In my years of traveling, both for work and pleasure, I’ve learned a valuable lesson I wish I’d grasped earlier: the importance of rest in travel. It’s a simple concept, yet one that’s often overlooked in our eagerness to make the most of every moment away from home.

Early in my travels, I was guilty of pushing myself to the limit. I’d venture on month-long journeys and then rush back to work on Monday morning, barely giving myself time to breathe. Looking back, I realize how these habits set me up for burnout and exhaustion. As we age, our bodies become less forgiving of such relentless schedules, making it even more crucial to prioritize rest.

The epiphany came when I found myself needing a vacation from my vacation. You know that feeling – returning home more tired than when you left, longing for just one more day to recuperate. That’s when I decided to change my approach to travel.

Now, I make it a point to incorporate rest days into my itinerary, even during shorter trips. These aren’t just days of doing nothing (unless that’s what I need), but rather days of a slower pace, maybe exploring a local café, reading a book in a park, or doing some writing in a local and or historic library.

Moreover, I’ve learned the value of buffer days – taking at least one day of rest after returning home before diving back into work or other responsibilities. This transition day allows me to unpack, both literally and figuratively, reflecting on my experiences and gently easing back into my routine.

This approach to travel has transformed my experiences. I return home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, my mind clear and ready to take on whatever comes next. It’s a simple change, but one that has made a world of difference in how I perceive and enjoy travel.

So, my advice to fellow travelers, whether you’re gallivanting across the globe or just taking a quick weekend getaway: build in those rest days. Your future self will thank you for the moments of pause amidst the excitement of exploration. Remember, the art of travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about returning home with exuberance and fond memories, not just fatigue and a need for another escape.