Planning a luxury getaway? If you’re about to head off on that trip of a lifetime, the chances are that you’re pretty eager to skip the boring stuff and get on your way – after all, rest, relaxation and sheer indulgence await. But the key to a successful and relaxing trip is all in the planning, and it pays to take care of the smaller details before you hit the road.
As the saying goes, ‘fail to prepare and prepare to fail’ – so dedicate some spare time to getting organised before you leave, and you’ll be free to enjoy your break without the stress that comes with an unforeseen travel catastrophe.
Here’s what you should think about before you go.
Making sure paperwork is in order
If you don’t ensure that your travel documents are in order, you could be in for a nasty surprise at the airport, and you wouldn’t be the first traveller to find themselves forced to return home after failing to produce the necessary paperwork.
Take some time to go over all your documents in the weeks before your trip, ensuring all necessary insurance is purchased so that if anything is amiss then you’ll have time to sort it out beforehand. Make sure your passport is up to date, and if you’re heading to the USA, you may need an ESTA, so be sure to apply for it well in advance. You can try out for ESTA obtention guaranteed here.
Whilst you’re thinking about your airport experience, why not book your place in the airport lounge or upgrade your flights? It always pays to start your trip in style.
Researching your destination
If you’re going to another country, be sure to do your research about what to expect when you arrive. If you don’t know what you’ll be walking into, then you may soon find yourself suffering from culture shock. Try to find out as much as you can – from what food is eaten there, to which language is spoken – and don’t forget to inform yourself about the weather conditions, to ensure that you pack the right attire!
The more you know about the country you’re visiting, the less culture shocked you are likely to be, and you’ll settle into your new destination with ease. You’re also far less likely to feel homesick, or to do anything you shouldn’t due to local custom or law.
Most importantly, researching where you are going is crucial for your safety, so be sure to find out where is safe and where isn’t. And don’t forget to look up some of the best attractions to visit during your trip, as these can often be the highlight of your entire stay.
Find the best hotels and book your rooms from home
With all the resources available to you online, there’s never any need to book a hotel on impulse. Take time to read reviews and research locations to make sure the accommodation you select can cater to your every need. It’s always worth comparing prices to ensure that you get the best deal, although making sure that your stay is comfortable and relaxing should be the ultimate priority.
Whilst many travellers are happy to chance it and leave booking a room until they arrive in a new country, this can be a risky approach. You may well find yourself forced to take a bad deal or to stay somewhere that is not up to your standards if accommodation options are limited.
Read up, plan ahead, and book in advance – that way, you’ll have no need to stress on arrival, and can relax and enjoy your stay.
Research attractions and plan activities
It might seem adventurous to arrive at your destination without any plan at all, and by and large, it is. But this approach can often lead to wasted time and an unfulfilling experience, leaving you feeling disappointed with a trip that hasn’t lived up to expectations.
Know what you want to get out of your trip in advance, and plan accordingly. Research the sites you want to see and find out how to get to them, and if you’re into food then find out the best places to eat. The world is awash with an impeccable array of fine-dining restaurants, so it’s a great chance to sample some truly exquisite food. You don’t have to stick to a rigid itinerary, but having a rough idea of what you want to do each day will mean that you are likely to see and do more. Booking a private car is a great way to explore any new destination, and having a dedicated and trustworthy driver will ensure maximum enjoyment.
Your vacation might take place abroad, but all the planning should happen at home – so take your time to put some of the most important things in place before stepping onto that plane.
