For many working folks, the ratio of vacation days to non-vacation days is approximately 1:33. When one considers that only some those precious days may be spent on a trip away from home, it's a good idea to make the most of them. This article will address the best ways to plan a vacation itinerary. To plan the best itinerary, travelers should write down two wish lists of vacation activities. Those that can be done at any time should be on one "variable" list, and those specific to a day or time on a "definite" list. (Some research is required to determine the times that certain venues are open, being performed, or available to the public.)
Looking at a map, determine what other activities or sites on the variable list are near the "definites". Pencil those in either before or after, to save commuting time, energy and cost, especially in large cities with an abundance of choices. After preparing this tentative schedule, it's time to get down to logistics: how to get from here to there? If using a car, the concerns are obviously directions, road conditions, and parking. However, commuting in a large city is different. If subways are an option, they are an excellent way to get around quickly and easily. Inexpensive passes are usually available that can also be used with local bus service. Go online for subway/bus maps to find the most convenient routes, and check schedules as well. It's good to know of limitations ahead of time, as they could change the itinerary. For example, on a weekend, two points may be connected by only a local bus, or require a subway transfer, both of which may take too much time.
This exercise will make it clear to the family when cabs will be more direct or cost effective. Next, consider whether the schedule has flexibility and relaxation. No one will enjoy their vacation if feeling tired or rushed. Some time needs to be built around every activity for browsing, snacking, or refreshing. (Perhaps a sightseeing boat excursion would be better after a day of walking, instead of first thing in the morning.) When estimating commuting or activity duration, error on the side of generosity; there will always be ways to spend an extra hour. If the family puts a high priority on eating at famed restaurants, make reservations before leaving home and put onto the itinerary as "definite".
A long, hungry wait after an equally long day is not pleasant for anyone. Entertainment reservations should be considered "definite" and made in advance as well; spending time traveling to a theater to find that a show is sold out, or that only poor seats are available, is a huge disappointment and waste of valuable time.Lastly, don't worry about adhering to the itinerary exactly. Doing so would remove a lot of the fun associated with the spontaneity and freedom of being on vacation. A schedule merely keeps travelers from over scheduling or forgetting, both of which prevents people from doing what they consider important. A flexible itinerary fits wish list requirements into a logical plan, so time and energy are spent on having fun (instead of commuting or waiting) while on that dream vacation planned through your preparations.