Travel Adventures: Misgivings and When to Indulge

Travel Adventures: Misgivings and When to Indulge


**Travel Choices and Remorse: A Journey Across Time**

Travel choices frequently linger in our thoughts, tormenting us with remorse long after other recollections have faded. Years later, when our financial situation has stabilized, we reflect on missed travel experiences with a sense of resignation, questioning our previous decisions.

For me, my most profound regret traces back to 1998. It marked our fourth or fifth visit to Bangkok, well-acquainted with the city’s buses and river taxis. Once again, we contemplated a side excursion to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, a neighboring country.

Time and again, circumstances thwarted the trip. The 1990s were chaotic in Cambodia, rife with coup attempts and infamous violence. The journey necessitated two visas and an expensive plane ticket, adding $450 to our backpacker budget for merely a few days. We opted out.

We were not alone in this. In 1993, Siem Reap received only 7,650 foreign visitors. By 2003, tourism revenue surpassed $100 million, and hotel numbers skyrocketed. An international airport opened in 2006, and by 2009, there were 118 hotels. The surge in tourists sparked conversations about crowd management at Angkor Wat.

Despite its appeal, we bypassed Angkor Wat in 1998. Life progressed, and our travels to Asia were postponed. In the 1990s, few adventurers ventured to the complex, but as the years rolled on, it seemed everyone except us had made the trip. The prospect of solitude at Angkor had vanished.

Ultimately, the story had a joyful conclusion. In 2012, we utilized frequent flyer miles for a family journey to Southeast Asia. Even amidst the summer heat, I finally explored Angkor Wat alongside my wife and daughter. It was crowded, yet more affordable, with competitive hotel rates and enhanced travel routes.

One travel regret resolved, yet others persist. Some chances are gone forever, never to be revisited.

**Travel Choices in a Lifelong Perspective**

Travel decisions, particularly on a budget, necessitate declining certain experiences. The question remains, how long will the remorse endure? Oscar Wilde’s saying, “Live with no excuses and travel with no regrets,” poses a challenge for those on a budget.

During the 1990s, some travelers overlooked Machu Picchu, a site now attracting millions annually. The same applies to Bali tourists who missed Borobudur or Prambanan. Visitors to Guatemala may have skipped Tikal due to expense or distance.

**Time to Compensate for Past Travel Regrets**

The travel industry is thriving post-pandemic. People have come to understand that travel can be fleeting, and age brings limitations to mobility. Many postpone travel for retirement, only to discover physical restrictions.

This week, I find myself in Chilean Patagonia, a pricey yet stunning destination. It’s my second visit, delayed by the pandemic. As soon as Argentina reopened, we booked our tickets. We won’t live forever.

My suggestion: focus on rectifying past travel regrets. Don’t settle or make compromises. Occasionally, it’s necessary to go beyond the budget or plan for indulgences.

As I’ve matured, I’ve transformed “someday” into “soon.” In 2023, we rented a house on a Greek Island, a dream long in the making. Now, we’re organizing a trip to Uzbekistan, a previous regret. New Zealand still awaits on the list.

Post-pandemic, there was an opportunity to visit iconic destinations without the crowds. Did you take advantage? If not, there’s still time to avoid peak seasons.

**Book Those Essential Travel Experiences Now**

The pandemic pause was fleeting. With borders reopening, travel demand has surged. Be inventive with your timing and trip arrangements. If there’s always been a destination you’ve yearned to visit, take that initial step.

Here’s my guidance:

1. Compile a list of places you regret not having visited.
2. Create a list of bucket list destinations and experiences.
3. Rank the top two or three with your travel companions.
4. Secure reservations. Flexible cancellation policies make this simpler.

Planning future trips enhances your spirits and allows for ample research. Consider small group tours with companies like Intrepid or G Adventures for added convenience.

At times, you may even travel with me. I’ve led tours in Mexico and skiing trips in Europe. In 2026, I will guide a tour in Mexico and a ski trip in Slovakia. Join the notification list.

Budgeting is a reality for everyone. I’m not advocating for debt, but if you missed the chance to explore famous spots without crowds, plan to avoid peak times. When an experience promises lasting memories, ask yourself, “Will I regret not seizing this opportunity in 15 years?”