Secret Sauce for your next summer getaway
Delegation is the secret sauce.
Planning an off-the-beaten-path trip for your summer milestone birthday party, family reunion, or destination vacation can be an exciting venture!
Here's how to create an unforgettable experience while keeping things smooth, fun, and stress-free.
Define the who, what, where, and when of your trip. Set up a group chat and consider the timing. Choose your destination wisely. Avoid peak season if you can. For one thing your wallet will thank you and also you will dodge the crowds.
Delegate by assigning roles to make the trip run smoothly.
"Research Guru" can dig into local customs, hidden gems, and must-see spots.
"Logistics Wizard" handles flights, visas, transportation and accommodations, Look beyond the obvious hotel chains and explore vacation rentals. Websites like Airbnb often have hidden gems that offer more space and local flair. Plus, cooking a communal meal in a shared kitchen can be a delightful bonding experience.
"Foodie Scout" hunts down the best local eateries and street food stalls.
"Activity Legend" can be in charge of booking and organizing all activities. Consider unconventional activities - from a sunrise hot air balloon ride, attending a fashion show in the city of your choice, volunteering time at a charity event, playing golf or motor sporting.
“Memory Maker” - Captures those breathtaking moments through photos and videos.
Activity Legend and Memory Makers can coordinate for a seamless experience, consider booking with local guides who know the lay of the land and can offer insider tips. For activities, think beyond the usual tourist traps. Explore lesser-known hiking trails, visit local art galleries, or even take a cooking class to learn traditional recipes. These experiences provide a deeper connection to the culture and create lasting memories. Choose unique locations and consider spots that offer stunning backdrops and fewer crowds.
Unconventional activities include a sunrise hot air balloon ride, a scavenger hunt, organize a scavenger hunt.
3. Pack smart. - everything from swimsuits to hiking boots. Don't forget sunscreen, bug spray, Always have a backup plan for outdoor activities, pack a travel first aid kit, and learn a few local phrases to charm the residents. Let’s not forget the unexpected – pack a mini first-aid kit, because mosquito bites and minor scrapes are party poopers. And, while you’re at it, download offline maps of your destination; Wi-Fi can be epileptic.
10 tips for landing a good Air B and B
#1 Accessibility. Plan to stay not too far from your activities and do a Google street view search of the neighborhood where the property is located for access in and out of the area.
#2. Location & Landmarks. Ask for landmarks within 5-10 miles of the listing to get a better idea of the neighborhood. Do not leave your needs to chance. Use the filter function to eliminate anything that might look nice but will leave you frustrated during your stay.
#3 Reviews that Count. The more recent reviews may be more informative. Feel free to request clarification where the information is vague or omitted from the listing. Your safety and convenience are key and it doesn’t hurt to take the initiative - go the extra mile for your peace of mind.
#4. Photos Please - Request additional pictures that capture the current state of the property such as the surroundings, outside of the property. If photos are taken with drapes drawn, request pictures with the light coming in. The small details may make a big difference. Close range shots of areas such as the caulking around the bath/shower area and sink can be requested of the host.
#5. Privacy - Do you prefer properties with multiple units so there are neighbors or an isolated unit. Proximity to any major streets or heavy traffic areas.
#6. Back up to the Back up Electricity supply: This may include stand-by generators to ensure 24 hours electricity.
#7. All round WiFi - This is not limited to specific living spaces or rooms. Clarify if there are limits on how much Wi-fi service comes with the booking and any additional costs if it needs to be topped up. This may also apply to electricity consumption.
#8. Clean-up and Cancellation: Be clear on any cleaning fees, clean-up tasks and the cancellation and early check-in/late check-out policies,
#9. Reviews. Pay attention to the details including proximity to grocery stores, security, water pressure and the number of floors, flights of stairs, wheelchair accessibility and what your unit options are within the building.
#10. Adapters and Converters; Make inquiries about the type of outlets in the rental and if necessary bring along some adapters or and converters.
