I love the holidays, especially when it comes after such a challenging year. It is as if my heels are itching for me to put on my travelling shoes and shoot off to a faraway country.
I wish I could go. On a plane. Right now, to the tops of the mountains in Kilimanjaro, or explore the beautiful sunny city of Santorini in Greece.
But I can’t. I’m stuck with loads of emails to respond to, and a meeting at 11 am. What can I do instead? I’ll do them, and share the tips with you too!
Check for Promotions
It’s still early in the year, and you’ve got a long way to go for your holiday. Start looking for the best flight deals and call up a few airlines for the best price tag.
Start Planning Your Budget
Money is the sole thing that can drive your holiday. Plan a budget and work towards getting your funds in place.
Plan Your Travel Itinerary
Discuss with your travel buddies and your travel agent on what’s the best places to eat, shop, wine and dine.
Now that the basics have been sorted out and you’re still craving to travel, what can you do to occupy youself?
Switch to Travel Novels and Writing
Make the topic into a new hobby. You could start a blog on countries you’ve visited, or share ideas on where you’d like to go next and what you’ve found out about that lovely country that’s next on your list. You could also grab a novel that transports you to foreign lands. Here’s two good ones to start with – Khaled Hosseini and Rabindranath Tagore.
Look at Travel Blogs
If you don’t have the time to travel or start a blog, try exploring the world through another’s eyes. Check out other bloggers and their posts on places they’ve been to. Japan, France, US; there’s so many to pick from! Or should I say click?
Binge Eat While Watching TV
HGTV has a program called House Hunters International that allows you to look at unique and quaint homes that are going for sale; and then there’s National Geographic People. Don’t get me started on the tapas and ceviche on Food Network.
Online Apps
Smartphones are God’s gift to people like you and me. I get to go on Instagram, Twitter and even Snapchat to check out posts on amazing pictures of the sun, sea and rain forests around the globe.
Get Together With a Group of Travel Friends
You always travel in a bunch, don’t you? Organize a latte night out with your girls, or have a round of drinks at the bar while you chat up on old travels.
Learn a New Language
Are you planning to visit Africa in September? Get a book and learn the local language to keep you occupied.
Take Up Cooking a New Dish or Two
Cooking brings out what you feel in your soul. Yes, that was one deep line. Likewise, learn an entire new cuisine. I’m picking up Korean food myself. Yukgaejang, Bibimbap, anyone?
Top Image: William Perugini / Shutterstock.com