How Traveling Promotes Healing and Wellness

Photo by Bicho_raro

The pandemic has brought the future closer in an accelerated way. An obvious aspect of this future is the travel wellness trend. Travel styles are changing and what people want out of a vacation is shifting.

While travel has always been a reset, during the pandemic, the travel experience transformed and became a place to heal — from mental, physical, spiritual stress. People travel for answers now about how to feel better. If you've read the book Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, you will by now see travel as not just a means to relax and curate Instagrammable moments but an outward journey as a passageway for an inward one — growing, healing, and taking a spiritual path to become your best self. This book has subtly urged millions of people to use travel as a balm for healing and as a powerful tool of transformation.

But this post is not about a book but how you can harness the innate power of traveling to heal. Sometimes pain is so strong and so deep that the only way to heal it is to travel, just leave everything behind and give yourself the space to get over the hump so you can begin to move forward. Traveling is indeed a form of self-care. How you approach it determines how rejuvenated you will feel at the end of it.

Physically, traveling improves our fitness level — in terms of stamina and physique — from exploring the wonderful places in the trip. For example, a trip to the ocean with means to escape densely populated, smoke-filled and frequently unsanitary conditions in exchange for air fresh off the open ocean.

Emotionally, traveling can serve as a source of inspiration as it opens up the possibility such as meeting new people and seeing great art. Traveling can be a way for you to distance yourself from stressful life events to reflect and find solace from them.

Spiritually, traveling to certain places can really touch our spirit and soul by its beauty. Many travelers find considerable comfort and inspiration when visiting significant religious landmarks, to meditate or do pilgrimage. These high-energy places have the power to expand our senses and connect us deeper into our inner self.

How traveling can foster healing and wellness

• It forces you to be present — Traveling to a foreign environment takes you out of your comfort zone and forces you to focus on what’s happening at the moment instead of what happened in the past.

• It shifts your mood — snaps you out of negative energy, depression, and stress.

• It forces you to look within and face your fears — Solo traveling has an awakening power as being on your own can greatly help with self-reflection.

• It cultivates gratitude — Being out of your comfort zone often can be an eye-opener to how lucky we really are with our lives.

Types of wellness trips you can take

Solo trips — For the individual seeking opportunities for self-reflection, self-care, discovery, or adventure.

Couple retreats — To improve connection & communication. Celebrate a wedding anniversary and reconnect with your original purpose as a couple.

Reconnection getaways — Reconnect with friends & family to celebrate milestone events such as bachelorette retreats, anniversaries, reunions.

Family-friendly wellness breaks — For people with spouses, parents or children, planning a family wellness trip could help relieve some of that domestic stress built up from living at close quarters throughout the year.

Digital detox holidays — Digital detox holidays will provide environments where guests can choose to surround themselves with books and the sounds of nature rather than scrolling through social media. Letting go temporarily of digital trappings calms the mind, gives the eyes a break and helps people take better control of their time. 

Breaking away from routine, getting completely away — even through a trip as short as a week — and being ready, inviting healing in, can be that vital catalyst that sets you back on the road to wholeness. Now is as good a time as ever to get out of our own little corners and on the road. Let's help you plan trips that will kick-start your wellness journey. Check out our travel planning service here.

How to Travel Solo as an Introvert

iStockphoto by Milan Markovic

Traveling solo gives you a lot of freedom and space especially because you're not responsible or committed to anyone but yourself and your interests. This freedom however can be daunting and it is in fact no piece of cake for introverts as you'll go out of your way to forge connections and create experiences for yourself. On the other hand, solo travel ensures you avoid social fatigue, and you can recharge in your own company.

When you travel alone, you're most likely able to open up to new opportunities than when you have company. It could be talking with the locals to learn more about their culture or chatting with other travelers you meet while exploring. These activities most definitely are easy to engage in for experienced solo travelers but if you're considering going solo for the first time, you'll have to know how to make it happen. Though solo travel and introversion are not mutually exclusive, the rule of thumb here is that you'll have to buckle up on your antisocial side and go YOLO on your first solo adventure.

Solo travel can be a very social experience and if your introverted side is trying to convince you otherwise, here are some tips to smash your first solo trip, introvert or not. 

