A Tale of Two Travelers: Designing the Perfect Surprise Getaway

Posted on September 20, 2024 by David Cross

Image via Pexels

Imagine the joy and astonishment on your partner’s face when they uncover your meticulously planned surprise trip. In a world dominated by routines, embarking on an unexpected journey can rekindle the romance and add a memorable chapter to your shared story. This guide is your secret to planning a getaway that perfectly aligns with your partner’s dreams and desires, ensuring every detail contributes to an awe-inspiring experience.

Discover Their Travel Desires

Start by exploring what ignites your partner’s passion for travel. Whether it’s the allure of pristine beaches, the serenity of mountain retreats, or the vibrant energy of urban landscapes, understanding their ideal vacation sets the foundation. Consider their preferred activities, from adrenaline-fueled adventures to relaxing spa days, and the accommodations that speak to their soul, be it luxurious resorts or quaint cabins. This deep understanding allows you to tailor a getaway that resonates with their wanderlust.

Maintain Secrecy

Success in crafting a surprise hinges on the art of covert planning, mastering the skill of quietly managing all aspects, from securing tickets to handling visa arrangements, all while keeping the secret intact. The essence of this discreet preparation phase is crucial for preserving the element of surprise, guaranteeing that the moment of revelation is as exhilarating as the adventure that awaits. This meticulous approach not only safeguards the surprise but also heightens the anticipation, making the ultimate reveal a truly unforgettable experience.

Build Anticipation

Boost the anticipation by dropping subtle hints or organizing a playful scavenger hunt before the grand revelation. This escalation of excitement transforms the journey to the surprise into an adventure as thrilling as the destination. It adds a layer of delight to your meticulous planning, enriching the overall experience with anticipation and joy.

Design a Thoughtful Itinerary

Craft an itinerary filled with experiences your partner dreams of, from romantic sunset sails to exquisite dining under the stars. However, leave space for spontaneity, as the most memorable moments often arise from the unexpected. Tailoring the journey to reflect your partner’s passions while remaining flexible ensures a perfect balance of planned and impromptu delights.

Go on a Wellness Journey Together

Emphasize wellness and health as you plan your secret escape. Opt for accommodations with fitness facilities and plan activities like cycling tours or nature hikes. Focus on staying hydrated and energized, ready to embark on adventures together. Prioritizing your mutual well-being enhances the enjoyment and fulfillment of your getaway.

Capture Memories with Candid Photos

Taking photographs while traveling with your partner is a beautiful way to capture the shared experiences and memories of your journey together. Whether you’re exploring new destinations, enjoying a quiet moment, or embarking on an adventure, snapping candid shots and posed pictures helps preserve the unique bond you share. It’s also an opportunity to document the emotions and stories behind each location, creating a visual diary of your trip.

Solve the Packing Puzzle

When managing the packing for a surprise getaway, meticulously choose items suited to the destination’s weather, planned activities, and any special events. This deliberate selection process infuses the surprise with a personal touch, showcasing your thoughtful care and attention. Such mindfulness in preparation vividly reflects your dedication to creating a memorable and tailored travel experience.

Planning a surprise getaway for your partner is a profound expression of love, demonstrating your commitment to creating lasting memories together. By understanding their desires, prioritizing wellness, and meticulously arranging every detail, you set the stage for an extraordinary journey. Let the adventure begin, and may your surprise bring as much joy and love as the bond you share.

Visit David Cross Travel Blog and uncover unique travel experiences and practical tips from around the globe. Subscribe now for regular updates and insights that inspire your next adventure and enrich your travel expertise.

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What can you do in Atlanta when flights are cancelled?

Posted on August 11, 2024 by David Cross

It sounds like an unusual title, but when the recent Delta flight cancellation chaos based on the Windows and CrowdStrike outage, we got stuck in Atlanta for a few days when trying to return from our Turks and Caicos vacation!

Total chaos. Believe it or not, we got into the airline lounge (Delta), and spent a few hours there relaxing…and then when the club is about to close…flights cancelled!

What to do? First and foremost, get a hotel.

Everyting near the airport was fully booked, so we went further out and found something different.

We tried out the Bellyard, West Midtown Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel which was definitely hopping and packed with a party when we checked in at almost midnight. Apparently, the Midtown area is quite popular.

Tip – book for a few days in case the flights keep getting cancelled and you do not need to find a new hotel every day.

