I realized a little while ago that I have rules for a lot of things. This list encompasses my vacation rules. You can thank me later after you've had a rockin' vacation that you won't soon forget.
1. Do not eat at a restaurant that you have back home
In my opinion, when you are on vacation--be it to Erie, PA or Athens, Greece--you need to savor the unknown. Living in WNY, we have a distinct disadvantage in the way of chain restaurants. We have your Applebee's, McDonald's, etc. but we lack a Golden Corral, Jack in the Box, and, much to my everlasting shame--a Sonic Drive-In. We are also missing a ton more, but you get the point. Maybe it's because our local food rules and we don't need to feast at Golden Corral's artery clogging trough or perhaps it's because we are loyal to the restaurants we like. Whatever the reason, it is frustrating for those of us who are tired of choosing between McDonald's, BK, or Wendy's when we feel like some dang chicken nuggets. Therefore, when you are out of town and your options are Burger King or Weinerschnitzel--take the leap and investigate the unknown. You may enjoy the delights of Olive Garden, but what about that local Italian joint you just passed? You get my drift. You can eat Arby's whenever you dang well please, but you can't get breakfast food at 11 pm at Whataburger any time you want.
2. Vacations are not for sleeping
Unless you are taking a stay-cation, there isn't a reason why you should be sleeping-in while on vacation. You are in a place you can't get to everyday, so get out there an enjoy it. I will be the first one to tell you that sleeping-in is God's creation that we all should enjoy--but even I will suspend that belief while on vacation. If you don't need a vacation after your vacation, then you haven't been traveling correctly. It's not everyday you can ride Space Mountain or hike a sweet trail so get out there and do it, my friend.
*My thanks to Uncle Bob for this rule*
3. Sent a postcard
If you are out of town for a long enough stretch of time where a postcard could reach it's destination before your vacation is over, then send one! Since no one actually mails letters anymore, you may as well let someone know you are at least thinking about them while on vacation. Sub rule: don't pick one that says "Florida!" with monkey's jet skiing. Instead, pick one with an ocean view, a local landmark, or a bizarre roadside attraction. Everyone knows you didn't see monkeys jet skiing, but at least they will know that you were cool enough to stop by the World's Largest Ball of Twine.
4. Don't post pictures of your food
The only time this rule may be broken is if your food is totally exquisite or creatively presented. Did you burger come on a cow-shaped bun? Post that puppy on facebook. Are you eating jumbalaya in New Orleans? No one cares.
5. Buy a souvenir for yourself
You may think you will remember your whole, amazing vacation when you get home, but chances are you will remember that you threw up after a roller coaster, not how neat the old-fashioned theme of the amusement park was. Pick up something that encapsulates your trip. No need to stock up, but grab a magnet or a postcard (see above) to remind you of the awesome time you had--when you weren't puking into a garbage can.
