Is a Vacation Really Relaxing?

You read the travel brochures and see the stunning images of people relaxing on the beach in a state of utter bliss. What those airbrushed ads fail to show is the intense preparation required to bring those picture perfect people to their destination. Is a relaxing vacation really worth all the stress?

If you've ever stopped to write down all the planning and steps needed to prepare for that relaxing vacation to some pristine beach or peaceful mountain, you'd probably be quite impressed with what you needed to do before checking in at that five star hotel. Just what is involved in preparing for that relaxing vacation?

Choosing and packing your clothing

If you're going to be on your relaxing vacation for any length of time, you're going to need clothes. Time to go through your closet and find some fashions that are comfortable, yet won't wrinkle when stuffed into a suitcase. This can be a challenge unless you happen to have a closet full of knits made of synthetic fabric which are hard to find these days.. Your other alternative is to wear the same outfit the entire vacation. Somehow, I don't think you'd be welcome at many attractions after the first few days of your trip to paradise.

Finding an affordable hotel

Hotels are not cheap these days. Fortunately, you have the ability to locate the best rates by doing online price comparisons. Unfortunately, this takes time. After spending a few hours on your computer staring at price quotes and comparing hotel features, you'll be ready to sleep in your car.

Preparing the children and pets

Oh yes, this can take up a substantial amount of time. If you have children, their clothes need to be selected and their suitcases packed. Plus, they're going to get bored in the car, so plan on packing a few toys and other distractions. You don't want them chattering away as you struggle to find the expensive hotel you booked online.

If you have pets, it's even more complicated. If you're boarding your pets, they have to be updated on their vaccinations and deemed free of disease, so plan on scheduling that vet appointment. Then, you have to pack up their belongings and escort them to their pet hotel which may cost almost as much as your human one. You can feel your wallet becoming lighter and your stress level rising.

The challenge of getting there

Why is that maps are so hard to read? The print is so small you need a magnifying glass to locate a street if the street happens to be on the map at all. Some people have a knack for choosing destinations that aren't on the map. You can plan on stopping at a few gas stations to redirect yourself or just learn to enjoy the adventure of being lost. After all, you're on your relaxing vacation to see some new scenery, right?

Have you managed to stay sane and reach the destination for your relaxing vacation? Congratulations! It's time for a cool drink by the pool.