8 Powerful Tips on How to Make the Most of the First Post-Quarantine Trip

Travel Tips, , 79 Comments

Last Updated on the 14th of February, 2024

People leave their homes and travel the world for a bunch of different reasons. Some do it to challenge themselves and expand their perspective, some to escape an unhappy situation or celebrate a special occasion. And, often it’s seeking something they don’t have at home; a slower pace, sunnier weather and the freedom to do what they want.

Either way, travel is a raw possibility to educate yourself in a way, no college or university will ever do.  There’s so much to see and learn about the world out there that travelling far away, exploring charming streets in charming towns and savouring the endless frenzy of big cities appeals to many.

The pandemic has wreaked a lot of havoc in so many people life’s, and Valters and I are no different. Just like millions of other people from all around the world,  we were forced to call off a couple of trips we were joyfully looking forward to for a month. While on a big scale postponed holidays is a minor nuisance, knowing that none of us is boarding a plane bound for adventure anytime soon, is a sobering prospect.

Do you ever dream about exploring the world? Are you craving vacation after weeks and weeks of self-quarantine and social distancing? While we may not be able to set out on much-needed holidays right now it’s OK to dream of ones we may have in the future. Having something to look forward to often helps us navigate through tough times.

Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

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Wherever you travel, make sure you learn how to dress and behave according to local customs.

8 Powerful Tips on How to Make the Most of the First Post-Quarantine Trip

Don’t fall for the typical travel myth that’s used as a hook of every webinar on social media – you don’t have to quit your job, or sell your stuff to see the world! Long-term travel doesn’t make anyone superior.

Quitting your job to travel – just because everyone else is preaching about it – isn’t the only option or reason to do it;  it’s ok to romanticise something we don’t know. Travelling to get inspired, travelling to be a better mom/ human being/ brother is freedom.

No matter if you are a pro traveller or a novice, these travel tips can make your trip an easy and enjoyable ride.

#1. Start by researching and planning your dream trip

Before you can dive into exploring medieval castles, sampling traditional Portuguese pastries and enjoying rooftop terraces in Prague, an important and inevitable task lies between you and your dream destination – meticulous planning.

Travelling to a new country is a super exciting feeling yet it can be overwhelming too, you have to arrange transportation, book flights, organise accommodation and create an itinerary.

To plan for a trip, first,  you need to know where you are going and second, for how long you are staying – these two basic questions will help you with researching the costs.  You can also work another way around – establish your budget ad then decide where you can afford to travel.

  1. Make sure your travel documents are up to date
  2. Pick a safe destination
  3. Decide the length of stay
  4. Start saving money
  5. Create your travel itinerary and activities
  6. Book your airfare
  7. Sort out your accommodation
  8. Pack your bags
  9. Buy your travel insurance
  10. Enjoy your trip

Read More: 8 Memorable Things To Do In Ghent, Belgium |  Attractions and Activities

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The world is a beautiful place worth exploring but don’t forget about your safety. Be mindful of your surroundings and always tell someone where you are going.

#2. Start a travel fund

Unless you win the lottery, there will never be enough time or financial resources to travel the world, but don’t sit back and wait for things to come your way, create your life and your own opportunities.

Yes, it costs money to go to places. It costs money to run trains and even more to fly planes.

Going on a trip is so much more than just seeing new places, along the way, problems need to be resolved, and decisions have to be made quickly; some of them involving money. This can be as unexpected as wearing the wrong clothing, fee changes and lost ID.

It entails a discipline of savings, although it’s not unheard of taking a loan for a vacation-something we have never done. We have an account to which we contribute every time we get paid, even if it is just 10 euros; eventually, it will all add up.

Read More: 6 Reasons Why You Should Travel By Train At Least Once In Your Lifetime

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When it comes to savings, there are two aspects to it; saving before and during the trip.

