Often we get asked: How do you select a destination? The question has a few answers. Just like in other areas of life, it starts with a list. Taking that first step to write down your thoughts is helpful to begin making that next adventure tangible. Grab that pen and paper, Excel sheet, Word doc, Post-It.
Just do it!
Where do you want to go? It’s just that simple. Do you have something that has been on your bucket list? Was there a place that you remember from your youth, or a place that you read about that sounds exciting? This might be the first place to find inspiration.
What opportunities do you have? Do you travel for work? Do you have friends in a place that will make it easier? Is there a wedding, anniversary, graduation you are attending? Often times, we find ourselves in places we would not normally visit for a dedicated trip. Travel doesn’t have to be a the goal in and of itself. Some of the most amazing experiences can be found when you aren’t focused on the destination.
Whom are you traveling with? Travel can be an experience for everyone. Spouse, kids, parents, friends? What do you need to consider because of this, and how adventurous do you need to be? Wine tasting, automotive museums, art museums, or even race track. Each of these have been on our travels, sometimes in the same day! We find that focusing on the inputs, rather than being specific on accomplishments is important. Things like how much walking is needed, how adventurous are people with food. Focus on the natural ebb and flow of the trip. Everyone will need some downtime at some point, as we all have different needs.
When do you need/have to go? Naturally, we still have to plan within constraints. Is there a timeframe, limited PTO, holidays or a schedule you need to follow? We find that planning goes in stages. After you’ve chosen a place to go, think about the time that would work best. Planning around school schedules, work, family events, etc. is usually the first step. But, sometimes the best experiences can be made in the off-season, when there’s less crowds, and more opportunities for learning.
How should you get there? Getting there can sometimes be the hardest part. Are you or anyone you’re traveling with mobility limited? Are there any special accommodations that need to be made for motion sickness, being in crowds or stressful environments? It’s a fair question to ask, and best to address up front. We want to arrive at our destinations refreshed and relaxed.
Now, you’re ready to refine.
Eliminate what won’t work, for right now. Not forever. Want to see a baseball game at Wrigley? Can you only travel in December? That might eliminate Chicago. Are you traveling with kids: wine country might not work. Remember, excuses are not reasons to eliminate travel, but are challenges to look for opportunities.
Opportunities: Focus on the upside.
Can you extend that wedding trip to hop over to another city? Traveling to Sydney or New York for work? While some of these things may be out of your control, or less than glamorous, there is opportunity in all places. Some of the best experiences we’ve had have been in places people generally don’t seek out as destinations. Spokane, WA in the middle of winter, or Atlanta in the heat of the summer? Try to think outside the box, or the reputation of the place you’re going. Bring it on!