As always much wisdom on your post!
I read this on another cruise line board, it's not my words that I want you to know but I agree with it whole heartily!
1) Planning helps the excitement and anticipation of travel start to build.
2) Time and Money. If I had infinite time left in life, and infinite money, I'd probably plan less.
3) For each vacation day, I like to have handy
Option A (preferred)
Option B (next best)
Option C
In 2 recent trips, ~ 50% of all days, a situation caused Option A to NOT work out.
I saved a huge amount of time and stress by immediately simply pivoting to Option B.
Traveling has never felt more spontaneous, despite all the "planning" I do.