By Kim Wyse

Red Deer Express

It has been a few years since I have been on a vacation and believe me, I am so ready for one!

In a few weeks we will be heading to the mountains for white water rafting, family and friend time.

Since changing careers I have not felt ready or able to vacation and the time is now to get away and to do some living. I knew it was time when I found myself looking at old photographs of my travels and wishing for the salt air of the ocean or the beautiful views of the mountains and the warm turquoise water of the Caribbean.

If you are fortunate enough to travel, take special notes of your favorite moments and items. I am always cognizant of the décor and living arrangements.

Being one who is totally home and design-focused I can’t help but notice aspects of a property, resort or cruise ship. People always say ‘only you would notice that!’

I know, I know but certain things stick in my mind that are hard to forget like that dream of a bed at a B&B in Vancouver or the clawfoot soaker tub at the Heritage House in Calgary.

When I remember the sweet breeze blowing through my cabin the morning we ported at Cabo San Lucas where I awoke to the sun rising through the rock formations my heart seems to slow for a minute as I remember the delicious feeling.

It is the biggest joy in getting away and we take time to lay our head down on a pillow or in a hammock and to not have to worry about laundry or any chores that always seem to be waiting for us at home.

Our beds are made and food can be delivered right to our bedside if we are feeling so inclined. What a wonderful way to relax!

The air smells sweeter and the sun feels different on our face. We venture to do things we wouldn’t normally tackle (ask me about zip line terrors over the jungles of Punta Cana!) and we are adventurous with finding new snacks and shopping places. Travel takes us out of our everyday and places us into luxury and adventure that we would not tackle in our everyday.

The beautiful thing about hotels and resorts is that they fully invest in our comfort and our experience.

A 4-5 star rating ensures great food, unsurpassed service and beautiful surroundings. I always ask about the services available regarding linens, food delivery and spa services.

I want to make sure that even one night in a hotel will be comfortable and luxurious. If I am travelling by car and am not sure about whether or not the hotels have duvets or just those thin awful spreads, I bring my own! I tried getting a feather duvet on a plane once and it was not a good experience.

I hope these next few months are full of sun and serenity for you, that you get to spend some time with the sun on your face and your feet resting comfortably. Treat yourself to a one day getaway if that is all the time you have but make it a great one! It will feel like a total rejuvenation even to have someone pampering you for a short time.

Kim Wyse is a local freelance designer. Find her on facebook at ‘Ask a Realtor/Ask a Designer’.