Six Things I'm No Longer Doing When I Travel

Do you have travel goals?

I’m not great at goal-setting—things I should do—but I have been thinking about things I’m no longer going to be doing, especially when it comes to travel.

1. I'm not NOT going back to places I've loved.

(I know, it's a double negative. You can figure it out.) There is a whole huge world to explore, which is why some people don't like to go back to places they've already been. I get it. But me? I'm going to keep going back to places I've loved because, well, I love it there! Some places make me feel a sense of home and where I feel most like myself. Others I've loved for the beauty I've found there. Other places for the food and the people. Sure, I'll keep exploring new places, but some places I've loved for some very good reasons, so I'm not going to stop going there.

2. I'm not going to places just because they're Instagram famous.

When I see photos of Venice in the summer, or pretty much anywhere in Europe in the summer, I vow that I will never go there at that time. Who wants to spend their vacation with a million other tourists, in piazzas heaving with crowds, or standing in long lines when you can go to a smaller village filled with locals and have a much better experience? I don't need Instagram telling me where I should go. Or when.

3. I'm not wearing uncomfortable shoes anymore.

My feet have over 60 years of miles on them and, to tell you the truth, they hurt . . . a lot. My favorite fashion trend right now is the tennis shoe with dress scenario, and I'll tell you, my feet love it too. I hope that trend never goes away. I've learned that I need to pamper my feet, especially when I’m traveling, and not wearing shoes that are uncomfortable is the best way I can do that.

4. I'm not bringing anything I'll only wear once on a trip.

I only travel with a carry on, which means I have to be extra intentional about what I bring with me. Throwing something in my suitcase "just in case I need it" is an absolute no-no to me. Everything must be worn at least twice on a trip or it's not worth bringing. (Don't worry, you won't stink and nobody will know you've worn it already.)

5. I'm not NOT spending money on meals.

(Another double negative--you've got this!) When we were younger, my husband and I stayed in youth hostels and had a very specific budget for meals, which was practically nothing. We'd eat breakfast in the hostel (usually dry toast and some porridge--yuck!), maybe grab a baguette and some cheese in a grocery store for lunch, and then split a pizza for dinner. We were there to see and experience, not to eat!

Well, I'm older now and more experienced, and I've realized that some of our most memorable moments have happened over nice dinners. We're not exactly the types to eat at fancy Michelin star restaurants (we're not into that type of cuisine), but we will happily splurge on a very nice meal. It's what brings us joy, and isn't that what travel is all about?

My grandfather’s well-used passport. One of my most cherished possessions.

6. I'm not staying home because "I just went on a trip."

How many trips in a year should one have? I guess it depends on several factors: budget, time, commitments at home. But if I can squeeze in another trip, I’m going to do it because it's what I love. Life is short. Take the trip.

How about you? What are some things you're no longer doing, either when you travel or just in life? I'd love to know!