When a luxury escape is on the horizon—perhaps a journey through Latin America—the last thing you want is stress. True relaxation begins long before you board the plane. It starts with meticulous preparation of your personal well-being and, critically, the security of your home.
Phase 1: Perfecting Your Personal Wellness and Aesthetics
Your journey to total relaxation should begin with you. Getting your mind, body, and appearance travel-ready means you’ll feel confident and look stunning whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu or dining at a five-star restaurant.
Pre-Trip Skincare and Beauty Appointments
Aesthetics treatments are an excellent way to refresh your look and simplify your routine for your trip. Consult with experts like Barr Aesthetics to determine the ideal timeline for your chosen treatments.
- Facials and Peels: Schedule a rejuvenating facial or a mild peel at least one week before departure. This ensures your skin is glowing and calm, allowing you to maximize sun protection without irritation. Note: Avoid deep peels too close to travel, especially if you anticipate intense sun exposure.
- Injectables (Botox, Fillers): If you opt for injectables, plan for them at least two weeks out. This allows any swelling or bruising to subside entirely, leaving you with a smooth, refreshed look for your vacation photos.
- Waxing/Hair Removal: Complete all hair removal treatments a few days before you leave. This prevents inflammation and ensures you don’t need to pack razors or deal with upkeep while away.
- Lash and Brow Tinting: Tinting brows and lashes saves significant time on makeup application, perfect for low-maintenance travel. This can be done just a few days before you leave.
Mental and Physical Wellness
Travel can be tiring, even luxury travel. Prioritize your health and well-being in the weeks leading up to your departure.
- Finalize Travel Health: Visit your doctor for any necessary travel vaccinations or prescriptions (like antimalarials). Confirm your destination’s health advisories.
- Digital Detox Prep: Start winding down on work emails and notifications a few days early. Set clear out-of-office messages and designate an emergency contact to truly disconnect once you land.
- Fitness Consistency: Maintain your routine, but don’t overdo it. A well-rested body handles travel fatigue and jet lag much better than an exhausted one.
Phase 2: Securing and Prepping Your Home
Leaving your residence for an extended period requires more than just locking the front door. A vacant home can attract unwanted attention, but proper preparation ensures peace of mind. If you’re in a rental property, you likely have an experienced property manager who can help maintain the home in your absence. A trusted property management service, like Avenue Residential Leasing and Management, is often the gold standard for maintaining security and addressing emergencies.
Home Security and Management Checklist
Ensure all potential security risks are addressed to make your home look occupied and deter intruders.
- External Deterrents:
- Set interior and exterior lights on timers to mimic a normal occupancy pattern. Smart home systems make this effortless.
- Arrange for lawn care, snow removal, or plant watering so the exterior doesn’t look neglected.
- Refrain from posting travel updates on social media until you return.
- Mail and Deliveries:
- Place a hold on your mail with the postal service or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it daily.
- Cancel or reschedule all package deliveries, as piled-up boxes are a clear sign of vacancy.
- Emergency Contacts:
- Leave a written, detailed list of your itinerary and contact information with a trusted local friend or family member.
- Consider a property management company for comprehensive property oversight. Their professional management ensures any issues, from a burst pipe to a security alarm, are handled immediately and professionally, giving you true peace of mind.
Utility and Appliance Maintenance
A little preparation here saves significant energy (and money) and prevents potential disasters.
- Water Safety: Turn off the main water supply to your house, or at least to the washing machine and sinks, to prevent leaks or a burst pipe while you are away (especially in winter!).
- Thermostat Adjustment: Adjust your thermostat to a moderate, energy-saving temperature. Avoid turning it completely off, especially in extreme weather, to prevent damage to pipes or electronics.
- Unplug Electronics: Unplug non-essential electronics (TVs, small kitchen appliances, chargers) to save on energy costs and protect them from power surges.
- Kitchen Clean-Up:
- Empty the refrigerator of all perishable foods that might spoil.
- Run and empty the dishwasher, and take out all trash and recycling.
Phase 3: Finalizing Your Travel Details
With your home secured and your personal well-being prioritized, it’s time to focus on the exciting part: your destination. For truly memorable, luxurious travel, a specialist is indispensable.
Destination-Specific Preparation
When planning an exquisite, tailor-made itinerary, such as a high-end trip to Latin America, the details matter.
- Consult Your Travel Planner: If you’re using a specialist like Landed Travel, confirm all your transfers, accommodations, and specialized experiences are finalized. They often handle visas and specific entry requirements, but a final check is wise.
- Local Currency and Cards: Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to avoid frozen accounts. Obtain a small amount of local currency before you leave.
- Packing Smart for Luxury Travel:
- Pack versatile, high-quality items suitable for your itinerary (e.g., elegant evening wear for city dining, durable yet chic layers for high-altitude trekking).
- Carry essential travel documents (passport, insurance, ticket confirmations) in a secure, easily accessible bag.
The Final 24 Hours
In the days before your flight, focus on these last-minute tasks for a smooth departure.
- Confirm All Bookings: Double-check flight times, airport transfers, and the initial hotel booking.
- Charge All Devices: Ensure your phone, e-reader, camera, and power bank are fully charged.
- Enjoy the Calm: With your home secured and your personal preparations complete, you are now ready to relax and fully embrace the world-class adventure that awaits you.
Ready to book the trip of a lifetime now that your home and self are prepared? Bon voyage!