"There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign." -Robert Louis Stevenson

• Where to Go

When planning a vacation, you can literally go anywhere in the world! Here is a recommended series of steps to take to plan your next big (or small) adventure:

1. Identify your budget. You won't get very far without the moolah to pay for it! This budget worksheet may be helpful in determining how much you will be spending (click to download the spreadsheet):

 

2. List places you'd like to visit. Sound too overwhelming? Break it up by:
• Domestic vs. International
• Places you have been vs. Places you have not been
• Type of vacation (leisure, adventure, family, solo, etc)

• What to Do

Everyone has a different idea of what they want to do when they go on vacation. If you are one of those individuals who can plop themselves on a beach and read all weekend, then this section will be of no use to you. However, if you are like me and enjoy packing in as many activities as possible, read on!

• Visit cultural sites to learn more about the local culture. Check out UNESCO's website to see if your vacation destination is near a World Heritage Site.
• Eat! Avoid chain restaurants and take the opportunity to check out the local fare. Zagat's has a fairly comprehensive restaurant guide to get you started.
• Plan activities. The activities available depend on where you are going. They can range from hiking, sailing, or paragliding, to visiting museums and art galleries. Below are some images of places I've visited; hopefully they get your brainstorming ideas flowing!

             
         Red Cross Museum                         Town Market                                Swiss Spa


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