#3. Set goals and intentions for your trip

When it comes to travelling, we believe in goal setting, working together towards a common purpose and celebrating each milestone along the way; it’s one of the connecting things we can do as people.

Travelling is so much more than a sightseeing experience. Learn to seek out places and things that bring you the most joy and learn to forge your own path, it could be as simple as exploring more of your own country and learning the art of photography, and it could be as challenging as climbing a mountain or taking up a windsurfing lesson.

Read More: Why North Wales is the Perfect Destination For a Unique Summer Trip – A Must-Read Guide

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Don’t forget the beauty of doing nothing and appreciating your surroundings.

#4. Map out the route

Whether you are embarking on a road trip or plan on exploring Europe with public transport it’s always a good idea to map out your route and where you want to go. Invest time in research and write down on the paper the possible mileage and how long it takes to get there.

Unexpected turns and adventures are what trips are all about, but it is important to have a goal in mind as well as a couple of rest stops along the way.

Once you know your main route, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to do things differently and take a small detour off the main road; sometimes they bring you to unusual places and beautiful corners of the world.

Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

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That feeling when you discover something new is truly entrancing.

#5.  Try new experiences

Living in a fast-paced society with demanding jobs, lots of responsibilities and a list of never-ending tasks, we rarely set aside time to try out new experiences and mostly stick to what we know. We are tied to our daily routines and end up devoting our time to doing the same things we’ve already done hundreds of times before.

If you are planning a trip, try to incorporate new experiences into your itinerary, and you’ll be surprised at how much meaning it can add to your journey. Engaging in new activities will make you feel more confident, will stimulate creativity, and you’ll get to know yourself better.

You don’t have to jump out of the plane or eat roasted scorpions. Start by making small adjustments; go on a trip all by yourself, sign up for a cooking class or – leave room for being spontaneous – new experiences demand our full attention and make us better human beings.

Whatever you choose to do,  be confident and have the courage to open up to new experiences. They can bring you moments of connection and immense joy. Get out of your comfort zone; it’s a chance to learn, a chance to grow as a person and leave your mark on the world.

Read More: 8 Unforgettable Things To See And Do In Beautiful Venice, Italy

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With every travel goal, you set out to accomplish, be ready for every obstacle that comes with completing them.

#6. Learn to be in a moment

People travelling the world often worry that they won’t be able to see it all, that we simply run out of time. Because there’s so much to see and do; from every coastal town, every surf beach and all the beautiful villages where half-timbered houses dot timeless streets, we are yearning to see it all.

Instead of frantically running around, trying to see every single tourist attraction and Instagram-worthy photo spot, set aside time for meaningful leisure activities. Sit on the beach and watch the colours progress from blue during the day to orange and purple in the evening. Let your eyes wander softly, press your fingertips to the soft sand and take notice of what you feel.

Stop thinking about all the other places you have to go, see and do while on a trip and try to be in the moment. Don’t multitask and don’t feel bad for doing nothing, just appreciate the moment. The key to being in the moment is to use all your senses – touch, scent, sight, sound, taste and as well as how you feel to create lasting memories.

Read More: 25+ Things To Know Before Traveling To Beautiful Latvia For The First Time

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Don’t lose your appetite for life – pack your bags and see the world.

#7. Practise gratitude

This life is oh-so stunningly beautiful and one of the best things you can do:  try to make an effort to appreciate what a privilege it is to have it.  And not only during the epic and exciting travel around the world but also during everyday life with mundane house chores, time management,  day jobs and everything else in between.

Frustration, tiredness and disappointment are parts of travel but don’t let that distract your inner peace and become bitter towards places and people. Once you start practising gratitude, you’ll see how many small and unexpected acts of love can be found in each day.

Be open to seeing the beauty, it’s literally everywhere, it may not be what you expect, but travelling with an open mind and open heart will make your trip even more memorable. Most of the ways of practising gratitude are very simple.

Keep a gratitude journal and write down all the good things that have happened, take time to appreciate nature, refrain from speaking negatively about other people and call someone and tell them how much they mean to you.

