 Marjorie McMillian at Come On Get Well Sometimes, you need more than a vacation. You need an escape from chaotic schedules, micromanaging bosses, and never-ending chores—a place where you can turn off the constant mental to-do list and focus on you for a while. You need a self-care getaway. Wellness vacations are growing in popularity as people are more stressed out and stretched thin than ever. However, what, exactly, is a self-care vacation, and how can you plan one? Allen Batista Travel offers everything you need to know to start planning your own. Why Take a Self-Care Getaway? A self-care trip isn’t just another excuse for a vacation—not that you need an excuse anyway! Planning a trip around self-care is an intentional approach to travel that puts your personal wellness over bucket lists. It’s not about having the most fun, but rather, returning to your daily life as refreshed and rejuvenated as possible. Five Steps to Planning a Self-Care Vacation 1. Decide What Self-Care Means to You To some people, self-care is a week in an all-inclusive resort without a worry in the world. For others, it’s a quiet weekend in the woods hiking, climbing and camping. Rather than book the vacation you think you should take, think about what will rejuvenate you most. Do you want to relax and reflect? Do you want to engage in an old passion or learn something new? The possibilities are endless. 2. Consider a Retreat If you’re the type of person that gets stressed out by travel itineraries, Chopra suggests considering a retreat rather than a DIY getaway. Whether you book a yoga retreat, a stay at a spa hotel, or a cabin in the backcountry, having activities and meals pre-planned for you lets you forget about logistics and focus on you. 3. Prepare for a Digital Detox Nothing will ruin a self-care vacation faster than a call from your boss in the middle of a meditation retreat. Red Online says to give yourself your full attention and unplug while traveling. Leave your laptop at home, keep your cell phone charged but on silent, and disconnect from Wi-Fi so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. If you feel the urge to share travel photos, try writing letters and postcards to loved ones back home instead. While a complete unplugging may be impossible given your circumstances, mindfulness about cell phone use can still be beneficial. 4. Don’t Overspend It’s tempting to throw caution to the wind in the name of self-care, but overspending on a self-care getaway could leave you with serious guilt. Rather than risk a bad vacation hangover, stick to getaways that are comfortably within your budget. That doesn’t have to mean missing out; domestic or abroad, there are tons of affordable wellness destinations. 5. Outsource Preparations Most of us will plan out our trips down to the letter if we can, regardless of whether it’s a short weekend getaway or the trip of a lifetime. But what if, for once, you let someone else take care of the planning? Sure, you can supply the timeline, budget, and requirements, but a pro who is adept at planning out an itinerary, lodgings, dining tips and even transportation can help you make the most of your time off. You also don’t have to go through a pricey travel agency to do this. Look for a travel specialist who understands exactly what you’re looking for in a vacation, and let them take care of the details so that all you have to do is pack. What If a Getaway Isn’t Enough? When you’re struggling with depression and anxiety and feel like you’re in a mental situation you can’t fix, it’s wise to work with a professional counselor. This is as easy as reviewing your insurance coverage to find an in-network provider, then booking an appointment. If your schedule is too strained for an in-office session, virtual therapy is a perfectly viable second choice that's more manageable for busy lives. Find a reliable platform that offers online therapy and takes your insurance or at least offers reasonable rates, then select a therapist who fits your specific needs. You can even book a same-day appointment you can attend at home with your computer or smartphone. After you start to establish a plan to manage your concerns with your therapist, they’re likely to say that a self-care getaway is a perfect opportunity to get your mental health back on track. Having fun isn’t the only reason to book a getaway. When the stresses of life are getting to you, take time out to reconnect with yourself. By making time and space to put your mental health first, you can return to daily life with new energy and a fresh perspective. Contact Allen Batista Travel to book self-care vacation
0 Comments
 By Marley Merrihew at Allen Batista Travel, Inc. Perhaps best known for the Taj Mahal, India, home to the second largest population in the world with just under 1.4 billion inhabitants, has a lot to offer, from its sunny beaches to its historical landmarks – and now may be the best time to go. Covid-19 Guidelines India is currently classified as a Level 1 country by the CDC, meaning that there are low levels of the Covid-19 virus. Additionally, as of June 12, 2022, the United States has rescinded their requirement for air passengers traveling from a foreign country to the U.S. to show a negative Covid-19 test or documentation of recovery from Covid-19 before they board their flight, according to the CDC. Fun Facts About India India is one of the most diverse countries in the world, geographically and culturally. To the north lie the Himalayas which starkly contrast the deserts found in the north-west, or even the sunny beaches on the west coast. The country has also seen many migrations from different regions around the world, giving rise to its ethnically diverse population. (Source: Culture Trip) First time visitors to India should be aware of these helpful tips.
