Making the Most of Your PTO
We all know that familiar anxiety - staring at your limited PTO days, wanting to make each one count, yet feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of planning the perfect trip. After years of both solo travel and leading small group adventures, I've learned some game-changing strategies for creating truly transformative experiences.
Here are some insights I wish I'd known earlier about maximizing vacation time:
Quality Over Quantity
Rather than rushing through multiple destinations, consider immersing yourself deeply in one place. My most meaningful travel moments haven't come from checking off tourist sites - they've come from unexpected conversations with locals, spontaneous invitations to family dinners, and those quiet moments when you really feel the pulse of a place. That's why our boutique trips focus on fully experiencing fewer locations rather than rushing through many. Some of our most treasured memories came from spending extra time in small villages, where we were invited to participate in local traditions rather than just observe them.
Learning the art of leather craftsmanship in a traditional Moroccan workshop in Fes.
The Power of Community
While solo travel can be empowering, sharing experiences with others often leads to deeper insights and lasting friendships. On our trips, I've seen incredible bonds form between travelers who started as strangers - supporting each other through challenging moments, celebrating wins together, and creating inside jokes that last long after the trip ends. Even if you're naturally introverted (like many of our travelers!), there's something magical about connecting with like-minded souls in extraordinary settings.
The power of community: Women travelers forming bonds in Marrakech.
Taking a group dip at Grutas Tolantongo—hot springs in Hidalgo, Mexico.
Cultural Immersion Takes Time
The first few days in a new place are often spent just getting oriented. That's why I always build in "slow days" on our itineraries to allow for those spontaneous moments that become trip highlights. Like the time our group in Turkey ended up spending an entire afternoon learning traditional carpet weaving from a local artisan - something that never would have happened with a rushed itinerary.
An evening of storytelling in a Cappadocian carpet shop.
Desert sunset shenanigans with our local guides in the Sahara.
Safety Enables Adventure
Having a solid foundation of safety and logistical support actually allows for more authentic exploration, not less. Our intimate groups provide that perfect balance - you're never truly alone unless you want to be, and all the complex logistics are handled for you. When you're not worried about basic concerns like transportation or language barriers, you're free to focus on meaningful experiences. This is especially crucial for solo female travelers or those venturing to less-traveled destinations.
Transportation on the way to celebrating Día de los Muertos: Cultural immersion beyond tourism.
Impact Matters
Sustainable and ethical travel isn't just a buzzword - it's about creating experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities. On our trips, this means choosing locally-owned accommodations, learning about and respecting cultural traditions, and participating in community initiatives. In every country we visit, we partner with local guides who share their traditional lifestyle with us, creating economic opportunities while preserving their cultural heritage.
Giving back to a local community in Cuba through donations including clothes, toiletries, medicine, etc.
Impact in action: Community engagement at a local school in Morocco.
Investment in Personal Growth
Travel can be a powerful catalyst for personal transformation. Through our intentionally small groups, you have the space to process your experiences, push your boundaries, and discover new aspects of yourself. Whether you're navigating a major life change, seeking new perspectives, or simply wanting to grow, our thoughtfully curated experiences provide the perfect environment for meaningful personal development.
Beyond the Instagram Moment
While capturing beautiful photos is great, the most valuable travel moments often can't be captured on camera. Our trips prioritize genuine experiences over photo ops - though you'll still get plenty of incredible shots! It's about the feelings, the connections, and the personal insights that transform how you see the world - and yourself.
Unwinding after a day of exploration on our Greece group trip.
Maximize Holidays And Weekends
And finally—no shame in the maximization game. Strategic planning around holidays and weekends can dramatically extend your travel time. Here's my tried-and-true formula for turning 15 PTO days into 50+ days of global exploration:
Combine federal holidays with weekends for longer trips. Take 4 PTO days around Thanksgiving for a 9-day adventure, or 3 days around Memorial Day for an 8-day escape.
Book "sandwich trips" by taking PTO days between two weekends. Use 5 days off to get 9 full days of travel.
Plan international trips around major holidays. Christmas through New Year's can become a 16-day journey using just 7 PTO days.
Consider "work from anywhere" days when your company allows it. Blend remote work with exploration by starting your workday early or late depending on time zones.
Remember: Every weekend is a potential mini-adventure. Think beyond the traditional week-long vacation to maximize your travel possibilities throughout the year.
From my experience leading travelers through hot springs in Mexico and Sahara desert camping, I've seen how the right travel approach can create lasting impact. The key is being intentional about how you spend your precious time off.
Consider what truly matters to you in a travel experience. Is it deep cultural understanding? Personal challenge and growth? Making meaningful connections? Whatever your goals, make sure your travel choices align with them.
Remember, there's no "right" way to travel. The best approach is the one that resonates with your personal values and goals. What strategies have you found for making the most of your vacation time? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
