How To Actually Have Fun On Vacation And Return To Work

It appears that most of us go on holiday to escape the stressors of work and return after the conclusion of the trip feeling just as stressed as when we departed for the getaway. Getting adequate relaxation during a vacation is not given as one must take proactive steps to ensure the downtime one has secured is used well. Here are some practical tips to make sure you feel refreshed and relaxed when you next come into work after a memorable vacation.

Image Credit: Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara

1. Do Only What You Wish

We have all experienced at least one holiday when we ended up taking part in activities that were planned by others or our travel partners and were exhausted as a result. When taking a break from work with a short or long getaway, it is important to be deliberate about how one wishes to spend those valuable hours. Don't let obligations, the itineraries thrust upon by others or the needs of your travel companions dictate how you are going to spend your free time. Just because you fly to Paris doesn't mean you have to visit the museum or tour the Catacombs, maybe you would prefer a food tour or a biking tour of the gardens instead? Take a look at the activities on offer and only choose to do things that bring you joy.

2. Pick the Right Kind of Holiday

Holidays come in all shapes and sizes. A beach holiday, a rock climbing adventure, a yoga or spa retreat are three distinctly different experiences. Attending a concert abroad or taking part in a music festival attended by thousands of people may be part of your travel bucket list but certain types of holidays are more conducive to relaxation than others. Make sure the type of destination and the kind of holiday you are signing up for is one that prioritizes rest and rejuvenation because we are just as capable of becoming busy and stressed during a holiday as we are in our daily lives.

3. Throw Away the To-Do List

While having a rough idea of how one will spend one's time is necessary, avoid making travel itineraries that run from dawn till dusk. Wake up each day and decide what kind of activity or lack thereof will make you feel more tranquil or excited. It is perfectly fine to plan a sightseeing tour and then decide against it at the last minute because you simply didn't "feel like it." Throw out the word "should" when it comes to meals, travel plans and other commitments and even social engagements. Listen to your intuition and keep the hours as free or as occupied as your heart desires.

4. Sleep

It is a little known fact that most holidaymakers sleepless on holiday than they do in their daily lives and this is mainly due to the excitement of exploring a new destination, meeting new people and signing up for novel experiences. Make it a point not to set an alarm when on holiday and go to bed early. Take a nap after lunch or after breakfast if you feel your body needs it and don't feel guilty about declining to take part in various excursions and activities to simply lie-in. Avoid using your Smartphone unless it is necessary and watching television for hours on end as it can tire you out even if you find these activities relaxing.

5. Indulge in the Right Things

Vacations are about indulgence but over=indulging in food and drinking will do little to alleviate the stress you have brought from home to your holiday destination. Opt for a spa day at the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara or any other Livingstone hotel, or attend a yoga session in a local studio to capitalize on the amenities available to you.