When you constantly feel like you need vacation after vacation, it is time to reevaluate how you plan your getaways. (Image by James Chou)
Does it seem like every time you open your social media feed or speak to someone, they’re travelling somewhere? Then, before you know it, they’re jet-setting to the next destination.
Today, travel is more convenient than ever before, and it is easy to feel pressured to be exploring new places all the time. But when travel is informed by ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out), it can be exasperating.
How do we travel so that it fills our cup instead of running us dry? A good place to start is by taking mental notes on what refuels you, and being aware of how you, your body, and your mind feel. Here are some suggestions on what you may need for your next trip, based on how you’re feeling.
Travel—for when new sights and scenes help fill your cup
1. “I’m in a mental rut”
When you feel like you’re in a mental rut, the best trip is one that gives your mind creative ammunition and a fresh perspective. And what better way to do that than by backpacking across Europe? You’d be living in a new city every few days, while expanding your knowledge of European culture, history, art, architecture, food, and literature.
2. “I feel burnt out”
Working or living in stressful environments over long periods of time can cause mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion, often resulting in burnout. Typically, you would be inclined to take a few days off at a tropical resort, but we’re offering you an alternative: take a road trip. Road trips are a good way to travel if you have more time on your hands. Places like Japan, New Zealand, and Australia are good picks for a road trip. Pick your stops, take the longer scenic route, and enjoy a slower pace of travel.
3. “I spend too much time indoors”
The nature of your job, school, or where you live can confine you to a life where you spend an unreasonable amount of time indoors. Spending time outdoors is not just good for your physical health, but for your mind and heart too. A good way to spend time outside is by pitching a tent and camping under the stars. It’s also a splendid method to get kids out of the house and off their devices while embracing the simple pleasures of life—time with loved ones and burnt marshmallows over a campfire!
4. “I’m up for an adventure!”
If you’re keen on a one-of-a-kind experience with a dash of adrenaline, consider booking an ‘off-the-grid’ travel package. Explore the wildlife of the African safari, the desertscapes of Dubai, sandboarding the plains of Cairo, or discovering the glaciers of Iceland. These trips will require a bit of planning and prior bookings with a travel agency and a guide.
Vacation—for mindful relaxation and tuning out
5. “I need a digital detox”
Is everyone overstimulated, or is it just us? With information overload being a daily default, we could all use a digital detox trip several times a year. Here’s our proposal: book a small town inn, a cottage in the countryside, or a cabin by a lake and log off for a few days. Malaysia is filled with forest retreats where WiFi is only available in the common areas, encouraging time offline while being immersed in nature.
6. “Give me some vitamin sea”
Beachfront properties were made for fuss-free vacationers who need nothing but the ocean and a sunny day to have a good time. From private beach resorts to secluded villas and small islands, a beach holiday is a great way to take time off to relax and recharge. Places like Bali, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand are havens for the incurable beach bum.
7. “I want to go somewhere, but I’m too tired to plan a trip”
Sometimes all we want is to go somewhere and be spoiled good, not worrying about food and transportation, or spend weeks working out an itinerary. Booking an all-inclusive travel package where accommodation, dining, entertainment, and activities are planned out means you get to spend more time enjoying yourself (and with your family, if you so choose). Spa hotels, wellness resorts, and cruises are a few promising options for an all-inclusive holiday.
Once-in-a-lifetime trips and travel itineraries offer you a chance to learn about places, cultures, life experiences, and landscapes that are different from your own. Then there are vacations—escapes from the daily grind, giving you a place to wind down, recharge, and live at your own pace for a while.
Now, it’s your turn to take your pick, and we wish you the best on your next getaway.
