Best Trip Ever: Dad’s Thoughts


As I explained from the beginning, for me the most exciting part of the trip was seeing my dad’s excitement. And while I’ve taken many trips with my dad, planning a complete surprise trip was a new one even for me.

I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed seeing his reactions every step of the way as he learned where we’d be going next, and I can’t recommend it enough… assuming you’re traveling with the type of person that likes surprises and is up for anything.

My dad had originally started writing a million word trip report, but after the feedback from his videos, I figured him sharing his final trip thoughts on video would be even better.

Before I share the videos, let me just add one more huge thanks to you guys for how interactive you made this trip. I can’t even begin to say how happy my dad was by all the nice comments he received. While he doesn’t know how to use the internet, I showed him all the comments, and they put the biggest smile on his face. Truly the interaction and surprise element of the trip were probably more exciting than the rest of it combined… which is saying a lot.

With that in mind, let’s get to the videos!

The first video is of my dad sharing his pre-trip thoughts, and what he thought of having a complete “surprise” trip:

The second video is of my dad sharing the highlights of the flights:

The third video is of my dad sharing the highlights of the hotels:

The fourth video is of my dad sharing the highlights of the cities:

And the fifth video has my dad’s final trip thoughts:

Pardon the mild gaffes, re: the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab, as well as the fact that His Excellency doesn’t run “Effihad” (as much as I’m sure he wishes!).

Thanks again for reading, guys, I really appreciate it… as does my dad!

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Henry Guest

Ben, I just "caught up" on the festivities for your dad's "round" birthday...I really miss my father as he passed when I was in my thirties...it's clear that your dad is super proud of you and what you do...my dad was the same for me on many levels...we're fortunate to have this type of relationship with our parents. I have learned much from reading your travel blogs...just experienced the Emirates First Class suite from Zurich to DXB and then on to SFO...what a trip! All using Alaska Air miles...thanks for your positive contributions to my "hobby". Henry

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Saket New Member

you're a very generous and loving son to do this for your father!

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Frank Guest

Your dad is awesome. I lost my dad a few years ago, and it strikes me that we don't get this time with our parents back. It's great that you're taking time out of a busy schedule to experience the world with both of your folks. I'm sure they're proud of you, and you of them.

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Craig U Member

Thank you to you and your father for putting together these videos! Love, love, loved them!

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Trevor Member

Seeing your trip with your dad has made me try to convince mine to take a trip with me. Not that I could reach the same level, but it'd still be nice. I have to say, your dad really was such a great sport through the entire trip, his perspective was really refreshing. I particularly enjoyed the videos of him trying to ascertain where you were off to next. It certainly gave a different perspective of luxury travel, especially for those of us that grab the proverbial brass ring often. Its great to see someone enjoying it for the first time. Given all the opportunities you have, I think it is absolutely awesome that you shared all of these experiences with your father.

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Meet Ben Schlappig, OMAAT Founder
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