Alright fellow travelers this week we’re diving into the R of our FREER travel framework. And R? Well, it stands for Research, which is like the secret sauce to cooking up an epic travel adventure.

I mean, think about it. You’ve got a clear vision of how you want to feel during your trip, thanks to our Focus session. Awesome job, by the way! (If you missed that newsletter you can grab the issue ​right here.) Now, it’s time to put that vision into action, and that starts with solid research.

“But how the heck do I dive into the sea of information without getting overwhelmed?” you ask.

Fear not! I’ve got your back.

1. Activities & Experiences: Begin by identifying the activities and experiences that align with your chosen feeling. Wanna feel adventurous? Maybe it’s zip-lining or a jungle trek. Looking for relaxation? Picture yourself on a sandy beach or at a spa in the hills. Use platforms like the TripAdvisor travel forum or local blogs to help guide your search.
2. Time it Right: It’s essential to know the best time to visit your chosen destination. What’s the weather like? When are the local festivals or events? Timing can hugely impact your experience. After all, you don’t want to be surprised if you travel in February and the activity you want to tackle is closed for the winter.
3. Open vs. Closed: If you’re aiming for an off-peak trip, you could snag some sweet deals. But also, some attractions might be closed. Double-check this to avoid any “Oops, didn’t see that coming” moments.
4. Go Local: There are many locally sponsored groups or organizations that cater to specific activities. Fancy a bike tour in Amsterdam or a cooking class in Bangkok? We have had the best experience with WithLocals.com for these types of experiences. Whether it was our cooking class in ​Rome​ or our walking tour of ​Barcelona​ or ​Lisbon​ these local guides and hosts have always created amazing memories for us.
5. Discount City Passes: I mean, who doesn’t love a bargain? Many cities offer passes that can save you a ton on attractions. Research these in advance, and you might end up seeing more for less! GoCity Cards can help you grab great deals on attractions (you can check out my analysis of the offers for a family friend trip to ​San Diego​).
6. Transport Smart: Use platforms like ​Going​ for flights that won’t empty your bank account, Discover Cars for car rentals that won’t have you selling an organ, (you can see how we used Discover Cars in ​Oaxaca​), and instead feeling like a savvy travel genius.

Alright, here’s a little challenge for you: Dive into your research this week. Use that feeling from last week as your compass. Then, start piecing together the parts of your trip that resonate with you.

And remember, while Google is your friend, so is the old-fashioned way of doing things. Talk to people. Share stories. Because the best recommendations often come from a place of passion and personal experience.

You Asked For It!

Speaking of research!! I’m interviewing a series of travel queens and kings over the next two months in order to prepare for the TWI Travel Planning Virtual Summit. And these travel experts would love to answer questions from you! Send me your questions and I’ll have a different travel expert answer them each week.

Upcoming topic: sustainable travel

What is a question you have about sustainable travel? Just hit reply and send in your questions and I’ll be sure to share them with my next guest and you’ll get your questions answered at the summit!

I’ll give you a new travel planning topic in each week’s newsletter just keep those questions coming!

So, stay curious, ask questions, and dive deep into your research. Get ready to create a trip that’s as fabulous and unique as you are.

Till then, keep your research game strong!