(April 4, 2013)
Every time one goes on a vacation, money is always the utmost
consideration, although it is also as important as the time allotted for the
trip.
I never imagined myself trying to squeeze out all the time available
for a short visit. Way back in the late 80’s, when I first tried my luck in New
York to work as a nurse, it was a time for explorations, new experiences and
much learning in the process in the big apple.
After a year’s work, it was time to go for a leave of absence, to spend
quality time with family and friends back home that was and still is, in the
city of golden friendship and Camiguin.
And I am very sure a lot of the overseas workers felt the same way
every time they come home for a short vacation. Quality time to be spent with
love ones, and making the most out of it.
What about those who are just here, yet wanted to travel during the
summer vacation to some other near or far exciting place? I guess the feelings
stay the same. The enthusiasm, anticipation, and pleasure in the preparation,
the actual travel time and of course, the “tangible” and definite time consumed
in the travel to and from the destination.
Now, one huge consideration is the budget. And I am trying to emphasize
on this because it is expected of the “man” of the family (meaning, the wage
earner, the father or the mother or both) to do the financial planning which
obviously includes the costs of fare (by air, land or sea), accommodations
(hotel, food, snacks, etc.), tickets (if included in the trip like rides, shows
or entrance to parks, etc.) and other incidental costs.
That is why it is always a good idea to book tickets, lodgings and
other necessary things included in the trip way ahead of time to make sure
everything is in order to avoid delays and wasted time in the process. Shop
around and compare prices. Besides, it is and will always be cheaper to book
way ahead of the scheduled travel time.
Now, even when everything is in place, there would be some incidental
expenses. And that would be like, souvenirs, foods (!), and maybe some other
spur of the moment decisions and demands from members of the entourage. Or
maybe, meeting someone you know along the way.
It could also be some unexpected breakdowns, say, mechanical troubles
from the car/van the group is using, or even natural or environmental (God
forbid!) disasters & calamities that might delay or affect the entire
vacation.
Sometimes, flights are delayed or even cancelled which can make the
matter worst because the allotted “baon” is depleted already. This is where the
problem arises, unless the airlines take care of your emergency accommodation
until your departure.
For a short day or couple of days trip, one can bring with them food
and drinks so as to minimize expenses along the way. These vital items are
always more pricey in hotels unless one have the time to roam around the market
or grocery stores. However, it might
also delay some scheduled activities except if there is truly a reason to buy
items (say dried fish, native delicacies, souvenir items, etc.).
Try also to ask around if one wants to explore the area’s more popular
hang-outs or places to maximize the trip. Say if it is not found in the web, it
would be wise to ask the locals right after arrival for a better timed
vacation. Or maybe the tourism office.
Except if the place is cold or chilly, try to bring light clothing. Remember,
travel light! If it has to be washed, it dries faster. “Wash & wear”
shirts, pants or skirts would be the best when there is no plan of ironing the
clothes. A light sweater might be needed at night. A hat/cap also is
recommended.
Bring some “first-aid” medications like anti-pyretic, analgesics,
ant-diarrheal, and maybe even some ointments for minor burns, itch, or insect
bites. Don’t forget the sunscreen, too!
Bringing toiletries would be easy when they are packed in individual
plastic sealed bags so as to prevent spillage. Liquid items should be separated
from dry ones, just in case. Try also to
bring “travel size” items to minimize extra weight in luggage. Also bear in
mind airport/airline regulations with hand-carried liquids.
Don’t forget to bring your most precious item, the very powerful
camera! Take lots of pictures and memories. With the advent of digital camera
that comes also with a video camera, this will surely be treasured for the
years and years to come!
However, if trying to capture photos, make sure they are also allowed.
Some people and their personal spaces & places don’t want their photos
taken. Especially if it is something sacred or just plainly not authorized. Ask
for permission to be sure.
Another word of advice: Respect
the place. Take care of the environment. Don’t break or pick up things if
prohibited (like flowers, stones, seashells, corals, etc.). Make new friends,
too.
Most of all enjoy the bonding moments with your family and friends. Cherish
and nurture the time spent together!
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