On a quick trip to a local “Big Box” store today, I passed by the electronics section to find the film, “The Bucket List” playing across the TV screens on display.  While not a huge fan of the film itself (I do adore Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, but I found the plot a bit contrived), I did appreciate the notion of having an actual “Bucket List.”

As someone who has lost loved ones from a very early age, it’s safe to say I’ve got more than a keen sense of the brevity of life than most – and that my Joie d’Vive is no accident. “Does Linda have a Bucket List?” you may ask. In the immortal words of Sarah Palin: “You betcha!” Numbered…and with a few modifications (aka hen-scratchings) along the way, perhaps. But, most definitely – yes!

When I got back in my car and started it up, what should be playing on my radio but, “Say,” by John Mayer: the theme song for the film I just saw playing in the store. The coincidence was uncanny, considering this song is a good three or more years old. But, I don’t believe in coincidence. Rather, I’m one of those who believes that everything happens for a reason. If you believe in signs – and I do, big time! – I think someone was trying to tell me something. Could a story about “Bucket List” travel wishes be far behind? I think not!

As a career Travel Consultant, my job has been to be everyone else’s “Travel Dream Weaver” by helping to orchestrate my clients’ travel dreams and wishes. Sometimes, it’s for a simple getaway to their favorite and familiar destination. Other times, it’s for a life celebration of sorts: whether it be a family reunion, bachelor/bachelorette party, anniversary, or honeymoon. Sometimes, it is even celebrating the life of a loved one who has already passed-on. But, on rare occasions, I’ve had the heartfelt pleasure and honor of actually helping make one’s final wishes come true: the fulfillment of a “Bucket Wish” of theirs.

These wishes have ranged from something as simple as having a “VIP Breakfast” with Mickey Mouse – complete with paparazzi photo ops and behind-the-scenes tours of Walt Disney World to a secluded over-the-water bungalow in Tahiti to dogsledding in
Alaska. And there are so many more heartwarming stories!

My recommendation: don’t wait! If I’ve learned anything in my life – not only as a Travel Professional, but as a human being who has loved and lost – tomorrow is promised to no one. If you’ve got a Travel “Bucket List,” get moving! If you don’t, start one! What, specifically, is on mine, you may wonder? Perhaps I will divulge it over time. But I did get to scratch-off something from it last year when I climbed to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Silly? Maybe, to some. But there is no rhyme or reason to what is important to each of us! Whatever it is, don’t procrastinate!

To coin the Nike tag-line – “Just DO it!”

Do you have a Travel “Bucket List?” If so, what destinations or experiences are on it that you would like to share?

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