Read More: The Very Best Madeira Activities For A Fun Filled Portuguese Vacation

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Forever on the road and forever on the move is the best way to celebrate life.

#8. Interact with local people

Curate connections with people you meet along the way, you never know how much of an impact someone may have on your growth and your life.

Interact with local people, just like you, they have dreams and passions and someone they love. They have jobs and plans and bills to pay. Talking to locals is one of the best ways to learn about a new place, and it’s one of the easiest ways to find out all the dos and don’ts. And who knows, you might even end up making new friends.

  • Local tours | You can start by signing up for one of the tours provided by the well-established company  ToursbyLocals at the moment has, according to their website,  4249 guides in 163 countries for a one-of-a-kind way to see a new city.
  • CouchSurfing | Sign up for CouchSurfing to find a local host and a bed and you’ll get lots of insider knowledge too.
  • EatWith | For delicious food experiences accompanied by a local guide, sign up for EatWith where you can meet other travellers and locals.
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Travelling is fun, and it also gives us time to reflect on the past year and our actions.

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Now, over to you!

What are your tips for a truly memorable trip? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a trip and have travel-related questions!

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Our Crossings follows the daily adventures of Latvian expats living in Sligo as they surf and explore the world

79 thoughts on “8 Powerful Tips on How to Make the Most of the First Post-Quarantine Trip”

  1. I’ve spent more time looking back than forward recently, Aiva. We have a very beautiful world but it still feels a long way from normal. I try to live each day as it comes but it’s natural to dream. 🙂 🙂

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    1. Hi, Jo, how are you today? We take each day as it comes too. But seeing how rapidly people are booking holidays and vacations which in most cases are causing a negative impact on the environment prompted me to write this post. Because we cannot live the way we did before COVID. We need to become more aware of our impact, we need new standards for hotels, big changes for aviation and sort out the troubles caused by the cruise industry.

      And most importantly, we need to make every journey count. Going to Italy to learn to make pasta from scratch or travelling to Spain to learn the language? I bow my head in respect and salute your efforts! Travelling across the world just so you can eat, drink and shop? Think again! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

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  2. This is such a great post, Aiva! I feel like a lot of people will be so excited to move away from the lockdown and into the world of travel that they might overlook a lot of important steps (maybe the impulsiveness makes for a different experience on its own, but for the first trip I think it’ll definitely pay to be meticulous)! These tips are perfect to ensure that everyone makes the most of their trip without compromising on their safety and also their relaxed enjoyment. Plus with all this extra time on our hands, we really can get a lot of research done and fuel our travel bucket lists! 😀

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    1. I agree with you, my friend! In the age of global warming and overcrowding, before we rush out the door to explore the world again, we need to make smarter choices. Because we can travel and still support saving the planet. We can make conscious efforts to reduce, opt for slower, more local methods of transportation instead of flights. In short, the right kind of travel can play a huge role in ensuring the success of local economies, and a healthy economy can often make better and healthier choices for our planet.
      Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts! Have a lovely Monday. Aiva

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  3. Every travel is a life experience that enriches us!
    Great and useful tips!
    I’ve already started some research and I guess I already have an idea for the first trip after the lockdown😉

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    1. Thank you very much! Just like many of our readers, I love travelling and think there’s so much we can do to improve our experiences and become more aware of the world around us. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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  4. All great tips for a happier vacation, Aiva. We used to rush hither, thither and yon trying to get the best vacation we could have and them come home exhausted and sad. As we matured, the trips started to change and became more about the local experience and experiencing the destination. We would hike or drive to the non touristy places, eat where the locals ate, promenade where the locals promenade, etc. Much more satisfying, living like a local. Our plans for each destination, became more like a shopping list which we adjusted each day and during the day to the weather and how we felt. If we had 10 items on the list for that day and only did 2, we were OK with that. Many people create a lengthy detailed bucket list and then check things off like notches on a belt, before rushing to the next one. This is not really seeing a place. Totally agree with feeling gratitude. Some people visit places all over the world and get angry when they can’t get stuff like they do at home. If you want home, don’t travel. What we now like to do is travel with another couple. This can make it so much more fun if you are compatible. Hope we get to travel again soon. So many more places I’d like to experience. Stay well and happy planning. Allan