India’s Gifts To the World India is the birthplace for yoga and chai tea. So, while you’re visiting India, try a cup of real Masala chai and dive into the roots of the traditional yoga practices. Masala chai, or mixed-spice tea in Hindi, is what we know in the U.S. as chai tea, which in Hindi actually translates to ‘tea tea.’ According to Sukhi’s, it’s said to have been created for use in Ayurveda, a traditional medical practice where herbs and spices are used for healing. Chai tea has gone quite mainstream in the U.S., popping up on the menus for major beverage chains around the country. The yoga we know is different, as well – it’s actually only a small part of a larger system of values and disciplines. The physical yoga we typically practice in the U.S., known as asana, is just one branch of eight in the system of Ashtanga Yoga in India, according to Google Arts & Culture. Yoga movements have been made so popular as well that these moves are integrated into dance movements and stretches used by athletes to increase their flexibility and to warm up before their workouts. Golden Triangle Sightseeing Tour If you’re a first-time traveler to India, Allen Batista Travel has a 10 days and nine nights travel package for you to the Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur – three must-see destinations filled with fun and historic things to do on vacation. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City because of its varying shades of the color, has been painted pink to welcome Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, in 1876, according to CNN. The city also boasts the Amber (pronounced Amer) Palace. The Palace, made of red sandstone and marble, is a great example of Rajput architecture with some Mughal influence. Next stop in the Golden Triangle: Delhi. Standing at more than 70 meters tall (around 230 feet) and located in New Delhi, Qutub Minar is India’s tallest minaret and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not quite as tall but still a dizzying 42 meters high (around 138 feet), the India Gate in New Delhi is a memorial arch built to honor the more than 90,000 soldiers that died in WWI. Seeing the gate lit up at night is one of the top free things to do in India, according to Planetware. Finally, Agra, home to the famous Taj Mahal, completes the Golden Triangle of India. The Taj Mahal is a must-see tribute by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, to house her tomb. According to Housing.com, Shah Jahan is believed to have spent around 42 million rupees, which would be equivalent to around Rs 70 billion or USD 1 billion today – that’s a monument built for love! Stressed about planning? Don’t be, Allen Batista Travel has got you covered! With their Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur travel package, you’ll get nine nights accommodations in five-star hotels, a bilingual guide in English and Hindi, nine breakfasts daily, nine lunches, and nine dinners, internal flights from Udaipur to Delhi, and entrance fees to all attractions included. With activities such as camel rides in Pushkar, boat rides in Udaipur, and seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise, this trip is bound to be the time of your life. Book now and discover the Golden Triangle as a first time traveler. About Allen Batista Travel, Inc. Allen Batista Travel Inc. offers extraordinary sightseeing tours where travelers can fully immerse themselves into the local culture, as well as showcase the breathtaking sightseeing adventures in different countries. Allen Batista Travel also provides savvy travelers with airfare, hotels, cruises, car rentals, and vacation packages.  Guest Post: Lindsay Denton We've all witnessed (at least once) that "umbrella" tour guide saying, "Follow me, on your right..." and it's true, as an innocent bystander, you're probably bound to feel a bit giggly or unamused. It can look a bit dull, too premeditated, a pastime reserved for "older folks." And it's solid speculation. It's very 20th century; it's got that "analog era" feel woven right through it. If you have never participated in such an activity, there's reasonable room for benevolent prejudice. But what if we're wrong? Living in a fast-paced world, younger generations (millennials and onward) fear ADHD setting in, lengthy monologues, and feeling overwhelmed with too much information. Well, let's prove them wrong. Love for knowledge and history knows no age. We've prepared eight astonishing benefits of going on a walking tour. Please put on your comfortable shoes and follow my umbrella, everyone. Or we can do it via