Jason Erickson Jason Erickson

Travel in Comfort Without the Stress: Tips from Elevated Escapes by Jason

Travel should feel exciting, not exhausting. Whether you’re jetting off for a luxury vacation or heading on a long-awaited family trip, comfort and calm are key to enjoying the journey as much as the destination. At Elevated Escapes by Jason, we believe travel should feel effortless. Here are our top tips to help you stay comfortable and stress-free every step of the way.

Travel should feel exciting, not exhausting. Whether you’re jetting off for a luxury vacation or heading on a long-awaited family trip, comfort and calm are key to enjoying the journey as much as the destination. At Elevated Escapes by Jason, we believe travel should feel effortless. Here are our top tips to help you stay comfortable and stress-free every step of the way.

1. Plan Ahead, Then Let Go

One of the biggest sources of travel stress is uncertainty. Booking flights, hotels, and experiences well in advance allows you to secure better options and enjoy peace of mind. But once the details are confirmed, give yourself permission to stop obsessing. Trust your plans and leave room for spontaneity.

Pro tip: Work with a travel advisor who can handle the logistics, offer insider perks, and be your safety net if plans change.

2. Choose Flights That Work for You

Not all flights are created equal. If comfort is your priority, choose flights based on more than just price. Consider layover times, time zones, seat upgrades, and airline amenities.

  • For long-haul flights, splurging on business or premium economy can make a world of difference.

  • If you can, avoid red-eyes or back-to-back connections.

  • Select seats near the front of the plane for quicker boarding and exit.

3. Pack Light, Pack Smart

Overpacking leads to unnecessary baggage fees and travel-day chaos. Focus on versatile outfits, comfortable shoes, and travel-sized essentials. Use packing cubes to keep things organized and easy to find.

Must-haves in your carry-on:

  • A quality travel pillow

  • Noise-canceling headphones

  • Hydrating mist or face wipes

  • A refillable water bottle

  • Healthy snacks and any medications

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage

There are some fantastic travel apps that help reduce stress on the go. Use them to check flight status, track bags, navigate unfamiliar cities, and keep all your travel plans in one place.

Some favorites:

  • TripIt or Wanderlog for itinerary organization

  • LoungeBuddy for airport lounge access

  • Mobile Passport or CLEAR for faster customs and security

5. Build in Buffer Time

Tight schedules make travel feel rushed. Add breathing room between transfers, activities, and check-ins. Arrive at the airport early enough to avoid panic. Don’t overbook your itinerary. A little flexibility gives you space to relax and enjoy where you are.

6. Stay Grounded with a Routine

Even while you travel, small routines help you feel centered. Whether it’s stretching after a flight, enjoying your morning coffee ritual, or journaling at night, familiar habits help reduce anxiety and keep you grounded.

7. Let a Pro Handle the Details

When you work with a travel advisor like Elevated Escapes by Jason, you gain access to personalized service, VIP upgrades, and support before, during, and after your trip. We help you make the most of your time, skip the overwhelm, and focus on what matters most—experiencing the joy of travel.

Ready to travel comfortably and confidently?
Let’s design a trip that feels as good as it looks. Reach out to Elevated Escapes by Jason and let us handle the stress so you don’t have to.

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Jason Erickson Jason Erickson

Around the World in Style: A Journey Through London, Paris, Dubai, Beijing, and Waikiki

There’s something magical about circling the globe. The idea of waking up in one city and falling asleep in another part of the world is something I’ve always dreamed about. This year, I made that dream a reality with a round-the-world adventure that started and ended in San Francisco. Along the way, I explored five unforgettable destinations and traveled in true comfort and style. Here's how the journey unfolded.

There’s something magical about circling the globe. The idea of waking up in one city and falling asleep in another part of the world is something I’ve always dreamed about. I made that dream a reality with a round-the-world adventure that started and ended in San Francisco back in 2015. Along the way, I explored five unforgettable destinations and traveled in true comfort and style. Here's how the journey unfolded.

First Stop: London

After boarding British Airways First Class from San Francisco to London, the trip began with champagne, gourmet meals, and a lie-flat seat that made jet lag a distant memory. London welcomed me with its mix of tradition and modernity. I wandered through Hyde Park, admired the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, and caught the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. Afternoon tea at Claridge’s was the perfect pause before exploring the West End and indulging in a show.

Second Stop: Paris

From London, it was just a quick hop on the Eurostar to Paris. Stepping into the City of Light always feels like entering a dream. I strolled the cobblestone streets of Le Marais, picnicked by the Eiffel Tower, and got lost in the art and beauty of the Louvre. A dinner cruise along the Seine, with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background, was one of the most romantic moments of the journey. Paris is a city that lives in your soul long after you leave.

Third Stop: Dubai

Next came Emirates First Class to Dubai aboard the A380. Let me just say, nothing prepares you for the feeling of showering in the sky. Emirates offers a level of luxury that’s hard to match, with private suites, caviar service, and a lounge onboard where you can sip cocktails at 40,000 feet. Dubai was a feast for the senses. I visited the top of the Burj Khalifa, wandered through the gold and spice souks, and took a sunset camel ride in the desert. Every moment was opulent, vibrant, and unforgettable.

Fourth Stop: Beijing

From the futuristic city of Dubai, I flew east to Beijing. The contrast was striking and fascinating. I explored the Forbidden City, walked along the Great Wall, and tasted Peking duck at one of the city’s most iconic restaurants. Beijing is where history comes alive. Standing in Tiananmen Square or climbing ancient stone steps along the Wall gave me a sense of connection to the past unlike anything else on the trip.

Final Stop: Waikiki

Before returning home, I stopped in Waikiki for some much-needed rest and island vibes. Flying Hawaiian Airlines Business Class from Asia to Honolulu offered a relaxing and friendly experience, complete with island-inspired meals and plenty of aloha spirit. In Waikiki, I swam in turquoise waters, caught the golden sunset from the beach, and enjoyed live music under the stars. It was the perfect way to slow down and reflect on everything I had seen and experienced.

Home Again: San Francisco

Returning to San Francisco felt bittersweet. My journey had taken me across continents, cultures, and time zones, and every stop left a mark on my heart. Traveling in comfort made the experience even more meaningful, allowing me to arrive refreshed and ready to explore each destination fully.

This trip was more than just a vacation. It was a reminder of how big and beautiful the world truly is. If you’re dreaming of your own around-the-world escape, I’d love to help you plan every detail—from first-class flights to unforgettable stays and experiences.

Because travel should feel just like this: elevated, effortless, and absolutely unforgettable.

Ready to go around the world in style? Let’s plan your perfect trip.

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