Travel anticipation is the key to happiness

People from all over the world are experiencing the ‘happiness reset’, and hopping on Mykonos to Santorini ferry is a terrific way to celebrate it. First things first, the substance of each trip that really makes us happy is anticipation. Numerous research has proved how expecting a forthcoming trip may increase a person’s happiness even more than the journey itself. And it makes sense.

There are several things we have to do when planning a trip, all of which lead to the said anticipation. First of all, we get to spend time searching for information regarding the place we are visiting. Where to stay, what to see, which local delicacies to taste, and the list keeps going. We daydream about being at all these unique places, taking pictures, climbing mountains, or diving in deep blue seas.

Additionally, we should mention the spiritual evolution we experience while we travel. A traveler is a citizen of the world and an open-minded person. Getting to know other cultures and mentalities drives you to search for your inner self. See how you can “steal” other civilizations’ wisdom and make the most out of this experience for your own improvement.

Mykonos to Naxos ferry: The gate to wisdom

The gate of the unfinished Apollo’s temple, Portara, has stood lofty over the centuries and welcomes all travelers arriving with the Mykonos to Naxos ferry. The island was related to several myths which enclose ancient Greek wisdom. Persephone, abducted by Ades, and her mother’s mourning, goddess Demeter, symbolize the cycle of seasons. Residents of Naxos worshiped Dionysus, the God of wine. They showed this way their gratitude for the fertility of their vineyards. Poseidon’s twin sons, giants Otus and Ephialtes had supernatural powers -they even threatened to dethrone Zeus. The Naxiot quarry workers worshiped them to protect them in their hard work. At the same time, the myth regarding how Zeus got rid of them with the help of the goddess Artemis also reveals a lot about ancient Greek mentality. The morals in ancient Greek myths reflect aspects of everyday life and customs.

Back to Travel, Back to Happiness

Regarding the aforementioned ‘happiness reset’ a New York Times story referred to it as the result of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Due to the pandemic restrictions, many previous usual habits, such as trips, are considered significant delights. In this respect, even a short road trip or a day trip feels like a fantastic experience. But beware; as soon as people travel more frequently, the joy of travel will reduce. The good news is that there is still a way to draw happiness from trips.

Mykonos to Paros ferry: Excellent chance for socializing

While hopping on Mykonos to Paros ferry, one has what scientists refer to as ‘social benefit’. Indeed, while planning a trip, we become more outgoing. ‘Sharing is caring, as per a wise quote. Sharing details about our vacation with friends and family strengthens connections and boosts the anticipation of our travel. At the same time on board the ferry, we get to talk with other people, asking for information and exchanging experiences. To get in a traveler’s shoes, ask yourself: How do you feel when someone requests instructions while you are on the subway? Now try to recall how it feels to discuss the destination of your choice while on board. Feel the difference already?

Daydreaming is the source of bliss

Scientifically put, cultivating anticipation throughout the day, even without the intention of traveling, can help grow the feeling of happiness. Psychologists acknowledge the importance of savoring the positive effects of vacation anticipation. As per a Dutch study in 2010, people expecting to travel were happier the weeks before their trip. On the return from vacation, their happiness status changed and was comparable to those who don’t travel.

Daydream of hopping on a Santorini to Mykonos ferry and level up happiness

You might not be planning to catch the Santorini to Mykonos ferry this summer, but it wouldn’t hurt to dream of it. On the contrary, as per research, should you empower your positive attitude and feelings like happiness, optimism, and self-esteem grow. How to implement it in your everyday life? Project yourself in the future experiencing positive emotions and increase the positivity in your present condition. Additionally, to savor the benefits of anticipation, write down all the prospects from a journey. Try to implement them in your everyday life. For instance, travel helps us escape from our routine. If you cannot travel, try to take a break for a couple of days. Stay away from laptops, work, or obligations that exhaust you.

Track down your needs and note what it is that makes you happy. Project yourself in the future and imagine you already had a given experience. How does it feel? Keep that feeling and encourage it every day. Alternatively, start planning your next vacation to the Cyclades with island hopping. You will definitely see your optimism at its peak.