Zoom; you choose. Time-Saver Say you're visiting NYC, and you only have a couple of days. Manhattan alone is 2.3 miles wide and 13.4 miles long. Where do you start? What is worth visiting? How do you compress its rich history in such a short time and actually make it stick? Exactly. You're there to maximize your experience, not tiptoe through one of the most important landmarks in the U.S. Exploring Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown alone would take a couple of weeks of your time if you're to wander around without a helpful guiding hand. Famous mafia locations first-hand? Yes, please. Your Boots Were Made for Walkin' From car rentals and electric scooters to bicycles and metro cards, a transportation buffet is available to all tourists 24/7. But, how convenient is it, really? Traffic jams, parking, bike locks, and crowded subways. Sounds appealing? Walking tours will get you literally anywhere without parkouring your way around the city. With your feet actually touching the ground, you're experiencing the sight in a moment; you're present, and your senses are wide awake. Most importantly - you become an integral part of the city. Beat that, wheels. Local Insight Every traveling soul needs a local guide. Find one, or embrace the unexpected; that's the storyline. Your walking tour guide will hand-pick solely high-quality sights, and they will work hard to impress you. Your guide will unravel the city's mysteries and rarely known facts from must-sees to some of the most peculiar museums and art exhibitions (the anti-tourist brochure kind). And it doesn't stop there. While you're enjoying the goosebumps hour during the Philadelphia ghost tour, you can ask for some under-the-table info about the best low key restaurants and shops - and who would know better than your trusted local? Zero Work Sounds good, right? You're on vacation; working meticulously on your itinerary is draining and time-consuming. You're there to relax, enjoy and learn something new (and fun). The only thing you need to worry about is charging your phone that morning and having a pair of well-rested legs at your disposal. Your walking tour guide is there to take care of everything else. And we mean everything. If you've always wanted to see the Times Square and Broadway Theater, but you're not that keen on walking, Midtown virtual tours are always available. A walking tour with your feet up? Yes. Sign me up. Walking Tours Are Very Green What are the benefits of going on a walking tour? It's 100 percent green. Crystal green. Emerald green. You name the shade. We've all become exceptionally conscious regarding our environment and the planet's breakneck warming alarm. Unlike other forms of transportation, our bodies are as eco-friendly as it gets - and that's precisely why walking tours are experiencing a big comeback. Walking is pollutant- and emission-free; there isn't a better way to express your activist alter-ego while visiting a foreign country or state. By walking, you're showing tremendous respect for the ground you tread on. And, just how amazing is that? Mingle Hour You're right; we're living in a digital era. Mingling sounds very analog. One more reason to try it. It's an incredibly bonding experience, especially for those traveling solo. Meeting people with wildly different backgrounds and experiencing a sense of belonging sparks new friendships (and love at first sight). And who knows, halfway through your Manhattan hidden gems tour, you might realize - this is the place for me. And trust us, your gut instinct isn't wrong - once you settle down after moving into your new home, there are many places to check out. And we mean - numberless. It keeps you fit It's hard to resist local delicacies when you're on vacation - exotic drinks, new snacks, pastry wonders, a bit of this, a bit of that - and we end up going a size up by day 7. Not with walking tours, friends. Walking burns calories (one-hour walk burns up to 360 calories). By the time you finish your Lower East Side tour with your guide, there will be plenty of room for Katz's goodies; take our word for it. Not only are you being kind to the city's environment, but to your body's health, as well. Walking releases endorphins and waves a bad mood bon voyage. Safe - Everything As much as we dislike the phrase "social distancing," it's become an integral part of our everyday functioning. Our bags have waited long enough for the post-COVID era to come and take us places. Still, precaution. An outdoor walking tour (in small groups) is your perfect post-COVID travel agenda. Personal safety is also essential. You will feel safe within a group when sightseeing. Plus, your local guide will provide you with helpful advice on safe neighborhoods and how to avoid/deal with potentially dangerous situations. You'll Never Know... ...Until you try. The benefits of going on a walking tour are genuinely infinite. You won't find a more fulfilling way of exploring a new city, hat down. Walking the neighborhood and learning its history is the closest we get to seeing it through a local's lens. And that's precisely why we're there, no? - "Alright, on your left... Follow me."  