A New Year. For many, a time for a new beginning. Time to reset the clock, start over, begin again. Always wanting better for yourself and others is a good thing. I don’t particularly think it should be confined to just the beginning of a new year. It should be whenever you’re ready to press start! But the start of a new year does bring thoughts of change and starting fresh to most minds.
The years roll by quickly. Personally I’m about to hit a milestone birthday this year. It’s made me really think about time, how I spent it, and how I want to spend it going forward. Time is one thing that is finite – once it’s passed, there’s no getting it back. And how you don’t realize something is the last until it has past. Which gives you a perspective to live in each moment. To really LIVE in it. Because none of us know when our time here is up. And so we should be mindful, deliberate in how we spend that time.
How you spend your time is uniquely determined by you, and only you. Do what you want. Live how and where you can. And experience life in a way that fulfills your soul.
For many, experiencing life comes in the form of travel. Going to new places, whether it is checking off each state, or visiting every continent, or every country in Europe; learning and enjoying other cultures, foods, towns, history. So much to do, see, and experience.
Where will 2023 take you?
Cruises – this is a great way to experience many destinations without worrying about getting there. You unpack once into your cabin and your food and entertainment is included. Additional expenses are for excursions, tours, souvenirs, and on-board extras (though many cruise lines are now offering packages for open bar and upscale dining!). There are many options for cruising – from small, intimate ships with all veranda suites, to large ships with so many activities you many not be able to do them all while onboard. Cruising is an affordable way to travel to multiple destinations while only having to unpack once.
All-Inclusives – these resorts are a great way to stay on budget and not incur a lot of extra expenses during your vacation. There are a range of AI resorts, from budget-friendly to luxurious. All-Inclusives are just that – include all your food, beverages and entertainment. Some resorts are very lively with lots of activities and nightlife. Others are more secluded and quiet, yet upscale and relaxing. Most AI’s are in Mexico, Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean islands. You will not find a true AI in the US – there are a few that will include your meals but not beverages.
Tours – similar in context to cruising, many tour companies will take you to multiple destinations and arrange experiences while there. This could be done through flights or rail or bus travel. And often includes a night or two in each destination (lots of packing and unpacking). Yet these kind of vacations offer a more intimate way to experience the destination, and are very well planned out and many times individualized. Small group tours are great especially if there are several people travelling together, like for a family reunion or special trip.
Independent Travel – this is a great option for adventurists, and those wanting to experience places their own way. If you have a specific destination or region in mind, and know what you want to do while there, this is most likely the way you want to go. These trips require the most planning and research, especially if multiple destinations are involved.
Finer Things Travel can help you through all of the above, and more! After two years of travel interruptions, the industry is back in full force and people are making up for lost time. Make 2023 the year you plan to check off a place or two on your bucket list. Travel while you can. Contact us today to get started!
*TRAVEL TIP! A good thing to do is check your passport and make sure it doesn’t expire soon. Many airlines and countries will not allow entry if it expires within 6 months. Renew it now if needed! Regular processing times can take 8+ weeks so plan ahead if you need to renew your passport, or if you need to get your first passport!