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    1. Hi, Allan! It took us a very long time to learn what’s important and what’s not when it comes to travelling. Our first trip to Paris was near-disastrous. The city was big and tourist attractions were far and wide apart and we crammed too much into one trip. We arrived back in Dublin exhausted and felt like we needed another holiday. I knew right then that we need to change the way we travel and started shifting towards slow travel, which has become quite desirable living in today’s world. And when you look at it, there are many amazing travel experiences that are better in slow mode anyway. like hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain, exploring the birthplace of Slow Food in Italy, living with Berber Nomads in Northern Africa, exploring a Swedish archipelago travelling at paddling pace among the few. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts, it’s very much appreciated. And, yes, I hope we get to travel soon. Aiva

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    1. I always try to seek to improve who I am. Travelling isn’t getting from one place to another one, it’s an opportunity to celebrate habitats, wildlife and cultures. When we put our mind to it, it can be done without causing much harm to the environment and we can become much better human beings along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day, Maggie.

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  6. Couldn’t agree more with you. You make a great point that one isn’t any better for quitting their job to travel full time; while it can work for some, it’s not always the case for the vast majority of people. Your point on living in the moment is very important, as we ought not to travel to places just for Instagram and social media– I admit, it’s something that I’m working on, but with future travels on hold, I hope that I’ll have a refreshed mind to go out and enjoy the world’s beauty when it happens! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. 🙂

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    1. Hi, Rebecca! Travelling is an adventure to some and a form of escape to others and in both cases, we can leave a positive impact on all the places and people we come across. I made a lot of mistakes when I first started travelling the world and never really paid much attention to overcrowding, reducing, reusing, recycling and carbon emission. That has changed greatly over the last decade and I couldn’t be happier with the way I see the world now. We can always start with small steps, either to dispose of waste appropriately, respecting the culture and traditions or being aware of what we buy. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts! Have a good day. Aiva

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      1. I highly agree with everything you wrote. We all have to start somewhere with travel, so it’s best to forgive oneself for the mistakes made early on. It’s only when you learned from them and avoid repeating them that you can contribute to a cleaner, less-wasteful trip!

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  7. All good advice for planning a trip. I typically do a lot of research beforehand and sketch out a rough itinerary, but usually leave some wiggle room for spontaneity or a backup plan (in case the weather isn’t ideal). I come up with a few “must see and do” items and anything on top of that is a bonus. I’m so looking forward to travelling again. Take care.

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    1. Thanks so much, guys! Being mindful while travelling around the world doesn’t mean we have to give up on something. Responsible travel is about the attitude you take and the choices you make when travelling – to respect and benefit the local people, their cultures, economies and the environment. We can’t wait to travel too, but it doesn’t look like we are going anywhere this year, except for Ireland. Thank goodness for the campervan, we don’t have to worry about accommodation or where we gonna eat. Thanks for stopping by and take care. Aiva xxx

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    1. Given the fast pace and hectic schedules, most of us keep, a base level of anxiety, stress, and unhappiness is the new norm. It would be foolish to apply the same method when we are travelling! That’s why it’s so important to be aware and mindful of what’s happening at this very moment. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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    1. A gratitude journal is, quite simply, a tool to keep track of the good things in life. No matter how difficult and defeating life can sometimes feel, there is always something to feel grateful for. This simple method has changed my life and the way I see the world, either I am travelling or at home. Have a good day, Mark, I hope all is well. Aiva

