coleman.taylor•2mo agoProlific Poster

My sister called my 'perfect' travel plan a scam and she was right

I was bragging about my 10 day Italy trip for $800, flights and hostels included. My sister, who works in tourism, just stared and said, 'You're not traveling, you're just checking boxes. You spent more time on buses than in Rome.' That hit hard because it's true. I raced from the Colosseum to a cheap lunch spot 30 minutes away, then back across town for a free walking tour. I saw a lot, but felt nothing. I was so focused on beating the system I forgot to actually be there. Now I think the real hack is staying in one city longer, even if it costs a bit more for the room. Has anyone else cut their list of sights in half and had a better trip?

3 comments

3 Comments

nancy_davis752mo ago

Sounds like you learned the expensive way.

roberts.claire2mo ago

I get calling it the expensive way, but that $800 trip is still a win. For some people, just getting to see those boxes in person is the whole point. My first trip to Europe was a blur like that, and I don't regret a second. It taught me what I actually want to see next time.

alicelopez1mo ago

My first trip to Vegas I blew my budget on a buffet and a magic show. Totally get what @roberts.claire means though, you gotta start somewhere to figure it out.