Planning, Communication Key to Stress-Free Travel – Travel Consultant

By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh

Travel Consultant at Lumina Travel and Tour, Priscilla Ibrahim Tanko has underscored the importance of planning and effective communication in making travel seamless, particularly for working professionals.

Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed, Ms. Tanko identified planning and communication as the two most critical factors in successful travel. She noted that in many Western countries, individuals plan their travel schedules well in advance, often aligning them with their work calendars.

“In some organisations, even before the year begins, employees are asked to think ahead and plan their travel periods. This allows individuals to communicate early with the relevant people involved, whether it is management, human resource departments or team leaders,”she explained.

According to her, early communication makes it easier for professionals, especially those who are not company owners or chief executive officers, to secure time off without disrupting workflow.

She revealed that sensitive leadership within organisations also plays a role in enabling staff to plan ahead.

Ms. Tanko acknowledged that certain industries, such as banking and healthcare, face restrictions during peak periods like festive seasons, making it difficult for employees to travel at those times.

“Some companies simply cannot allow travel during busy periods, however, there are less busy seasons, such as February or March, when employees can plan their trips ahead if they communicate early,”she said.

The Consultant advised professionals to identify these off-peak periods and align their travel plans accordingly, stressing that advance planning helps reduce last-minute pressure and ensures a smoother travel experience.

She also highlighted the mental health benefits of travel, noting that exposure to new environments can significantly reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.

Ms. Tanko explained that stepping outside one’s usual surroundings exposes the brain to new sights, sounds and cultures, which helps break repetitive patterns that often contribute to stress.

“Being in a new environment allows you to experience different cultures, sounds and spaces, and this stimulates the brain,” she said.

The Travel Consultant cautioned that remaining in the same environment for too long can create a sense of stagnation.

“When people stay in the same space, it can feel like staying in the same stress. Travel allows you to think wider and larger,” she stressed.