My best and only travel buddy sent me an excerpt from an article he read in the Wall Street Journal. He said it applies perfectly to me. Wanderlust is a beautiful state of being!
WSJ: One section explains “in many ways having traveled is far superior to actual traveling. Most of us travel in search of a story , but the pleasure of shaping the narrative comes only in retrospect — usually within some quiet place back home, The helps explain why so many of the world’s best travel writers have, paradoxically , also embraced long sessions off the road”.
So, yes, I agree, it does apply to me. And I do write daily blogs about our trips. But the greatest joy comes from family and friends who ask about our trips, past and current.
Having returned from Scottsdale on March 12, I have been home. I cancelled trips to Buenos Aires, Poland, Greece, New York City, Seattle, Vancouver, and Napa Valley.
Out of Your Comfort Zone lists seven cures for wanderlust. While I may not agree with all of them, why not take a look?
Travel in your own city as a tourist- I think most of us have exhausted this option, unless you live in LA, NYC, London, or Tokyo.
Small weekend trips in the area-Again, we have all been to a national park (Yosemite) closest to home, a winery or microbrew, a beach, a camp ground, or museum nearby.
Host other travelers-Well, our house is too small, and I am not a fan, personally, of Couchsurfing or Air BnB. It would just make me more upset that they are traveling and I am not!
Going to Couchsurfing events-Often held in a bar, it could be the start of something really good, or really bad. But you might meet some interesting people, aka partiers.
Going on short, cheap international trips-For us, it would be Mexico or Canada. Maybe Central or South America. I have a strong preference for our national parks. Why not spend the money in the U.S.?? Also, no language barrier. weird phone plans, or funky exchange rate.
Prepare for your next trip-I do this all the time! Whether I am traveling or not. I am always gathering information, finding better deals, exchanging high rates for lower rates, learning more about the area.
Save up-This goes without saying, what choice do we have? I really don’t do anything different, and do not have to worry about paid time off or vacation pay.
So, here are a few of my own:
Review all of your frequent flyer and hotel points and status.
Read about your intended destination BEFORE going.
Make a friend at the destination you are planning. This is easily done through private tour guides, or local bloggers.
Start a packing list. The weather will dictate what you will bring and wear.
Buy a new outfit or exercise shoes for the trip.
Friendship gifts. I always take gifts for whomever I might encounter.
Did I forget anything? Are you sufficiently excited about your next trip? I don’t think anything I write will take the place of building your own excitement for your next trip. See you soon? 
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