By Marley Merrihew at Allen Batista Travel, Inc. Whether it be for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or just a well-needed break from the grind, everyone should check out these three popular destinations – Tahiti, The Bahamas, and Fort Lauderdale. Allen Batista Travel announces three amazing limited time offer deals to help travelers check off bucket list destinations this fall. Tahiti Tahiti is known for its big waves and black pearls, but the fun doesn’t stop there with this getaway destination. Visit Tahiti’s black sand beaches, or journey to the center of the island to Papenoo Valley where you’ll find lush jungles and rushing waterfalls. The island’s diverse and colorful marine life enhances the local cuisine, providing fresh fish in addition to the exotic fruits and vegetables offered by the tropical forests. With its luscious mountains, beaches, and hotels on the water, Tahiti is the perfect escape for sun, sand, and sea lovers. These luxury resorts feature bungalows over the water which offer beautiful views of the sunset on the ocean and window panes on the floor to view the sea life underneath you. The Islands of Tahiti deal offers $400 off per booking and includes round-trip flights, hotel accommodations, and taxes. Seven-nights two-person stay at a five-star hotel including flights starts at $2,495.50 per person. Book now to August 14, 2022 for select travel from now to May 31, 2023 for a minimum of seven nights. Note: Price is subject to change based on availability. The Bahamas The Bahamas offers more than 700 islands to choose from for a relaxing getaway. The islands are a fan-favorite snorkeling destination with their crystal clear blue waters and vibrant marine life, including pigs. That’s right; Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Island, is an island in the Exuma region of the Bahamas known for its swimming pigs, one of the most unique experiences you can only find on these special islands. But if the colorful marine life isn’t enough, visit the Bahamas’ pink sand beaches, or Lake Rosa on the island of the Great Inaguas, which is home to around 80,000 bright pink West Indian flamingos. Or, if the beaches aren’t your scene, visit one of the many pirate forts the Bahamas has to offer, such as Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, or Blackbeard’s Tower on the island of New Providence in Nassau. With the Family Fun Under the Sun package, you can get up to $2,371 in resort credits, up to 65 percent OFF room rates, offers for kids and teens stay FREE, and FREE nights. Book a six-nights stay for two people at The Reef Atlantis, a five-star hotel on Paradise Island, starting at $1,810.50 per person with flights included. Valid on new bookings made now until June 19, 2022 for select travel now until December 15, 2022. Note: Price is subject to change based on availability. Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” with its Gondola rides on the canals and shopping on Las Olas Boulevard. Take a ride on one of Fort Lauderdale’s water taxis and learn about its historic waterfront, or catch a glimpse of a celebrity riding alongside you in their yacht. Explore the Everglades with an airboat trip and uncover the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Or, if you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach instead, Fort Lauderdale offers its picturesque beaches, with smooth sand and a backdrop of palm trees. If you’re looking for a desperately needed break, the warm waters and sunny beaches of Florida are the perfect vacation destination. The Best Deals for Summer Fun package offers up to 30 percent OFF rooms, resort credits, and offers for kids stay FREE. Six-nights stay for two people including flights starts at $1,182.00 per person. Book by July 31, 2022 for select travel now until December 15, 2022. Note: Price is subject to change based on availability. There are endless reasons to book with Allen Batista Travel: deals range from 30 percent up to 65 percent off, a plethora of suggestions for fun activities of all types and easy-to-use website with an abundance of information. About Allen Batista Travel, Inc. Allen Batista Travel Inc. offers extraordinary sightseeing tours where travelers can fully immerse themselves into the local culture, as well as showcase the breathtaking sightseeing adventures in different countries. Allen Batista Travel also provides savvy travelers with airfare, hotels, cruises, car rentals, and vacation packages. Visit Allen Batista Travel, Inc. or email [email protected] to book these packages.  Guest Post: Marjorie McMillian at Come On Get Well