Plan your trip to detail

A strategic map of how to go about managing your travels will help lessen your travel anxiety. Make it as detailed as you'll like but don't skip out on it. Begin by planning a short trip to a nearby known place. A weekend getaway to a nearby location would make a great first solo trip to begin with. If you'll need help with this part of your trip, read this guide to the end to find out our offer.

Research your destination ahead

Solo travel for introverts comes with its challenges so it pays to equip yourself. Learn about the culture of the place you'll be visiting, its acceptable gestures and unacceptable ones. Research the weather and the travel gear that would best serve you. Get our free guide to packing well for any trip here.

Choose destinations without a language barrier

It's advisable that your first solo trip is to a destination that speaks the language of your home country or the one you're most familiar and comfortable with. If there are minor language differences, you can get a tour guide to help you navigate.

Choose your accommodation carefully

Where you choose to lay your head for every night can set the mood for your travel experience. Your lodge is the best and easiest way to meet people and make friends in a new location. A resort or Airbnb where you could book rooms to stay with a local host is a great place to start.

Initiate conversations

Obviously, this may seem tasking as you'll have to leave your comfort zone to do this. But you need to want to be social and be willing to try a little harder than you might at home to meet people and start conversations. A simple greeting or a compliment, asking for directions or recommendations could lead to great conversations. When you break the ice and communicate with the locals or other travelers you'll feel more connected to the location and enjoy your trip better.

Entertain yourself briefly

Traveling solo offers you a lot of free time in between activities. A bus ride or train ride can easily become boring if you don't occupy yourself. Take a book with you that you could read or curate a music playlist that you could listen to at times like this. Indulging yourself in familiar activities and moments can help you stay grounded and push the anxiety and loneliness away.

Join group tours

Traveling is all about taking in new experiences. Consider signing up for group tours. This would help balance your me-time with social interactions. Also exploring under trained guidance is a good way to learn about your new environment and meet new people.

Engage with the locals

The locals are usually the best source for recommendations as they know the best things to do and places to visit in their town. Chatting with them is a unique experience which offers a new perspective to their culture as they'll entertain you with fascinating stories. Gift shopping from local vendors at the local market or store can help you engage with the locals.

Solo traveling is compelling, but is also that one decision that requires strong guts and high spirits. But always trust your instincts and you’ll meet with some amazing people and experiences outside of your comfort zone which will open your mind in ways you’ll never imagine! 

Our guide on solo travel for introverts mentions the necessity of planning your trip in detail. If you want a head-start with your planning process, check out our travel planning service that's available starting at $45 per day. We’ll take the pain out of travel planning and ensure you have the best experience.

Let us help you plan a solo trip

Jolley in Jordan: What Our Travelers Have to Say

Jordan is a great holiday destination to enjoy your time and educate yourself on Middle Eastern heritage. For seven days in the month of March, ten charming ladies came together to explore Jordan and its four prominent cities: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum and Dead Sea. It is an insanely beautiful country with outstanding culture and history and its cities are an exquisite blend of nature deserving of an in-person experience.

It was an incredible time bonding with like-minded people over shared experiences. Read their stories below.

“I don't think I would have ever gone to Jordan had it not been for Gojolley. It's not your typical girls’ trip. My most memorable part of this trip was visiting Wadi Rum. I stayed in the desert which I wasn't expecting to be so real like the actual desert. When I was there, it felt like I was dreaming. I've been to deserts in other places but never had the privilege to stay there. Also meeting new people and tasting Jordanian food felt really good too. This trip got me thinking about creating content and has pushed me to consider places I wouldn't think of visiting because now I believe I can go to every damn place I want.”

Adebola, UK | @mybreakingviews

“This trip taught me to take risks, that life is too short to be scared. I took the risk of flying across the country and traveling with random women in a group. It made me realize I can now go to a lot of other countries without fear. Staying in Wadi Rum was my most memorable time. We practically lived in the desert. The bubble hotel was very unique and I loved everything about it. Also hiking in Petra felt like I was in a movie.”

Christina, USA | @chiii.chiii._

“Jordan was on my long travel bucket list and visiting it strengthened my beliefs that the world is simply amazing and we should always be open to exploring it. I learnt to embrace my fears and just be. The group in fact was amazing. We met as strangers and there was a fast friendship after spending a few days together. Everyone came through. The moments we were laughing, teasing one another and having silly talks were special and I enjoyed every moment we spent in the desert at Wadi Rum.”

Florence, UAE | @ebivandam

“My trip to Jordan reminded me that there are more countries in the world than the ones I'm familiar with. Petra and the Dead Sea took my breath away. Both have been on my mind for years and it was important I experienced it with like-minded travelers, not just family and friends. Petra was memorable but pictures don't do justice to how magnificent it is. The hike was beautiful and the history in Petra is so unique. The Dead Sea was amazing. I never really thought about the color but seeing all that salt at the first stop just blew my mind away. It was such an amazing experience that I will cherish forever. Meeting the crew and getting to know each other - strangers from different countries who were eager to explore this new country together - was my best moment. I still can't believe I’ve been to Jordan.”

Sophia, Canada | @alerowiltshire

“Jordan was an unusual location that I never thought about visiting but was sold when I saw the itinerary. Going to Jordan reminded me that beauty can be found in the most unusual places. Petra was all shades of amazing. From this trip, I learnt to not be afraid of trying new things. I had many first time experiences; riding a camel then a donkey. Glamping at the Bubble Luxotel was momentous. I wouldn’t even forget the time we came back freezing after sand dunning because we didn’t have the right clothes on and the air conditioning in my room was on. I just knew I didn't come from Canada to freeze in the desert, lol. Adebola (my amiable roomie) and I eventually got the heater working.”

Tolu, Canada | @tolscreates

JORDAN 2023

We’ll be going back to Jordan in 2023! If you thought Jordan 2022 was amazing, wait until you experience Jordan 2023.

Jordan 2023 will be bigger and better with an updated itinerary for an even added excitement. Click the button below to join our waiting list to receive updates when slots are opening up. Remember, there’s only 10 spots for every group trip so you don’t want to miss out on this.

Spots are still available on our other group trips to Mexico, Turkey, Tanzania, Italy and Greece. You can check them out here.

How Traveling Can Help You Find and Understand Yourself Better

iStockphoto by lechatnoir

An outstanding benefit of traveling is its ability to detach you from the routines of life. The absence of normalcy coupled with new experiences while traveling allows you to change perspective in the way you think and process situations.

Traveling gives you room to build confidence in yourself while subtly teaching you compassion and various ways to express love. It gently taps into your emotions - the feelings you are familiar with and aware of as well as the unfamiliar and the apparently non-existent feelings - and magnifies it to help you know yourself better. Every trip is an opportunity to learn something new or accept something already known.

Learn to deal with change and uncertainty

The most powerful gift of travel is that it teaches you how to deal with change and uncertainty and there is nothing in life that forces you to deal with that on a daily basis like travel does. You get to discover how strong and powerful you really are. You grow in confidence. Your skills develop. You become very swift at solving problems and making decisions. And you learn the very important lesson of adaptability.

Break from familiar faces

Taking a break allows you the space to be yourself without fear of upsetting those you love. Getting to know yourself and accepting the real you will allow you to be a better person for your loved ones. So don’t fear this possible change and help your family and friends not to fear this either. Changing yourself does not mean your love for others has to change.

Figure out your likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses

Travel helps you learn more about what you like and don’t like. As you explore more towns and cities and participate in different cultures, you learn about more things than your culture or familiar environment permitted. As your knowledge boundaries stretch, you experience more emotions which would guide you to understanding what you like and do not like. Likewise your strengths and weaknesses. If you’re not testing out new and different parts of yourself, how can you know what you really excel in and what’s really not for you. 

Pursue your passions wholeheartedly

Travel is liberating. It gives you space to focus on your journey, to follow your interests and take your own path to self discovery. When you travel, all obligations fall away. You are left to do what you want with your life. What better time than to pursue your passions with reckless abandonment? This can also be a chance to find your passion - if you don't already know what it is. You can try out different outdoor activities like rock climbing, snorkeling or surfboarding or volunteering to charity.  Living passionately only puts loving happy vibes into the world, which does more good than you can see or realize. You can dedicate your entire travel experience to just living and experiencing your passions.

