Ah, the thrill of travel! The allure of new sights, sounds, and flavors is truly intoxicating. But choosing the perfect destination can be a daunting task, my friends. Allow me to share with you my personal, Bourdain-esque approach to picking the next unforgettable adventure, taking into account fun, safety, history, cost, and of course, a healthy dose of spontaneity.

1. The Journey Begins: Dreaming and Researching

So, you’ve got a few places in mind, inspired by wild dreams, late-night conversations, or those fascinating stories you’ve stumbled upon. Now comes the fun part: diving into research to really get a feel for these exotic locales. Look into crime levels (yes, I know, even the most alluring destinations can have a dark side), cultural quirks, and historical tidbits. Remember, we’re not just chasing a good time; we’re in pursuit of life-changing experiences and a deeper understanding of our world.

Take my trip to Thailand, for example. I didn’t just lounge on pristine beaches; I delved into the world of elephants, Buddhism, and the symphony of flavors that is Thai cuisine. When I ventured to the Dominican Republic and Peru, I retraced the steps of Spanish conquistadors and explored the complex history that shaped these nations. And let’s not forget Poland and the Czech Republic, where I unearthed the harrowing stories of World War II, the horrors of the Nazis, and the dramatic tradition of defenestration (politicians being thrown out of windows) – history, my friends, is a compelling and sobering teacher.

2. The Great Narrowing: Costs, Comforts, and the Call of the Wild

Now that you’ve whittled down your list to a few tantalizing options, it’s time to crunch some numbers. Consider flight costs (Google Flights is your trusty sidekick here), accommodations, and daily expenses. Sure, Marriott can offer a familiar, cushy embrace, but don’t forget to mix in some local stays. Airbnbs, hostels, or that eccentric innkeeper’s abode – these are where you’ll find the real heartbeat of a place.

When it comes to budgeting, I aim for around $2,500 per week, including flights. But fear not, dear traveler! Points and rewards programs can come to the rescue, transforming that credit card bill into a treasure trove of new experiences.

3. The Balancing Act: Weighing Risks, Rewards, and the Romance of the Road

You’ve got your top 2-3 contenders, so now it’s time for some soul-searching. Cheaper destinations may beckon with their siren songs, but don’t be fooled: they often hide thorns beneath their petals. Consider factors like layovers, flight durations, and overall travel experience. Sometimes, a shorter journey or a touch of luxury can tip the scales in favor of one destination over another.

4. The Final Countdown: Sealing the Deal and Hitting the Road

Decision made, the next step is to grab a trusty guidebook and set a countdown for eight weeks before your trip. That’s the sweet spot for booking flights and accommodations, and it’s the perfect amount of time to let anticipation build to a fever pitch.

There’s an art to picking your next great adventure – one that balances practicality, a hunger for knowledge, and an unquenchable thirst for the unknown. Inspired by the inimitable Anthony Bourdain, this approach has led me down winding alleys, through bustling markets, and into the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life.

I invite you, dear reader, to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the unfamiliar. The further you venture from the well-trodden path, the more you’ll discover about yourself and the world we share. Traveling to distant lands, immersing yourself in different cultures, and tasting the most exotic of cuisines will not only broaden your horizons, but also bring you closer to your own essence. So, grab your passport, strap on your backpack, and embark on a journey that transcends mere sightseeing – a journey of self-discovery and connection with the diverse tapestry of humanity. Let the spirit of Anthony Bourdain be your guide as you forge your own path through the wild, wonderful world that awaits.

Here are some resources for you,

1. Dream and research: Create a list of dream destinations and use travel blogs, social media, documentaries, childhood dreams, movies you liked (Apocalypse Now! or what took me to Thailand The Beach!), and YouTube channels for inspiration.
   • English-speaking channels:
     • The absolute GOAT of travel documentaries: Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown and No Reservations
     • Food-focused travel: Mark Wiens’ Migrationology
     • Off-the-beaten-path destinations and cultural experiences: Eva zu Beck, Bald and Bankrupt
     • Informative and engaging travel content: The Vagabrothers, Kurt Kast
     • Travel vlogs and destination guides: Indigo Traveller, Kara and Nate, Waltz World
   • Spanish-speaking channels:
     • Traveling couple: Mateo and Lisana
     • Entertaining and informative travel: Alan por el Mundo
     • Fun travel experiences: Planeta Juan
     • Travel vlogs and adventures: Luisito Comunica
2. Safety and crime levels: Check U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories or the UK Foreign Office’s Travel Advice .
3. Cultural and historical research: Read travel blogs, guidebooks, TripAdvisor, and Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree forum for destination insights.
4. Flight and accommodation costs: Search Google Flights, Marriott, Airbnb, and Booking.com for options. Remember that if you have one of the below, most likely it will be a good idea to book the trip through one of the cards.
5. Points and rewards programs: Join airline, hotel rewards programs, and travel-focused credit cards to accumulate points or miles.
   • Utilize expert advice: Follow The Points Guy for tips on maximizing travel rewards and credit card benefits.
   • Leverage credit card perks: Use the Amex Platinum for travel perks and the Chase Sapphire for everyday spending to accumulate points.
6. Create a travel budget: Estimate total trip costs and aim for a specific budget.
7. Refine your options: Compare your top 2-3 destinations based on cost, safety, flight duration, and overall experience.
8. Booking flights and accommodations: Set a reminder for eight weeks before your trip and book at that time for the best prices.
9. Purchase a guidebook: Buy a guidebook like Lonely Planet for your chosen destination.
10. Embrace spontaneity: Once you’ve arrived, connect with locals and explore the unfamiliar.

So, fellow travelers and adventure seekers, what do you think? Did you find these resources helpful? Do any of you use similar strategies when planning your trips? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Leave a comment below, and let’s start a conversation that will inspire us all to explore the world even further! Don’t forget to share your favorite travel tips and resources – together, we can uncover new ways to make our journeys more meaningful and memorable.