How to plan memorable vacation experiences? If we’re spending the equivalent of a rent payment or a down payment for a car, why aren’t we doing these three things? Things that will make your vacations not only memorable, but happier and it just may lead to personal growth. Who doesn’t want to better themselves, and travel is the perfect environment to do so.
Wanna know how?
I’m here is to help shift perceptions around travel, not what it is, but what it could be. Intentional travel is a wonderful way to craft adventures that suit you, not satisfy an advertisers ROI or an algorithm. And please don’t start with a paralyzing Google search. That’s not where memorable vacations begin—it’s where real adventures die. Instead of sparking inspiration– a quick search sets the trap: endless scrolling, generic itineraries, and a dizzying spiral toward forgettable, trend-chasing getaways. These trips don’t create memories—they breed misery.
As an industry insider, I see it every day. The World Wide Web is open for business 24/7. But travel seems to be losing its soul. Competition is global. The web makes price-hunting a breeze, but it’s also stripped journeys of their character, personality, and meaning. Industry Goliaths push you into their algorithms (censorship) and brainwash you into believing following the crowd is cool. But it is? I’ve found it to be vanilla, overcrowded, superficial, and totally void of character.
But here’s the truth—the real secret: You don’t have to.
To Plan Memorable Vacation Experiences: You Need a Perception Shift
Memorable vacations don’t start with a must visit destination or pricey stay. Nor do they start with a reel, a TikTok or a glossy magazine. Checklist of “must-sees” aren’t always what their cracked up to be, perfect places and people—because travel isn’t perfect. (Neither are you, your family, friends, or anyone else you’ll meet along the way.) And please realize, you are consuming media (like you are here) through the lens of the personality type creating it? Does it resonate with you? You’ll know if it “feels” right or “feels” ogg.
Forget the where. Start with the who. Who are you? What do you truly crave? What ignites your curiosity, fuels your energy, or soothes your soul?
Stop following blindly. Start questioning and exploring, not just places, but yourself. Ask what you need, what you want. Then invite others to share their dreams, too.
I’ve dedicated decades dedicated to travel branding, marketing, and travel writing. These experiences helped me see travelers from all corners of the globe. And I know this to be true: too many, I had done the same, don’t ask themselves what they truly desire. They surrender to the easy path: copy-paste itineraries, influencer-approved hotspots, and “top 100” lists. Or worse—they drown in analysis paralysis, lost in a Google or AI vortex, until they just book… anything. Sound familiar?
Who’s in charge of your happiness? You are. So, what do you want from your vacation?
Tip: Thinking for yourself always beats letting others decide for you.
Nothing unexpected and wonderful is going to happen if you have an itinerary in Paris filled with the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. – Anthony Bourdain
Ask: What Would Make Your Happier To Plan A Memorable Vacation
Let’s be honest: “happier” is just the tip of the iceberg, and it never lasts as long as we hope. So, I started asking questions that most people never consider—questions that peel back the layers of expectation, habit, and social pressure. Instead of chasing the next “must-have,” I invited travelers to explore what truly energizes them, what makes their heart race with excitement or their soul sigh with contentment. Moving them closer to identify their travel personality type.
“What would make you happy?”
Too often, the answer is tied to something outside ourselves—a new destination, a luxury suite, a photo-worthy moment. But happiness built on externals is fleeting. It’s a sugar rush, not a nourishing meal.
They point us toward what matters—connection, joy, peace, adventure, or even quiet reflection. But feelings can be tricky. They’re not always permanent, and they don’t always tell the whole story. So I’d ask, “For how long?” That’s when conversations began to shift. Blank stars. That’s the moment of truth. When perspectives started shifting, and we realize:
memorable experiences aren’t about checking boxes or creating a new Instagram grid. They’re about how we want to feel—not just for a day, but long after we’ve unpacked our bags.\
So, what if planning your next trip started with a different question; asking “Where should I go?” or “What’s trending?” “How do I want to feel when I get home?” And “What kind of experience will help me carry that feeling forward?”
