As a World Traveler, I Know it’s Not About the Destination.

Wanderlust is in my DNA and I have learned that the joy of traveling is not just about the destination. I am fortunate to have an ultimate concierge who also enjoys seeing the world. I tell him often how much I cherish and appreciate him. A good traveler recognizes every journey is a step-by-step process, and is not only about the destination. It begins with excitement and anticipation, then a plan is set in place. Every woman over 50 should always seek new travel tips. The planning phase is a very important part of any journey. It is thrilling that travel includes many stages of exploration and the destination is but one important part.

Because I am a world traveler I am often asked the following question:

“What is your favorite country?”

My reply, “I don’t have a favorite country.”

“Why?” they ask.

I respond again and again with this answer, “Each country is distinct because of its unique literature, music, art, philosophy, food, language, architecture and customs. How can I have a favorite? It is impossible.”

I do have favorite experiences, some very small and yet so large to me, and some so grand I am still in awe. I share with family and friends the marvelous encounters I’ve had in each destination.

A Traveled Woman Becomes a Worldly Woman

A traveled woman has significant opportunities for personal growth if she embraces the notion that the joy in traveling is not just about the destination. She learns new skills as she organizes for her Journey. Because she leaves no stone unturned she travels to her destination relaxed and eager; leaving a far more enriched woman. She is an explorer who desires self-growth so she knows the importance of packing her Journal to record her experiences. Her travels remain etched in her memory bank, enriching and broadening her visual and mental scope of destinations of different types. She experiences exciting challenges and new opportunities that engage all facets of her emotions.  Her intellectual curiosity, her substance and verve give her value. She has attained the status of a worldly woman.

A Traveled Woman Becomes A Prepared Woman

Preparing properly for a destination is an acquired skill. The more you travel, the wiser and more efficient you become. This is self-growth. You are the one to organize plans and set them in motion. In order to have a fabulous time on your travels, you know your house must be left in order and your trip be organized properly. It is make-a-list time, darlings! You are the coordinator; the wind behind the sail. A worldly traveled woman is a proficiently organized woman.

The To-Do List of A Worldly Traveled Woman

Travel Agent

Pick a good one, darlings. By good I mean well-traveled; not computer traveled. Let her make your airline and hotel reservations, book professional guides (a must and worth the money), purchase travel insurance and medivac. Your relationship and planning with your travel agent is proof that traveling is not just about the destination.

Passports

If you are planning for international travel, remember to check your passports for the expiration date. It must have six months remaining. Make a copy in case you are robbed or lose yours.

Doctor Appointments

Visit a travel doctor to update your immunizations and research your destination for other inoculations. This is very important. A travel doctor saved my life. While thinking about medical needs, make sure to refill your prescriptions and have your doctor prescribe a “just in case” antibiotic.

Call Your Credit Card Company

You need to tell them where you are traveling. If you don’t, they may put a hold on your credit card and that really puts a damper on your travel fun!

Share Your Plan

Leave the itinerary of your trip with loved ones and friends. Your itinerary should include phone numbers for your hotels, travel agent, and any tour companies you’ll be using.

Leave the key

Have you ever been running errands and had the thought, “Did I unplug my curling iron?” Now imagine having that nagging feeling while across the globe! Leave the key to your home or condo with a family member in case you need someone to have access to check on your house.

Make Pet Plans

Leave the name and phone number of your vet. Write detailed instructions for the vet, boarding facility, or person taking care of your pooch or cat. Include any pet-sitter information on your itinerary.

Know Your Cell Phone

Call your cell phone provider to understand what your plan includes, and what charges you can expect if you use it during your trip.

Cancel Your Appointments

If you have a recurring appointment for a manicure, trainer, hairdresser, remember to cancel those until you return from your trip.

Plan for the Plane

Darlings, trust me, always get to the airport two hours before your flight. It will save you infinite stress. If you end up with ample time before boarding, have a drink, write in your journal, or peruse the bookstore in the terminal.

Be Tech Ready

Put these two apps on your cell phone: WhatsApp and Pocket Travel, and make sure to have a battery pack in case you need to charge your phone on-the-go.

A Worldly Traveled Woman Is Skilled At Packing What She Needs

Knowing what and how to pack makes your journey stress free. I don’t want to brag, but I must. I want you to trust my rules of packing because I am a pro! To learn more, read my tips on packing and what to never leave home without. I have had “near miss” experiences, but in traveling to over 60 countries I have never had to buy any necessary items on a trip. Packing properly has another advantage … you learn that you don’t need all the “stuff” in your closet. I “pack my closet” like I pack my suitcase and I don’t over-stuff.

New Essentials on my Packing List

I don’t leave the country without these products. I am always adding and subtracting and so should you, darlings.

• An ultra slim portable charger for my iPhone

• Eagle Creek packing organizers. My girlfriend Kay, a world traveler, suggested this brand to me a few months ago. I trust her opinion so I ordered them.

• Powercube by Allocacoc. This 6 sided plug is an amazing (and needed) accessory.

• These reusable shopping bags are compact and easy to throw in your handbag. They come in various stylish colors that won’t take away from your outfit.

• A JOURNAL to record “your story.”

A Worldly Woman Is Smiling When She Touches The Ground Of Her Destination

A worldly woman smiles when her feet touch the ground of her destination because she learned the skill of organizing for a trip and was efficient in her preparation. She knew how to coordinate and arrange her life at home so when her jet took off, she could lean back in her seat, take a deep breath, sigh and smile to herself. She was ready to embark on her journey, feeling as free as a breeze. Her mind and heart were open to take in new adventures and experiences. She opened her journal as the plane veered off toward its destination, and she began to write…

What is your favorite part of planning a trip? Share in the comments!

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