How do you choose your travel destination?

  • Guide voyage
Rédigé le 16.06.25
choisir sa destination de voyage

Choosing your next travel destination can be an adventure in itself. Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or an occasional traveler, several criteria come into play to make your stay a success. In this article, we help you ask yourself the right questions to refine your choice.

Defining your travel goals and desires

Before even comparing plane tickets or scrolling through photos of heavenly beaches on Instagram, it's essential to take some time for yourself: Why do you want to go? What do you really want from this trip? When will you leave and for how long? Who will be part of the adventure? This questioning, often neglected, will enable you to choose a destination that makes sense, in phase with your state of mind, your values and your needs of the moment.

What kind of trip would you like to take?

Your ideal destination depends above all on what you want to experience.
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Adventure

For the curious and the dynamic, a trek, an itinerant tour or an expedition off the beaten track is a great way to challenge yourself and get your adrenalin flowing.
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Relaxation

Need a break? Choose a stay by the sea, in the countryside or in wellness accommodation to gently let go.
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Culture

Discover local history, art, gastronomy and traditions through guided tours or urban immersion.
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Nature

Rejuvenate in the heart of unspoilt landscapes, between hiking, nature parks, wildlife observation and rural ecotourism.
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Solidaire

Give meaning to your trip by participating in local projects and promoting authentic human exchanges.
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Who would you like to go with?

Going away alone, as a couple, as a family or in a group does not generate the same dynamics or the same needs.

A solo trip offers freedom and introspection, while a stay as a coupleprivileges complicity. With family, you'll need to adapt the pace and activities, while with friends, the balance between shared moments and autonomy is essential. Finally, an accompanied trip lets you let yourself be guided, while sharing the adventure with other travelers.

How long will your trip last?

The time you devote to your trip directly influences the intensity of the experience.

A short stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal for a escapade in Europe, such as a cultural weekend in Rome or a nature break in Slovenia. For a more complete immersion, allow 10 to 15 days for tours like Morocco, Vietnam or Jordan, where you need time to explore without rushing. Finally, if you have a month or more, opt for destinations conducive to slow travel or commitment to solidarity, such as aparticipatory stay in Latin America or an immersion in Africa.

But beyond the calendar, everything also depends on your desires on site: alternating rest and discovery, taking your time or multiplying stages. The key is to choose a rhythm that suits you... and that also respects the destination.

Anticipating your budget

Your budget has a major influence on your choice of destination and the type of trip you can envisage. Here are the main points to consider:
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Local cost of living

Some regions, such as South-East Asia or Latin America, allow you to travel on a limited budget while enjoying a high level of comfort.
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Transportation

The cost of plane tickets, trains and local transfers can represent a significant part of the budget, especially for distant or poorly served destinations.
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Accommodation

From budget camping to charming hotels and homestays, the level of comfort has a direct impact on costs.
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The activities

Museums, guided excursions, treks, nature parks, cultural outings... these expenses can quickly add up if they are not anticipated.
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Additional costs

Travel insurance, visas, vaccinations, tips... these are all items that are often overlooked but must be included in the overall calculation.

Choosing the right time to travel

Every destination has its ideal season... and its season to avoid!
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The climate

Find out about dry seasons, monsoons and harsh winters.
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Tourist numbers

Avoid high season if you're looking for peace and quiet.
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Cultural or religious events

Festivals, local feasts and traditional celebrations can enrich (or complicate) your trip.

Find out about administrative formalities

Make sure you can cross borders with complete peace of mind.

Each destination has its own requirements: a passport valid several months after the return date is often essential, as is a visa, depending on the countries visited. Some territories impose mandatory or strongly recommended vaccines. It's also prudent to take out travel insurance, covering medical expenses and unforeseen. Finally, be aware of customs or local regulations (imports, clothing, driving, drones...) to avoid unpleasant surprises on arrival.

For up-to-date entry requirements, health measures and official recommendations, visit Conseils aux voyageurs du ministère des Affaires étrangères.

In a nutshell...

Choosing your travel destination isn't just about following trends or seeking the sun: it's a personal journey, one that deserves thought and inspiration. By defining your desires, your constraints and your priorities, you put all the chances on your side to experience a travel that truly reflects you.

At ATC Routes du Monde, we've been helping travelers build meaningful, solidary and accessible projects for over 90 years.

Need a helping hand to make the right choice?
Check out our blog posts to discover our destination ideas or contact our team directly to benefit from personalized guidance. We'll be delighted to help you bring your next departure to life.

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