As we travel more and more, we want to prepare better and better itineraries. Here we discuss a few clever ways to plan a great itinerary. Planning an itinerary be fun. Here’s how!Step 1: Draw up the dream holiday. Use pictures to tell the story and include a timeline that shows start and finish dates as well as any special events that you might be targeting on the way.Step 2: Get a map and look at the possibilities, noting travel time between destinations and other important information, like weather, crowds, geography, and local opportunities. In this stage you are looking at the big picture, not the day by day approach. Develop the timeline and list interesting activities that you find. Complete a high level timeline that lists the main towns, approximate length of stay and travel times. You should have a logical travel plan by now between destinations. Remember, travelling in one direction eliminates the need to return to the first city.Step 3: Carry out further detailed research on the destinations dealing thoughtfully with culture, weather, and the health of travellers, local events and festivals adding this information to the timeline. Adjust as necessary. Include strategies to reduce stress like minimum two night stays (do not need to pack and unpack every day), choose optimum times to see attractions – perhaps going early and avoiding the crowds. Leave some slack in your itinerary for those unexpected events. You can find these anywhere you want to look when you are travelling. You might need to rest as well. Assume that you will return later for more exploration, because you cannot see everything at once. You now have a stack of information that needs to be turned into your dream.Step 4: Carry out final research on accommodation and select appropriately. The options are endless but there are always bargains out there. Make sure that the transport connections work and access is possible to your chosen destinationsStep 5: Your itinerary is ready for pricing. You have two options (a) do it yourself online or (b) take it to a travel agent. He/she will be impressed by your planning and given the opportunity may add value to the itinerary without significant cost increase. (Perhaps even a cost reduction) Once you have received the quote from the travel agent – challenge him/her in any of the areas that you want improved or changed. Remember: It is your itinerary and you want it to enjoy it!Planning an itinerary is fun. It can take quite some time for a complicated itinerary. Let you imagination and dreams fly.