Waking up Early on Vacation
Sleeping in. One of the greatest feelings. There is nothing like catching up on much needed rest. Most people do not get enough sleep at night and, unfortunately for many, the chance to do this is on vacation. While I am all for travelers spending their vacations however they want, maybe you want to wake up early and just need a good reason to. Here are a few reasons why you might want to skip the late night and enjoy an early morning.
Pump it up
Heading to the gym early will give you a boost of energy and confidence to make the most of your day. It is a lot less crowded in the early morning allowing you to use whatever equipment or space you need. Getting a good workout in and toning your muscles gets you ready for a full day of hiking, swimming, lounging, biking or whatever activities you have planned for the day. Also, many resorts offer morning yoga which is a great way to stretch and relax to start the day.
Early bird gets the…chair
Finding a lounge chair near the pool or beach at a resort can be frustrating. I’ve seen many people go out early to put towels on chairs and then return to their rooms. A lot of resorts have policies that if a chair is unattended for a half-hour, it is cleared off for use by another guest. It does not seem like this is enforced too often. Instead of just claiming a chair with a towel, sit down and relax in one! It is very peaceful listening to the early morning waves without hearing other guests talking and children playing. I really enjoying grabbing a book to read while listening to the sound of early morning waves crashing in. Once other guests start showing up for the day, go and grab breakfast or throw your bathing suit on and get ready for the pool.
Breakfast.
Getting an early breakfast before everyone else wakes up lets you avoid the crowds and have the breakfast you want. Be first in line at an all-inclusive buffet to get fresh food and fruit before the rest of the guests descend from their rooms all at the same time. You will be able to enjoy a hot coffee with a good breakfast while having excellent staff service. For me, having a peaceful breakfast makes it worth getting up a bit early.
Sweet serenity
Just picturing myself sitting on an empty beach early in morning makes me feel relaxed. There is no better time to reflect and truly take in your surroundings than early in the morning with few other people around. Walking through city streets before the craziness of the day is just as relaxing. Taking in the sights while other travelers and locals are asleep will create an unforgettable experience. The peacefulness of the calm morning will not make you regret trading in a late night for an early morning.
Picture perfect
The best lighting for photography is early morning and just before sunset. Not only will early morning photos have great lighting but also there will be fewer people included in your photos. Natural elements, such as fog, might also give your photos a unique touch that you would not be able to get later in the day. If you want great photos to remember your trip, this is the time to do it.
So, which do you prefer?
Staying out late, laughing with friends, have a couple extra drinks will all make for great memories and stories. Calling it an early night and waking up early will also give you great memories and a chance to quietly relax. If you are a late sleeper, maybe try getting up early one morning and see how you like it!
Share your comments below!
Some great reasons to wake up early on holiday! It’s lovely here on Koh Lanta in the early morning. Like you say, you get the beach almost to yourself and can enjoy a yoga class. You can also get some Thai breakfast from one of the stalls at the side of the road – they usually sell out before 9 am, so you need to get up early for these! Most Thai people wake up really early, because the temperature is more bearable in the early morning, and it gets dark early here, at around 6.30 pm, so people tend to go to bed quite early. Also, if you’re over on the east side of Koh Lanta, you can enjoy some amazing sunrises over there. 🙂
Thanks for the comment! Koh Lanta looks like a beautiful place!
Waking up early when on vacation is my thing, i love catching up the sun rise and the early morning breeze it gives me calmness and helps me plan my day.
I would rather wake up early, then take an afternoon siesta which will lead me a late night but will still be able to wake up early next day.
The idea that you are on vacation and have no day to day responsibilities makes it worthwhile to wake up early.
Thanks for the comment! I couldn’t agree more, it is very peaceful catching the sunrise and preparing for the day. An afternoon nap is also enjoyable and allows you to enjoy some nightlife!
Andrew