Georgia Aquarium

So, we did a little research on what we could check out since we had some free time on our hands. First choice based on recommendations: The Georgia Aquarium.

It is one of the largest I have ever seen myself; it has to be large for the big whale shark above!

The hammerheads were cool to see up close

and some of the manta/sting rays were massive as well.

The beluga whales were quite playful

and the dolphins definitely like the human attention for sure.

I was surprised to see a white alligator! I am not sure when I saw one of these before – if it was New Orleans or Vancouver maybe. Anyone know?

The piranha saw I had food and he got angry with me

Olympic Park

Nearby to the aquarium is also the Centennial Olympic Park

It is pretty famous for the 1996 Olympics bombing, but I thought it is and awesome park for walking and running since it is so large.

Sandbox VR

What else did we try out in Atlanta? Sandbox VR

a virtual reality simulation gaming site – I have never tried this before.

I can see it can be very popular with groups of friends, but even with two people, it was quite amazing.

We chose to try out some Dungeons and Dragons style campaigns.

Believe it or not, it is very realistic and believable!

Warning – it is intense, realistic and quite a workout!

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Beaches Resort – Turks and Caicos

Posted on July 21, 2024 by David Cross

I thought I would write a quick resort review for Beaches where we stayed for a week to enjoy a little sun.

Where to start? It is a huge property, but the Italian Village is the best. It has a massive pool that people love hanging out in 18 hours a day (seriously).

It has a huge gorgeous beach that has great views. The downside is that it is public and anyone can walk up and down the beach. It is a blessing and a curse as there are some good vendors and some shady vendors too…

The vendors only take cash, but you can take some fun little excursions not available at the resort like para sailing 😎

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Myself, I just like taking out the free sailboats and checking out the coast using the brisk winds

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Lillian liked to hang on tightly when we were going fast 😉

The nighttime sunsets are always amazing and a great time to actually visit the beach, because it is so much cooler!

It is always safe to swim and relax after dinner.

Speaking of dinner, there are a lot of very good restaurants. If you have a little patience, you can always enjoy a good meal.

The best meals are on the beach at sunset, but you do have to pay $200 for the dedicated white glove service.

The little iguanas are amusing

But the little crabs are reluctant to hangout with people as the birds just circle around and  love to grab them as soon as they appear out in the open!

Myself, I like the pool volleyball and going diving. I posted one of the dives I performed this week a few days ago.

One of the things people do not like is being (kicked out), checked out by 11:00 in the morning, but almost no flights leave the country until the late afternoon. So you have to cram into a departure lounge and wait for a shuttle.

and then when you get to the airport…there are NO seats for anyone since it is too small for all the flights that depart every day.

But we had a fun time – can you tell we had no idea that we were about to run into a nation of flight cancellations? 😒

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Running and Diving in Turks and Caicos

Posted on July 19, 2024 by David Cross

Everyone knows I love running around the world (which you can see the big list here), so of course, I needed to try running on this island since all the good and shaded pool chairs are “taken” by 6:00 AM every day!

So instead of getting up early to reserve a pool chair, why not go for a run and check out the local wildlife? (lots of baby chicks everywhere)

There are actually decent sidewalks and routes along the main roads that can all find on Strava as well.

I do admit it is VERY hot in the mornings and in the middle of the day, the sun is so scorching, it would be dangerous. But in the early hours, many people will join you and it is very safe to explore.

It has been few years since I was last year, but I wanted to go diving again and check our some more sights. This was my previous dive posting when I was able to stop on a day trip and check out the famous “Wall“.

This time, it was a shallow dive, but I was able to catch (sight) a few cool local inhabitants off the coast of the island. I am not sure on what this squiggly fish was, as I have never seen one before.

It was cool to actually find and see a lobster hiding!

The best one was the sighting of a Caribbean Reef shark…it might have been 6-7 feet long. It was a little tense for a few moments, and I know the video does not demonstrate it, but he was headed right for me before veering away!

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Checking Out Turks and Caicos

Posted on July 14, 2024 by David Cross

We decided to try a new adventure this summer and head to the Caribbean.

Saturdays are pretty popular with the vacationers, so be ready for long lines at the airport. This was TSA pre-check in the International terminal in Atlanta.

and long lines when you arrive waiting for shuttles to hotels and resorts.

I admit paying the “fast rack” for customs and immigration can be beneficial on heavy travel days.

It was a little unusual being in a country that most cars have steering wheels on the left like in the US, but also drive on the left like in Britain. Here we are passing a car on the right that was driving too slow for us who want to get to the hotel as fast as possible!