Questioning is the secret sauce. This is how you craft a vacation—and a life—that’s truly your own. Not borrowed from someone else’s highlight reel or dictated by what’s “hot” or “insta-worthy.” Memorable is built from the inside out, on what makes you come alive.
What I discovered is 10-15% actually know themselves, and yet 95% of people —believe they are self-aware, but this perception often doesn’t match reality due to natural blind spots, cognitive biases, and the influence of social expectations and self-image. Yep, this is exactly what I was experiencing. It wasn’t just a Nina thing, it was an everybody thing.
Plan More Memorial Vacations For Your Travel Archetype!
The truth is vacations don’t change who you are—they amplify it. When you strip away daily routines and step out of your comfort zone, you begin to see yourself more clearly. The masks of persona slip, and if you’re willing, you can tap into something deeper: your Spiritual Personality Type℠. This is where clarity rises from the soul—not the conditioned self.
I can guarantee with 100% certainty: everyone has had a whiff of Divine Intelligence on vacation. Remember, the detours that lead to unforgettable vistas or the sumptuous shrimp shack you stumble upon, that wasn’t in the guide books. It’s in the stranger you meet who, by sunset, feels like a lifelong friend.
Most people never pause to consider that they even have a travel archetype—the unique constellation of personality traits that guide their adventures. But when you do, you unlock the secret to crafting trips that don’t just entertain, but transform.
Spiritual Travel Personality Types: Know Your Authentic Travel Preferences
SENSING PERCEIVERS (SP) AAA Types
Introducing the travel family temperaments of sensing perceiving personality types (SPs). We should all be grateful for these types because they create the beauty, grace, fun, and entertainment the rest of us enjoy. Sensing perceivers are at home in the world of physical objects that can be built and transformed; hands on experiences are a must. Their actions are usually aimed at getting them where they want to go as quickly as possible—a fabulous travel perk.
Spirited Traveler (ESTP): Adventurous, Spontaneous, Bold
Active Traveler (ISTP): Curious, Hands-on, Risk Taker
Playful Traveler (ESFP): Vibrant, Social, Thrilling
Abstract Traveler (ISFP): Athletic, Artistic, Harmonious
SENSING JUDGERS (SJ) ETA TYPES
Introducing the travel family temperaments of sensing judging personality types (SJ). They types are likely to book budget-friendly stays and are typically organized and practical. Especially useful when your traveling with a big group. Adhering to schedules, everything is in its proper place, and everyone is doing what they’re supposed to do. These types may have issues with their need to organize and schedule and may not like to travel as much as other types.
Dutiful Traveler (ESTJ): Traditional, Respectful, Reliable
Grounded Traveler (ISTJ): Thoughtful, Nostalgic Stays, Comforting
Attentive Traveler (ESFJ): Empathetic, Purposeful, Caring
Kindly Traveler (ISFJ): Compassionate, Considerate, Supportive
INTUITIVE FEELERS (NF) AFT TYPES
Introducing the travel family temperaments of intuitive feeling personality types (NF). They realize the mystical or spiritual dimensions of life, the intangible can only be known through intuition, and experience. For NFs, this belief is highly valued, more so, than material things. These travelers readily give to others on vacation; offering directions, soothing a frustrated travel mate, or uplifting their companions when the road gets bumpy.
Harmonious Traveler (ENFJ): Inspiring, Inclusive, Uplifting
Insightful Traveler (INFJ): Meaningful, Authentic, Transformative
Expressive Traveler (ENFP): Creative, Spontaneous, Enthusiastic
Seeking Traveler (INFP): Imaginative, Soulful, Inspirational
INTUITIVE THINKERS (NT) ECO TYPES
Introducing the travel family temperaments of intuitive thinking personality types (NT). Expect these types to have all the latest tech apps that travel offers. They are likely to desire trips with spiritual secrets to faraway lands, instead of trendy, consumptive travel. However, they do like beautiful and high-quality material goods.
