It seems as if quite a few of us here are interested in travel, and many use the various rewards cards. It seems many of us here believe that travel is not worth sacrificing (At least not totally) in the name of early retirement. My wife and I love travel writing, watching travel shows (e.g., Tony Bourdain), and are both lovers of museums, beautiful scenery, and other cultures. We've been to Europe several times, and have seen much of North America (lived in Vancouver Canada for four years) and Hawaii. I was in Hong Kong and China once for business, and we are very interested in going to Japan one of these years. I strongly believe you really do need to see some of the world while you are young and have the energy!
I basically have four months off every year (summer and +/- the month of December-Early Jan) from teaching university courses. I spend the time doing (and getting paid for) research at another institution on a schedule that I devise. I also am working on a book (or two) as well as my photography. I enjoy all of it quite a bit.
We are fairly frugal, but we take at least a few trips a year to the Bay Area and Central Coast of California. We stay in nice hotels, have nice meals, nice drives, wine tasting, beachcoming, avoiding crowds, etc. Yes, the money could be saved, but we have our bases covered, have zero kids, zero debt, and I am not willing to give up travel, especially given that we are quite frugal elsewhere. (I daily drive a 26 year old Volvo that is indestructable!) This is partly due to the fact that we live in SoCal, which I absolutely hate and detest with a passion. (was born here, was away for 14 years)
Anyway, this year, we are also going to Ireland for three weeks, and it is costly. Going anywhere for three weeks is going to cost you, especially if you stay in hotels and B&Bs.
In addition the trip planning takes up quite a bit of time and effort. For the last three months or so, it almost seems like a part-time job! I am sure it will be well worth it in the end.
Next year we are contemplating a trip to Greece, Athens, Crete, Islands, etc. Just an idea now, and not anywhere near making actual reservations.
So, would folks here support a travel forum?? OR will you dig your heels in and fight me to the end of the Earth!? :-)
What are your thoughts on travel in general?