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  10. Great post Aiva! Really enjoyed reading and appreciate the wonderful information you provide. Of course our travel plans were interrupted by the pandemic and now the summer plans might be affected too, although I’m hoping they are not. I think, having travelled a bit myself, that your suggestions are very valuable. One thing I always made sure I did was to respect highly the country I was visiting as well as the people, customs, traditions and language and never demanded that they speak to me in my language…I’ve seen other travellers demand that the locals at stores or hotels, speak their language and that always leaves a bad impression on the locals. Thank you Aiva for such a lovely Tuesday morning treat as was your article…and the pics we’re gorgeous as well. Take good care and all the best!
    Greetings from Sunny ☀️ Valencia!
    Francisco 🙋🏻‍♂️😊🌻

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    1. Hi, Francisco, how are you today? I hope all is well in sunny Valencia! Thanks for leaving such a lovely comment, they always make my heart full. I believe that it is only by seeing and engaging with different people, cultures and habitats that we can begin to have an understanding of the world around us. There are many things we can each do, once we step outside into the work. From building memories to learning and supporting local businesses. We can’t just barge through the endless amounts of countries without paying much attention to the lives we touch. There are many less fortunate people who dream of living free from fear, hunger, poverty and exploitation. We have to keep that in find and see what we can offer. Thanks for stopping by, Franciso, it means the world to me. Aiva

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      1. Aiva, it is always a pleasure to step by! Thank you 🙏🏻 for such wonderful posts! And you are absolutely on point there, agree fully! Yes, 😊 it is a lovely day here in the Mediterranean and I hope a lovely one on the Emerald Isle as well! A lovely morning! All the best Aiva,
        Francisco 🙋🏼‍♂️

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  11. Preparation is key, as my mother would say. I already have lots of trello boards with all my plans for post covid-19 🙂 I also like to dig out the spots where local hang and take time to just be. I love the ideas of having a local show you around so will certainly bookmark that website. Thanks!

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    1. Hi, Dee and thanks for stopping by. As much as we love travelling, we are not planning to go anywhere this year. Living on the island, we can’t that easily pop across the border and be in a different country, like many people living in mainland Europe can. That’s why we are getting ready to explore lesser-known parts of Ireland, learn about its history, traditions and make memories along the way. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

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    1. Thanks so much. Going slow and engaging more is definitely a great way to be more connected to different cultures. When you slow down and give yourself more time to spend in a place, you have time to do and learn things and experience more than you would if you were just rushing through in a day. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

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  13. Great trips! I can’t wait to be able to travel again. Unfortunately, my fall study abroad to Scotland has been cancelled, and I have been extremely sad about it. I can’t wait to visit the country one day and start exploring again once this pandemic is behind us.

    Miles of smiles,
    Grace

    gracefulrags.com

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    1. O, no!!!! I was just thinking of you, Grace, the other day and your plan to go to study to Scotland. I’m absolutely devastated to hear it’s been cancelled and can’t even imagine what that must feel like. I cried over our cancelled campervan trip to Scotland for days, but that’s just a holiday. Is there any possibility for you to begin studies once this is over or there’s no more chance? Thanks for stopping by and take care. Aiva

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  14. This is an excellent post, Aiva. I can tell you are a traveler and not a tourist. It is always the small moments that make my/our trip. A hesitant conversation in a foreign language, perhaps? I usually check out the local supermarket for inexpensive local delicacies or just strange new packets of soap. On a trip to Mexico, I found some really comfortable feminine products (mini-pads). I kept going back for more until I noticed the pharmacist wondering what was wrong with me… Oh gosh, still laughing at the look on her face. Have lots of fun planning your next adventure. My 60th birthday is in July and we may just go somewhere new in Texas or Idaho. K x
    BTW, is your daughter’s name Irish or Latvian; I have been so curious?

