Nothing gold can stay

Sometimes it’s done with a handshake. Other times it’s done with a kiss on either side of the cheek. If you are like me, it’s done with a big hug, some jokes to try and curb the inevitable departure, and a swift clean exit. No matter what your strategy is, travel goodbyes are no fun.

One of the best aspects of traveling is the relationship you create. They can come in all forms, be a plethora of durations, and typically involve a swift and strong bond. With the ability to communicate fully not always abundant due to language barriers, meeting another person who you can connect and communicate with is a Godsend.

On top of that, as traveling being the focal point of your current existence, meeting other people who share this common connection can lead to fantastic short-term or long-term romances.  Alas, unless one person is willing to relocate, amend travel plans or just abandon their current course, at one point or another, the relationship and romance have to end.

One proven and necessary remedy for moving on from saying goodbye is a relationship hangover day (or days). Just like the time needed to recover after a night out, I've found a day of relaxation and isolation is a great way to help savor and recover from a beautiful travel connection.

Though traveling is all about being able to take in a place, integrate, share and then move on, many people find themselves a bit off or down after traveling with a good group and having to go separate ways. By taking a day to yourself, you can reflect on something that had a great impact on you and get yourself back into shape for meeting another great group.

Don’t be a stranger while traveling. Though a good dose of reflection and processing time is necessary to really be impacted by the journey, so is connecting with others. Find your balance, and make sure to profit from all the amazing people you will meet along the way.

Photo courtesy of Peregrine By Nature