Do you want a different holiday but have no idea where to start? There are so many choices that it’s very easy to become too overwhelmed and just choose what you’ve always done. But if you’re already yearning for something new, this will get you disappointed.

Don’t despair; it’s my job to help people get to the core of what they look for in a holiday and translate that to something new that they will enjoy. Here are the seven pointers that I use to help my customers choose a new holiday experience that will be right for them.

Top 20

Don’t give it too much thought, list the top 20 experiences you’ve had on holiday. Do it quickly, and you are sure to list the most memorable ones.

Are there any themes? Food, nature, activities, architecture, beach, history, culture. As an example, if you notice that you enjoy culinary delights, you could look for a foodie itinerary or destination that would allow you to explore new ingredients and flavors.

Be Honest

You’re old enough to do what pleases you and not what you think others might expect. Life’s too short for that. Write down the answers to the key questions below and keep them in mind when you’re considering your next holiday.

Need for Control

Do you like to be in control so you can be flexible with where you go and how long you stay, or are you happy for someone else to take care of every detail?

Your answer will tell you whether to choose a holiday with a preplanned itinerary where you turn up and have fun or if you prefer to do it yourself, allowing for spontaneity but needing somewhat more planning.

Free Time Management

How do you enjoy your free time at home? Maybe you cycle or walk, and this could point to an activity holiday.

Level of Comfort

Do you like luxury, or can you manage with the basics?

Weather in the Making

Do you like the heat and sun, or snow and cold, can you cope with some rain on holiday?

Holiday Purpose

Why are you going on holiday? Is it to relax, have fun, get a tan, learn something new, reconnect, or spend time with loved ones? If you know what you are trying to achieve, it helps you focus on what you might need to get that result.

Camping or Hoteling

Do you like nature and the great outdoors? Or do you prefer to be indoors and close to civilization?

Introvert or Extrovert?

Do you like socializing and meeting new people or do you prefer peace and your own company?

If You Could Be Anywhere Right Now…

This is another list to make quickly and a good one to do when you feel down or have a bad day because, when you need to get away from it all, it’s interesting to see where your mind takes you.

Is it to a beach with ice cold drinks or to an exhilarating mountain vista? How does it feel to be there?

Identifying the feeling is as important as the location and activity. It’s the feeling your mind goes to when it needs to escape. Where can you get this feeling? There’s bound to be more than one place.

Is There Something You Would Like to Try?

Maybe you’ve always fancied snorkeling or scuba diving, in which case, choosing a destination where these activities are available with conditions suitable for beginners could be an idea.

Make sure there’s plenty of other activities you like in these locations too so that you are not pigeonholing your holiday – until you discover if you’d like to do more.

I Wish I…

How many times do you say this: “I wish I had…

• more adventure
• more excitement
• a chance at romance
• some space
• some peace
• time to learn how to …”

Notice what you wish for and see if your next holiday can grant your wish.

If You Won the Lottery, What Would Your Next Holiday Look Like?

I think we’ve all wondered where winning the lottery might take us. Don’t hold back, think about the services and luxuries that you’d incorporate into your next trip. I’m not promising you a lottery win, but this will tell you a lot about your desires if money was no object.

It might be possible to work some luxuries into your next vacation even if it’s a day at a wonderful spa instead of the daily treatments your lottery win would purchase.

Finding Inspiration

Your only limitation is your imagination, but sometimes that needs a little help. Travel magazines, bookstores, and sites like Pinterest can all help inspire your next trip.

Browse but pay attention. You might be surprised to find what images keep drawing you back in. Maybe you thought you’d love a cruise, but you keep being drawn to pictures of African safaris.

Research Your Self

The idea behind each of these seven points is to get to the crux of what you love, and it might not be what you think you love – which might be the reason you’re looking for something new.

Armed with your answers it’s easier and far less daunting to seek out new experiences and consider new destinations.

What new experiences would you like to explore? If you’ve already tried something new, tell us all about it in the comments below – you might just inspire someone else’s adventure!