Planning

It's always exciting to plan for the next holiday. No matter how much I travel, there is still a sense of anticipation and excitement, even if the holiday is still a month or so away.

I've decided on the destination. Have got the flight tickets. I've bought my Lonely Planet guidebook which is a must for me. I've sorted out part of the itinerary with a local travel agent at the country I am visiting. All that's left to do is to work with fervour to clear as much work as possible before the trip so that there won't be a pile awaiting my return.

In the meantime, there's also a slight necessity to plot out places to see and things to do for the areas where I'll be on my own. My trip, a combination of independent travel and guided tours, is definitely one to look forward to. It's been awhile since I've travelled solo, but I think some 'me time' will do me much good.

Photo of me shot at The Bale, in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia.

Accommodation

An acquaintance of mine recently remarked how lucky I was to have been able to stay at luxury resorts during my recent holiday. Yes, I am pretty lucky. There are some perks that I enjoy in my line of work. But such opportunities do not always arise every time I travel. In fact, more often than not, I put up in mid-range boutique properties when on holiday. Places that are stylish, small in size, hotels that have character and are relatively affordable. All I really need is a comfortable room with a clean bathroom.

Having said that, there are times when the heavens smile down on me and provide me with a chance to experience the trappings of luxury. I don't take these stays for granted. I am thankful and I make the most out of the experience, one that comes once in a while.

Suffice to say, that for me, it really is the journey that matters, not so much the accommodation. Whether luxury, affordable or inexpensive, the important thing to remember is how lucky one is to be on holiday. That is what counts the most!

Photo shot at The Bale in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia.