Successful Vacation Planning

Congratulations! You've decided to splurge and take the vacation that you've been dreaming of. But where do you begin? The options and the choices are so overwhelming, and the travel websites sites are no help at all. There are so many choices, the reviews vary greatly from one traveler to the next, and there's a lot riding on this decision. So, what's the best way to begin sifting through all of this information?

The very first step - one that is oh-so-important but frequently overlooked - is to sit down, preferably with your fellow traveler(s) and define what it is that you are looking for. Start by identifying what you want to do and what is important to you. Think about your previous vacations: Where did you go? What did you like about it? What was missing? What activities do you enjoy? These questions will allow you to avoid repeating your past mistakes and build on your prior successes.

Now, think about your ideal experience and what you expect to get from your next trip. Are you looking for a destination with many available activities and excursions? Or, is a vision of private thatched cabanas on a secluded beach dancing in your head? Be forewarned, you may have to compromise! If you want a primitive adventure filled with action and variety but your partner wants pampering and spa treatments, there is going to be some serious negotiating. Get agreement from everyone who is traveling and write it down. Your list may look like this:

• All-Inclusive
• Must have swim-up bar
• Needs white powdery beach
• Adults only!
• Excellent food and variety of restaurants
• Must be serviced by non-stop flights
• Pre-arrange couples massage
• Budget $abc
  

Or like this:

• Want to see live volcano
• Zip-lining is a must
• White water rafting
• Sport fishing
• Move around and stay at different places
• Food not important
• 2 or 3 star accommodations are fine
• Budget $xyz
  

This list you just made will make it so much easier for you (and your travel planner) to find the perfect match. This magical list of agreed upon criteria will virtually guarantee that you will not arrive at your destination in a state of bliss only to find a black cloud descending on your travel partner. It will also serve to narrow down your options so that the choices don't seem so overwhelming. It is your first step toward taking control of your next vacation experience.

There, now that you've made your list, don't you feel better?