A new look at your vacation

American psychologist Colin Ellard gives suggestions on how to take a fresh look at your vacation destination.

Be unprepared

Deliberately shield yourself from as much foreknowledge of a place as possible and do not view travel guides and websites in advance.

Automatic pilot

After a few days of vacation you start taking regular routes to your tent, the beach, your breakfast café. Try to deviate from these ‘familiar’ routes.

Leave the map at home

With your mind freed from destinations and goals, you’ll be in a much better frame of mind to experience the journey itself.

Ask questions

By asking locals questions about the area (good restaurants, nice spots to visit, etc.), you learn new things and feel more connected with the environment. Most people like sharing things about their neighborhood.