Letter from Dan: The Joy of Unscripted Travel
12 OCTOBER 2023
In the past many months, we've stumbled upon more than a few articles offering codified wisdom on how to travel properly. Many are lackluster and border on the pedestrian. Most are cures for insomnia. Does one truly need to be tutored on presenting one's toiletries for inspection at the airport? (We lean towards letting security discover our anti-aging serums and mini mouthwashes – a tactic which has rarely let us down.)
It seems, under the diminishing but still extant pall of Covid lockdowns and a lingering angst about traversing the globe, we, both as travelers and travel choreographers, have become rather limited in our imaginations. Throw in an unhealthy dose of Instagram (unlike the healthy doses of instagram), and we’re finding a number of friends, clients and colleagues struggling with the elemental joys of unhindered exploration. They’re overly steeled on getting to a destination with all details prepackaged – knowing in advance whether the restaurant provides oyster forks, or the morning walk on day five will fulfill their pedometer goals.
A couple of lovely people we met on our travels recently, whilst not looking at our phones
Let’s not forget our nature. We are curious and joyful, sometimes aimless, sometimes direct, lazy when it matters, active when it’s needed, silly when warranted and serious when prudent. On most days, that’s precisely how we should go about our rambles and chores, and perhaps even more so when we’re out and about, exploring the world. Let spontaneity be the guiding mood, embrace the accidental, revel in wonder, and more than occasionally, indulge in a little folly.
Why not, on a whim, take the third instead of first left? Share a meal with an intriguing stranger you’ve met over a crisp cocktail. Bypass must-see sights for the more understated pleasures. Notice the changing colours of an energetic street market, and be comfortable that the extra time may alter your itinerary.
Coming into this high season, let us help you reset your travel mood and find what may have been diminished in your soul. We have exactly what you need.