In my youth Cunard suggested that "getting
there is half the fun." Many travelers not only
enjoy the trip itself but also the planning prior.
Carefully considering all options before they
decide where to go and when. However I find
that part of the journey tedious. Do-it-yourself
is not my idea of a vacation. Years ago we all
used travel agents. Experts who knew both
how to navigate the planning process along
with the trip itself. Today most of us hit the
internet to cobble together a trip. Developing
an itinerary that hopefully gets us where we
want to go. Or... NOT.
It seems so easy. Yet navigating the variety of
search engines offering travel aid isn't as easy
as one might expect. The choices are endless.
Hence defining one's mode of transport takes
time, patience, along with a bit of gambler's
luck. Thus one must do their homework. Yet
choosing a hotel located somewhere you've
yet to see can be a risky proposition. And so
one reads review upon review in a feeble
attempt to make the right decision. Then there
is the question as to what carrier to fly with?
What car service to book? And which table to
reserve? It's crazy! And can be all consuming.
All of which is reason enough to stay at home.
While exploring the world is one of my favorite
activities, I question if it's worth all of said prep.
Let alone what happens once you hit the road.
In my youth travel was luxurious. Whether via
rail, air, or sea. Whoever carried you between
here and there tried to make the trip pleasurable.
Today like gerbils on a treadmill we park in
Siberia - wait in line - risk being subjected to
a strip search - eat awful food - sit in seats more
suitable for midgets - drag heavy luggage - ride
with strangers - only to stay in a strange place.
And then repeat the process on your return.
No wonder most of us are exhausted by the time
we reach our final destination. Causing many to
question if it was worth the time and effort. Or
at least ponder as to why there isn't a better way
to get out of town. While freedom of choice is
a precious right, limiting one's options may be
more convenient. And hopefully aid in avoiding
a disastrous repeat visit. Ultimately we must
decide where, when, and how we get to a better
place. Like the next election. History proves
that one error in judgement can send us places
we should not go. We've been there... done that.
Isn't it time to set our course for a better place?