Travel Is My Favorite Form of Self-Care
Updated: April 19, 2023
COVID-19 has me rethinking why I travel. I do it because I love meeting new people and experiencing local culture — through art, history, food, drinks and music. I love how it gets me out of my comfort zone and makes me more present. When I travel, I am in the moment. Sometimes I will go hours without looking at my phone (okay, fine, 20 minutes). I feel at my best when I’m traveling. When I consider my whys, none of them require anything grandiose. I don’t need to fly halfway around the world to meet new people or try new food. I can do that anywhere.
Sometimes, I think we get so caught up in these big, grandiose adventures that it keeps us from thinking that less fabulous (aka more convenient) locales don’t even count. But there are so many wonderful places that are a quick flight or even within driving distance of wherever we call home.
Here’s an exercise: Write down the three best trips you’ve ever taken. What made them so special? Was it the people? The activities? The solitude? The views? The weather? Now look at your list and think of ways you can integrate those things in a less far-flung destination. This is just one good reason why working with a travel advisor pays off. They know all sorts of domestic (and even local-ish) places that wow. They can help you find a cozy lodge with a fireplace and maybe even a hot tub. They can point you to a quaint small town known for scenic hikes and great breweries. They can even score you a deal at a luxurious hotel downtown, complete with soaking tub and access to all those shows you can’t binge when the kids are around (and if there’s contactless room service, I may never leave). Even small trips offer big rewards, and this year, I’ve really learned to appreciate the little things.
What’s more: if you take a smaller trip this year, it means you can save up for something extra fabulous later. Did you know bookings for next year are through the roof? Especially when it comes to trips like Alaskan cruises, European river cruises and luxe rail journeys. Did you know it’s scientifically proven that just planning a trip brings you happiness? Now if that’s not self-care, I don’t know what is.