Bless Her Heart

Understanding the world requires first being willing to get out there and explore…to set goals…to brainstorm and do some research…to move from wherever you are now to wherever you really want to be… 

But when you live in what a wonderful world as we do…a world full of so many incredible places to explore and so many exciting things to learn…how on earth do you decide where to go first? 

Options can be a good thing or a bad thing. They can make life more exciting…but sometimes, having so many different options can also be frustrating. 

And planning your next vacation should not be frustrating… 

After all, vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing…right)?!) 

Four Types of Vacationers

Before you choose your vacation destination, figure out why you’re wanting to go on a vacation…what you’re hoping to accomplish, or perhaps not accomplish. 

I have found that there are four basic types of vacationers: Dolly the Doer, Holly the Jolly, Molly the Mommy, and Polly the Princess.

Each approaches the idea of vacation in a completely different way.

• Looking for: excitement and a big thrill
• Why: sick and tired of spending almost every waking moment confined indoors
• Needed: activity-based opportunities such as camping, snow skiing or hiking
• Best Options: national and state parks, Iceland, New Zealand, Switzerland

Holly the Jolly

• Looking for: a chance to learn new things
• Why: opportunity to learn new things
• Needed: ethnic cuisine, art gallery, food or music festival
• Best Options: cities with historical significance

Molly the Mommy

• Looking for: chance to spend quality time with kids
• Why: always caught up in the hustle and bustle of life
• Needed: bonding time
• Best Options: theme parks, zoos, interactive museums

Polly the Princess

• Looking for: pampering, being treated like royalty
• Why: she feels like she deserves it after all she’s been going through
• Needed: a peaceful corner of the world where she can “hide out” for a while
• Best options: all-inclusive resort, secluded beach, upscale villa

What the Pandemic Taught Vacationers

During the pandemic, many of us realized just how unlimited the resources are that we now have right at our fingertips…tons of information is just waiting to be taken in and absorbed. 

The internet can continue to be your best friend when it comes to planning vacations. 

Visit some of the following websites to begin planning your vacation: 

• Booking.com
• Expedia
• Google Travel
• Lonely Planet
• National Geographic
• Trip Advisor
• Wanderlust

As you virtually explore, list any vacation destinations that really catch your eye.  

Don’t limit yourself or even try to be realistic at this stage. Save that for later.  

Pay attention not only to overall ratings.  

Take the time to read the actual reviews, not only the overall ratings. This helps you understand why the ratings are so high or so low. Low reviews are typically left for unkempt lodging, poor service at restaurants or and misadvertised venues. 

Look for photos and videos uploaded by individuals, not the ones that the potential lodging facilities and available attractions hoped that you would see. 

Make a List, and Check It Twice 

Once you’ve finished exploring options, rank the opportunities that you listed. 

As you work back through your list, ask yourself the following questions:  

• Are you going to end up spending more time traveling to your destination than you actually being there? Should you choose a closer destination, given that you’re restricted to a given timeframe? 
• Are you wanting someone else to completely plan the details of your vacation for you? 
• Are you willing to travel off the beaten track? 

Choosing the Right Lodging

Once you choose where to go, start thinking about where you want to stay. 

Choosing the right lodging can be the difference between an okay trip and a wonderful vacation. 

Types of Lodging: Know the types of lodging available at your chosen destination. 

• Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts provide travelers a more cozy, intimate setting. 
• Boutique Hotels: Smaller, stylish hotels offer travelers uniquely themed rooms and more personalized service. 
• Camping/Glamping Sites: These sites are perfect for adventurers. Options range from traditional campsites to luxurious glamping tents. 
• Hostels: Hostels can be a budget-friendly option for solo travelers and backpackers, especially in some foreign countries. But do remember that will be staying in shared facilities and expected to be sociable at all hours of the day. 
• Hotels: Hotels are great for convenience and comfort. Check for amenities such as concierge services, fitness centers, pools and room service. 
• Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals are great for families and groups who are looking for a more home-like experience. Look for possibilities – ranging from tiny apartments to spacious luxury homes at sites such as Airbnb and Vrbo. 

Location: See how close the lodging is to any major attractions that you plan on visiting. Also check if public transportation will be available. 

