Travel: Organized vs. Scatter-Brained

When it comes to travel, I've never been much of a planner.  I make a few vague lists of things I want to see, then fly by the seat of my pants when deciding when to see them.  I've also never really held much stock in technology when it comes to visiting new places.  I can't really read maps so the shiny map apps aren't going to help.  And I have a fancy schmancy camera so why waste money on photo apps.  But for some reason, this time around, when planning for the European Adventure, I've gone off the deep end.  There are spreadsheets with multiple pages, color coated with addresses, and tube stops/lines.  There are restaurants in different vicinities, and budgets for activities.  I've also researched all sorts of travel apps and plan to download most of them before I leave.

Between you and me, even I find it a little crazy.  Though, I have nothing to base my assumption on of course, I think this newly organized way may just be an easier way to travel.  The trip hasn't happened of course, and all these plans may very well blow up in my face but I like having the information to fall back on.  Because of the whole map reading situation, I know the apps I've found will get me places by telling me exactly which direction to go.  And we'll never have to falter back and forth on what to eat & where.  I've seen reviews and menus: I know exactly what will be good and what's supposed to be not.

My biggest regret though, which is something I'll have to amend when I get there, is the surprise of finding something new.  When I first went to London, I knew nothing of what to expect.  I wandered and walked and happened upon a great pub and Carnaby Street, just by chance.  That's what I love about travel.  The surprise of something new.  However, when you're as scatter brained as I am, the need for the surprise, quite often causes Travel ADD.  Wanting to see everything, I see nothing.  

I'm hoping the planning, takes care of my little wandering brain this time. Though, of course, moving there, would definitely solve this issue...