1. My closet is still too full.

We managed for 2 full weeks in a temperate climate with just a carryon suitcase each, and yet there are 4 times as many clothes as we took along hanging in my closet, plus 7 pairs of shoes that “stayed home”. Granted, if we travel somewhere really cold, or really hot, we will need to pack differently than we did for Scotland. That said, I still have some downsizing to do.

2. Food

By being just a little bit careful, we enjoyed most of the culinary treats of our destination – even sticky toffee pudding, more than once! – and didn’t gain weight. Desserts (for both of us) and alcohol (for me) are the big temptations, since on an all-inclusive tour they are both included with meals. Focussing on a big breakfast definitely makes it easier to resist later in the day. As for dessert…. unless it looks truly spectacular, we go for just coffee, and fruit if it is offered.

3. Sleep

We need it. Especially me. On this last trip, I was so worried that I would forget what we had done each day that I stayed up late every night transposing my scribbled notes and writing blog entries, despite the fact that we had to be up and on the road early most mornings. Two weeks of that, combined with a 7 hour flight and 3 hour airport transfer bus drive back to Collingwood, meant that I did not do much other than sleep for 3 days once we were back.

4. Pace

It IS possible to be too busy. While I thoroughly enjoyed everything we saw and did during our 2 weeks in Scotland, I found I had to go back and read my own blogs to actually remember it all! I wouldn’t say we’d never take another bus tour, but I will say that we’ll look for experiences at a more relaxed pace.