Here are our top 10 tips to upgrade a fun trip to an unforgettable lifetime experience.
1. Send yourself a postcard
This might sound a bit weird, but take a moment to sit down, reflect on your experience, and send a heartfelt postcard to yourself – this way you can capture the memories and emotions you feel while they’re fresh in your mind.
2. Get stuck into local literature
A great way to connect with the country you’re visiting is by diving into a book set in that destination, where the story can transport you there in your mind and deepen your appreciation for the local culture and history.
3. Tune in to travel podcasts
Not a big reader? Immerse yourself in stories from your destination with podcasts that provide local insights, share hidden gems, and offer unique perspectives on the destination. One of our favourites is "You Should Have Been There" available on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Music and Google Podcasts.
4. Live like a local
Forget the tourist hotspots for a day! Seek out real local experiences, whether it’s a cultural event, exploring lesser-known restaurants that locals love, or getting involved in traditional activities that offer a rare glimpse into the local way of life. You agent will probably know a few hidden gem eateries or opportunities to join a cooking class, maybe a dancing lesson.
5. Get off the beaten path
Ask your trusty travel consultant to guide you towards unexpected adventures, local hidden gems, and experiences that you wouldn’t normally find – it’ll stand out from normal holiday activities and stick in your mind for years to come. Super tip... ask your Agent about Withlocals or ToursByLocals
6. Take a travel journal (and remember to use it!)
Document your journey as it happens by jotting down the nitty gritty details, once-in-a-lifetime highlights, and bursts of emotion as they happen. One of our favourites for travel is a Moleskin Pocket Hardcover notebook.
7. Connect with locals
Forget the language barrier, humans can always communicate! Break down cultural walls by initiating conversations and forging connections with locals – they can provide insights and interactions you simply won’t get anywhere else. **Super tip use google translate app and try speaking to locals as authentically as you can, they will love you for your effort and go the extra mile.
8. Get out of your comfort zone
Get your travel agent to recommend and book you some adrenaline-boosting activities that will push your boundaries – not only will you leave with a sense of accomplishment, but there’s also no way you’ll forget the experience.
9. Favourite your photos at the end of the day
When you hit the hay at the end of a day’s exploring, help your memories sink in by spend 10 minutes to flick through your photos and mark your favourites and delete the ones that on second thought are subpar – future you will thank you for it!
10. Disconnect from devices
One of the best ways to connect is to disconnect: take a planned break away from technology, put away your smartphone, headphones and gadgets. Fully engage with your surroundings – you’ll find you create a deeper connection with the people, culture, and beauty of your destination.