Lessons Learned on our Trip
Photo by Matt Ragland on Unsplash
Reflecting on our trip afterward brought a clearer understanding of what could have been done differently. While we were focused on enjoying each place, there were details we missed that would have enriched the experience. It's easy to feel like you’ll remember everything, but in hindsight, I see how helpful it would have been to plan more thoroughly or to take notes along the way. So, what are the lessons we've learned?
Do More Research
Before our travel, we did searches on what the must-see spots were in each place we visited. Due to the limited time we had to plan the trip (and the amount of stops we were going to have on this trip) we didn't do a deep dive into what we were going to see. After the trip, I looked into each location further and discovered things I wish I had known beforehand, as well as historical spots I regret not learning about in advance.
Take Time to Sit and Enjoy the Location
It was very easy to get caught up in the list of places to get to. I wish I had taken more time to sit in a cafe and people watch, or stroll through a park.
Take More Photos
I took a lot of photos! After the fact I realized that I didn't take the right one, or the angle was bad. I don't want to be a behind-the-lens observer, but I wasn't thrilled with what I captured. I would like to try and capture what my eye sees, and what I'm feeling. (I guess I need more practice)
Make Sure I Take More Down Time
The trip was great ... but it was very busy and very tiring. In the future, I need to make sure there is time built in where I can recharge.
Train Travel is Cool
It was our first real experience traveling by train. Sure, we've traveled around on our local trains, but traveling by train in Europe is amazing ... and so easy to do.
You Can't See it All
Unfortunately time is limited and there is so much to see and do. This is where slow travel would be nice.
Keep Notes - I Won't Remember Later
I thought I would remember everything, but with so many places to visit and the sheer amount of information to take in, it was easy to get overwhelmed.
Be Prepared for Boredom
I spoke about this in the previous two blog posts and it speaks directly to the Trans-Atlantic cruise that we took. We were bored on the 5 sea-days with not enough activity for us. Next time we will make sure we plan accordingly.
-keep notes as i go - i won't remember late
This post is such a fun mix of travel tips and life lessons—I love it! It’s amazing how a trip can teach us so much about ourselves and the world around us. Thanks for sharing your adventures and the wisdom you picked up along the way.
ReplyDeleteSolid reminders for travel and life! I don't like to be a behind the lens observer either but often hated any photo because I was just snapping while looking around. I've started taking a moment to be present and take a few photos, then I can enjoy the space, knowing I've captured it. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteUgh, yes, so many things that could be optimized, and yet time is limited. Even if you had done more research, you couldn't have checked all the items, don't you think? The fact that you are writing about your trip is a good way to review your experience. Plus we get to learn about it, so thank you!
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