It’s late December, the day after Christmas. My last post of 2024. Our first significant snowfall occurred this week, which was perfect timing for that picture-perfect holiday. It’s cold, too. It’s not extreme, but enough to be uncomfortable. I’m not a fan of the cold; I prefer a temperature bordering on too hot for many.

As I think about the long, cold weeks ahead, I contemplate the upcoming travel season 2025. Although it was three months ago, Italy is still fresh in my memory, but I can’t wait to be able to get on a plane again, only to arrive in some place warm, new, and exciting. I have a few ideas in what I’m sure will be an ever-evolving document of locations, ideas, costs, areas of interest, times, and more. Some are further than others; one or two could be very expensive, and one in particular requires at least three weeks to enjoy, preferably a month. (that’s one of the expensive ones) I’ll keep this document as tidy as possible. Still, I won’t be surprised if it eventually takes me a moment to realize what I had meant from one specific note or why a particular idea was even contemplated. But I’ve taken these steps toward what hopefully will be an enjoyable year of travel. It’s the beginning of what’s to come, and I’m already eager and excited.

It’s more than the travel that matters; everything builds toward the moment you first step foot on the airplane. It’s the ideas that come early, and the thoughts jotted down. It’s not only the ones that materialize; it’s the abandoned ones, too. They may be abandoned for good or moved to another time for a future adventure. No flights are booked, and no accommodations are secured. There isn’t anything definitive to grab ahold of right now. I haven’t spent a dime. So what makes this an exciting part of travel?

Mentally Escaping

Anticipating an upcoming event prolongs the enjoyment of the entire process. Not only are we imagining what is to come, but we can do so for much longer. The duration of a trip, for the most part, is relatively short compared to the length of time you have planning for that trip. Visualizing the journey increases your interest and allows you to be more invested. When you decide on travel, whether booking a flight, hotel, or Airbnb, for example, especially if it’s non-refundable, it gives you a firm commitment. Mentally, the trip has begun.

The trip may not be for months, but that doesn’t mean we can’t retreat occasionally. This is especially important when the stress of everyday creeps up. Life is full of challenges that sometimes seem to compound. It’s mentally taxing. Take the time to update your travel to-do list and check off that next thing, which is another step towards the eventual trip and a part of the process. Thinking about the journey as it gets closer can be a form of escapism from life’s everyday stresses.

Personal Achievement

Travelling is expensive and becomes increasingly so each year. Flights, accommodations, food, fuel, and car rentals are expensive. As everything continues to increase in cost, the achievement of a vacation can create a sense of accomplishment; so many have had to deny travel as there are increasingly more important aspects of life that demand attention and money. When you finally commit to travel, it can be very satisfying that what you have been dreaming of and building towards is finally becoming a reality. You’re rewarding yourself for your hard work and commitment.

Furthermore, achieving something you have worked hard for can foster a sense of gratefulness. Many people travel and travel often, but most do not; they either don’t see the need or desire or do not have the means or opportunity to do so. Travel is a privilege, and your commitment can help you realize the good in your life.

Conclusion

As winter sets in and the cold months loom, the anticipation of future travel becomes a source of excitement and motivation. Even without the flights or accommodations being booked, planning and visualizing future trips can be very rewarding. Mentally escaping to warmer, more vibrant destinations provides a welcome respite from daily stresses, while planning fosters a sense of personal achievement. Travel may be expensive, but it represents a well-earned reward, a privilege many cannot experience. As we dream and plan, the sense of accomplishment grows, making each step toward that adventure a celebration of hard work and commitment.