There just isn’t enough time! I’m sure most of us think or say this a lot. But that shouldn’t be an excuse not to do things, after all, life is short. Making the most of time off is important.
There’s few things to consider to ensure you make the most of the time off that you have. All pretty obvious really but sometimes I just need a little reminder…
Plan
I’m a strong believer in planning ahead. Book the time off well in advance and you will be able to work everything else around it. Planning ahead will also ensure you don’t miss anything, as you can plan your visit around the seasons, events and opening times.
Of course, this takes time, but it will be time well spent, saving disappointment later. Making sure you research before you travel is also important. There are many ideas for time off.
National holidays
It’s common to take time off to coincide with national holidays. It means you can take an extended break without using up all your annual leave.
Tagging a few days on to, or either side of Christmas, New Year or Easter holidays, can help extend time off. This will also mean you’re away when many others are too, so you won’t miss much back home.
School term
Between school terms is common for time off, for those with kids. Those without children, might take a different view, or potentially look to take time off during the time when kids are at school. Also worth considering when planning things to do in your home country, when it will be less busy with local visitors.
Experiences
Being a little creative and enjoying searching out street art, like me, isn’t for everyone. However there are many other experiences worth considering.
There are many places you can find details of these, try Airbnb Experiences, With Locals or Funzing if you’re looking for things to do in the UK. There are others, just search for local experiences in the destination of your choice.
Microadventure
Taking a Microadventure doesn’t require any time off, just free time. It’s probably for the more adventurous but everyone should try it, as you really don’t need to plan or prepare much – you just need a bivvy bag and sleeping bag.
Day trip
Plan a day trip where you start early and return late. Transport options allow access to many places fairly easily. Even visiting an overseas destination is possible in 1 day if that’s all the time you have. Check out some of my recommendations for UK days out.
City break
A few days, is of course much better in terms of cost, making the most of the flight and accommodation. There are many obvious choices for a city break but for something a bit different consider:
Tirana – Albania’s capital is quite trendy and it’s reasonably cheap to visit.
Marrakech – Take care in the souks and immerse yourself in local life.
Reykjavich – not as expensive as everyone thinks, but definitely on the higher scale in terms of cost.
Adventures
Those that like to trek, explore nature and perhaps rough it a little will probably already have their next adventure booked in the diary. There’s a fair bit to do in the UK, of a similar nature if you don’t want to head overseas. For example:
Lake District – great for walking/hiking, with easy through to more difficult trails. There’s also quite a bit to experience that is less strenuous.
Farne Island, Puffins – Northumberland has a huge number of things to see and do although it’s more a summertime destination.
Bath – there is so much to do in and around Bath. The city is accessible all year round with many different seasonal experiences on offer.
Switch off
Finally, ‘switching off’ will mean something different for everyone. It’s important to have a proper break and recharge your batteries.
Switch off from work etc. Perhaps even turn off your phone or at least limit your social media use. Going off the grid can be an experience in itself, and one that I try to apply for at least some of my time off.
I can’t wait for the next day I can take off, but in the meantime I’m making the most of the weekends. So check back soon or follow me on Facebook or Twitter for more.