Traveling, whether solo or in a group can be a time for reflection and introspection. If you loved reading this, drop a comment for us below about how travel has helped you get to know yourself or which of these resonates with you the most. We would love to hear from you.

Also, if you’d like to receive travel news and inspiration from us in your inbox once every week, then subscribe to our mailing list here.

Top 8 Reasons Why Planning Your Trip with Gojolley is a Smart Decision

Past Jolley Traveler in Dominican Republic

In the age of technology, booking trips online is an easy choice for travelers. Want a vacation in the Maldives? You could type “Vacation in Maldives” into Google and wade through a billion responses - most of which look the same, whether they are good or bad, legit or bogus. Then spend at least two minutes each vetting sites and by the time you’re done, you’ll already be too exhausted to get on a plane and fly to the Maldives. What everyone needs these days is more time and less stress and that is what we are here for. There are several reasons why working with a travel planning company is relevant when planning your trip. Here are some of the reasons.

Time Convenience

The best service we offer you is the gift of time. You don't have to spend hours researching a destination as we will do the research for you! You can sit back and relax while we make the necessary arrangements for you.

Expertise

With expert and unbiased advice and recommendation, you’re in reliable hands. We provide expert information on ideal travel times, best tourist attractions and booking deals giving you more options for less cost.

Flexible Payment Plans

Gojolley is here to help travelers of all budgets. With our payment plans, you can save up for your trip without having to break the bank. We also offer customized options to meet your budget for any trip.

Reliability

Using a travel planning company provides you with unparalleled peace of mind. Should something go south with any aspect of your trip, we're available to help you sort them out and also welcome any feedback you may have after you return. While planning your trip and organizing your itinerary, we ask questions and help you make the best decisions. 

Personalized Service and Extras

One of the biggest shortcuts to extras and freebies is using a good travel planning company. When you get more than you expected for the same price, that's a good deal and with us, this is our primary aim. When you travel with us, you get automatic perks like complimentary daily breakfast, airport transfers, on ground transportation, welcome starter kit, and a photographer to capture all your good memories. We also take time to celebrate with our travelers on their special occasions. 

Save Money

We offer you a detailed cost breakdown and itinerary, within your budget so you can travel without breaking the bank. You also get access to attraction sites and tours at no extra fees or taxes with our group trip rates. You will also receive expert guidance to gain great deals when purchasing flight tickets from your city.

VIP Service

We provide our clients with access to people, places,and experiences that could never be replicated, much less imagined. When you travel with us, you're treated as a VIP and who doesn't want to be treated like a VIP? From airport pickups and drop offs to hotel reservations, we make the best picks that fit your budget and needs.

Better Trips

At the end of the day this is the bottom line, the big win you get with a good travel planning company. They know more than you do, they are better connected, they have access to benefits you can’t get yourself, and they can match and often beat any prices you find. They plan a better trip and then provide a safety net. Having a top travel planning company can make you an instant VIP, certainly will save you time and hassle, and quite possibly money.

These and many more are the benefits you enjoy when you have us planning your trip. Don’t just take our word for it. Read what our past clients have to say;

“Jolley in Jordan was an epic week with all the ladies. Jessica put a lot of thought and heart into every aspect of the experience. I look forward to traveling with Gojolley at least once a year.”

— Tolu (@tolscreates), Jordan 2022

“This trip was everything I needed. It was a solo trip but I had a lovely time, met beautiful people. I can’t thank Jessica (Gojolley) enough for planning this trip for me. I just want to experience more and more of these experiences and I can’t wait to do it again with this company..”

— Ithream, Punta Cana 2021 - private client

“This trip was everything and more. First, the villa was the absolute best and the food… oh my goodness. I had the best time. Looking forward to my next trip.”

— Titi (@nnikky), Mexico 2021

With Gojolley’s travel planning services, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your travel needs are well taken care of by experts. So that all you have to do is show up. Ready to get started? Click the button below to learn more.