The resorts are great, but they are strict about no early check ins before 3:00 PM…so be ready to chill and have a local iced drink!

With a little patience, you will be settled in and have a hard time staying inside with the air conditioning when you can just enjoy the vacation atmosphere.

The beaches are amazing

and the water is so blue, it is amazing!

But warning, the sun is SO hot, you need lots of suntan lotion every hour until it is sunset, which seems like it lasts for hours, which is great for seaside dinners!

Stay tuned to this channel for more exploration of this island!

Resort review: Beaches Resort – Turks and Caicos | David Cross Travel Blog

Running and diving: Running and Diving in Turks and Caicos | David Cross Travel Blog

I have also done some diving here which is amazing! Checking Out Turks and Caicos | David Cross Travel Blog

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Why Taking a Trip May Improve Your Mental Health

Posted on July 1, 2024 by David Cross

Guest posting this week from Carlos Huerta who is the visionary founder of PositiveGrowthGuide.com, a website dedicated to helping individuals unlock their full potential and lead their best and brightest lives. With the inspiring tagline “Guiding You to a Brighter, Better You,”

Image Courtesy of Pexels

Wherever you live, odds are that you have some potentially rejuvenating road trips within easy driving distance.  Whether you’re seeking the culture and excitement of cities, the fascinating history of older sites, or wilderness areas where you can relax and camp, you can get a mental health boost. There is nothing that compares to a change of scene for refreshing your perspective. When you feel rundown, David Cross Travel Blog encourages you to get the boost you need by taking a trip and visiting places you don’t normally go.

Visit Historical Landmarks

All the states formed from the original thirteen colonies abound with history, and the other 37 states have their own fascinating stories, too. Visiting historic landmarks can be educational as well as fun. There are plenty of destinations for relaxing day-trips to give you a much-needed break from the stresses of life.

Take a Train

Historic tours, living history events and re-enactments, and museums can be great places to go. Consider taking a trip on a vintage train. Many of these provide meals and visits to scenic areas and restored villages you can explore. If you’d prefer more somber reflection, there are battlefields, monuments, and military parks.

Go See the Mouse

Taking a trip to Disney as an adult can do wonders for your mental health. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but taking a break to enjoy the magic of Disney can be just what you need to recharge and reset. From the fun attractions to the delicious food and beautiful scenery, there’s something for everyone at Disney.

Relieve Travel Anxiety

Many of us who experience travel anxiety find THCa is a useful remedy. Its non-psychoactive properties help reduce anxiety without the high associated with THC. It also offers anti-inflammatory and mild sedative effects that can soothe the mind and body during stressful travel situations. Explore our solutions and learn more about THCa here.

Go to the Water

Being in, on, or near the water may be one of the most relaxing ways to spend time. Going to the water may have mental health benefits. Not only is the scenery spectacular, but options range from lively to peaceful.  If you prefer something active, you can enjoy water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, or tubing.

Explore State and National Parks

If picnicking on the shore or fishing is more appealing to you, those are possible at many state and national parks, as well as local waterways. If you’re hanging out on the beach, be sure to pick up a beach umbrella. Renting a paddle boat is a good option for lakes and rivers, and one that can be done with limited experience. You can take pictures of the wildlife around, go swimming, wading or simply enjoy the gentle rocking of your boat while out on a stunning lake.

Volunteer

Consider taking a volunteer vacation where you get to visit a new area at a low cost and also assist on a project. Possibilities range from sea turtle conservation to archaeological digs to working with children. Some of these are scattered around the world, but many are also available closer to home. Helping with a worthwhile project can add a positive dimension to travel and remind you how interconnected humans are.

Taking a break from your routine can positively impact how you manage the stresses and strains of modern living. So, whether you’re visiting historic landmarks, enjoying a boat trip, riding a vintage train, hiking, fishing, or volunteering, you can give yourself some much-needed respite. Let some time away help you boost your mental well-being.

Learn more about destinations around the world from David Cross Travel Blog!

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1440 Multiversity

Posted on June 19, 2024 by David Cross

Where do organizations go for offsites that help them escape the normal routines and think creatively?

Recently I was invited to attend a cyber security summit that was hosted at 1440 Multiversity.

What does 1440 stand for? It stands for the number of minutes in a day and how you are thoughtful and attentive of your focus areas.

The goal of this location is to disconnect and there is no television in your escape rooms. It is all about escape!

