I'd like to start with a question: why travel? Is the goal to cross off another monument on your sightseeing checklist? Or perhaps is there more? Saint Augustine said, "The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." I couldn't agree more.
There is a wealth of knowledge to be learned by traveling. The change of environment, culture, and escape from the norm empowers you to learn volumes about yourself. In order make the best of your vacation, it is important to completely let go of ordinary day-to-day routine and immerse into the environment. Think about how you react at home to certain situations and decide to do the opposite. Breaking routine is easier said than done. Whether you're on a yoga travel retreat or vacationing to place you've never been before, use the tips below to ensure that you get the best out of your travels.
Keep it Simple
Rule number one: travel light. Not only will you thank yourself on the plane/train/taxi/car/bus that gets you from point A to point B, but there is a lot to be learned once you ditch the clutter of materialism. Traveling light and living off the bare essentials will give you a whole new perspective on what actually is needed to achieve happiness. As this realization comes to fruition, a renewed appreciation for people, music, etc will take the place of possessions. Embrace the yogic concept of 'aparigraha', non-attachment.
Slow Down
Take this time to live in the moment. A surefire way to add stress to your vacation is to obsess over a time table. Instead, for each destination on your yoga travel minded vacation, make a list of things you'd like to do and do them only when you feel like it. If there's not enough time, then let it go. Embrace the freedom of a loose schedule. There's plenty of action items waiting for you back home at work.
If there is ever any doubt about what to do in a certain place, just start walking until it becomes interesting. Trust me, it always does.
Meet Your Neighbors
Be the friendly, open-hearted person that you are. In my opinion, hands-down, the most rewarding aspect of travel is meeting people. In other countries, the locals are likely much more friendly than you'd think and are often moved to share their cultures like an open book. Indulging yourself in the conversations of others will give you a new perspective on life and start a healthy questioning of yourself.
In addition to meeting locals, take time to meet other travelers. Because they've also made a decision to explore the world and learn about life, your fellow travelers naturally share your interests and values.
Rekindle Your Sense of Adventure
My final suggestion is to simply be adventurous. Honor your childlike sense of curiosity and do whatever you've always wanted to do. For some, it may be extreme sports. For others, maybe it is to get their yoga teacher certification. Before you set out on your adventure, make a list of dreams that always seemed a bit out of reach. When its time to set sail, make an intention to fulfill at least one of these dreams.
In appreciation, I'd like to mention one of the best books that I've ever read in my life: "Vagabonding" by Rolf Potts. Vagabonding is about defining the difference between travelers and tourists. This book single-handedly changed my paradigm on how I view travel. Since I've read this book, every vacation and yoga travel retreat I've taken since has been life changing.
Matt C. Elmore is a Certified Yoga Instructor, Internet Marketer, and Electrical Engineer. His passions include health, love, the pursuit of happiness, yoga, dance, and travel.
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