When it comes to travel, what’s your best piece of advice? Think about what type of experience you have before you start planning: do you want a restorative experience that is all about recharging and relaxing, or do you want an invigorating experience that expands your mind? At this point in my life as a busy entrepreneur and mother of two young kids, I find that I need a lot of restorative travel—and I recommend going someplace where that is a sure thing—i.e. a place I’ve been to before or a friend has highly recommended. The most relaxing places are ones where money and decisions are taken off the table. There is a set meal plan, zero electronics or wireless signal, no electricity, no tipping and no decisions to be made. Simplicity trumps fanciness when it comes to relaxing. On the other hand, I like to really stretch myself at least once or twice a year and go someplace with no set itinerary that I have never been before—with as few expectations as possible. I find these to be the most life-affirming types of trips and my advice is to really have no goal other than to be open—coming without a set checklist or agenda is key. Pick a region and just wander. It will make you feel ten years younger and restore a childlike sense of wonder towards the world. November 2012 |