One of the great benefits of running your own business is the freedom to pack up and take a vacation whenever you want. Of course, this is much easier said than done. Your business needs you every day. How are you supposed to juggle your daily business responsibilities and enjoy a relaxing vacation at the same time? Whether you’re embarking on a week-long trip or heading overseas for a few months of adventure, check out the following tips from Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to learn how you can manage your business on the road. Automate Everything You Can Before leaving on your trip, try to automate as much of your business as possible. Setting up automated systems will help you save time on daily tasks so you can step away from your business and enjoy your trip. Take advantage of digital tools to automate everything from customer support to employee payroll. Managing your payroll is easy with the right financial software. Look for a payroll platform that offers automatic scheduling, tax calculation, employee benefits management, and same-day direct deposit. With all of these features, you won’t have to lift a finger to ensure your employees get paid. Outsource the Rest For anything you can’t automate, outsource it to remote freelancers. Tasks that require a human touch are excellent candidates for outsourcing. 99designs suggests outsourcing tasks like graphic design, social media management, sales, marketing management, and writing. By outsourcing these time-consuming projects, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy your vacation. Start looking for contractors well before you plan to leave for your trip to ensure they’re set up to work relatively independently while you’re gone. Develop a Daily Routine If you plan on working during your trip, establish a routine ahead of time. Without a routine, you may find yourself working in the hotel all day instead of exploring your destination or relaxing in the sun. For example, you may plan to get up early and plug away at your business during the first half of the day, leaving the afternoons free for whatever is on your travel itinerary. Try to work during the hours when you’re typically most productive. Importantly, make sure you have a comfortable, distraction-free workspace with a reliable internet connection. This might mean booking an Airbnb with a desk or finding a coworking space near your hotel. You will not be productive working at the beach, by the pool, or lounging in a hammock! Plan Ahead Give yourself plenty of time to prepare your business and notify your clients about your absence. MoxiWorks recommends letting your clients know as soon as you’ve solidified your travel plans. Make it clear when you will be leaving, how often you’ll be available while you’re gone, and when you will resume your regular business schedule. If you’re taking some time off from work projects, send out a last-call email to your clients so you can tackle any last-minute tasks before logging off completely. Take a Few Days Off Even if you can’t be away from your business for the entirety of your vacation, try to take a few days off to really relax and enjoy your time away. Unplugging for a little while can help relieve chronic stress and anxiety. Plus, stepping away will force you to set up systems to keep your business running in your absence, so you can feel confident traveling more in the future. Trust your team to handle things for a couple of days while you enjoy some much-needed rest! If you’re a business owner and you want to go on a trip, don’t let anything stop you! You have access to all kinds of tools and resources that can help you manage your business while you’re away. And once you put these systems in place, you’ll be able to travel more often! Are you ready to book your getaway? Allen Batista Travel, Inc. can help with airfare, hotel, cruise vacations, packaged tours, car rentals, and more. Call today so we can help you plan the perfect trip! 917-371-3753 or email [email protected] |
Categories |
RSS Feed