Music - before going somewhere new, I like to listen to music from that area. This especially applies to Hawaii. I get excited about the trip, learn about new bands and new types of music... and then it even acts as a souvenir when I get home. My husband and I still put on our old Hawaii playlists on the weekends... it takes us right back there!
People - it is also so important for me to meet and talk with people when I am in new places. This is funny for me because I don't particularly like talking to strangers... but that's different when I'm traveling. I like to talk to other travelers, I like to talk to locals... some amazing friendships have been formed with people I have met while traveling. My parents actually met one couple on an airplane when they started their trip - and ended up hanging out with them and sharing several meals together during the trip! And - they're still friends to this day!
Do Something Crazy - step out of your comfort zone! One of my favorite memories from my honeymoon: my new husband and I were spending the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. We had the opportunity to sit down and play this old Polynesian stick game. I thought to myself there was no way he was going to do it... and he sat down and was the most enthusiastic stick-game-player in the bunch!! He was able to completely let loose - he wasn't going to see any of those people again - so he had no problem acting like a total kid!! (I hope this is the same story when we take Salsa Lessons on our upcoming cruise this April!!)
Eat - well, we know you have to eat. But you know what I mean. Eat something local, try new things... I ate a green tree aunt in Australia once. And alligator. I ate oysters in New Orleans. I about died and went to heaven the first time I had Mole in Mexico. I blindly tried whatever they put in front of me in China. (I may draw the line if I am ever able to try Haggus though...) You aren't going to get the chance to eat the way you can eat while you travel. Don't miss out on that opportunity!
Remember to Find YOUR Joy - if this list that I wrote out sounds dumb and awful - don't do any of them. Everyone is so different, things that are important and wonderful to me may mean nothing to you... and the same the other way! You know yourself better than anyone. Know what brings you joy - and find it when you travel.
For me, joy isn't something that happens... it's something I work for. I need to make the conscious effort on almost a daily basis to bring it into my life... and I hope you do the same!
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