Travel; an art form.

Travel is an art; I'm sure of it. I'm sure of it just as I'm sure that creative writing is an art, drawing is an art, and pouring the perfect shot of espresso is an art. Therefore, being an art form; there are many aspects that go into determining the process, and outcome of travel. Perfecting this art, like most, takes time, experience, and a little bit of know-how.

Simplicity is often an aid in reaching a goal timely and effectively. In plane travel however, it may not be the most beneficial of helpers. Simplifying an act or activity of sorts often includes reducing steps taken, cutting down the financial budget in some instances, or not focusing too keenly on every single detail. In travel however, this may in fact be more of a hindrance than a help. Traveling includes many steps and if known, tricks to insure a more successful, stress free outcome. Though these steps may seem tiring and unnecessary even; do not overlook them. Steps like early check in, premier seating, and even per-ordered food will help make your trip that much more easy flowing and enjoyable. The plane ride alone can be a stress inducer without the chaos of baggage claim and the man in front of you reclining a few inches too far back; anything you can do before the plane ascends thousands of feet into the air are moments and dollars worth spending. So, do not give into laziness and passivity; take control of the things y

ou can control in order to insure the most enjoyable, easy flight as possible.

Unlike flying, boat travel is far more complex in many ways. On a plane, because of obvious reasons, space is quite limited. There isn't room to worry about guarding your belongings or finding a space to sleep if you find yourself on an overnight voyage. Boats however, at least in my experience, cause you to use your brain and common sense a bit more than normal than in other ways of travel. If you find yourself on a boat for an extended period of time, there are some tips that you should be aware of to protect your belongings, physical being, and overall state of mind. About a month ago during a three week trip to Fiji, I had the chance to do take a thirteen hour over night boat voyage between two islands. At first, it seemed as if the trip would be fairly easy; sleeping the majority of the way with a laptop full of movies to keep myself entertained else-wise. That however proved to not be the case. What I didn't take into consideration was the lack of space (little to none), non existent fresh air, germ infested bathrooms, and motion sickness at it's finest. These, now known, are things that should definitely be taken into consideration while traveling by boat. If I could go back and do it over again, I would have done things almost completely different. Firstly, if possible; always have a travel companion. Worrying about protecting your luggage while using the restroom or sleeping is a quick way to get a headache, and having a buddy to travel with can erase that problem. Also: bringing your own food is crucial. There is no way of knowing what the boat will sell, or if it will even have food at all. Bringing your own snacks and meals will save you from the struggle of seemingly starving, or in worse cases, getting food poisoning from a bad meal. Probably even more important though is to bring your own beverages. I once read in an article that water from boats and airplanes are more likely to carry e.coli and other bacteria, causing sicknesses to be a quick result after consumption. It is easier, and more self beneficial to be sure that what you're drinking is both quality and safe: bring your own drinks. Another tip for boat travel is to take basic steps in ensuring basic comfort standards. This can range anywhere from a small pillow to a light blanket, to an inflatable air mattress: something is always better than nothing. Never underestimate just how uncomfortable a cold floor can be, especially to sleep on. The resulting back and neck pains can proceed and effect even the next few days. Don't be afraid to bring a pillow or blanket; you may seem to be going a little overboard (pun intended), but basic comfort can go a long way in bettering a trip and should be ensured if possible.

Travel is in fact, as many other things: an art form. Simplistic in the broad but complex in the details. Seeking to reach the best result with the easiest process is a goal few people seemingly obtain. Like creative writing, drawing, and pouring the perfect espresso shot; it's a matter of taste and preparation. Though there are always uncontrollable variables, we do have some control in how our travel turns out. By using out time and effort to ensure the little successes, we can affect the overall outcome and enjoy the process of doing so.