Written by: Dr. Saleh Al-Makhdoum

Sometimes we return from traveling with full bags and many photos, but with exhausted bodies, so we say: “We need a vacation from vacation.” How did the days we wait for rest and a change of atmosphere turn into a busy schedule from which we return wishing for an extra day to sleep?

The story begins with planning, when we try to visit all the landmarks, try the most famous restaurants, go shopping, and move between more than one city within limited days, and we forget that time at airports and roads and arranging bags are also part of the trip.

Upon arrival, the race begins with the clock:
Early wake up, quick breakfast, long walks, waiting, then moving to another place. Even sitting in a nice café turns into a short break before the next stop; We take the photo and leave before enjoying the place.

Social media also contributes to the crowding of our programs, as every restaurant “doesn’t circumambulate you.”
Every site is “necessary,” so we try to implement everyone’s suggestions, and we feel negligent if a quiet day passes without activity or new pictures.
But what is the problem with waking up without an alarm clock, and eating our breakfast quietly, or walking in a nearby neighborhood and sitting in a beautiful place without prior arrangement? The joy of traveling is not measured by the number of places we visited, but rather by the comfort and memories the trip gives.

This becomes even more important on family trips, due to differences in ages, interests, and ability to move. Therefore, the program must be flexible, and abstaining from an activity or staying at the hotel should be a natural option.

Conclusion: Choose one or two destinations, identify one main activity per day, and leave time for rest and spontaneous discovery, with a quiet day after your return. Then you will return lighter and calmer, and you will not need time off from vacation.