6 Best Places to Visit with Mom

iStockphoto by MesquitaFMS

Unfairly underrated, your mom can make a very good travel buddy as you can both openly discuss how you want to spend your vacation days. A mother-daughter trip is a great way to bond whether or not you share similar interests. When next you feel outdoorsy, consider having your mom with you. There is more than one city or town in a country or region best suited for mother-daughter trips but these are our top selections.

• Palm Springs, California 

Palm Springs is a desert oasis full of retro glamor, vibrant arts and culture, and relaxing vibes. The mid-century architecture and historic residences in this city reminds you that it was once the hub for movie stars and celebrities giving it Old Hollywood vibes. Palm Springs is a green area for those seeking an escape from the hustle of California’s big cities or even the cold weather as the temperature here routinely exceeds 100 degrees most times of the year. This destination is best if you are out for a beautiful sunshine vacation moment.

• Tuscany, Italy

Recognized as the birthplace of the Renaissance, art history, food and wine are all reasons to explore Tuscany. Tuscany is a paradise for people who love nature. There are many natural parks for walking, biking and hiking. This city offers a surprising amount of adventure with varying degrees from extremes like scuba diving to soft adventures like mountain hiking. The region is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from the popular and obvious (Florence and the Square of Miracles in Pisa) to the relatively obscure (Val d’Orcia and Pienza). 

• Cape Town, South Africa

Being home to iconic mountain ranges, stunning natural wonders, thrilling landscapes and ocean vistas, Cape Town offers no shortage of adventures. Known as the adventure capital of South Africa, the lifestyle of locals and visitors alike centers around the outdoors and an abundance of activities. With so much to offer, the city of Cape Town has endless attractions for people from all over the world, making it well worth a visit for the authentic Cape Town experience. Famous for its sun, sea and scenery, Cape Town is a beloved tourist destination.

• Paris, France

Home to the world's greatest museum and famously regarded as the world's most romantic city, Paris is worth a repeated number of visits. For the magical feeling of love Paris gives off, needless to say it is worth exploring the city with a beloved family member such as your mom. It is a beautiful city with a unique culture, walk-able streets, great sights, iconic landmarks (e.g. the Eiffel tower), romantic ambiance and unbelievably good food. Want to go on a shopping adventure combined with a vacation? Paris calls you.

• Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Pope's city. The city's attraction lies in its many parts; from tango dance to its phenomenal nightlife. The combination of a vibrant arts scene, rich architectural and cultural heritage, modern creative energy, extensive parks, warm and friendly hosts, makes this cosmopolitan city one of the world's most exciting capitals. It's crazy but in a good way. It is also a fantastic city when it comes to shopping for unique gifts as it leads the way in Latin American fashion and styles. 

• Budapest, Hungary

An ideal place for party lovers with many great bars, restaurants and friendly locals. Hungary's capital has an undeniable vibe most supported by it's top notch sightseeing - Danube river, castle hill, opera house, chocolate museum amongst others. With a great annual event lineup that includes everything from music festivals to fairs, concerts, markets and other festive shindigs, there is pretty much always something cool coming up as the events are spread out across the year. The city is magnificently beautiful.

Generational differences aside, you and your mom have more in common than you think and those dissimilarities just feel like bonding moments waiting to happen, anyway.

Travel planning can be overwhelming but we’re here to help you out. We can build an itinerary tailored to the experiences you wish to have on this trip. There are numerous hacks to access discount offers that can help you save money and maximize great opportunities in reaching your travel destination.

Would you like to go on a mother-daughter trip? Let's get you started. Inquire about our travel planning service today and get all the information you need.

Why People Fall In Love With Los Cabos

Los Cabos is a combination of desert, beachfront, and mountain terrain, with the Pacific Ocean on the West side of the peninsula and the Gulf of California, also called the Sea of Cortéz, on the East. The warm, dry, sunny climate and beautiful scenery have turned the former fishing village into the home of hundreds of resorts, hotels, and vacation homes.

In Los Cabos, a paradise where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, there is something to do for everyone: fishing, golf, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, relaxing in luxury spas and resorts and dancing ’til dawn.

