INSIGHT Magazine March 2014 | Page 8

How to Plan Your Perfect Vacation by Bentley Caldwell V acations are a time to getaway, have some fun, relax and forget the worries of your daily routines for a short time. However, your escape from reality can become a real nightmare if you don’t plan carefully, as many have found out firsthand. While you can’t control a tropical storm, a grounded plane, or a mechanical problem closing your favorite amusement park, there are steps you can take to be more prepared and avoid wasting your time and money. “The more you know, the less time and money you’ll waste,” say many travel experts. There are also a few additional things the experts say you can do to avoid costly mistakes that could turn to dream spring or summer vacation into a disaster. Here you’ll find some of these helpful ideas that can hopefully go a long way in making your coming spring or summer vacation the best one you have ever been on. Happy planning! Do your Due Diligence Once you’ve narrowed down possible destinations, research what the weather is like during your travel dates to make sure you avoid getting stuck in your hotel room during monsoon season or sweating through a heat wave. Don’t forget to check out potential 8 hotels’ amenities and location to make sure there are no surprises at check in. Katy, Texas resident and frequent traveler, Matt May says you should be aware of what your particular resort or hotel does and doesn’t have before booking. “If an indoor pool, or a late night restaurant, or even a Starbuck’s is important to March 2014 INSIGHT