There are a thousand ways to enjoy a holiday and none is more or less right than the other, because a perfect holiday that suits everyone does not exist, however, it is possible to organise and enjoy a trip that is tailormade just for you!There are those who prefer returning to the same place every year, where they find familiar surroundings, people and routines that create that feeling of wellbeing and relaxation that they look forward to throughout the year.
Others might think: "How boring!" Far better to head off on an adventure, without plans or an itinerary, not expecting anything and just allowing yourself to be surprised.
So, what kind of tourist are you? Do you feel that a good mix can be found between the two different holiday styles?
The Routine Holiday
Returning to the same place every year has something magical about it that only those who enjoy this kind of experience can describe.
Why do many people prefer to go back to the same placewhen there are so many other things to see?
We all know that the world is full of beauty and possibilities, and that the experience of travelling and discovering new places carries a unique kind of luggage that enriches us.
It is also true, however, that for some people there is a need for a fixed point, perhaps after a tough year at work, so going on holiday to a place they already know gives them a feeling of security that is beyond compare.
Habitual holidays allow you to relax and enjoy your time without effort or stress, because you establish a series of relationships, contacts and habits over the years that leave little room for difficulties and organisational problems.
So, what are these routine habits? Let's take a look at some of them.
- Returning to the same holiday home: it's practically a second home, one linked to memories, attachments, family reminiscences and carefree days. No stress in searching and, above all, no nasty surprises on arrival!
- Food: rediscovering familiar and beloved flavours is worth the journey alone! There is the customary bar that makes the perfect cappuccino, the restaurant where you can have a quick lunch based on quality ingredients or the slightly more sophisticated one for special dinners, and then the ice cream shop at the end of an evening walk. It never fails!
- Beaches: as the song says "same beach, same sea"! We all have a beach we love and, year after year, we build up a unique relationship with the owners and staff of the resort, who make every effort to meet our needs. Ideal for enjoying some well-deserved rest on the beach!
- Local products: finding the small butcher's shop with its own meat or freshly harvested fresh fruit and vegetables is priceless! Especially for those who live in big cities and don't have the opportunity to buy from local growers during the year, because haste often trumps everything else. Some people stock up on oil, honey, jams and more!
- Catching up with friends: besides the place, the food and the habits, what makes a habitual holiday special is the chance to create unique connections, ones that do not just last for the duration of the holiday but are present and constant throughout the year and into the years to come.
The Adventurous Holiday
Choosing a new place to discover every time is an adrenaline rush!
There are those who like to organise their adventures in advance, planning an itinerary and combining different types of activities, and those who leave everything to chance once the destination has been decided. New places, new flavours, new customs... everything is different and to be enjoyed from every angle!
The holiday starts long before the actual departure, when choosing the type of experience. No waiting for the summer or some public holiday to get away, any time is a good time and even the companions are often different.
Let's see what adventure holiday lovers are looking for!
- Different, unconventional places to discover: true adventure lovers rarely choose the 'standard package' or repeat the same type of trip. They prefer lesser-known itineraries, sometimes extreme, and are not afraid to stray far away from their comfort zone.
- Any type of accommodation: it doesn't matter where or how, the important thing is being there! Adventure-seekers certainly know how to sacrifice comfort and do not let it get them down if the most popular accommodation on the booking channels is no longer available. They don't bother to check the wi-fi speed or where the nearest supermarket is, but they definitely look for all accessible trails nearby.
- New routines and customs: getting to know and experiencing environments other than their own, even in a small way, without necessarily being on the other side of the world. It's about experiencing the local culture, engaging in local activities, traditions and rituals, discovering new food and combinations. These are the basic things to do in order to really get to know the essence of a region.
- Putting yourself to the test: both physically and personally. The journey is seen as an opportunity to understand your current skills and acquire new ones. Getting out of the box and always doing different things. The unexpected? Is a risk worth taking.
- Learning new languages and dialects: listening to unfamiliar sounds and words has its own charm! When travelling abroad, language can be a real challenge, but how satisfying it can be when we communicate and can understand each other! Even if we organise a trip within our own country, our native language will acquire accents and vernacular words related to where we are, making it different and fascinating.
- Getting to know different people: Travelling to different places means meeting lots of different people and forming relationships that are mutually enriching. These encounters are important moments of growth and sharing that make travelling special.
So, what do you think of these two very different approaches to holidaying? Do you feel more like a habitual traveller, an adventurous traveller or... are you somewhere in between?
Whatever your idea of a good holiday is, the important thing is to set off with your eyes wide open, ready to make the most of every minute.
