…Travel writer Rick Steves said travel is “life accelerated.” Indeed, many people feel most alive during their vacations. These trips make the drudgery of working and the discipline of saving money all worth it. There are many ways to take a holiday. People who want to sightsee, but are nervous about finding their way around an unfamiliar place may prefer a tour. Taking a vacation this way means being able to see what you want to see – assuming it's included on the tour itinerary – and doing so with a group of other travelers. The variety of tours available is almost infinite. There are tour vacations for singles, retirees, college students, and those with a particular interest like golf, history, or wine tasting. There are even tours for people who want to work during their holiday. Some of these even allow people to legally exchange volunteer work for cheap lodging and meals. Tours are structured, which is appealing to some and unappealing to others. Those who like the convenience of a tour but want more flexibility might look into booking a vacation package. Package vacations generally include airfare and hotel, but can also be modified to add rental cars or special excursions; such as a day tour of a historic site or an afternoon of scuba lessons. Packages can offer great savings by combining flights, hotels, and transportation to and from the airport. Many resorts also offer packages that include meals, special banquets, entertainment and more. Of course, travelers also have the option of booking everything separately before they go – or even just chancing it and choosing all lodging, transportation, and adventures as their vacation unfolds. The style of vacation that's best is one that makes you forget about the working week, except when you're wishing you never had to go home!