If you’ve been blessed to have many vacations over the years it may take you longer to plan the next one. Unless you fancy something predictable, you’ll be keen to discover new countries and cultures, as well as unique experiences. This could be anything from visiting a James Bond exhibition to swimming with dolphins.
If you’re currently planning your next vacation but have been scratching your head, this article can give you 6 tips on how to make it more exciting.
1. Research Beforehand
By reading travel blogs and specialist websites, you can find out more about the places that you will be visiting, and plan accordingly. When booking a vacation on holiday websites, there are often optional excursions you can pay for. If you book these in advance it will secure your place and potentially save money.
When you arrive at your destination you could also ask the locals about any excursions they would recommend. They might be cheaper than going through a tour company – and you’ll get direct advice from someone living in the area.
Besides the location you’re going to, it’s worth discovering more about your accommodation. If you are looking for Orlando resorts near Disney World you can opt for water park hotels or hotels just steps away from the theme parks. The official websites will often tell you whether they feature things like pools, water parks, and spas and whether they are pet-friendly.
2. Rent A Car
If you do this you’ll have full autonomy and freedom to move around as you please, instead of using public transportation or relying on others for rides.
If you are considering this option, however, it’s important to do so wisely. This refers not only to your budget but also to whether or not you’re comfortable driving in that location.
Besides the different terrain, you may be traveling on the opposite side of the road to normal. Ask about insurance when renting and be aware that most credit cards provide limited coverage, so check before signing up.
3. Have A Themed Trip
It may be that you are interested in culture or art, or something else that is specialized. If this is the case, a themed trip could be a great option for you. If history and archaeology are your interest then going to the UK to see Stonehenge or Hadrian’s Wall would hit two birds with one stone.
They both have historical significance whilst also being incredible tourist attractions. For art lovers, why not go along to some of London’s many museums and galleries?
If you are a foodie you could travel to a fine dining restaurant every night and eat your way around the world. If you love sport, why not go to see some of the most iconic sporting events that take place all over the world?
4. Try A New Activity
One way to make your vacation more exciting is by trying different sports. If you’re visiting a coastal town or are near the ocean, take advantage of it. There are many different watersports that can be enjoyed including scuba diving, canoeing, surfing, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. Depending on the activity, some might require lessons beforehand so be sure to research this in advance.
If you love the great outdoors, trekking and rock climbing are other activities that you might enjoy. You can travel through the countryside or climb up tall mountains. These sports keep your body active so it’s also great exercise during your vacation. Backpacking is another adventure-seeking activity and it means carrying all of your belongings with you as well as camping out under the stars.
5. Involve Technology
Photography
Whether you are taking a trip to the mountains or a busy city, having camera equipment readily available will help make your holiday more exciting and memorable. Think about things like framing and lighting before trying out different shots. If you’re traveling as a couple, your waiter/waitress may be willing to take some photos of you together.
If you are experiencing amazing heights or landscapes, bring a drone along with you. There are many that can connect to your smartphone and it can be possible to take amazing videos this way. Just be wary of drone laws, which vary depending on your destination. If you are around people they can be seen as an invasion of privacy.
Entertainment
Bring your favorite movies or electronic books and games on vacation to make it more exciting. It’s easy to get bored when you’re not in the comfort of your own home. This will help you pass the time while traveling on a plane, car, or train. It can also provide an escape from reality for a little bit if something goes wrong with your travel plans.
If it’s pouring with rain outside you’ll be glad you brought something with you. If you use a smartphone to communicate with other people and to self-entertain, be sure to bring your chargers and adaptors, and some extra backup for your battery.
6. Go With Different People
When couples go on holiday together there are often compromises to make because they don’t share the same interests. If you have some spare time and friends who have a similar hobby, why not go away with them for a few days? You’ll also be able to meet new people and make friends.
If you are looking to share your vacation with others, maybe it’s time to join a cycling club or take part in a walking holiday. You may need to go online and search, and it could involve you joining a sports team. This can be a great way to:
● visit places you’ve never been before
● do things you’ve never done before, with people you’ve never met before!
As you can see, vacations never need to be boring. Once you’ve made your choice you may be able to take things up a level by buying some new equipment. This could be anything from a surfboard to a camera. When the vacation is over, you may have some photos and memories that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Featured image: Unsplash (Tron Le).
