We all deserve it at least once in our lives: the dream vacation. Everyone's dream vacation is different, and when the right time in your life comes along to make it happen, you want to get it right. Jerry Gonzalez Araujo, a resort owner in Puerto Rico and expert on crafting the ideal vacation experience, offers this advice.
Brainstorm.
What does your dream vacation look like? Are you in a luxurious hotel with your every need being met, or are you roughing it on a beautiful hiking trail? Jerry Gonzalez Araujo is a nature lover, and his dream vacation includes seeing some of the world's most beautiful natural sights. Don't be afraid to dream big in this phase of planning your vacation. You can work on the practical stuff later.
Decide who you want to go with.
For some, the dream vacation is solo. For others, friends and family are what make the vacation a trip to remember. Jerry Gonzalez Araujo is a family man and loves to take his family with him when he goes on trips.
Figure out your budget.
This can be the least fun part of planning your vacation. Planning out your budget saves a lot of hassle later, however. Jerry Gonzalez Araujo likes to plan his vacation budget so that once he is on his vacation, he doesn't have to worry about spending; he just sticks to the budge he's already created. Be sure to include the cost of travel in your budget. Whether you're taking a bus or flying, traveling expenses are a big part of the cost of a vacation. Look for deals with local hotels.
Choose your travel dates.
If budget if a concern, this can be a great area to cut the cost of a dream vacation. Traveling in the off season or buying your travel tickets far in advance can greatly reduce the cost of your trip. Come up with a few different options for your dates of travel. See what dates give you a good price and are at a good time for the activities you want to do while on vacation.
Book your trip.
After you've given it the thought it needs, it's time to commit. Double check that the dates, prices, and activities are all in line for the perfect vacation you desire. After that, it's as simple as clicking a button!
According to Jerry Gonzalez Araujo, that dream vacation is in reach for everyone. Don't settle for a vacation that's second best. By following these tips, you can have the vacation you deserve.