can be true in Europe. Spending a few nights in a city followed by time in the countryside gives you two very different experiences.
But here's where good planning comes in. I don't believe in trying to see everything in one trip. Too many hotel changes and travel days can leave you exhausted instead of refreshed.
It's all about finding the right balance.
2. Pay Attention to Your Flight Times
This is something I always consider when planning a trip for my clients.
Let's say you have eight days for your vacation. If you arrive late in the evening on your first day and have an early morning flight home on your last day, you've really only had six full days to enjoy your destination.
Sometimes spending a little more for better flight times is worth it, especially when your vacation time is limited.
Of course, we can't always control airline schedules, but when there are options, I like to look at the whole picture—not just the price of the ticket.
3. Make Getting There Part of the Experience
Not every travel day has to feel like a lost vacation day.
One of the things I love about traveling in Europe is how easy it can be to get between destinations by train.
Instead of spending hours getting to an airport, going through security, and waiting for a flight, you can relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
And sometimes the journey itself becomes one of your favorite memories!
Scenic train rides, a private transfer with stops in small villages, or even a ferry ride between islands can add another wonderful experience to your vacation.
4. Unpack and Make Yourself at Home
This one might sound simple, but I really believe it makes a difference.
When you're staying somewhere for several nights, unpack your suitcase! Hang up your clothes, put things in the drawers, and settle in.
There's something nice about coming back to your hotel after a day of exploring and feeling comfortable in your surroundings.
It's also one of the reasons I often recommend spending at least three nights in a destination whenever possible.
You have time to get familiar with the area, discover a favorite little café or restaurant, and enjoy the destination without feeling like you're constantly on the move.
5. Leave Some Time for Absolutely Nothing!
This might be my favorite tip!
When you're visiting somewhere new, it's tempting to fill every day with sightseeing, tours, and activities. After all, you want to make the most of your time.
But some of the best travel memories happen when you don't have anything planned.
Sleep in. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Wander through a local market. Stop for a glass of wine at an outdoor café and watch the world go by.
Or, if you're at a beach resort, spend the entire afternoon by the pool with a good book!
I love helping my clients experience the highlights of a destination, but I also believe it's important to leave room for those unexpected moments.
You don't need to have every minute scheduled to have an amazing vacation.
It's Not Always About Taking a Longer Vacation
It's about making the most of the time you have.
Whether you have one week or three, the right itinerary can make a tremendous difference in your overall experience.
When I plan a trip, I'm not just looking at hotels, flights, and tours. I'm thinking about how everything fits together, how much time you'll spend getting from place to place, and whether you'll have time to truly enjoy the destinations you're visiting.
Because at the end of the day, I want you to come home with wonderful memories, not feeling like you need another vacation to recover from the one you just took!
Dreaming about your next getaway?
I'd love to help you make the most of your vacation time. Whether you have seven days or seventeen, let's create a trip that fits your interests, your travel style, and the experiences you're looking for.
Ready to start planning?
BEGIN PLANNING NOW
P.S. I'd love to hear from you! If you could go anywhere next year, where would you go, and how much time would you have? Sometimes the best trips start with a simple conversation!