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    1. Hi, Kerry, how are you doing? I hope all is well! Those who leave their homes for temporary jaunts to other places can be sorted into three basic categories: tourists, travellers, and good travellers. While the majority of people might think they are good travellers, we all know that’s far from the truth. No wonder locals have been hoisting “tourists go home!” banners across buildings everywhere from Barcelona to Dubrovnik.

      We also know that responsible travel, greener travel, sustainable travel, and ethical travel aren’t just trends, they are here to stay and it’s about time we learn how to be a better traveller and how to make the most of your journey. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva xxx

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  15. Those are such great tips. I love planning trips, and always get excited when I find some place interesting. This year we will probably just explore Slovenia and maybe Croatia, because I want my trips to be relaxing and not too stressful, but not knowing how things with flying and just travelling in general will be like this year, just seems too much for me. Will wait out this year and see places closer to me that are equally stunning.

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    1. When I look back on my most recent trips, I owe many of my most memorable moments to the kindness of strangers and to travelling slow. Travelling slowly is one of the easiest ways to be a better traveller. By doing so, you become more acutely aware of your surroundings, you pay more attention to the little details of every day that are woven into the fabric of life.

      We are planning to stay in Ireland this year, although it would be nice to finally see our families in Latvia, I don’t want to travel far until its completely safe. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts! Take care. Aiva

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  16. I love the advice! My favorite thing to do is make friends with local people! It adds so much to the experience, and I feel like those types of relationships can often be the most memorable part of a trip!

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    1. Making friends with locals while travelling is one of our favourite things to do. We also like visiting different countries and cities where our friends live, this way we get to see some of the lesser-known but equally stunning places, see the way people actually live somewhere else and learn about cultures from a locals perspective. Thanks for stopping by, Allison and have a lovely day. Aiva xxx

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  17. I love the initial stages of planning – when the decision is made and then the route has to be decided upon – the end result can be so different from what you started out with – and that’s all part of the fun. Nowadays, with so much info at hand, I think we are in danger of overplanning – I book accommodation, particular tours etc, but usually leave restaurants etc to chance – I remember a few years back heading to Oxford for a few nights. Not alone was I armed with a restaurant and pub list but also what we were both going to order in each one!!! We actually stuck to the list – and ate very well – but there was definitely something missing!!

    I love your list Aiva – here’s hoping that we all get planning again sooner rather than later.

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    1. I love the initial stages of planning too. I’m not ashamed to admit that on my last trip to Edinburgh, I made a very long and detailed list of places, attractions, restaurants and museums I wanted to see. It was mainly due to the Dorrs Open Days even, during which you get an opportunity to visit many amazing and historical places usually not opened to the public. Due to high demand, you have to book your spot online and need to arrive at a certain time. I almost had a proper spreadsheet as to where I had to be. While it’s not how I like to travel, it gave me a structure and I had so much fun along the way. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your experience. Take care. Aiva xxx

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  18. Ah but that’s a perfect example of the value of pre planning. What a great opportunity to get to see all those places. Presume its like Culture Night here where you’ve free access to houses, museums, etc… you’d have to book the ones you want. (don’t suppose we’ll have Culture Night this year alas)

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    1. Yes, Marie, Doors Open Days is very similar to Culture Night, which I hope goes ahead this September as planned! In Scotland, many buildings open for just a few hours and you have to be very fast to secure your place. I was so lucky to see so many amazing places I didn’t even know existed in Edinburgh. Have a good day and enjoy the sunshine! It’s glorious here in Sligo. Aiva

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      1. Sounds like you perfectly timed your Edinburgh trip.

        Roasting here in Dublin also. We always said that the only thing missing in Ireland is the good weather – unfortunately there’s no one but ourselves able to see the country at its best.
        Enjoy the long weekend. XXXMarie

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  19. Aiva, your tips are spot on! I’ve always loved the planning aspect of travel almost as much as the actual travel. While I still do a lot of trip research, I’ve learned over time also to go with the flow once there and be open to unplanned experiences. Travel for me is one of the best ways to be in the moment. Have a great day!

