A Weekend Away Keeps The Blues Away

Although I travel often throughout the year, there are long months of long days of heavy work in between.

My husband's schedule is just as packed.

So we wouldn't forget the sound of each other's voices - or why we both work so hard - we started to block off weekends in our calendars sporadically throughout the year, in between our other bigger trips so we can have some uninterrupted time to reconnect, refresh and re-ignite our passion for life.It wasn't only for the benefit of our relationship, however.

We both realized that the different scenery, different daily schedule and occasionally different weather, was a necessary ingredient to our own personal journeys.

We always come home in a better state of mind for our careers, our loved ones and our peace of mind.

Vacations are imperative to a healthy, balanced life...even if it is just for 24 hours.

Don't have the time, you say?

Here are some of the tips and tricks we use to ENSURE we take that time away...

1. Plan ahead.

IMG_1996I know. It doesn't sound romantic if it isn't last minute, but it is worth the effort.

My husband and I compare our calendars every January and block off the planned weekend getaways or even just overnights away throughout the entire year. It is easier for us to plan out the financial needs of the trips and the other obligations (work AND personal) that will need to be scheduled around them.

We make our time together a priority throughout the year.

2. Do not over-plan.

(I know this sounds odd coming from me - the OCD-girl of planning ahead.)

Booking anything online always comes with risk. The hotel may not be as pretty as the website depicts, the restaurant may have a different chef now or it may rain the entire weekend. Be flexible with your expectations and things will just fall into place. Keep a positive attitude and be ready to laugh at the mis-steps along the way. (After all, laughter is the best medicine.)


3. Keep a budget in mind. 

IMGP2525Nothing will kill the "vacation buzz" faster if you stress all the way home about how you are going to afford groceries or your next mortgage payment. Learn how to prioritize.

If you can only afford one night away, don't stretch it to two.

If a nice hotel room is your priority, then eat the complimentary breakfast at the hotel, and picnic in a park for lunch so you can have that romantic dinner that evening.

 

4. Utilize your technology.

Besides the fact that I am a geek for all things tech-y, it has been a great help in all of our vacations and quick getaways over the years.A pre-loaded iPad can hold downloaded movies, stream Netflix, music and magazines. A phone or similar audio device can hold audiobooks and downloaded podcasts.

  • I book hotels online ahead of time, but if I need to switch hotels mid-trip, I can use an app on my phone to find a suitable replacement in minutes.
  • Dinner reservations are also made online and new applications allow for instant notifications to the restaurants regarding arrival times, adding extra guests or requesting allergy information.
  • I never leave home without mobile charging units, extra cords, headphones and sometimes a portable speaker.

 

IMG_07126. Be positive.

I know I mentioned it before, but a positive attitude can be the key to a memorable getaway.

Being patient, kind and doting to your significant other will spoil them a little and remind you of why you like being with them in the first place.

Being patient and kind to hotel and restaurant staff and other people you meet along the way will be reciprocated - even if it just a smile, a chuckle or a slightly larger pour of wine. 😉

7. Appreciate the journey.

Whether you are driving, flying, cycling or walking to a destination, take the time to notice your surroundings. Changing seasons, new and exciting construction, a new coffee shop that you hadn't noticed before or just a long and lovely conversation with the person beside you.

 

You may not have made an overnight away a priority in quite some time, but I can guess that it is only because you fell out of practice.

It can be an important BOOST to your outlook on work, love and life and that can only be positive.

One thing is for sure...the only thing you will concern yourself with when you arrive at home is -

When is our next trip?


 

Looking for a speaker for your next event or conference?

Stephanie Piché Cooking demonstrations, wine pairing events and lectures, travel talks and MORE...

She speaks with passion, insight and FLAVOUR!

To book an event or learn more, email us by clicking here

Comments are closed.