In conducting research for our trip to Belize, Liz and I have explored several forums including Yahoo and Fodors. We’ve seen some questions come up repeatedly from people who’ve just chosen to vacation in Belize and are seeking advice on everything from lodging to what to actually do there. It seems as though not everyone is completely aware of what Belize has to offer, nor are they quite sure why they are headed there. Vacation to the career person is like a last minute pardon to a death row inmate. It offers an oft prayed for escape and a chance to start over. But a vacation entered into haphazardly can become even more stressful than the lives we are seeking refuge from. Thus, it is absolutely necessary that one have a plan. A few simple questions should be asked immediately, before any other planning occurs:

1. What is my budget? This question will seriously influence what you do and where you go.
2. Where do I want to go? If you already have this figured out, you likely have the next question licked too. 3. What do I want to do? Answering this may generate an answer to #2 if you haven’t already answered it.
4. How long can I stay? This one can impact #’s 2 and 3 and will likely be influence by #1.

Assuming money and time are limited, then the dynamic that forms from these factors becomes a complicated mess; something like this:

Four variables that must be balanced against each other to ensure a successful vacation

Trip planning has now become a bit of a balancing act between where one wants to go and do and what can be financed given time and monetary limitations. Failure to consider all of these things and your vacation could end up feeling like a trip to the execution chair. Or, the return to home and reality could begin the new nightmare! If you are planning a trip to Belize, or anywhere else, click on our Getting Started link and save your cortisol surges for the office.