Taking the time to do a little pre-vacation or mini break planning will ensure a fun-filled and relaxing trip. Here are 5 tips to get you started.

1. Decide the type of vacation you want to take.

When you arrive at your destination, do you drop your bags at the hotel, head for the beach, rub in the SPF, grab a cool drink, and find the perfect spot to lie down to soak up the warm sunshine and cool ocean breezes?

Do you like to explore the city you are in, meander through the museums and art galleries, chat with the locals as you dine at an outside cafe?

Write down how you want to spend your days while on vacation. Knowing what you want to do or not do is important so you are not wasting precious time and you are allowing yourself to make the most of the days you have planned.

2. Finding a hotel at or nearby your destination.

Decide if you want to be smack in the center of all the activities. Once you arrive, no driving for you. Do you want to walk out of your hotel room and into the pool?

Perhaps you prefer to be a bit away from all the hustle and bustle and in your own quiet out of the way oasis. Your ideal getaway may be a peaceful isolated spot where you can immerse yourself in a good book, without the gleeful squeals of other vacationers splashing around and on you.

3. When making your reservations, ask about package deals.

Beyond knowing that you want a non-smoking, king sized bed room, what other amenities are important to you? Can't live without your morning coffee? Then you will want to be sure a coffeemaker is in the room. (Most are, but I always ask).

Do you or anyone traveling with you take medication that needs to be refrigerated? Not all rooms come with refrigerators standard, but one will be put in your room if requested, most of the time at no additional charge.

After a day of exploring the sites and hours of walking would you like to come back to your room and jump into a relaxing Jacuzzi bath? Make sure to ask if these are available when you reserve your room.

Also, ask about package deals. Often you will be quoted a room rate that includes admission tickets to nearby attractions, museums, etc. These rates are not only less expensive when purchased as a combo package deal; it will also save you long waits in line for admission tickets. Be sure to find out if the ticket can be stamped for next day use as well.

4. Make a list of what you need to take on your trip.

Planning ahead and making a list will save you time and money. Take along extra medication in case of last minute changes or delays.

Make sure to label all medication and bring your original prescription label for easy inspection by security.

Don't forget the little things like film, bottled water, shades and sunscreen. These items will cost a lot more if purchased at the resort.

Find out about any new security regulations at airports, should you be flying to your destination.

5. Plan for the unexpected.

Even though your trip is well thought out and well planned, do not overlook any surprise little gems you may discover in your travels. Be sure to talk with the local people as they often know the best sites to see and the best places to eat at the most economical price.

Personally I am not the souvenir type person, but I always bring something back to add to my collection of places I have visited.

I encourage you to do the same. Any small item, even a free unique seashell you stumbled across as you strolled along the beach. Something you will keep and years from now it will evoke pleasant memories of your perfect little getaway.

Wishing you a fabulous, fun, refreshing vacation!