Nothing beats the thrill of arriving at the airport, your suitcase at your side, ready to jet off on a trip that’s been months in the planning – except maybe an unknown destination vacation.
Unknown destination vacations are more or less what they sound like. You input your budget, confirm the dates you want to go away, and let your travel agent do the rest. They’ll organise flights, transfers, accommodation and even activities for you to do while you’re away – and you won’t know a thing until you hit the airport.
If you’re a meticulous planner, leaving the legwork up to somebody else might make you nervous. And that’s OK – unknown destination holidays aren’t for everyone. But if you relish the thought of turning up for your trip with nothing but your passport and a prayer, it could just be the inspiration you’ve been waiting for. Here are 5 reasons why you’ll love taking a trip into the unknown.
1. It’s A Rush
No, not your taxi ride to the airport – you’ll probably have to cover at least that part yourself. But if it’s an adrenaline rush you’re after, you can’t go wrong with an unknown destination holiday. Some travel agents suggest you put certain parameters around your trip, so you don’t end up in a Swiss chalet when you’ve been dreaming of the beach. While this is a great option for sun-starved sea-seekers, the fewer conditions you add to your trip, the bigger the buzz when you finally find out where you’re heading.
2. It’s Stress-Free
OK, maybe it’s a little nervy. But when all you have to remember is your passport and your wallet, it does take a lot of the stress out of travel. You won’t need to worry about printing off boarding passes or packing for every eventuality. (In fact, that would be pretty difficult if you have no idea where you’re going). Let the experts do their thing, and relax until you arrive.
3. It’s Customisable
Most unknown destination travel agencies allow you to knock off certain destinations, mainly so you don’t end up revisiting the place you went last year. You can also choose your luxury level (which usually corresponds with your budget). So whether you’re eager to slum it or live the life of luxury for a few days, you’re sure to be satisfied with the trip your agent plans for you. However, it’s important to remember that unknown destination holidays are all about adventure – so try to go with the flow.
4. It’s Thrifty
Depending on the travel agent you choose, unknown destination vacations can allow you to visit beautiful places for a song. Many travel agents book hotels based on cancellations or out-of-season rates, meaning you can stay somewhere incredible for much less than you usually would. The catch? You won’t know until you get there. But that’s all part of the fun – and if you can get a bargain to boot, what’s not to love?
5. It’s A Surprise
Almost everyone likes surprises – so it’s time to embrace the unknown. Whether your getaway is a treat for yourself or for a loved one, there’s nothing that says surprise better than an unknown destination holiday. The beauty of most trips is in the little details you didn’t plan beforehand – tiny bistros overlooking the sea, or making new friends during après ski. So apply this logic to your entire trip, and enjoy every little surprise your unknown destination holiday has to offer.
No matter where you end up, an unknown destination vacation is sure to be one to remember. Don’t forget to pack your camera – you’re going to need it.
