You Can Quote Me

I searched through my collection of favorite travel quotations looking for just the right thing to set the tone for this week’s She’s Good to Go column. Not finding exactly what I wanted, I decided, “Heck, I could pen my own quotes, I’m a professional traveler!” And so I will.

“There are a lot of places that are good places to go, but anyplace can be great if you and the company you travel with are good to go.” Patti Beth Anderson

Read that again, because it’s true. We’ve all set out to see or experience something that someone recommended or that a colorful brochure promoted. Hopefully we weren’t disappointed, but that does put all the responsibility of hitting the mark on the destination. When you set off to see something with fun people who want to make every moment interesting, that becomes part of the memory. Get some emotions involved-hear some personal stories, laugh and cry, be silly, do things out of character, that makes memories. Sharing experiences with others that can be relived and revived when you spend time with them in the future makes those memories last longer. Yes, this is all about memories. That’s what a great trip is, one that will give you a future of memories because the whole experience was great.

“I would rather travel with amazing traveling companions to a marginal destination than go to someplace amazing with marginal traveling companions.” Patti Beth Anderson

People are better travelers in groups. Couples are nicer to each other. Not too many people like to travel all alone. You can be a single traveler, but when mixed with a group, there isn’t the feeling of being alone or the fifth wheel. Even control freaks can enjoy the trip with a group. Take the responsibility of navigation and planning off and it’s easier to relax and enjoy the travel! There are more opportunities to slow down and really understand what you are seeing. There are chances to eat, drink, and socialize with others so conversations can be fun and part of the entertainment. I have a rule on my trips. No Crankpots. I just have to get home with the same number of people, not necessarily the same people. Luckily I haven’t had to kick anyone off the bus (yet). A crankpot can ruin everyone’s vacation, so that’s my rule. But a person that likes to laugh and knows how to make the best of every situation can make a trip. Even if it’s not a five-star destination.

“If you think you will be healthier, wealthier, and more able to travel next year, then definitely wait to travel. If you can’t guarantee yourself that, go while you can. You are the youngest that you will ever be right now.” Patti Beth Anderson

Sobering, huh? I remember my mom talking about how the older she got the faster time went by. Now here I am sounding just like my mom. I’m a strong believer in “sooner rather than later”, that tomorrow is just too unpredictable. If you have the health to go and see and hear and enjoy, go now. There are lots of friends who wish they had.

Well, there is my humble opinion. And you can quote me.