The Queen of Public Holidays: Adetutu Olokunbola

If there’s one thing Adetutu knows how to do, it’s making the most of her days off. Whether it’s a long Easter weekend or a midweek break, she’s out the door, passport in hand (or at least bags packed), heading off on yet another unforgettable adventure. Known among friends as “Little Miss Ajala Travels,” Adetutu has turned time off into an art form.

In this refreshingly honest and funny chat with Chiwendu, she shares how she plans her getaways, why rest doesn’t always mean sleep, and how anyone (even you) can start being more intentional with your time off.

CO: First off, where are you right now?

A: Deep breath. Back to reality, Lagos.

CO: I guessed as much, Little Miss Ajala Travels. How do you even do it?

A: The simple answer? The grace of God. But really, it’s all planning, weeks of it. Research, budgeting… I need to know what I’m getting into. If it “passes my power,” we save it for later.

CO: When did you start being intentional about how you spend your time off?

A: It became necessary when adulthood grabbed me by the throat, and I started ageing five times faster than my mates, lol! I’m now a preacher of time off. It doesn’t matter if you leave the country or not, rest is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Work never stops, but you don’t want to wake up one day and realise you forgot to live. I’m so intentional that I start checking next year’s public holidays way ahead. We read; we don’t judge.

CO: Do you remember your first “intentional” trip?

A: Yes! I was feeling burnt out and scrolling Instagram when I saw a travel agency ad. It was a place I’d always wanted to visit, and the package seemed like a good deal. I didn’t overthink it—I just booked. That trip opened my eyes. Now I look forward to every trip, not just for the break, but for the memories and experiences.

CO: How do you decide where to go or what to do when a holiday is coming up?

A: I go with what’s on my bucket list and what I’m craving at the time. You know how you suddenly crave a dish and know where to get it? Like that. And of course, it depends on what my pocket is saying—lol. But I don’t wait for the holiday to plan. I plan ahead so the holiday meets me ready.

The secret? Plan before the money or even the holiday shows up. Delulu or not, you dream it into existence.

CO: What’s your favourite trip so far—and what made it special?

A: I’ve had amazing trips, especially as a solo traveller. People either find that cool or scary. If I had to choose, it would be Florence, Italy. I remember chasing sunsets and how the city made me feel. The happiness came from within—almost unexplainable.

CO: Do you prefer solo travel, group trips, or baecations?

A: Solo travel, any day—for now sha. Until bae shows up. I’m not big on group trips. I like to sleep in, do things at my pace, go wherever I feel like. Group trips can be rigid, and finding people on the same vibe is hard. I love the spontaneity of solo travel.

CO: Any travel rituals you swear by when preparing for a quick getaway?

A: Not really.

CO: You must have the public holiday calendar memorized. How far ahead do you plan?

A: For long trips, I plan months in advance. Even for quick trips, same thing.

CO: What’s the most spontaneous trip you’ve ever taken?

A: A trip to London. It’s not too far, and I needed to see my sister. Being around her always resets me.

CO: Ever had a holiday plan fall flat? How did you bounce back?

A: Yes, and who says I bounced back? LMAO! I mean, eventually, yes, but it pained me sha!

CO: What’s your go-to excuse for extending a holiday into your leave days?

A: Hmm… I’m not sure that information is for public consumption.

CO: People think holidays are just for sleeping or binge-watching shows. What does rest mean to you?

A: Rest is for the weak! Laughs On holiday, I’m STRONG! I’m EVERYWHERE. I always say, “We didn’t come here to rest!” I get my steps in, I’m outside. If I wanted to sleep and watch TV, I’d stay home. For me, holidays are for trying new things, ticking off bucket list items, eating new food, and making memories.

CO: There’s this myth that you have to be rich-rich to travel. What’s your take?

A: Not really. You just need to be intentional. Some of my best trips weren’t about luxury but about planning and budgeting. Travel doesn’t have to mean five-star hotels. Depending on the country, you can take trains instead of flights, stay slightly outside the city centre, and explore free tourist spots.

It’s all about planning. And honestly, you don’t even need to leave the country. A weekend road trip or exploring a new part of Nigeria counts too. Just plan according to your pocket.

CO: How has your lifestyle influenced your work and creativity?

A: It’s made me more intentional about balance. Rest has reshaped how I approach work. I return refreshed, open to new ideas, and I am more patient.

CO: What have you learned about yourself through your adventures?

A: For an introvert, I’ve learned that I thrive when I step outside my routine—even though I love routine. Travel has shown me how curious, adaptable, and adventurous I am (within limits sha). It’s made me appreciate slow mornings, deep conversations, and just being present. I’ve become more open-minded and grateful for the life I’m building.

CO: Favourite public holiday and why?

A: Anyone that gives me four days! For the long ones, like Easter, I can stretch four days into anything.

CO: Dream destination you haven’t visited yet?

A: The Maldives. It might sound cliché, but I’m saving it for a reason (if you know, you know). There are others too (I’ve got a list).

CO: What would you do if Nigeria declared a surprise week-long public holiday tomorrow?

A: Laughs in #TututakesAsiaTour