How can I make my vacation more enjoyable or meaningful?

Question

I'll be going to Europe in a few weeks and I'm not yet in that excited Europey-vacationy mood. I know there's sooo much to see and do in Europe. But, I just don't know how to approach a vacation to make the most of it. Should I wake up each morning in Europe and have a goal to do?

Answer 1

I suppose that you just do what you want to do. I mean, if you go to Europe, go for the ''traditional'' places such as the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. Besides that, don't ALWAYS go to the major tourist attractions and just go for a walk or shop till your feet aches!!! =D

Answer 2

Think back on what a trip to Europe meant for you at first.
Did you want to visit Paris for it's history, romance or art.
What about Italy? Wine and Food or Micheal Angelo?
Mix and match. That's what I did. If you want to see Culture get out of the major centers and city. Museums are a great part of our past too. But there's a lot of other things you might enjoy. I'm a movie buff.Sitting in a cafe an Paris reminded me of an "American in Paris" with Gene Kelly. When I went to Greece. I wanted it to be just like in the movie "Shirley Valentine". Simple and peaceful. So I did that. I could go on for hours.

My best tip. Don't fall in the tourist trap. Europe should be how you have imagined it. Make up the scenario as you go and enjoy it.

P.S. bring an electronic translater. you know the kind that look like little computers. It will save you especially if you go off of the beaten path.

Have a memorable trip!

Answer 3

It all depends on your personality and/or travel experience. I'm a very independent traveler and rarely fit into the "group tour" experience. So I made my European trips (4 actually and looking forward to encores) an individual experience. I didn't over-plan my days but did my homework by reading extensively about the cities on "my" itinerary. I recommend books about walking tours, there are many around (Paris, London, Madrid, etc), they focus on other experiences besides the usual touristy places. Once you arrive at your destination buy a bus/subway/train ticket and use it!! Stop at the local eating venues (boulangerie, pub or tasqueria), long queues are a good sign. Don't settle for the corner McDonald's, pleeeaassee. Also, check museum itineraries for extended hours. On those days there's usually some kind of special event (lecture, music, drama) and often free! Don't forget about nightlife!!
You don't need a daily "goal" but rather a daily "direction" or route, (i.e. today we head north) or theme (today is museum day or shopping day). Otherwise you'll end up going around in circles and not experiencing as much.

Answer 4

I have found that not over planning my vacations have made them much more enjoyable. I mean, I would have a list of things I might like to do if in that area and some maps and such, but for the most part, I allowed myself to wander and relax...that's what vacation is all about.

Answer 5

Do what you want when you want. It is your vacation. If you plan to do too much and then don't do it all you may be disapointed.. I would just each day as it comes and enjoy yourself.

Answer 6

I would make a plan of what you would like to accomplish while there and then loosely map out your trip so you don't miss anything and regret not seeing/doing it later.

Answer 7

Do what u want to do.Follow your heart and make your holiday enjoyable as much as you can...In Thailand have many beautiful beaches and moutains too...let's try

Answer 8

DANCE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuLjuD3XrXI

SEE OLD FRIENDS http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2jtRWFOd04

SMOKE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A55CzcYl7qQ

TRY SOMETHING NEW http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjXhwFAT_SU