We all know that feeling: Looking forward to finally being home and in the own bed after a vacation. Finally being able to relax again and just do nothing. But why? I believe that traveling should also be something relaxing and inspiring. Therefore, I have five tips for you on how to make your vacation more relaxing so that you come home and want to go again immediately.
The way to a relaxed stay:
1.: Do whatever you please
Stressing from sight to sight and worrying about not seeing everything is not satisfying in my view. Try selecting the top 3 sights you want to see and just mark them on your map. When you arrive at your destination first go to a café, do some people watching and then decide what you’re in the mood for: Go for a lazy stroll, shopping, visiting a museum or two or go to the next restaurant and eat the local speciality. Whatever you choose, you will most probably walk by your sights anyway but absolutely stress free!
2. Treat yourself
You can always take the overnight bus instead of a plane, stay in hostels with five other backpackers in your room or survive on bread and bananas. But why should you? You are on vacation and supposed to enjoy yourself! Some things really are worth paying for if that means happy memories and a more enjoyable trip!
3. Try something new every day
This does not just apply for vacation but also for your everyday life. Doing new things and breaking free from your daily routine is something very fulfilling. But when you are abroad you do have more time to do these things: Go dancing, eat fruit you have never tasted before, sit on a bench for two hours and just watch the people, talk to strangers in a bar, explore the city on a bicycle or try the local drinks. These are the memories you will cherish most.
4. Keep an open mind
Be prepared that the culture you are visiting might be very different from your own. It is very important to stay open minded and travel with a humble attitude. You are very privileged that you can travel the world – other people are not as lucky. Local people might not know that your culture is different from theirs so try to adapt and just be friendly. This will reduce your stress level and it will be easier for you to connect with the locals.
5. Always keep an eye on your valuables
It might seem trivial but if you lose your wallet or your phone gets stolen, your vacation might become very stressful for you. You can avoid that by firstly, only taking the absolute necessities, secondly carrying a backpack with a zipper which you can keep closed, thirdly always keep an eye on your bag when you put it somewhere and last but not least, use the hotel safe. If you stay careful and maybe a slight bit suspicious, you will be just fine.
