The return to work or school after a vacation can be a harrowing experience. It's easy to get so caught up in your day-to-day routine that you feel like the break never happened. We've put together this list of tips for making your next vacation as relaxing as possible, complete with info on how to integrate daily habits from your trip back into your life at home.
Never take more (or take on more) than you can handle
We've all heard the adage you're only as strong as your weakest link. This is especially true when it comes to vacations. Taking more than you need can be a costly and inefficient way to get through a vacation. What's more, add too many activities and people into the mix, and you'll find yourself bouncing from one activity to another with little time for rest. Learn how to say no to activities you don't want to participate in. Say yes to the things that add value and socialize with people who are part of your community.
Choose the right habits
Don't be surprised if your vacation has a strange effect on your everyday habits. You can try to integrate your daily habits by packing some of your favorite snacks and beverages, so you can have a quick meal or drink before heading off to enjoy your chosen activities.
Choose to keep the same daily routine you would have had at home. For example, do you end the day back home with a nice warm bath? If so, pack a bottle of bubble bath in your luggage so you can have a relaxing soak before bed at night. Regardless of routine, make sure to get plenty of rest. This will help you relax at the end of your day.
As much as possible, try to keep your routines the same as you would have had at home. If you don't have time for yourself, choose a part of your daily routine that does have time for itself - like taking a quick shower or cooking a nice meal with some family and friends.
Choose the right place
Choosing a destination is easier said than done. On one hand, you want to go someplace fun and exotic, but on the other, you want to rest and relax. It's hard to have both; an unfamiliar location will make it difficult to find time to unwind, while a place you've been to many times before - while feeling like a home away from home - can be dull and uninspired. We suggest the branch-out method; choose a destination with similarities in culture, experience, or geography from previously visited places, but different enough to provide a refreshing sense of adventure. That way, you get to have fun while still getting time to sit back and relax
Choose the right people
You don't have to be an extrovert to have fun on vacation. However, going along with a group of people who are the opposite of you can create all sorts of problems. If you're not a socialite, why bring a group of party animals? If you're introverted, why go on vacation with many people who feel like they need to be entertained 24/7? If you're self-conscious about being alone, it's best if your family or friends are just as comfortable being alone as you.
Choose the right activities
There's no reason to completely isolate yourself from the rest of the world while on vacation. However, you should choose activities that allow for ample rest and relaxation. If you're going to an amusement park or the beach, don't plan on making those places your home base. Instead, plan on having a place where you can lay low to keep your energy up while traveling.
Get the right support
If you're going on vacation with a significant other, make sure they're comfortable with the amount of time you plan to spend together. If this is not the case, you should take separate vacations. Remember, everyone wants to enjoy their vacation.
Stay positive
A positive attitude will help your vacation go by smoother than ever before. Enjoy yourself, and ensure that everything is handled correctly at home before leaving.
Have a plan
A great way to ensure you enjoy your time on vacation is to plan the trip. The best plans involve activities you can participate in and require minimal travel time between locations. If possible, choose a travel plan that takes you around one central location rather than constantly moving from one place to another. This will cut down on travel time and keep your energy up as well.
There is no need to be overwhelmed when planning your next vacation. The most important thing is to have a plan in place to stay on track so that you can enjoy the time you do have at a relaxed pace. Make sure to budget in time for a relaxing break by having a plan ready. Don't forget that even relaxing on vacation can become complicated if you choose the wrong activities or destinations for your trip. Luckily, it doesn't have to be with a little bit of prep and planning!
