People tend to be all over the map when it comes to how to best plan a vacation. Some people use travel agents because they don’t want to be heavily involved in the planning process, some people spend hours on the internet researching, gathering information and booking on their own, and some people use a combination of both. There is no right or wrong way. The approach you take should be all about what makes you most comfortable.

When it comes to my personal vacations, I am the ‘do it yourself’ type of person. After a destination is decided on, I read all the travel blogs and compare prices on all the websites, so I am certain that I’m making a good decision before I book flights or accommodations. I read relentlessly about what to do, what to see and what to skip. I create a detailed list of restaurants, pubs, bakeries and other specialty shops so I know the great places to go in every city and town. I literally create an itinerary with all the highlights included so I have all our information in one place. I’m that person.

As much as this makes me sound crazy… I love it! Planning a vacation is one of my most favourite things to do! I love the time leading up to a vacation because of the excitement and anticipation of exploring a new place, and because I know that it’s going to be a wonderful change from my everyday. I love to learn about the destination I’ve chosen, so I’m familiar with the ins and outs before I arrive.

The vast majority of my traveling is done with my husband, Scott. I keep him in the loop, but he mostly lets me run with it when it comes to planning all the details. We’re currently planning a trip to The Netherlands and France, which I’m crazy excited for! We’re two weeks away, but who’s counting?!

To bring Scott into the loop on everything French & Dutch, we planned a night in where we watched travel videos and talked through our travel plans over French wine, and French and Dutch cheese that we bought from the Cheese Boutique in Toronto.

Side note – If you haven’t been to the Cheese Boutique in Toronto, you must go – it’s paradise for food lovers! In addition to the most elaborate cheese counter I’ve ever seen, there’s a meat counter, produce area, dessert counter, a bakery and so much more! We found a delicious, mild Dutch gouda cheese, and a French brie cheese that was so creamy it almost melted like butter in my mouth! We found the everything price-comparable with other shops in town too. I highly recommend a visit to stock up on the good stuff!

the cheese boutique, toronto, ontario

Spending a night chatting about our vacation while eating food inspired by the places we were so excited to visit was a great way to get us both involved in the planning and excitement. I’m a firm believer in that if you’re spending the money to travel, your vacation might as well begin with the planning!

our cheese & wine spread – the ultimate while talking all things Holland & France.

*All photos & opinions are my own.