Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
As someone who typically eschews to-do lists and prefers to live in the moment, my unexpected journey to Burgundy presented an exciting challenge to my usual laid-back approach. This spontaneous trip to Burgundy all began with a simple announcement from my daughter: “Hey, I’m going to Lyon, France.” Whether it was FOMO or seizing an opportunity, I found myself drawn to the idea of exploring the renowned Burgundy region, a place I never imagined I’d have the chance to visit.
Doing the Research
The first step was securing flights, a task made easier by the flexibility retirement affords. With reasonable airfare booked, the real work began. Suddenly, I found myself arranging transportation, booking accommodations, and planning the crown jewel of the trip: wine-tasting tours. As a former analyst of 35 years, I couldn’t help but dive deep into research, a stark contrast to my usual preference for vacations with minimal planning and plenty of free time.
Burgundy’s world-famous reputation rivals its complexity. I devoted hours to online resources, YouTube videos, Somm TV episodes, books, and maps. This intensive study became my “training,” explaining the sudden influx of Burgundy-related posts on my Instagram feed.
Despite my tendency to overanalyze, I found comfort in the personal nature of wine appreciation. Like wine itself, travel preferences are subjective, and there’s no wrong answer. With this mindset, the trip began to take form, building excitement for the unfolding adventure.
As the departure date approaches, most details are in place. The last piece of the puzzle is booking train tickets, a final step in what has been a journey of planning and anticipation.
This unexpected foray into detailed trip planning has been a departure from my usual style, but it’s also been a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences come from stepping out of our comfort zones. As I prepare to immerse myself in the rich culture and exquisite wines of Burgundy, I’m eager to see how this carefully crafted adventure unfolds, balancing my newfound planning skills with my love for spontaneity.
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