April 2024

How to Minimize the Not-So-Relaxing Aspects of Vacation

Vacation can be a wonderful time to relax and recharge. However, vacation can also come with a lot of not-so-relaxing side effects, including stress from planning, budgeting, and worrying about work getting behind while you’re away. In this article, we’re exploring how to minimize the not-so-relaxing aspects of vacation and ensure that your time off is truly a break from the everyday grind.

A vacation (American English) or holiday (British English) is a leave of absence from a regular occupation, or a specific trip or journey for the purpose of recreation or tourism. The term is often used to refer to a period of leisure travel away from home, especially during holidays or festival periods. People may take a short vacation, such as a week’s stay at a beach resort or ski lodge, or a long vacation, such as a year-long sabbatical or gap year.

People can spend their vacation in a variety of ways, from visiting historical landmarks and exploring nature to enjoying the local culture. A popular option is to go on a cruise. These are usually ocean-going vessels that offer a wide range of entertainment and activities, such as onboard games, shows, and fine dining. Cruises can be a great choice for families, with children’s clubs and special family-friendly activities to keep the whole crew happy.

Another way to enjoy a vacation is to visit a theme park. These attractions are designed to create a sense of wonder, excitement, and adventure through a variety of rides and other attractions. Some famous theme parks include Universal Studios, Disney World, and SeaWorld. Many people also like to go on a road trip as a form of vacation. This can be a great opportunity to see the sights of the United States or other countries while on a budget.

Regardless of the type of vacation you choose, it’s important to communicate with your family members or travel companions about what you want from a trip. Having clear expectations can help everyone avoid any disagreements or disappointments during the trip. It’s also a good idea to establish a travel budget before you decide where and when to go. This can help you decide what types of activities to enjoy and help you narrow down your options for accommodation.

It’s not uncommon to feel tired during a vacation, even if you’re having fun. It’s possible that you’re trying to pack too much into your trip or you’re spending more than you can afford, causing you to feel overworked after your return. To avoid this, consider giving yourself a day or two to adjust after your vacation before starting back at work.

In addition to having a good time on your vacation, it’s helpful to make memories by taking photos and keeping a journal of your experiences. This will help you remember the good times for years to come. It’s also a good idea not to use your phone for social media or news sites, as this will distract you from the real experience.

The World’s Best Hotel

In the age of anything-goes, unverified reviews, it can be hard to trust hotel rankings. But if you’re looking for a hotel that offers more than just a place to sleep, the best hotels offer awe-inspiring experiences, from glamping in the Caribbean to witnessing wildlife in the Serengeti.

To help you make an informed choice, here’s a look at the top hotel rankings—from a group that uses professional inspectors to a website that distills consumer reviews.

Best for: Luxury Travel

The world’s best hotel is a 18th century villa on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, according to a new list announced by 50 Best, an organization that awards standout restaurants and bars. A panel of hoteliers, journalists and other hospitality experts nominated properties for the list—which was based on personal experiences and opinions of anonymous voters—and the winners were ranked based on service, ambience and facilities.

A former home of composer Vincenzo Bellini, Passalacqua’s interiors are filled with works by local artists and the resort also has its own spa. Rates start at $1,300 per night. The other top hotel, the Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat in France, is an ultra-luxe beach resort with a Michelin-starred restaurant and private villas with sea views.

Best for: Luxury Travel

The five-star luxury hotels on this list have a common thread: they all offer awe-inspiring surroundings, from a cliff-top location overlooking the Adriatic to a rooftop pool with panoramic city views in New York. At The Fifth Avenue, for instance, guests enjoy a dining menu crafted by the hotel’s eponymous chef, Andrew Carmellini. After dinner, they can linger over cocktails at the wood-paneled Portrait Bar or take in the stunning views from the hotel’s palatial penthouse suite.