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    1. Hi, Caroline. I love the initial planning stages too, especially searching for information, learning and anticipating. Experiences abroad can change our mindset and the way we see the world, that’s why it’s important to slow down once in a while as well as learn new things. Being immersed in a totally different culture play a key role in allowing travellers to develop a more open mind and we become self-aware of our own impatience. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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  21. Great tips! Thanks a lot for sharing! 😊 I think when it comes to traveling it is always good to be open: open-minded, open to new experiences, adventures or cultures! For me, the hardest part – but the one that I enjoy the most when I manage to do that – is to interact with locals, as I am very shy and introverted, but I’m working on that ! 😊

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    1. Hi, Juliette and thanks for stopping by. One of the reasons why I travel is to stimulate inner growth, to improve my communication skills (I’m a very shy introvert too) and to learn how to be more present. As restrictions around the world are starting to ease we need to make those first trips count. Not only for us but for other people and our planet too. Have a good day. The sun is finally shining in Ireland and flowers are in full bloom! Aiva

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    1. Hi, Toni, how are you? I can’t wait to be on the road again, because, at times, travelling is no easy task! The unfamiliar customs, language barriers, and stressful act of navigating public transport are all difficult to get used to in a new destination, but that’s what I love the most! Growing, growing and overcoming challenges is what keeps me going! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva

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    1. Nothing will open your eyes to just how small you are in the world more than travel. Becoming detached from your comfort zone and leaving the little corner of the world you inhabit can be a very humbling experience. But once we set the door outside, once the restrictions are lifted, we need to make every minute count. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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      1. Aiva,
        I so relate to what you have shared here about travel opening your eyes. The trips I have made to other countries have changed me in ways that no other type of education could have. I look forward to times of safe travel. We will find a way. Take care.

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  24. I like this guide, it’s a good idea to start planning now, especially for people who might be feeling a bit down or upset about cancelling plans. That way there’s something to look forward to. Also a great idea to try something different, as there will likely be some restrictions for a really long time and that might alter future plans. Maybe this is some people’s chance to try some different kinds of trips.

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    1. As we had our dream holiday to Scotland cancelled, we are eager to get back on the road, but we also want to make that first trip count. As Robin Esrock once said: “The people you meet create the paradise you find.”. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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  25. Love your advice Aiva! For us, a memorable trip is not only about the destination itself, but about the experiences and moments we have. We always try to travel off-season, be more present and open to new cultures. Love exploring unknown places, because traveling is not only about all “instagram-worthy locations”. Take care, Martina

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    1. Hi, Martina, so glad to hear from you! It’s so common for people to spread themselves thin while trying to see every tourist spot when on holiday. I’ve done the same many times over and always felt I needed another holiday just to recover from the first one. That’s why I wanted to share a few ways to make that long-awaited vacation more enjoyable. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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    1. You are welcome and thanks for stopping by. It’s hard to tell what the post-pandemic travel will lookalike, but it’s up to us to make it better than ever by travelling mindfully. Due to cancelled flights and no air traffic, In Punjab, one of India’s most polluted cities, people are reporting being able to see the Himalayan mountains for the first time in decades as pollution levels have plummeted. I imagine that? Have a good day. Aiva

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  27. Pingback: 8 Powerful Tips on How to Make the Most of the First Post-Quarantine Trip – Nguoidentubinhduong
  29. Pingback: 8 Powerful Tips on How to Make the Most of the First Post-Quarantine Trip — OUR CROSSINGS – German Affair

    1. Thanks so much, Ilze! We only need to make a few small adjustments for a truly memorable trip. Number 7 is my favorite and we practice gratitude every single day. Life is amazing and there’s so much to be thankful for. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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    1. Thanks so much! In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day. Aiva

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      1. Thank you so much for your comment, Aiva. It was very interesting to hear that there is a correlation in your research between gratitude and happiness. We do indeed have an awful lot to be grateful for in the first World, yet lifestyle is often taken for granted. Interesting also that gratitude is connected with strong relationships. I guess it follows that if someone is happy then others enjoy their presence, then they may develop more friendships, which enhances even more joy and happiness in their life and thus gratitude is the sort of gift that keeps on giving. Do you know if they have incorporated gratitude teachings or awareness in any cognitive therapy style programs?

