There’s a trip for everyone, you just have to know where to go. But finding the right destination isn’t always easy. At the end of the day, choosing your dream destination (or compromising on one with your travel buddy) requires a bit of introspection. We’ve taken a closer look at six personality types and outlined how they travel, what to expect if you go on a trip with them, and where to go.
The adventurous traveler
Adventurous travelers are up for anything — they’re bold, independent, and don’t have qualms trying new things. When they’re not on far-flung solo trips, they’re suggesting hikes across glacial lagoons or ice cave explorations. These thrillseekers are great travel companions if you want to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Plus, they’re just full of ideas when it comes to where to go next. Be warned: adventurous travelers can often be spontaneous. Make sure you plan your trip with experiences that are just as flexible as you are.
For these reasons, adventurous travelers are best suited to destinations like Reykjavik. Few places in the world can compete when it comes to jaw-dropping natural spectacles. From glaciers and geysers to waterfalls and ash beaches, Iceland is an unbeatable playground for the adventurous. After all, there aren’t many places on earth where you can wander inside a volcano or go horse riding on a lava field! However, it’s Iceland’s glaciers that really steal the show. These icy wonderlands conjure up all kinds of adventure-laden activities, from hiking and snowmobiling to ice cliff climbing.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with an adventurous traveler, expect last-minute bookings, split-second decisions, and impromptu outings.
The curious traveler
Curious travelers are never satisfied in their quest for knowledge. They’re often history buffs, architecture obsessives, or foodie fanatics. These explorers enjoy trips where they learn something new — or see the remnants of the past in person. If you find yourself planning your next trip with an inquisitive traveler, get ready to go beyond surface-level sightseeing. Your curious companion is sure to opt for in-depth, sensory experiences that leave lasting impressions (and make for amazing memories).
For curious travelers, all roads lead to a destination like Rome. Inquisitive types are guaranteed a camera-snapping good time as they explore the world’s premier open-air museum. But, just like the city itself, a memory-making itinerary of Rome isn’t built in a day. Curious travelers will opt to secure fast-track tickets for top sites to make sure they don’t miss anything bucket-list worthy. When it comes to experiencing local bites, they’ll be up for sampling cuisine (and learning how to cook it). And don’t forget the city’s ancient wonders. A simple entry ticket won’t quench a history hunter’s thirst for knowledge. Instead, the curious traveler will choose a more in-depth experience, like this guided tour of the Colosseum.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with a curious traveler, expect researched itineraries, jam-packed schedules, and a lot of time on your feet.
The quirky traveler
Quirky travelers are hard to pin down. Some might call them offbeat, as they favor destinations and experiences out of the ordinary. From visiting vibrant neon cities to planning remote escapes, these wild cards are unpredictable. If you take a trip with a quirky traveler, you may find yourself setting off to distant lands or digging into the weird and wonderful. Either way, you’ll have a guaranteed good time.
These artistic, often idealistic personalities love nothing more than trying something new. This makes destinations like Osaka the perfect pick. Known as Japan’s kitchen for several, very tasty reasons — chiefly takoyaki. These highly delectable fried balls of octopus are a staple of Osaka’s revered street food scene and can be found on practically every corner. The unconventional traveler will be in their element when exploring the sensory-overloading streets of Dotonbori and Shinsekai, especially around the Tsutenkaku Tower.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with a quirky traveler, expect flexible schedules, snap decisions, and the unexpected.
The romantic traveler
The romantic traveler is a daydreamer who loves escaping the everyday and enjoying every single moment of vacation. Romantic types love nothing more than glamorous river cruises, champagne breakfasts, and strolls through palace gardens. Tradition (think tea time or regional rituals) holds a lot of appeal for the romantic. Whether they head to the big city or venture off the beaten path for an under-the-radar romantic trip, this dreamy traveler will be sure to make the most of their destination.
A trip with one of these dreamers will probably look a lot like Paris (or somewhere equally lovely). The City of Love is built to woo from the moment you spy the Eiffel Tower to those first steps in the Palace of Versailles. Happily, the city’s timeless charm isn’t exclusive to its iconic sights. This is something you’ll soon realize as you stroll through Montmartre or tuck into dinner on the Seine. Paris is also the perfect place if you’re looking to splurge on a loved one: we’re talking Moulin Rouge-tickets-with-champagne-kinda splurge. Of course, nothing kills the vibe like waiting in line or seeing a “sold out” sign. Book a time slot in advance for the likes of the Louvre and this popular macaron-making workshop.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with a romantic traveler, expect passionate pleas to buy castles, fabulous meals under the stars, and a truly relaxing time.
The chill traveler
Low-key and laid-back, chill travelers aren’t too fussy when it comes to where to vacation. These introverts are often happiest beachside, and look at vacations as a time to charge their batteries. Sure, they’d love to snorkel. Take a surf lesson…why not? Ever-so-slightly passive, chill travelers are stoked to be on vacation and happy to go with the flow. If you find yourself planning a trip with a laid-back type, don’t be alarmed if they take a…well…chill approach to organizing things.
Just because these relaxed, good-natured types don’t need to hold the reins doesn’t mean they’re without preferences. Destinations like sun-soaked Sydney are paradise for the chill traveler. And it’s easy to see why: with over 100 sandy shores, Sydney is the perfect place to unwind. But how are you supposed to find the best of the best? Start by bulk-buying your sunscreen and ticking off as many beaches as possible. It’s hard work, but someone’s gotta do it, mate. Start by kicking back on the famous Bondi Beach before hitting the waves at Maroubra Beach for the perfect intro to Sydney life.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with a chill traveler, expect good vibes, wide-open schedules, and willingness to let you take the lead.
The traditional traveler
Traditional travelers love trips to tried-and-true destinations. They’re not about to jet off to Ibiza if there are classics to be seen, and they definitely have a bucket list. Traditional travelers also tend to prefer organization and consistency over last-minute jaunts. These consistent individuals plan trips as they do everything else in their lives: thoroughly. Going on vacation with a traditional traveler means you’ll enjoy guided experiences and see the most of your destination.
A trip with one of these dependable travel companions just begs a destination like NYC. Rest assured, your trip will be planned perfectly — and you’ll be grateful. Of course, the traditional traveler will leave an appropriate amount of wiggle room in your New York City itinerary, as you’re guaranteed to wander upon some unexpected gems. From pop-up restaurants to surprise shows, the Big Apple may try to throw the traditional traveler off their game. It won’t work though, because your trusty travel companion will have booked tours and activities that can be canceled (for free). This way, it’s no problem if you stumble across a jazz cruise that’s happening tomorrow — you can always rebook a trip to the Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building.
Tip: If you’re planning a trip with a traditional traveler, expect meticulously planned days, perfectly scheduled down-time, and tons of pictures of you two in key locations.
