Before you decide on a destination – or the dates – of your holiday, it’s good to ask yourself what you want.
This may seem obvious but delve a little deeper and you might find your priorities have changed.
Answering these five questions can give you a better idea of not only what you want from a holiday, but how to achieve it.
Have you missed being at the center of the action?
Have the last several months been all work and no play? Have you missed spending time with friends, going to shows, concerts and museums?
Perhaps this is the weekend to head to a cultural center like Istanbul, London or Paris with a friend or several friends.
These cities also offer numerous seasonal events – including festivals for music, food and art.
Choose your city and check out what’s happening: set your dates to coincide with a specific event or a show.
Are you yearning for a holiday where you don’t have to be in charge?
Even if you don’t live in an urban environment, the stress of everyday life can leave you longing for peace, quiet and calm – and no pressure.
Maybe your intuition is quietly guiding you to an oasis surrounded by beautiful scenery. An oasis where you won’t look at the clock; where the only item on your schedule is a massage treatment or a yoga session. Where the only place you need to be is the heated pool. Spa hotels are the perfect answer, and many of the world’s plushest can be found in Türkiye, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, Tanzania, Thailand and Indonesia.
Are you craving a holiday with new experiences?
If the last several months have felt like the same day – over and over and over – you may be ready to leap into the unknown and recapture the excitement you’ve missed. Take a bold step: A hot-air balloon tour in Cappadocia, paragliding in Fethiye, or diving in Bodrum or Kas… Try something new!
Are you longing to go back in time?
Perhaps you’re seeking some perspective on our current times by examining the past. Or maybe you just want to immerse yourself in a completely different environment and atmosphere. Bruges, founded in the 9th century or Tallinn, established in the 13th century, might be among your European choices.
North Africa has a deep history; you may want to start with the legendary city of Marrakech, or Rabat, founded in the 12th century. As you wander the narrow streets of these magical cities, stick to the concept, put your phone aside and just enjoy.
Are you hankering to be surrounded by art?
The destination is Italy! In a country where nearly every town bears the footprints of the Renaissance, Florence is a focus for art lovers.
If you’re seeking classical music, turn your route to Austria; the cities of Salzburg and Vienna are renowned for classical music festivals, as well as beauty and architecture.
Do you travel on your stomach?
Not literally, of course! But if your ideal holiday involves a gastronomic approach, the choices are rather obvious: France, Italy or Lebanon… If you have more time, the culinary traditions of Thailand, India and China are famous for good reason. And they’re not monolithic: Each region has its own specialties, so every meal – every day – will be distinctive!
Have you come to a decision? Now, all you need to do is find the best flight to your dream destination, for a holiday that will satisfy on every level.
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