When planning a holiday, most of us instinctively focus on the basics: Where do I want to go? or What do I want to do? These are perfectly valid starting points, but they miss something crucial. The more I’ve traveled—and now, as a travel consultant—the clearer it’s become that there’s a deeper, more transformative question to consider:
What do I need from this holiday?
Why Asking “What Do I Need?” Changes Everything
Holidays aren’t just about traveling from one place to another. They’re about fulfilling a need— a chance to step away from daily life and restore something missing. We all have moments during a busy day when we close our eyes and imagine a place where we feel at peace. That image holds the answer to what your body and mind are craving.
For some, it’s an escape to nature, where silence and simplicity replace the constant hum of notifications. For others, it’s the opportunity to immerse in a different culture, actively exploring and connecting with new people. Some may need nothing more than time to relax with a good book, the sound of waves, and the space to breathe deeply.
Travel is deeply personal, and understanding what you need from your trip helps ensure it’s not just a holiday—it’s an experience that restores balance.
“Holidays aren’t about traveling from one place to another; they’re about fulfilling a need—stepping away from daily life and restoring balance.”
What We’re Often Doing Wrong
Too often, we start with the logistics: the destination, the budget, the length of time. These are important, but they shouldn’t come first. Instead, your need should drive every other decision.
For example, if your goal is to disconnect, why plan a trip packed with activities and sightseeing? Or, if you’re craving meaningful time with family, why book a resort where everyone ends up doing their own thing?
This approach isn’t about what’s trendy or where everyone else is going—it’s about tailoring the experience to you.
“Tailor the experience to you, not to trends.”
A Changing Industry
Interestingly, the travel industry is evolving to align with this mindset. I recently came across a really interesting article (Travel Trends for 2025: 10 Underlying Clues for Marketers) discussing 2025 travel trends by the talented Lindsey Walter , which highlighted that personalisation is shaping the future of travel. Increasingly, it’s not about the destination itself but about meeting the unique needs of the traveler.
Destinations are becoming the means to an end rather than the end itself. Once you identify what you need—peace, excitement, connection, adventure—you can then choose the location, itinerary, and experience that will best fulfil that need.
Real-Life Examples
For a parent, this might mean finding a family-friendly resort that gives kids an unforgettable experience while also offering the parent much-needed downtime. For someone constantly tied to their phone, it could mean choosing a digital detox retreat. And for a couple, it might mean a mix of shared adventures and quiet, romantic moments to reconnect.
The beauty of today’s travel options is that there’s something for everyone. You just need to ask the right questions.
Why January Is the Time to Reflect
The end of the year is always a whirlwind—festivities, family obligations, work deadlines. Even with time off, many of us fail to truly switch off. That’s why January is such a pivotal time for holiday planning. It’s not just about snagging a great deal; it’s about thinking ahead to what you need most in the year to come.
After a busy holiday season, people naturally crave something to look forward to. Whether it’s a beach getaway, a wellness retreat, or an adventure across the globe, the first step is identifying what your holiday should give you.
Final Thoughts
So, as you think about your next holiday, I encourage you to pause and ask yourself:
What do I truly need from this trip?
The answer to that question will shape everything else—where you go, how you spend your time, and how much value you place on the experience. And if you’re unsure where to start, this is where a knowledgable professional travel consultant comes in. We don’t just book holidays; we listen, guide, and help you create something that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
“Holidays aren’t just escapes—they’re opportunities to reconnect with yourself and what truly matters.”
Take a moment to reflect. What is your body and mind asking for? If you’re ready to take the first step, let’s talk.
“Travel is personal—it’s the bridge between where you are and where you need to be.”
Referenced article:
Travel Trends for 2025: 10 Underlying Clues for Marketers: https://travelmarketingforum.wordpress.com/2024/12/11/travel-trends-for-2025-10-hidden-clues-for-marketers/
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