Switching to vacation mode is super easy！16 tips to greatly enhance your vacation quality

▲UK survey: Travel helps with personal growth (illustration / Photo by reporter Lai Wenxuan)

By Rita

Based on a survey of travelers' states, when do people start shifting into “vacation mode”?According to HuffPost, 22% feel it begins when they arrive at their accommodation, while 14% think it doesn't really start until the next day. Around 46% believe the first day of the trip is always the most memorable. So how do you switch from work mode to vacation mode? It actually requires some skills, and you can gradually adjust even before the trip begins. Here are some compiled tips:

1. The First Step

1. Stay flexible
One-third of people worry about things going wrong on the first day of travel, such as many fearing they’ll lose their luggage. During your trip, you need to gradually develop the ability to “stay flexible” and adapt to different situations.

2. Have a snack
Eating something sweet stimulates the release of feel-good hormones, improving your mood.

3. Queue up
No one likes waiting in line, but it’s part of traveling—like during security checks. A little tip: since most people are right-handed, they tend to queue on the right, so you can consciously go the other way, as there are usually fewer people there.

4. Truly enjoy the trip
When traveling, avoid rushing around or darting from place to place. Slow down and take your time, especially when transitioning from the airport to the city. If your accommodation host is on-site, don’t hesitate to ask them for travel tips—that’s a smart move.

2. Tech Product Usage Tips

1. Let your family know you’ve arrived safely
When you arrive at your destination after a long flight, it’s easy to lose patience, especially while waiting for luggage. Use this time to check in with your family.

2. Download apps in advance
Travel is more convenient nowadays than in the past, as apps can make your trip much easier—whether it’s attraction apps, language apps, currency converters, etc. When you get to your accommodation, use the Wi-Fi to download them all and locate your hotel on the map.

3. Listen to music while unpacking
One in ten people say that after arriving at their accommodation, they turn the music up loud, quickly unpack their luggage, and don’t worry about the mess—the upbeat music and being surrounded by your bags help you slip into vacation mode fast.

4. Turn off your phone
Turning off your phone and disconnecting from the outside world allows your mind to fully immerse in the new environment. When you power down your phone, you’re no longer controlled by constant message notifications, and you can enjoy a moment of peace.

▲Travel lets you try many new things that bring joy. (Illustration / Photo by reporter Li Zi Yi)

3. Calm Your Mind

1. Create a relaxing atmosphere
Start with whatever you enjoy—whether it’s using the accommodation’s gym or taking a stroll nearby.

2. Get some sunlight
Sunlight can boost your mood, but don’t forget to apply sunscreen properly.

3. Add Some Homey Elements
Many people like to bring along stuffed animals, tea bags, mugs, pillowcases, family photos, and other personal items when traveling because these things make them feel safe and at home—something worth considering.

IV. Keep Things Fresh

1. Don’t Be Stubborn
Leave your personal opinions at home. Since you’re going out, remember that traveling always comes with some stress. If you sense an argument brewing, ask yourself: do you want to insist on your way, or would you rather enjoy the trip?

2. Start with Exploration
Many people worry about not doing enough research beforehand. In fact, leaving some blanks can actually make the trip more fun. Most importantly, don’t keep doing what others think you should do.

3. Live Like a Local
If you get the chance to talk or share a meal with locals during your trip, be sure to take it—these are rare opportunities to see things from another perspective.