Don’t forget to check the crime level of that particular area of the city, especially if you’re traveling to a metroplex like DFW. 

Quality: Go back to the websites listed above and check for lodging possibilities.  

Check for… 

• Accessibility: Does the lodging site have adequate wheelchair accessibility and elevators? 
• Amenities: Does the lodging site provide amenities – such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, free parking, a pool and kitchen facilities? 
• Animal Love – Does the lodging site welcome animals? 

Working Through a Budget

Having a carefully thought-out budget can help you choose a vacation destination that offers you the best experience within your given financial limits.  

You will be able to make a smarter decision about where you should go…how many days you can stay there…and what you can afford to do once you get there. 

Be honest with yourself and whoever is going with you on what you want to spend—and what your priorities are. 

Take into consideration the following expenses: 

• Activities and Entertainment: What attractions, guided tours, excursions and other special activities are you planning to do? How much does this all add up to be? 
• Food and Drink: How much are you willing to spend per day on food? What “fast food” options are available? What relatively upscale restaurants are available? 
• Lodging: What is the average cost of available hotels and rentals? 
• Transportation: Are you flying by plane? How much will your plane tickets cost? Are you going to rent a car? How much will this cost? Do you need to buy any other type of tickets – bus, taxi or Uber, train? How much will you probably end up spending on gas? 
• Travel Insurance: Do you need to buy travel insurance so that you’ll be covered from any unexpected expenses such as trip cancellations or health issues? Miscellaneous: How much buffer should you add for unexpected costs such as shopping, souvenirs and tips? 
• Miscellaneous: How much buffer should you add for unexpected costs such as shopping, souvenirs and tips? 

Money Saving Tips 

Budget issues typically are the key factor in choosing vacation destinations. 

But don’t give up hope. 

There are ways to cut corners without having to risk personal safety. 

Here are some things to keep in mind: 

• Keep an eye out for travel deals, discounts and package offers. 
• Many cities offer public transportation and free city tours. Take advantage of them. 
• Most destinations do have cheaper lodging options than the ones suggested in the travel brochures and websites. The lodging sites on the travel brochures and websites obviously have the funds to advertise, right?! 
• Plan your vacation during the “shoulder season,” the time immediately before or after the prime time to visit. Traveling during shoulder season can significantly reduce costs for flights and accommodations.Not only could this save you money, it may also mean that there are smaller crowds. 
• Research the best times to visit specific potential destinations. 
• The same resources that you used when choosing a destination can often provide budget-friendly travel tips. Check to make sure. 

Make a decision: Choose the destination that offers you the best overall experience based on your personal priorities…the destination that excites you the most and aligns with your personal desires and needs.  

Make sure that everyone is on board with that choice: Book your flights, accommodations and any must-do activities early enough to secure the best options and rates. Don’t spend so much more time finalizing your decision that you end up missing out on certain opportunities. 

Work out an itinerary: Now that you have officially chosen your vacation destination and began making financial commitments, take time to create an “official” itinerary so that you can book popular activities in advance. 

Keep an eye out for…

• Adventure opportunities – hiking, diving, zip-lining, safaris 
• Entertainment possibilities – nightlife, theaters, concerts and live performances 
• Historical and cultural landmarks that highlight the history and heritage of the area 
• Local events and festivals happening during your stay 
• Local Shopping – local markets, shopping districts and unique stores, best-selling souvenirs and local products 
• Nearby attractions that can be visited on a day trip if you need a change of scenery or additional activities Organized Tours and Excursions – walking tours, bus tours, specialty tours such as food and historical tours 
• Organized Tours and Excursions – walking tours, bus tours, specialty tours such as food and historical tours 
• Scenery – national or state parks, beaches, mountains 
• Seasonal events – harvest festivals, holiday markets or summer concerts 
• Sporting events – local sporting games, matches, or tournaments 

Finally…

Remember that there is a bit of each of these travelers in everyone.

Every woman is a Dolly the Doer, Holly the Jolly, Molly the Mommy and Polly the Polished. We just don’t all wear all of these hats at exactly the same time…or all at one time, sometimes.

And if you still can’t convince yourself to get out of that recliner during your vacation time, then…