The turtles are always quick to escape as they like to remain secluded and not talk technology with humans.

I must admit the grounds are gorgeous, quiet and very supportive of an inclusive, green and sustainable learning environment.

You will be surrounded by 1000 year old redwood trees and still have mobile connections to upload pictures 😉

They have large open rooms as well as small places to effectively meet as teams or groups.

They also have secluded and inspirational amongst the deep forest to hold talks.

Given our very high profile and sensitive audience, we even had undercover security everywhere. They were on top of all threats and risks 24×7!

One of the amazing highlights was the food services. It was bulk service and hand constructed plates that was very quickly served even when everyone entered the “kitchen” dining hall.

The flavors were amazing and it felt like a Michelin Star restaurant!

All the food was freshly sourced and many things local. and if you are a wine aficionado and need a great pairing for a meal, they can accommodate and delight with some of their gems in their collection.

Of course…everyone is going to ask: Can you go running?

Yes, the trails are amazing but warning it is very hilly, but equally scenic!

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The New AMG Driving Academy

Posted on May 26, 2024 by David Cross

I was very excited to try out the latest instance of the Mercedes AMG Driving Academy this year with the first availability being held at the Sonoma Raceway in California!

It has been a few years for me since my latest training down at Laguna Seca, but as you can see from my blog posting, there are always an amazing experience to achieve!

2024 AMG Driving Experience

So what was new this year compared to previous years?

2024 AMG Driving Experience

This year they have off-road training with the G63!

But of course, I should mention that we have to get training and safety briefings before headed out from some famous race car drivers and professionals.

It was lightweight, but clear hands on training with all the dimensions of the G-Wagon’s capabilities to climb, traverse, steep angles, slip, etc. using low gearing and traction capabilities of the military grade SUV!

You know you are successful when you are digging deep in the mud and not getting stuck!

2024 AMG Experience On Track

Next, it was time to hit the track!

It is always heart pounding when you hit the gas and take off on to track,

We started with the classic SL63 which is amazing convertible,

You also get to try out the new EQE AMG electric car on the track!

It is amazing how different they feel and handle. The electric car’s speed is out of the world and it is so smooth, it is scary. But at the same time, you just do not “feel” the road and feel as in control as you do with the traditional engine, transmission and gearing.

2024 AMG Experience On Track

Tired yet? How about some drag racing?

You get the opportunity to compete side by side between the AMG EQS and the AMG GT63-S type.

This may not be the best little video I took as the competitors did not start at the same time, but it shows how fast the competition unfolds in only a few seconds!

Guess which car won (if the driver was skilled)? Yes, it was the electric car…

If you thought that could be fast excitement, how about some drift training?

2024 AMG Experience On Track

I looked all relaxed, but 1 minute of drifting, your heart will be pounding in your chest.

2024 AMG Experience On Track

It is amazing the difference between having traction control turned on and what you can do when disabled!

Here is one video (not the best) on showing how people learn to drift by starting with wet pavement.

and was the best music to listen to when drifting? Some Beastie Boys of course!

Conclusion and finale?

Recorded performance with 3 loops on the track in a AMG GT-R!

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Has San Francisco Recovered?

Posted on May 10, 2024 by David Cross

Every year I go to the RSA Conference in San Francisco and share my experience. I have had many great experiences like this visit in 2019.

I can definitely say it is conference season as the airports are packed with waves of business travelers all with carry-ons and jamming up TSA pre-check lines!

The real question is whether downtown San Francisco has recovered or has homeless, crime and trash been a major blocker from people visiting?

I will first say the views have returned.

And the fancy shops are open and people are visiting them again.

You can tell when a Rolls Royce pulls up to the Tiffany shop in Union Square, people like shopping here again. The downside is most of these shops close at 5 PM and are not open at night.

The downside is cars get broken into even in front of hotels! No fun…

So, I can only recommend taking ride share and not renting a car. In San Francisco, you can even get rides in Waymo drivers cars! Except it did make a left turn through a red light which was scary…good thing it was later at night!

and lots of cool activities happening around the city. Rappelling down the Grand Hyatt as an activity was a fun choice for some people.

Did I go running early in the morning?

The views are always great. and I am not just talking about Alcatraz. Look closer in the picture at all the “homeless” sea lions 😉

Of course I did, the San Francisco waterfront is one of the best and popular with runners and absolutely safe!

