Woohoo!! We are going on a holiday! And not just a little holiday down the road but all the way across the world!
So it all started with the thought that we would have a bit of a holiday this year. I started with wanting to go to Adelaide to see the lovely Lauren and then drive across to Melbourne and maybe even Tasmania too. We also tossed around the idea of going to Singapore. During all of these vague musings I had a chance discussion with a friend about her upcoming trip to the UK for a family wedding. I expressed to her that I would really like to take the kids on a big holiday overseas before they turn 12 and become 'adults' - which is in July 2017. She thought it was a great idea and we talked about all the things we could do in the UK and Europe. I started to think maybe I could manage an overseas adventure despite lack of funds and a fear of flying and general disasters!
A few days later I picked up a pile of travel brochures and started dreaming. When I first pitched the idea to Graham he wasn't that keen, but then he came around to my way of thinking. And it was Graham that suggested he would like to go somewhere new - so our trip changed again to the great American road trip. I am super glad it did! I think it will be a fantastic adventure for all of us and lots of fun for the kids.
All of the stars seemed to be aligning for a big adventure. Not only do we have limited time available before the kids turn 12, but we have a couple of other 'special' birthdays next year too. (Ahem, best not to think about those!). Also, we had Graham's long service leave become due at the end of November. This trip was meant to be!
I have spent the last couple of short weeks spending countless hours scouring the internet for information and getting into serious travel planner mode. I am not a 'play it by ear' kind of traveller. I am a plan it down to the last second person. I know many people feel like this lacks spontaneity and is too restrictive, but I don't find it that way at all and I need the security of knowing every last detail.
Other people I have travelled with have not felt restricted by the plans and have appreciated all my planning. It means we don't miss anything, we save time and money and we know the trade-offs when making the constant decisions that arise. Be prepared!!
So, the itinerary is already basically locked in, much of the accommodation is already booked, the car hire is organised and flights are booked. Now we just have 9 months in which to win lotto and/or gather some financial resources. So exciting!!
