Facebook Roundup: Road Scholars Share Their Tips for Researching Their Adventures
How far in advance should you prepare to travel? What kind of research should you do, and what should be on your packing list? Some of us like to plan out every detail, while others prefer to just go with the flow. Luckily, a Road Scholar learning adventure takes care of many of the essentials for you, like transportation, where to stay and amazing sites to learn about. But what else are other Road Scholars doing to prepare for their adventures? We asked that question on our Facebook page, and here’s what they had to say!
“I love looking through my Road Scholar catalogs or on the website! I love the Wishlist tab in my account so that if I see something that interests me, I can put it there and go over it and over it. I am a birder so in the past few years, I have considered and researched most of the birding programs. I am always trying to enroll one year out because everything sells out so fast for solos. I always decide based on the itinerary and time of year. I love to travel!”
—Sue S.
“1. Country I want to visit. 2. Small group only 3. Program/itinerary 4. Price
I have been on four Road Scholar learning adventures and they have all exceeded my expectations. I love the educational aspect and having local residents share/give lectures.”
—Janet S. H.
“I spend a lot of time on Google Maps previewing cities including neighborhoods, hotel locations, nearby laundromats, etc. I also look at routes and transportation between destinations. How far is it to …? Should I plan to walk to …? I also download city transit apps.”
—Gerry L.
“Mostly search weather and crowds. Then, transportation length in hours. I’m retired so these are the top three first. Of course cost is always next. But Road Scholar is a not-for-profit so the price is usually in my budget.”
—Lori R. H.
“Search YouTube videos of your destination. I did for several months prior to my The Hidden Treasures of Florence program and knew the bus route to Piazza Michelangelo, the location of the best gelato shops, the authentic leather shops, etc. When I did arrive, it was as if I had been there before. I was able to navigate the streets without a map.”
—Ludivina G.
“I talk to friends and neighbors. One highly recommended Road Scholar so I’m just waiting on my catalog!”
—Carol V. B.
“Before I even start my research, I create a spreadsheet, so that I can save the information along the way, including recommendations, costs and web addresses. Otherwise, I tend to go around in circles.”
—Éva S.
Do you have suggestions of your own? Join the conversation on Facebook and discuss research tips and tricks you have from your travels!