They say I look like a seasoned traveller, gliding through airports and navigating new places with ease. Little do they know some actully do, beneath this composed exterior simmers a pot of nervous energy, likely fuelled by my ADHD. Yet, I've somehow managed to channel this inherent disorientation into a surprising degree of efficiency. As a devoted explorer of my own backyard, Jordan, I've embraced every mode of transport imaginable, from flights to road trips to VIP buses, always with a thrill. My frequent jaunts to Aqaba felt as casual as a trip across town. While work often necessitates travel, venturing abroad for personal reasons remains a path I haven't yet taken, a decision rooted in personal preferences.

Given my recent insights into the art of last-minute packing, it seems fitting to unveil the pre-trip rituals that allow me to face the inherent uncertainties of travel (whether for work or local exploration) with a semblance of control.

My preparation often begins with a mental (and sometimes physical) interrogation: "What exactly are we doing?" This barrage of questions, directed at travel companions or colleagues, serves to define purpose and desired outcomes. As a project manager, this translates into a cascade of lists, a constant mental campaign. Even for a simple local getaway, I find myself questioning and outlining, a curious counterpoint to my decisive professional demeanour, perhaps a coping mechanism honed by managing workplace complexities.

When work calls me away, my pre-trip considerations include:

• Trip duration and necessary luggage.
• Detailed itinerary: ensuring a balance between professional obligations and personal downtime ("maintenance" is key!). A strict schedule is non-negotiable.
• Event formality: crucial for curating the appropriate wardrobe.
• Team dynamics: who's going, and what are their responsibilities?
• Leadership and time management: essential, especially in less collaborative environments.

My travel rituals provide a sense of grounding:

• Tangible backups: printed copies of all vital documents (tickets, accommodation confirmations, etc.).
• Wardrobe and luggage strategy (as previously discussed).
• Personal upkeep plan: salon visits or packing essential tools. * Temporary beauty enhancements are reserved for unclear schedules or significant events and are promptly removed upon return, prioritizing long-term care. * Hair management: researching local salons, packing my trusty straightener, or opting for a specific pre-trip style for short trips (straightener still often required!).
• Pre-arrival reconnaissance: identifying nearby convenience stores, pharmacies, hair salons, and transportation options on a map.
• For international work trips: researching currency exchange and budgeting for incidentals.

Local personal adventures are approached with more ease. Traveling with close friends who share specific interests simplifies the initial questions:

• Where are we headed?
• What activities are planned?
• Day trip or overnight stay? (To coordinate drivers, rental car needs, or public transport options based on the group's budget.) Domestic logistics are usually straightforward.
• Activity-specific gear and preparation: swimwear, camping equipment, specialized products, and related personal care.

The rituals for these local escapades are wonderfully simple: shower, pack a seemingly random assortment of items that usually proves sufficient, and the crucial task of ensuring everyone (including myself) wakes up on time. The bonus of local travel with close friends often includes the pre-adventure sleepover, amplifying the fun.

While the world beyond Jordan beckons, my personal travel style hasn't yet aligned with my friends' preferences for "lifestyle" experiences, which differ from my more activity-driven desires. And the thought of solo travel, while appealing in some ways, lacks the joy of shared experiences. So, for now, my adventures with them remain firmly rooted in the familiar landscapes of Jordan, where getting lost has a comforting sense of security.

My "Local Tourist" series is far from over! I've barely scratched the surface of my explorations, from invigorating hikes to relaxing staycations, all firsthand experiences of the adventures I once promoted professionally. Future posts will delve into the unique charm of the Dead Sea, the ancient wonders of Jerash, the northern beauty of Irbid and Ajloun, and much more. It's an ongoing journey, so stay tuned for more local tales.

Perhaps fellow anxious travellers reading this will find solace in knowing they're not alone. I've come to see that anxiety can be a surprising catalyst, sometimes masking excitement as stress. While I'm still learning to fully embrace this shift, these pre-trip lists and rituals serve as my compass and anchor in navigating the world, one local adventure at a time.