I was sitting in the airport this week – home bound after a quick business trip to the East Coast. The guy to my right was heading home to Milwaukee for a friend’s wedding. The woman on my left was on her way to Chicago for a two-day work trip. The dad and teen in front of me were flying to a tournament.
Friends…this is what is called Real Travel. These represent the obligations we have to see friends and family, to travel for kids and sports and the work that takes us away from home.
No, this isn’t a vacation to the beach or mountains, but rather travel we must do. And yet, while we aren’t expecting glamour, it is worth it to allow yourself to enjoy the experience. How do you do that?
Visiting Dad’s alma mater – Mizzou.
Partnering with our good friends at Hampton by Hilton, my family and I hit the road to Kansas City for our real travel experience. Here are a few of our top tips to enjoy your real travel time. Enjoy the video!
Hampton by Hilton in Kansas City has a theme all travelers will enjoy.
#RealTravel Tips:
- Make Practical Trips Fun and Fun Trips Practical – Whether you are obligated to visit a family member or simply travel for business, seek out a few opportunities to enjoy the time away. If you have the opportunity to steal away for vacation, take the time to do a college tour with your kids – even if they aren’t looking yet. You never know what doors you may open.
- Seek the Perks – For any type of travel, always seek out hotels that offer the amenities that will make your travel both more comfortable and more affordable. Find a hotel that offers free wi-fi, complimentary breakfasts and an exercise facility.
Hampton by Hilton, Kansas City
- Plan for Disruption– We all know real travel involves real life moments – lost luggage, delayed flights, rainstorms when you were planning on an 80 degree day. Take the time to monitor the weather before you head to your destination (you’ll know to pack an umbrella), and keep a few extras in your carry-on or purse. Clean underwear and a toothbrush can save the day…and packing a bathing suit in that same travel bag when heading to a warm weather destination can allow you to be pool ready even if your luggage is yet to arrive.
- Act like a Local – when visiting a new city, try to carve out a little time to see a museum, visit a restaurant or try a food the city is known for celebrating.
A local favorite – BBQ – Q39, Kansas City.
- Go for the Honey – There is a reason we say, “you attract more bees with honey”. If you have ever been in a situation where you needed help changing a flight or hotel reservation, had plans unexpected cancelled, or were hoping for an upgrade – you certainly know you’ll be put far ahead of the customer next to you throwing a tantrum. People in the travel and service industries deserve our respect and typically respond accordingly.
What are your top tips for your #RealTravel experiences? I’d love to add a few to my list.
And friends…a bonus Long Weekender Package for you. The good news: Book a three day weekend and get 50% off Sunday. You can find all the details here. Happy Real Traveling.
One of our favorite things about travel is to make the most of our experience by visiting local restaurants and taking in the sights which the locals tend to prefer. They are always better and less touristy. #merrymonday
We love traveling as a family. Sure, we hit the Disney parks and what not, but we also go on trips to educational spots. Whatever we do, we do together.
We always look for hotels that offer the most bang for our buck. My kids always want a pool. I don’t care about that so much as I do a hot breakfast. I need to feed the dad beast!
Oh man, how travel will DRASTICALLY change when my husband and I finally have kids! He doesn’t think so – he thinks our kid(s) will be “different”… HAHAHHAHAHAHA! Ohhhhhh man, reality slap to come!
When I travel I always plan a day where I can just wander around and see what I can find. It is such a fun way to explore a new place.
“Go for the Honey ” I totally agree with this statement. You will get so much farther, even though sometimes when we are out of our element we can be uptight. I love all of your ideas, also taking in something that the area is known for.
Traveling is really fun, especially with family! We love exploring a place and learn from new people!
When I travel, I like to experience being a local. There is so much more than seeing beautiful places. I love learning the different culture as well.
I have done this many times … sometimes successfully, sometimes not. But your tips are good. Seeking out the perks really does help.
It has been a while since we have gone on a family vacation. We are long overdue. A few years ago, we tagged along with my husband on a business trip. We got to even go to Sea World while we were there too. It was a blast.
I love the Kansas City area. Yes, acting like a local helps or you get suckered into things, ha!
I’ve been to Kansas City and can vouch for the barbecue. It’s really good. Looks like your family enjoyed it as well.
These are really great tips! Seeking out perks is really a great idea. I love going on family vacations.
I love to travel and these are all good tips! Whenever I go somewhere new I always like to ask the locals where the best place to eat is!
Going to restaurants are always one of my favorite things to do when I visit a different place. And I am totally jealous of you with the Cooperstown visit. That would be tons of fun!