If there is one thing this year has taught us so far, it’s that even the smallest, most unassuming moments can be unpredictably wonderful — or on the contrary, unpredictably challenging. We're reminded of this when wanderlust or obligation begs us to take “just a quick trip.”

There is so much to be said for the overnight celebration, the staycation, or the weekend getaway. Awakening to a gourmet breakfast-in-bed in any new place — the morning light filling us with new hope and fresh opportunities — can offer an unexpected sense of place and renewed energy that can’t be beat. But even during a seemingly small travel experience, a responsible traveler knows to expect the unexpected.