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  32. Thanks for the travel tips . So helpful and informative. I do hope to travel again one day outside the U.S.A. The news of travelers stranded for months in other counties & the widespread infection kind of scared me & my family. Perhaps next year, for now it’s Virtual travel & local road trips. Have a great Summer.

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    1. Hi and thanks for stopping by. We love travelling more than anything but due to uncertainties and ever-changing rules and regulations, we are not going anywhere this year. Because travel increases our chances of getting infected and spreading COVID-19, staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting sick. Air travel requires spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring us in close contact with other people and frequently touched surfaces, And I don’t really want to deal with any of that. Maybe next year, if tit’s safe to do so. Thanks for stopping by and stay safe. Aiva

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  33. Some good tips Aiva. I’m afraid we are rarely organised when we travel. We have travelled Europe with no idea other than that we were going to head south – we used a compass. We discovered places that we would never have gone had we planned our trip but then again I know we missed a lot of the tourist highlights. Sadly i doesn’t look like Australia will open up in th near future so all our planned travel is now on hold and we will be doing some trips inside Australia. Again, I don’t know what we will find as we are going to places we would never have gone if overseas travel had been available to us. Enjoy your own travels.

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    1. Thanks so much. Some people swear that traveling with no plan – other than buying a one-way plane ticket – is the only way to experience a country authentically. As we travel with a four-year-old toddler in tow, I feel more comfortable knowing where I will be resting my head every night, at what time the train or plane leaves for my next destination, and what the main things to see and do are in each place.

      But this summer, with no overseas travel of any kind, we are looking forward to exploring Ireland with our campervan. And that means no travel itineraries at all; we can pretty much go where our hearts desire to go. We can easily avoid crowded places and explore lesser-known corners because the pandemic is still at large and we need to be careful.

      Thanks for stopping by and safe travels around Australia. I was reading Melnburn is going into the second lockdown after the spike in virus cases with checkpoints set up around the city to ensure people stay at home. Aiva xxx

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  34. My wife and I actually have traveled since the pandemic started. We flew to Maine. It was a very nice trip filled with hiking and sightseeing. One thing that was difficult was that some people were not wearing face masks on the airplane. They were required, so everyone had them on while they boarded the plane, but several people got bored of wearing them and removed them for the plane ride. Hopefully in confined spaces like an airplane cabin, masks are more strictly enforced going forward. I heard that Delta is putting people on no fly lists who refuse to wear masks. Other than the plane ride, our trip to Maine was great!

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    1. I am glad to hear you had a chance to go on a trip. I’ve never been to Maine, but given its unmatched landscape, enviable seafood scene, laid-back atmosphere and some of the most beautiful lighthouses ever, it’s one my travel wish list. Sadly, due to the pandemic crises, we are not really allowed to leave or move freely within Ireland. There are hefty penalty fines for anyone breaking the rules and regulations; looks like it’s going to be another summer on the Emerald Isle. According to specialists, it is not realistic for the Government to believe that close to half the Irish population will be vaccinated by the end of April. Who knows know when all this is going to end! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

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    1. We are still in a very strict lockdown, too. And it doesn’t look like we are going to be able to travel abroad this year. Hopefully, soon. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Aiva 🙂

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    1. I really hope you get to visit your friends in Copenhagen. The Irish Government is very worried about the COVID situation because the numbers of new cases keep going up despite us being in a very strict lockdown. Fingers crossed we see the end of it soon. Take care. Aiva 🙂 xxx

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