A couple of days ago, I posted a short video asking my social media followers to share with me what stresses them out about planning for their vacation, and I got some great responses!  So, in today’s blog I am going to share with you the most common responses I received and my suggestions for alleviating some of that pressure.

Stress #1: How to find the right accommodations?

Research is key!  So, you found the perfect place to spend your vacation.  Now before you book, check out these tips:

• Read the reviews on multiple sites.
• Reach out to your network to see if anyone has had experience staying there or has any other suggestions.
• And contact the place you are considering.  How quickly they respond and answer your questions can give you some great insight on what you could expect during your stay.

Stress #2:Where to eat?

I love this question because I love to eat and discover new places, but again research is key!

• First, figure out everyone’s preferences and dietary requirements
• Once you have determined everyone’s needs jump on Social Media and use your Hashtag skills.  There you will find some great discoveries and probably need a snack to nibble on.  Here is an example, I am doing a family road trip to Ashville, North Carolina this summer so, I punched in #ashvillefood and just started scrolling.
• Once you find a few places, read the reviews on multiple sites.

Stress #3: How do I book activities that everyone will enjoy?

This can be tough especially when you have a group that has different interests and ages. Although here are some tips to get you started:

• Have everyone provide the one thing they absolutely want to do while on vacation and see if you can find it and book it.
• Plan one event or activity that you can do together so, you can create those lasting memories as a group or family.  For example, join a happy hour tour and visit local restaurants and meet the owners for drinks and a chat, arrange a rafting adventure or an educational stargazing experience.
• And don’t forget about free time to explore or relax on your own time or together.  This can be when the best memories are made or discovered.

Stress #4: What to pack?

Now this all depends on where you are going and what you will be doing.  But here are some general tips:

• Always leave space in your luggage so, you can bring home those unique discoveries found at local shops. 
• Minimize the time you spend packing by keeping the essentials in your luggage at all times e.g. travel size - shampoo, conditioner, skincare, toothpaste, toothbrush, health kit, etc.
• Roll don’t fold your clothes.  You will love how much space it creates for you!

Stress #5: What should I know before I arrive at my destination?

Traveling to a new destination is exciting, but it is very important to learn as much as possible about it before you arrive.  This reduces unpleasant surprises.  Some great places to start your research is:

• The destination’s tourism and government sites
• A Travel Advisory site - The Canadian government offers a travel advisory site, which you can just enter your destination and the following information will come up: risk levels, health advisories, vaccine and entry requirements, etc.  Here is the link https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
• And not always considered, but very important too is travel insurance.  Review your policies carefully and understand what your travel insurance covers so, you are not surprised if something does happen.

Now if you don’t have time to do these things or research is not your favourite thing to do then I recommend reaching out to a travel agent who you trust or has been referred to you.  They can cut the time in half, offer a variety of options and suggest unique experiences customized to your needs.

Thank you to all those who shared their concerns with me, and I hope these tips help.

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