Step just a little bit out of your comfort zone while on vacation, and you'll be rewarded with greater experiences.Ron Sumners/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Eat something new
Unless you are the world’s pickiest eater, this should be easy. And if you are, then you should definitely do it. No one is saying you have to eat deep-fried tarantula. Even a new fruit or vegetable counts. Heck, even a new flavour of potato chips. Peach-flavoured Lays, anyone?
Send a postcard
In the age of Instagram stories for the masses, sending a postcard is a simple way to bring joy to a loved one. Plus, finding the perfect one that captures a favourite sight – and then writing about that moment – forces you to pause mid-trip and reflect on all the awesomeness you’ve experienced.
Talk to a local
When you’re travelling solo, this one tends to happen pretty easily. Not so much when you’re in a couple or group. But make the effort. Ask a bartender to recommend a place for dinner. Sign up for an Airbnb experience that takes you off the tourist track. And, no, chatting with the concierge doesn’t count.
Take time to wander
Seasoned travellers know that the most memorable moments happen when you aren’t trying to force them. By all means, tick off your to-do list. But pick a park or street to just wander, aimlessly, for at least an hour. Don’t rush it. Your goal is here to get lost (within reason). I promise you’ll come across something unexpected.
Do one thing you wouldn’t do at home
Take advantage of the fact that you’re already a bit out of your comfort zone just by being in a new place. Try hopping on one of the e-scooters that are now all over Europe. Or go-carting on a cruise ship. Again, it doesn’t need to be extreme – just scary enough for you.
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