The run made for a great panel I joined on the first day of the conference with some good external press coverage. Much better than I got from 16 years ago when I mentioned Windows Vista UAC!

Summary: It is really coming back and I think in another year, San Francisco may be a great choice for weekend visits again!

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Crossroads at Midlife: How Solo Travel Can Shape the Next Chapter

Posted on May 6, 2024 by David Cross

This is a guest article written by Catherine Workman.

“Catherine Workman always wanted to see the world. As soon as she was old enough to travel on her own, she began taking trips to new destinations, far and wide. She created Wellness Voyager with some of her travel mates as a place to chronicle her adventures and inspire others to leave their comfort zones and embrace all the world has to offer.”

Image via Freepik

Life’s journey is winding, marked by milestones and moments of reflection. As we find ourselves at the midpoint, pausing and pondering the path ahead is natural. The midlife phase often brings a sense of introspection and a longing for something more.

Yet, amid the uncertainty lies an opportunity for profound growth and self-discovery. This introduction from David explores how embracing travel can serve as a guiding light in navigating the complexities of midlife transitions, offering a pathway to renewal and exploration.

Reflect on personal and career achievements.

Reflect on your personal and career achievements to gain clarity and direction during midlife transitions. Celebrate your accomplishments and acknowledge the milestones that have shaped your journey. By recognizing your strengths, you’ll gain confidence in pursuing new goals and aspirations, setting the stage for a future filled with purpose and fulfillment.

Go back to school online to change your career.

In today’s digital age, online DBA programs offer boundless opportunities for career reinvention. Through these accessible online platforms, you can expand your skill set and explore new career paths without neglecting your other life commitments.

Whether pursuing certifications, mastering a specialized field, or learning a new language, embrace the journey of lifelong learning to unlock your full potential. For example, a doctoral degree in business administration can equip you with invaluable skills if you hope to forge a fulfilling career as a business owner or leader.

Explore new hobbies or rekindle past interests.

Rediscover the joy of exploration through new hobbies or revisiting past interests like painting, hiking, cooking, or photography. Embrace the freedom to pursue activities that ignite your passion, fostering creativity and personal growth beyond your professional life. Engage in hobbies as avenues for self-expression, reconnecting with what brings you joy and a sense of fulfillment.

Plan a solo travel experience.

Embarking on a solo travel adventure is inherently liberating, providing a chance to break free from comfort zones and immerse oneself in diverse cultures. Whether navigating vibrant cities, tranquil landscapes, or remote villages, solo travel offers unparalleled self-discovery and personal growth opportunities. Embrace the freedom to wander, follow instincts, and forge a path toward newfound resilience and resourcefulness amid the journey.

Practice mindfulness or meditation.

amid the travel excitement, nurturing your inner world is crucial. Integrate mindfulness practices like meditation into your daily routine to foster calmness and presence. Whether through deep breathing, gratitude, or mindful observation, these practices help navigate midlife transitions with grace and resilience, fostering clarity, peace, and renewed purpose.

Seek professional counseling or therapy.

If deep-seated issues or emotional challenges arise, seek support from a qualified therapist or counselor without delay. Therapy offers a safe space to delve into thoughts, gain insights into behaviors, and develop coping strategies. Embrace this opportunity for healing, growth, and self-discovery to thrive on your journey toward self-care.

Create a financial plan for future stability.

Prioritize your financial well-being as you navigate midlife transitions. Assess your situation, set realistic goals, and develop a plan for stability and security. Whether budgeting, saving for retirement, or investing, financial planning offers peace of mind and the freedom to pursue passions. Embrace this opportunity to take control and build a solid foundation for the future.

Embrace the process of aging with grace.

Confronting the realities of aging is a natural part of life’s journey. Embrace this process with grace, recognizing the beauty and wisdom it brings with each passing year. Focus on nurturing your overall well-being and celebrate the unique journey that has led you to this moment, embracing opportunities for growth, learning, and connection with gratitude, positivity, and a spirit of adventure.

Put it all together.

In the tapestry of life, midlife transitions represent a pivotal moment of reflection and renewal. By embracing travel as a catalyst for exploration and self-discovery, you can navigate this chapter with resilience, curiosity, and an open heart.

Whether reflecting on past achievements, embarking on new adventures, or nurturing your inner world, travel offers endless growth, connection, and renewal opportunities. So pack your bags, dear traveler, and embark on a journey of midlife rediscovery. The world awaits, ready to reveal its wonders and wisdom to those who dare to wander.

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