A trip to Los Cabos is a vacation you will never forget. The pristine blue waters of the Sea of Cortez create the perfect backdrop for any kind of getaway. If you're planning your next travel adventure or ready for some fun with friends, Los Cabos holds the key to every door in your imagination.

• Creative stays with a blend of arts and culture

Though the beaches certainly have their appeal, Los Cabos also offers vacationers a thriving arts and culture scene. Many of Los Cabos’ resorts and hotels will treat you to an evening of live jazz while you enjoy a few drinks at one of their establishments. These same properties often host an impressive roster of cultural activities. Besides its natural beauty and top-tier resorts, Los Cabos offers a wide array of cultural offerings that can please any kind of visitor. There are night-spots for dancing the night away and bars with cocktails of every flavor — often mixed with Mexican libations like tequila and mezcal.

• Beach Day

This is the best escape anyone can have! Whether it’s surfing, a picnic, a camel-back ride by the shore? Los Cabos has a beach for you. Experience a desert adventure, get thrilled with marine life, have fun between the two seas or feel the adrenaline from the air. On the beach, you can explore a wide variety of activities and enjoy your vacation to the max.

• Outdoor Adventures

From water-sports to zip-lines and ATV rides, Los Cabos is the place to have an experience full of adrenaline. When you think of the desert, inevitably camels come to mind. Though not native to the area, there are camels in Los Cabos too, as select outfitters provide camel ride tours in a safari atmosphere. Riding atop a docile humpbacked giant, your tour of the Baja California countryside and/or beachfront becomes an educational experience as you learn about the local flora and fauna during the excursion and the unlikely transplants. Some camel tours even make stops along the way to Tequila tasting venues where you can also explore the region’s culinary traditions.

• Boat Tours

Boat tours are the ideal way to immerse yourself in the aquatic side of Los Cabos. Sail across the shimmering seas of the Cabo coast on a luxury snorkel for an exclusive experience and lunch cruise from Los Cabo. Soak up the Mexican sunshine on board a yacht, sipping cocktails or sparkling wine from an open bar. The opportunities on the high seas are boundless. 

Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Experience a splendid All Girls Summer Vacation in Los Cabos, Mexico with us this June. It promises to be transformative. Experience everything listed above and even more from within when you take in fresh Mexican air on Cabos soil. Take away memories and leave footprints.

Reserve a spot for you and your girlfriends before it's too late. Application closes on the 4th of May. Click the button below to check out what we have planned for summer with the girls.

Sustainability Practices to Adopt as a New Traveler

iStockphoto by Petmal

As travel rebounds from the COVID-19 pandemic, and international travel is booming like never before, there still remain a number of uncertainties as all this travel comes at an enormous environmental and social cost. 

Even if you strive for a sustainable lifestyle at home, it may be tempting to avoid thinking about the impact your travels could have on the environment. No one wants to feel guilty on vacation. But the effects traveling has on the environment are significant. 

According to the UN World Tourism Organization, Sustainable tourism is “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Including our usual sustainable habits like turning the lights off, not wasting food, avoiding creating trash, there’s a ton you can do to reduce your impact and do good whilst on tour.

Here’s our growing list of eco-friendly travel hacks that we use to be more sustainable travelers:

1. Support the local economy and seek out local experiences

Tourists can also choose to spend their money with businesses that source locally. This may be through eating locally grown foods or purchasing locally produced handicrafts. Oftentimes, making the more sustainable and locally beneficial choice is actually more enriching. Homestays, local guides and programs that give back to communities are also good ways to ensure your money is injected back into the local economy. 

2. Use efficient modes of transportation

Transport is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants. How you choose to reach your destination may be the single most important decision when it comes to your trip’s environmental impact. If where you’re heading is accessible by train, consider taking one. Avoiding flying altogether is often not an option for travelers, but the idea is to eliminate unnecessary flights when possible. Try and avoid internal flights within a destination — use local public transport where possible and travel on foot or by bike to explore smaller areas. Other ideas include taking fewer but longer vacations and flying direct as often as possible.

