How to Make Your Holidays Feel Endlessly Long

Have you ever returned from a holiday, only to feel like it flashed by in an instant? If you’re like me, you’ve likely experienced the jarring sensation of waking up at the airport for your return journey, bewildered and thinking, “That’s it?!” Whether it’s a brief weekend getaway or a lavish two-week holiday, we all crave that stretched-out vacation feeling. Luckily, I’ve mastered a few tricks that make a 5, 7 or 10-day holiday feel like an entire month of adventure.

The Magic of a Masterful Schedule

Imagine planning a trip to Thailand. You land in Phuket, drive to your hotel, and spend your days lounging on the beach, visiting temples, and dining at local eateries. Suddenly, your 7 days evaporate, and you’re airport-bound again. But what if you tweaked your schedule?

Step-by-Step to a Longer Holiday Experience

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok
You touch down in Bangkok, pick up your rental car, and dive straight into the heart of this vibrant city. Forget a quiet night in; let a local motorbike taxi whisk you away to bustling markets where you can savor authentic street food under the neon lights. Pop into a few souvenir shops – it’s always fun to get that out of the way with a bit of humor! Cap off the evening with a refreshing drink at a rooftop bar, taking in the panoramic views of Bangkok’s lively nighttime skyline.

Day 2: Exploring the City
Spend your next day in the city visiting its iconic temples and vibrant local markets. Dive into the rich history and culture of Bangkok. You might also want to catch a traditional Thai performance, or perhaps join a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Thai dishes. These immersive activities not only enrich your travel experience but also help slow down time.

Day 3: Road Trip South
Early next morning, it’s time to hit the road. Drive towards the south, aiming for a smaller town like Chonburi or Rayong. This journey, ranging from 2-4 hours, will transport you to a setting that contrasts sharply with Bangkok’s frenzy. Once there, wander through local bars and markets. Smaller towns offer limited attractions, perfect for a full but relaxing day.

Day 4: Island Hopping Begins
Pack up and head to the pier the next day. Choose from islands like Koh Samet, Koh Chang, or Koh Kood. After a short boat ride, you’ll find yourself in a totally new paradise. Spend your next 2-4 days indulging in beach activities, exploring temples, trying water sports, or enjoying the island nightlife.

Continuing the Adventure

By now, you should have a feel for what type of setting you enjoy the most—be it the bustling city life, the quaint charm of small towns, or the serene bliss of island life. Let your preferences guide your next destination, whether it’s another island, a new town, or a return to Bangkok’s dynamic atmosphere.

Why This Works

The real secret lies in variety. Spending multiple days in the same location, especially places as relaxing as beaches, tends to blend together in memory. By changing your surroundings frequently and experiencing different hotels and locations, you effectively ‘trick’ your brain into feeling like each day is a unique adventure, making your holiday feel much longer.

Embrace the Adventure

At the end of your holiday, not only will you have explored diverse facets of Thailand, but you’ll also feel like your time away was far more expansive than the calendar suggests. It’s all about packing your holiday with diverse experiences and enjoying the ride—literally and figuratively. You won’t regret it!

This strategy works wonders for every type of vacation, ensuring that your days off transform into a seemingly endless escape. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider this approach. It might just make your next holiday feel like the longest, most fulfilling getaway you’ve ever had.