I'm currently in Oahu, Hawaii right now. Is there anything you want me to cover about the island? Let me know and I'll try my best to answer!


Though I'm a fan of slower travel, I know some of you can't resist the urge to see it all. You want to visit 10 cities in 2 days, and nothing's going to stop you. If you're in this category, here are some tips to travel faster and make the most of your whirlwind adventure.

  • Luggage storage: Many transportation hubs, especially in Europe, offer luggage storage for a fee. Drop off your bags and start exploring right away—you'll gain a few extra hours of sightseeing!
  • Embrace red-eye flights: Late-night flights can be tiring, but they're a great way to maximize your time. You're essentially sleeping and traveling simultaneously—perfect when you're short on vacation days.
  • Book open-jaw flights: An open-jaw ticket allows you to fly into one city and out of another. Unlike a round-trip flight, you don't return to your original airport. It's a clever way to cover two cities in one trip!
  • Travel light: The less you carry, the faster you move. Skip checked luggage and opt for a backpack over a rolling suitcase.
  • Choose hostels: While not my favorite, hostels are ideal for speed. Quick check-ins and check-outs mean more time exploring and less time dealing with accommodations.
  • Dine smart: When eating out, let your server know you're in a hurry. This can speed up service, especially in cultures where dining is typically a leisurely affair.
  • Power nap: Travel is exhausting, so catch some Z's whenever you can. Use transportation time and that lull between sightseeing and dinner to recharge.
  • Skip the lines: Nothing slows you down like waiting in line. Book museum passes and make reservations in advance. Show up early to popular spots to beat the crowds.
  • Forget breakfast: Grab a coffee to go and keep moving. You can always snack while you explore!
  • Stay charged: Bring two backup batteries to keep your phone powered up. It's oddly satisfying to outlast your electronics.
  • Use rideshares: Walking eats up time, and public transit can be slow. Opt for Uber or similar services—except in mega-cities like New York, where the subway might be faster.
  • Do your homework: Nothing kills a trip faster than not knowing what to see or do. Research extensively—your destination should feel like an old friend you're revisiting.
  • Skip guided tours: They're often filled with fluff and cater to various paces. Take control of your itinerary for maximum efficiency.
  • Avoid side trips: It pains me to say this, as I love detours, but if you're aiming to see as many cities as possible, skip the day trips. You could be exploring a whole new city instead!

 

These tips should help you zip through your destinations. 

 

But here's a word of caution: if your body needs rest, it will take it. 

 

I once dozed off on a bench in an art museum because I was pushing too hard. I was physically there, but mentally? Miles away. It was essentially a wasted visit.

 

On the other hand, there's no right or wrong way to travel. Travel in a way that feels right for you. Fast-paced travel is perfect for those who are always on the move and want to maximize their time due to constraints like limited vacation days.

Keep traveling,

Andrew


Do you prefer fast-paced or leisurely travel?

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