3. Offset your journey

Carbon offsetting allows you to balance out the carbon footprint of your trip, by reducing emissions somewhere else in the world. All you have to do is calculate your carbon footprint using an online carbon calculator, then purchase offsets equivalent to the amount of CO2 you produced. The money from your offset purchase will be invested in projects that reduce carbon and other greenhouse gases. For instance, one project may protect a tropical rainforest from being cut down, while another might build a wind farm or convert cow manure into energy. Carbon offset projects can also create benefits that go beyond emissions reductions, such as creating local jobs, improving sanitation, or conserving endangered species. 

4. Invest in reusable items and reduce plastic

Follow the mantra of “leave no trace” when visiting a destination, as the creation of solid waste — particularly plastic — has significant environmental impacts. Travelers can help reduce their waste production by carrying their own reusable bags, straws, utensils, and takeaway containers. Another easy way to reduce plastic waste is by changing your eating habits. When going to a restaurant, dine-in rather than getting takeout which typically comes with plastic bags, containers, cups, and utensils. Even something as simple as asking the bartender to skip the straw can help trigger larger operational changes. 

5. Stay in sustainable lodging

Where you choose to sleep at night also plays a key role in being a green traveler. This part requires some legwork and research, however. Many small scale accommodations can be green solutions as well. For instance, think of a farm which uses solar power, serves fresh organic produce for breakfast and employs locals.

6. Respect local communities

Begin immersing yourself in other cultures by reading up on the local history, traditions, and etiquette before visiting. Download a language app and learn a few phrases in the local language. Be aware that certain gestures, clothing, or words are considered offensive in some destinations. Be especially mindful when visiting religious or spiritual sites. Only go to sites where tourists are welcome and adhere to any protocols. At some sites, this may mean taking off your shoes, covering your shoulders, keeping your voice down, or not taking photos. 

Wherever you go, remember that the destination you are visiting is someone else’s home. Obey the local laws and guidelines, from traffic rules to health and safety precautions. Do your best to leave places like you found them so that future generations of travelers and residents can enjoy them too. A little bit of respect goes a long way – be considerate of local people and treat them with dignity. This includes honoring their privacy and asking permission before you take their photo. 

We’re unbelievably lucky to be able to travel the world so easily and extensively in this day and age. It truly is one of life’s greatest joys and experiences.

We also think it’s critical for our own education and developing an open, loving mind. We just have to make it sustainable. It has the potential to create a lot of benefit for the destination of choice but so much of that depends on our actions. 

We hope you enjoyed these tips and are feeling inspired for your next trip! Sign up for our eco-friendly summer vacations and explore with us.

Why You Should Start Planning Your Summer Vacation Now

Photo of Jessica at Dead Sea, Jordan

Exploring your vacation options is fun and exciting. It gives you something to look forward to, and it is an activity that you can do to uplift your spirits. Do you want to plan a few mini-trips or just have a staycation? You really have no limit on what you can do during the summer. So, start narrowing down your options, and here’s why you should start now:

You will avoid making rash, last minute decisions: The more time you have to explore your options, the less likely you will make travel booking mistakes. It’s easy to overlook things when booking a last-minute trip like travel insurance. Spending more time on planning now lets you take your time to choose the right accommodations and dates and make travel plans. You’ll also want to make sure you have all the right documentation before heading out on your next journey. Give yourself enough time to make sure you have all the required visas, as well as a renewed passport, particularly since the latter can become useless up to six months before its actual expiration date.

Enjoy flexible payment options: If you'd like to use a travel planning service like ours for your Summer trips, you have the option to pay in installments leading up to your trip time rather than having to hand over your full budget at once making it convenient for you to deliver on other money demanding responsibilities. This would also give you financial flexibility, which you could use to your advantage to potentially increase your overall travel budget.

Enjoy early bird offers and find better deals: Depending on how far in advance you are looking, you may qualify for early booking offers, which is a great way to save money on your vacation. Many hotels and airlines offer discounts for travelers who are proactive about their vacation planning. Also, the earlier you plan out your trip, the sooner you’ll have an idea of how much it will cost you. Not only will this give you time to save up enough so that you don't stress out over funds at all, but you can also give yourself time to save extra in case you want to splurge on things like shopping, room upgrades, or extra excursions.

