A gloomy morning in my office, knocking out daily tasks for travel clients, my son strolling in, asking a question so profound I had never truly considered it before.
We all get caught up in the doing, the accomplishing, forgetting to reflect on the essence of our experiences. Oftentimes, we just go through the motions, missing the moments that make travel truly memorable.
So, what did my son ask that sparked such a profound moment of reflection? He asked, “Mama, what was your best vacation so far?”
This simple question left me stunned. It’s a question that challenges even the most seasoned jetsetters, for travel is often seen as a destination-based endeavor, not an experience to be analyzed and cherished.
If more people took the time to reflect on their best trips, they would find themselves striving to recreate those magical moments over and over again. Think about it: when you try something new, you’re always chasing that first, exhilarating high, yearning to recapture that initial rush.
But travel isn’t like that. With careful reflection, you can replicate and even surpass the magic of that unforgettable trip. By analyzing what made it so incredible, you can compile a list of essential elements, the ingredients of your ultimate getaway.
After a few minutes of contemplation, I realized that my best trip so far was to Miami. I’ve been to Jamaica, the Bahamas, Grand Cayman, and Mexico countless times, but something about Miami resonated with me.
What makes a great trip for me may not be the same for you. I’m a lover of singing, dancing, and partying, especially with like-minded souls, to the wee hours of the night. And I don’t need alcohol to fuel my fun – I’m naturally energized and outgoing wherever I go.
The beach is my happy place. I can spend hours simply soaking up the sun, listening to music, and watching the waves roll in. And I always make sure that every trip includes both a beach and a party, ensuring that every adventure is a roaring success.
So, my challenge to you is to identify the two or three things that must happen on your next getaway. Delve into your previous trips, both the triumphs and the near misses, and find the common threads that made them memorable or disappointing.
It’s not always about how much you spent on your trip; it’s about the experiences you create and the joy you experience.
The few trips I didn’t enjoy was because I was traveling with people who lacked spontaneity and enthusiasm. However, I found ways to make the best of those moments, embracing my love for music and the beach, creating my own fun amidst the unexpected guests.
The key is to know what matters to you on your getaway. Make sure it’s a priority, and you won’t have to face the daunting task of answering that difficult question: “What was your best vacation so far?”
New Orleans was an absolute blast for me. I danced the night away at over five or six clubs on Bourbon Street, leaving such an impression that people followed me from venue to venue. When I returned home, my cousin even received a call from the club owners saying, “Your cousin was amazing; can she come back?”
And there was the time I sang in the atrium of the Carnival Breeze for two nights, becoming known as the “atrium singer” throughout the entire ship.
I could go on and on, but notice that I didn’t mention a single excursion. I was simply enjoying what I love – singing and dancing. As long as there’s music and dancing on my trips, I’ll be happy.
And I love the beach, so if I don’t get to enjoy it, I’ll be disappointed. That’s why I make sure that every trip incorporates water and a party.
So, go forth and have unforgettable vacations, filled with experiences that ignite your soul and leave you yearning for more. And remember, the best trips aren’t measured by destinations or extravagance; they’re defined by the joy you bring into your own life, the connections you forge, and the memories you create.
Peace and Love,
JaQuay
