Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B,

I am going to travel a little this summer. This is the first time in a long time. Do you have any tips for making the best of travel?

Up Up and Away

Dear Up Up and Away,

Congratulations to you. Great things can come to us through travel. Nothing like seeing the world or any part of it to give you a new perspective on your life.

Are you a planner? If so, plan away. It is always good to be prepared. Check to see if there are any special needs in the area you are traveling. Think about how you live. Are there things you do and need on a daily basis? If you have those needs, prepare to take them along. I am speaking of medicines and supplements. Actually, anything you love that you don’t want to be without. What about the weather? Check out the weather to see the types of clothing you might need. What excursions might you partake in? Google your area and see what all is available. All this being said, plan for some spontaneity. Part of a trip is relaxation and exploring new things. Don’t over plan.

Stay safe and healthy. Know where you are going. If you are a risk taker, get advice from someone other than Aunt B. I’m not very risky. What about your food and drink? Remember you are on vacation. Now is not the time to start your diet. Enjoy what the locals enjoy. Stay hydrated. Yes, I am talking water here.

Be prepared, but don’t take everything you own. Travel as light as you can. If you have to lug all of your belongings around, it won’t make for the best experiences. Take enough to be comfortable and as little as you can. Take what you want, actually. You will handle it either way. Most places have shopping where you can get anything you forget. You do you, take as little or as much as you want. My husband takes way too much, and I sometimes take off without essentials. So, find a happy medium.

Wherever you go, be kind and respectful. Isn’t that a good thing throughout our life? I find being kind and respectful is the best way to find kind and respectful people.

We spoke a little about this earlier but be flexible. More than likely, you will find some hidden treasure places that you will want to explore. Doing a lot of exploring does call for a little more rest. Rest when you need it.

Even if you are not a picture taker, take some pictures. Your loved ones will want to see where all you explored. It is nice to have some pictures to recall specifics of your trip. Again, fine line here. Don’t spend so much time taking selfies and pictures that you don’t enjoy the moment. You don’t want to come home and all your memories are taking pictures. Put the phone down some of the time.

Most important advice alert. Enjoy yourself. Immerse yourself in the culture and experience. Make memories.

Love, Aunt B

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