Easier requests for time off: Summer is peak travel season in much of the world, particularly as schools are out for the summer. You’ll want to make sure you request the specific dates you need off from work, especially if you’re looking at certain popular dates such as Labor Day weekend or around the Fourth of July.

No last-minute shopping or rushed packing: One of the most important things to do when planning is figuring out your packing list and making sure you have everything good to go. Give yourself more time so that you don’t have to stress yourself out getting everything together at the last minute, and to make sure you don’t miss anything. You may need time to shop for things you need, such as new luggage, sunscreen, bathing suits, proper footwear, etc. 

One of the most common mistakes when planning a vacation is not giving yourself enough time. The sooner you figure out when and where you want to go, the sooner you can take advantage of great airfare and hotel deals; scheduling farther ahead also gives you extra time to make sure you’ve planned out your dream trip. You want to spend your summer relaxing instead of looking for last-minute getaways, so take the time now to start planning your summer vacation. Not sure where you'll like to spend your summer, you can check out our summer vacation destinations below and join us to explore any destination that matches your interests. 

Los Cabos, Mexico

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Cappadocia, Turkey

Tulum, Mexico

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Santorini, Greece

The official start of spring is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your summer vacation seriously. Let's take the burden of travel planning off you today. Tap the button below to make an inquiry.

Packing List for a Desert Adventure

Photo from Jordan

Deserts can be an amazing travel destination: from camel riding in Jordan or Morocco to sand-boarding in Peru or star gazing in the Atacama desert, there is something adventurous, but also very romantic about deserts. However, it is also important to pack the right gear in your travel capsule wardrobe because of the extreme climate. Below are some essentials that should come with you on all desert adventures:

Sun protection:

The desert sun is harsh so a brimmed hat, sunglasses and ample supply of sunscreen are recommended. A scarf can sometimes serve as a shield from the sun. Wrapping it over your head and neck can keep you covered.

Clothing:

Pack clothing for both warm and cold conditions,and include a rainproof jacket and/umbrella. Wear white/reflective, long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, to protect you from the intense sun during the day. For desert adventures like camel riding, it's best to wear cargo pants as camel fur is pretty rough so you don't get rash or blisters.

Shoes:

Comfortable walking or biking boots are ideal. They should be heavy enough to protect your feet from the hot ground surface, and also from sharp and heavy rocks. High ankle hiking boots are best recommended. Also pair with good support sandals.

Gear:

Picnic blanket: For the times you're tired of standing or walking, you can spray this over and sit or lie on it. If you're out for a picnic, you can easily settle on a blanket and relax.

Water bottle/desert jugs: You need to stay hydrated at all times so a usable water bottle is great to have. A jug too will help in refilling your bottle when its content is spent.

Flashlight: Depending on where you lodge for the night, this will help you during late night visits to the toilet.

Backpack: A solid backpack strapped comfortably to your back will make your luggage carrying easy. Your desert essentials can easily fit into it and when hiking, you have where to store your needed supplies.

Hygiene supplies:

Moisturiser and lip balm: Desert minerals are good for your skin, but they can dry it out in seconds. Some moisturiser and lip balm is highly recommended to avoid turning into a walking, talking sultana.

Hand sanitizer: Keep the gems and dust particles off your hands with a suitable hand sanitizer. You can also take baby wipes for times you can't get access to water

Small microfiber towel: During your desert adventure, this comes in handy in wiping off sweat.

Mosquito repellent: Ward off bitey insects with a good bug repellent and save yourself bites and skin irritation.

Extras:

Food: The type of foods you consume on a desert trip can increase your perceived need for water, so try and avoid salty snacks. High Energy Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit and nuts) are good to get your blood sugar levels rolling.

Electronics: Pack the necessary chargers, cords and take with you a charged power bank for your phone and devices.

ATM Card or Cash (you should always carry cash in the local currency): You can exchange USD or take cash out of the ATM for additional expenses or souvenirs in advance of your desert adventures. Most deserts are located in secluded areas with no access to ATMs.

This desert trip checklist will have you prepped and ready for any kind of desert adventure! I hope you find this list useful and have fun on your next desert trip.