Assured Traveler (ENTJ): Ambitious, Efficient, Commanding
Inventive Traveler (INTJ): Strategic, Innovative, Visionary
Curious Traveler (ENTP): Exploratory, Clever, Engaging
Ingenious Traveler (INTP): Intellectual, Analytical, Unconventional
When these archetypes collide—one partner wants to hike at sunrise, the other wants to sleep in—conflict is inevitable. The real reason couples fight on vacation isn’t the itinerary; it’s the clash between unspoken self-identities. From my debut travel book: Unpack Your Personality: Let Your Inner Guide Be Your Travel Guide.
A 3-Step Planner For Archetypes to Plan A Memorable Vacation
Identify Your Archetype: Before you book anything, ask yourself: Who am I when I travel? Seeker, Enthusiast, Harmonizer, Dutiful, Curious? Have your partner do the same.
Communicate Expectations: Share your archetypes and what you each need to feel fulfilled on the trip. Be honest about your non-negotiables and set boundaries.
Design a Blended Itinerary: Build your trip to include elements for all. This hold true when traveling with friends and family. Respect another’s alternate activities, or carve out solo time so each person gets what they need.
Most Vacation Fights Aren’t About the Trip—They’re About Misunderstood Identities and Unspoken Desires.
Learn to ask the right questions. Recognize that each Spiritual Personality Type℠ carries its own travel archetype—complete with unique gifts and, yes, flaws. Be honest about who you are—no blame, no shame. And remember: your partner has their own strengths and quirks, so stay open, compassionate, and don’t forget to laugh!
Why? Because none of us are perfect. We all have our quirks, and travel just shines a spotlight on them.
Ready to ignite your “travel self-identity” conversation?
Try this quick exercise. If your partner’s an extrovert and you’re an introvert, schedule accordingly. Don’t insist on sticking together like glue. Most introverts crave downtime—let them have it, and don’t take it personally. When introverts honor their need for solo time, they return rejuvenated and ready to join extroverts on the next adventures. The same goes for extroverts: go out and explore! If a day by the pool isn’t your thing, don’t force it.
The secret?
Know yourself. Communicate. Blend your plans.
Let travel tensions become opportunities for true connection.
Dear Travelers Who Crave Memorable Vacation Experiences
If you’re a seeker—curious, open, and ready to travel with intention—welcome. Throughout this post, you’ll find extra travel insights, but here’s what matters most: my passion is helping you bring your true self to the surface.
When you travel from a place of self-awareness, you make choices rooted in your own values, not others’ expectations. You begin to embrace your authentic, untamed spirit—the real you.
You already have everything you need to plan a vacation that stays with you long after you return. If you’re still unsure, revisit this post and let your travel archetype guide you.
A few more blogs that explores the topic of travel personality typing:
When You’re Ready, Here’s How I Can Help
Want to go deeper?
My book doesn’t just outline your travel archetype—it explores how you show up as a mom, a partner, and a traveler. You’ll find checklists for happier vacations, insights into travel triggers, and a celebration of your unique travel gifts. Ready to dive in? Grab your copy on Amazon.
Happy travels—may your journey be as unforgettable as you are!
Who Is Nina Zapala?
Nina Zapala is the founder of a Spiritual Personality Typing℠, proprietary self-identity paradigm. It connects personality with the physical mind and the spirit mind to help individuals fully embody their true selves. She is the creator of the (un)brand. A new tool for founders to separate from patriarchal tactics; limited, stereotypical, chasing… Instead, the (un)brand. embraces powerful soul fed branding strategies. Enabling Founders to express from Divine design, in Divine timing and take Divinely inspired actions. Unapologetically and Authentically.
With over 300 articles and a decade in branding, communications and strategy, Nina helps women reclaim their identity and purpose on their own terms. She is also the author of Unpack Your Personality Let Your Inner Guide Be Your Travel Guide,
