In our latest podcast interview “World Travel Made Easy with Itinerary Boss,” we dive into the meticulous art of planning trips as a perfectionist. We’re joined by a long-time friend who has traveled extensively to incredible destinations such as Singapore, the Philippines, and France. With her keen eye for detail and love for adventure, she shares her best practices for planning the perfect trip and highlights some unforgettable experiences from her travels. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to help you plan your next adventure with precision.
Planning trips as a perfectionist
She has a rich history of travel, from childhood trips to France to recent adventures in Singapore and the Philippines. Starting as early as two years old, she has accumulated a wealth of experience and knowledge, evolving her travel planning skills over the years. One of her most memorable early experiences was a challenging solo flight to France, which turned into a learning moment about the unpredictable nature of travel with young children. Over time, these early experiences developed into a meticulous approach to planning trips, ensuring every detail is considered.
For her, planning a trip begins with extensive research and preparation. When organizing a trip to Singapore, she benefited from a friend’s detailed Excel spreadsheet, which included multiple tabs and thorough plans for each day. This level of preparation allowed for a smooth and enjoyable trip. She believes in over-preparing to ensure the best possible experience, covering everything from accommodation choices to finding the best local cuisine and secret spots.
Highlights of Singapore, the Philippines, and France
Her trip to Singapore was marked by a stay at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, known for its rooftop infinity pool and luxurious amenities. This splurge was well worth it, providing stunning views and a unique experience. Singapore’s clean streets and strict regulations made it a fascinating place to visit, reminiscent of places like Abu Dhabi with its meticulous upkeep and modern architecture.
In the Philippines, she visited multiple locations including Palawan, El Nido, Coron, Boracay, and Cebu. Each place offered a different experience, from the serene beauty of Coron, where she stayed on a houseboat surrounded by turquoise waters, to the bustling party scenes of El Nido and Boracay. She explored local food markets, experiencing a wide variety of street foods, some of which were quite adventurous. The Philippines stood out for its friendly locals and diverse landscapes, making it an exciting destination.
France, with its deep personal connection, remains a special place for her. Regular trips to Paris and the south of France have ingrained a love for French culture and cuisine. Staying in family-owned condos and exploring the picturesque beaches and towns of the French Riviera provided a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Pros and cons of staying in one spot vs. hopping around
Her travel philosophy has evolved from staying in one place for extended periods to hopping around multiple destinations. Growing up, family vacations were typically spent in a single location, allowing for deep exploration and relaxation. As she began planning her own trips, she embraced a more dynamic approach, visiting several cities in one trip. For instance, her upcoming trip to Italy includes stops in Sorrento, Venice, and Rome.
While staying in one spot allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion, hopping around offers the opportunity to see more places and experience a wider variety of activities. However, this requires more planning and can be more exhausting. It’s essential to balance the itinerary to avoid burnout, especially when traveling to large cities with numerous attractions.
Travel tips for enhancing your experience
- Organize with excel- use spreadsheets to keep track of your itinerary, important documents, and travel plans. This helps ensure you have everything in one place and can easily access information when needed.
- Embrace local cuisine- always try the local food, even if it looks unfamiliar. Experiencing the local cuisine is a significant part of immersing yourself in the culture.
- Learn basic phrases- make an effort to learn a few key phrases in the local language. Locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your travel experience by making interactions more meaningful.
Conclusion
Her adventures in Singapore, the Philippines, and France showcase the importance of meticulous planning and an adventurous spirit. Whether you’re lounging at the Marina Bay Sands, exploring the vibrant streets of Boracay, or savoring the cuisine of Paris, a well-planned trip can create unforgettable memories. By embracing proactive planning and immersing yourself in local cultures, you can enhance your travel experiences and make the most of your adventures.
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Disclaimer: The information provided by Itinerary Boss is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any outcomes, including injuries, damages, or losses, related to your travel plans. All travel is undertaken at your own risk, and Itinerary Boss assumes no liability for third-party services or actions.