In response to a blog comment/question (which I cannot locate now, for some reason) I wanted to offer some insights into what makes a rewarding, relaxing, and enjoyable vacation.
My apologies for misplacing the comment. And thank you, dear reader, for the inquiry.
First, I would suggest that you really do some soul-searching first. This is essential to separate yourself from the promotion/hype/advertising that can influence your decision on a destination, mode of travel, or activity.
You have to be really honest with yourself about what you are going to enjoy. Not what you’ve been told you’re going to enjoy. Sitting on a beach with a magazine, book, or cocktail is not something I enjoy, but it is something a lot of people enjoy.
Second, it’s important to determine what you’re going to learn on this vacation. That may seem like an odd thing to ask yourself, but what’s the point of travel if you don’t learn something, and consequently return as a different, more informed person?
Travel should shine a light, break down preconceived notions, and disrupt routines. Yes, you want to relax, but you can do that at home.
Read a book about your destination. Not just a travel book. A history book.
Second, I would suggest reaching out to residents who live in the place you’re going to visit. Journalists, university professors, students, and business owners can be surprisingly welcoming. Again, just do a little research.
If you’re interested in what’s happening in a country or city (it’s history, art, culture, economy, politics, religion, food, fashion), find the expert in that area. Send an email. Introduce yourself. Explain your interests. Suggest a rendezvous for a cup of coffee at a cafe. See what happens. People like to talk about their passions.
Of course, you can make use of tour guides. They often offer insights into places and events that you won’t find on your own or online. If you’re in a group, you might meet a fellow traveler who shares your interests. Again, suggest a cup of coffee and see what happens.
You can also ask friends, neighbors, and colleagues if they know people who live or work where you’re planning to visit.
As a word of advice, schedule seeing monuments and museums first thing in the morning. Leave the afternoons free to explore and be open to the spontaneous. Search our dining establishments favored by the locals. Learn 20 words or phrases in the local language if it’s different from yours.
Be polite. Dress better. Of course you’ll want to dress in long pants with at least a polo shirt and at best a long sleeve dress shirt, guys. And a sun dress or nice blouse, ladies. You’ll get better service. You’ll communicate respect for the places you visit and the people you interact with.
Greet the store owner or restaurant staff as soon as you enter the establishment. Be patient. Speak quietly, in a loud whisper, when dining out. Leave a big tip, even if it’s not required.
Don’t be an obvious tourist. Don’t stand in the middle of the sidewalk (or street) while you look at your phone, searching for directions.
Those are some fundamentals for a great Old Money vacation. Please add your comments, advice, and experiences!
Thanks.
- BGT
Excellent suggestions. Thank you.