If you are lucky enough this year to be going on a winter escape vacation to a warmer climate, it’s best to start planning for it a few weeks early. Chances are your bikini and favorite flip-flops have been stored away since the end of summer, your bottle of SPF 30 is nearing empty, and your tootsies are less than beach perfect. {dtbrk} So save yourself last minute travel stress and think ahead.
Make a plan of what you will pack, what you need to buy and what you need to schedule to have done before you leave.
If you are going to a new destination, familiarize yourself with the dress code of the resort and it’s clients. A concierge can typically help in this department. Even in the most casual of settings- i.e. living in your swimsuit all day, it’s best to plan on being properly dressed for dinner. So pack accordingly.
Which shoes to pack should also be taken into consideration, as much as you don’t want to give up valuable luggage real estate to your sneakers or comfy walking shoes… bring them. Most activities ( tennis, horseback riding, hiking, boating) at vacation spots require the right footwear, and you would hate to be left out of any vacation adventure. I learned this lesson when I was the only one in my party left out of a deep sea fishing adventure in the Bahamas a few years back… the boat’s captain didn’t seem to agree with my choice of platform sandals as proper boating shoes!
Get double use out of your vacation- by using your upcoming trip as a motivation for a healthier you. If you live in a cold winter climate, like me… your body has probably been hiding itself behind plenty of layers for the last few months. Make changes in diet, exercise, and skin care now… then when it’s time to walk out on the beach for the first time- you’ll be ready to relax and take advantage of your time away from the stresses of everyday life.
As far as clothing budget goes, buy yourself at least one new piece to bring on vacation just for fun then set some cash aside to buy yourself something once you’re away. A local sarong or beach bag can be used right away and will bring back warm memories once you return home to colder weather.
This is my favorite article yet ! I can already feel the rays of sun on my face – dreaming of a pina colada being delivered to my beach chair.
I always pack an empty bag to bring home all the local stuff I buy. Sarongs and jewelry are great to buy at local markets, for yourself and as souvenirs ( for your unfortunate friends left at home.)