A spontaneous trip

CEBU, Philippines - Okay, a vacation is often better planned well. It’s good to pre-arrange travel and accommodation needs. That means the least likelihood of the trip going wrong.

But without a little bit of spontaneity, things can go too predictable. It can feel like déjà vu, like it’s the same trip over and over again. And so there’s less motivation – you have had it already anyway – you feel like you just know exactly what it’s going to be like.

Predictability is not a bad thing altogether – but it’s not the only thing, either. The usual destinations that are found in travel guidebooks are not the only interesting places there are. And it’s something else to experience the rush of emotions and thoughts when you just decide to go somewhere in a click.

Every once in a while it’s nice to embark on a spontaneous trip. Now, it’s really about taking a break, including a break from the usual stress of pre-arranging the trip. It can be quite exciting not to know what’s in store ahead.

In an article at the website www.citynomads.com, Gary Lim makes it interesting to go on a spontaneous trip. He cites several reasons for going.

A break is good for one’s wellbeing.

The daily grinds can build up and eventually knock one down if there are no breaks scheduled along the way. Life can be stressful, and oftentimes the little concerns of the day are the building blocks of a debilitating burnout. A change of surroundings, a time away from the usual sights and faces can be refreshing.

While a well-organized trip is still good, it’s something else to just snap a finger and go. It’s more exciting. And it can veer one’s mind from the day-to-day concerns, as his attention would be focused on the little discoveries that unfold before him on a spontaneous trip.

It’s good to go on an extra-long weekend due to a series of public holidays. Or maybe there’s still some stowed-away paid leave at the office to use. Or, if not, maybe the boss will agree to a few days of the employee working remotely somewhere; online communication is commonplace nowadays anyway.

It’s a journey of discovery.

A spontaneous trip is an adventure in its own right. One may go somewhere off the beaten path, taste the exotic cuisine of a remote village, or head to some festival faraway. Embracing the lack of a plan and going with the flow is truly exciting, and one should not hesitate talking to strangers on the way. More often than not, the locals have way better recommendations and knowledge of their own area than the guidebooks or tourist maps.

It can be a journey of self-discovery, too. Yes, it can be a bit scary to go on a trip without a detailed plan, especially to somewhere unfamiliar. But it can also allow for one to get out of his comfort zone by pushing him to try something new and exploring the unknown. In the process, he is likely to uncover hidden aspects of himself, especially in terms of how flexible and resourceful he can be.

Hidden treasures may be found.

While the trip is not necessarily a literal treasure hunt, there are always other treasures to find. Walking around a city fixated only on famous landmarks and guidebook recommendations can be limiting. While tourist attractions are nice to see, one may take some time to divert himself from the usual. He may discover hidden finds, such as a small quirky cafe, a thrift store hidden in an alleyway, and pieces of history tucked away in a corner – places that a tour group would never bring tourists to.

One may disconnect from the usual responsibilities.

While out on a trip, it may be a good idea not to check one’s email and text messages, not turn on the TV, and not stick to schedules. Taking a break from the usual difficulties and responsibilities is, after all, the point of the trip.

It can change one’s view of life.

A trip is very often associated with thoughts of – and pre-arrangements at – good hotels, but the spontaneous traveler in an unfamiliar place somewhere may have to contend with modest hostels and guesthouses because these are the only places available. The little inconveniences can also open one up to see life in a different perspective, allowing him to come to appreciate the many ‘blessings’ he has back home or in his life.

The memories are priceless.

The unexpectedness of a spontaneous trip adds an intense beauty to the idea. The lack of preparation makes for a wholly different experience than if one were to plan in advance. It compels him to be creative, shuffle his accommodations and activities around as he may see fit. It can open him up to new places to go and things to do that the locals might recommend.

Out there, the spontaneous traveler may sleep a little longer, forget about the worries of home, or even extend his time in a particular place if he wants to. The spur-of-the-moment holiday can turn up to be an experience to treasure. (FREEMAN)