I was certainly a beginner when I planned my first trip.
When you haven’t traveled much, it can be difficult to figure out where you want to go.
Planning your dream trip can definitely feel overwhelming.
Breaking it into manageable steps makes all the difference.
Start by choosing a destination that excites you and aligns with your travel goals.
Think about your interests, personality style, whether you like busy cities or tranquil beaches.
I wish I would have thought about this more as I did experience some ‘travel fatigue’ and with better planning probably could have avoided this.
Consider the best time to visit, local culture, and any bucket-list activities you want to experience.
Next, set a budget.
Research typical costs for flights, accommodations, transportation, meals, and activities.
AI can be helpful with planning but cross check everything, as it’s not perfect!
You can use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Priceline to find the best deals on airfare.
Book early to save.
For accommodations, compare options on Booking.com, Airbnb, and even hostels for budget-friendly stays.
You’ll want to read the descriptions carefully for Airbnb’s and Hostels because they can be surprising. Like the Airbnb I booked in Portugal that looked nothing like the photo, was very isolated and ended up costing me an extra hotel since I didn’t feel safe there and had to rebook at a hotel for that same night.
Finally, create a flexible itinerary. Rick Steves Guidebooks are incredibly helpful. Your purchase supports this site. Thank you!
Block out key activities but leave room for spontaneous adventures.
Don’t forget to check visa requirements, vaccination guidelines, and travel insurance.
With careful planning and the ability to be flexible you’ll soon be ready to turn your travel dreams into reality!
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to travel planning, Travel Solo 101 with Chantal is a video course that you may find helpful.
Available now at an introductory low price. Great packing tips, safety tips, tech tips and more.
Click here to learn more or to enroll. I am an affiliate for this course and your enrollment helps support this blog. Thank you!
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A few things that were great to travel with on my adventures. I loved this lightweight travel backpack, available on cyber monday at a great price! It’s approved size wise as a personal item on the airlines.
It’s easy to pack and carry. I did decide on future trips I would invest in a rolling suitcase. Although this was much easier to navigate with on the cobblestone streets in Europe and on the trains. (Maybe I should just pack less!) Click here on the link if you want to check it out.
Oh how many times during the trip did I wish I would have packed my portable iphone charger! For some reason my phone would not hold battery and a few times it was downright scary without a “map”.Here’s a nice charger that will do the trick.
Last but not least check out these cozy wool socks because you just can’t beat warm cozy feet when you’ve had a long day walking!
I am a former Radio Producer/Host of Wellness Talk Radio, Broadcast on the CA Coast and Internet for 20 years. Now a Podcast Producer/Host of Wellness Talk Radio and The Marigold Lifestyle. My books have been Bestselling books on Amazon.
Recently suddenly widowed and grieving the loss of the love of my life and business partner I thought about the topics of my Radio show. Resilience, Reinvention, facing difficulty and finding creative solutions and living your best life. So much there to help people like us (mostly over 50) figure out their next steps in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Do you love to travel? Are you stuck deciding your next move? Looking to create a remote work lifestyle? Need help with financial planning? Would you like to connect with a group of people facing similar challenges?
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