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| Ⓒ Provided by The Impulse Traveler |
By Latoyia Downs, The Impulse Traveler
Traveling is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. However, without proper planning and execution, it can be stressful and less fulfilling. So here are some of the best travel tips for ensuring a fun adventure.
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1. Photo Equipment
“For photo equipment or all kind of expensive stuff: put some duct tape on it. Then, if it looks broken, nobody wants to steal it. Make sure you buy decent duct tape/gaffa tape if you’re going to do this.”
“I used cheap stuff, and the adhesive started to ooze out after a while. It would leave my hands sticky and get on everything. It was a particular problem in hot climates,” shared one.
2. Have Money But Don't Show It
Someone suggested, “Have plenty of money but don’t appear rich.” Another stated, “In general, don’t look rich or like a tourist. Of course, it’ll be tricky if you’re, say, White while traveling in Asia, but do your best. The more out of place you look, the more attention you get from scammers and crooks.”
3. Learn Basic Greetings
“Learn the most basic greetings and always attempt to speak the language a little. Even if you suck, locals will appreciate the effort and respect you put forth,” someone suggested. Another agreed, “It’s true. The amount of kindness you receive in return for trying is remarkable.”
4. Shop in Local Supermarkets
“I recommend shopping in Supermarkets when traveling internationally. You get to understand what the locals buy for their daily groceries, discover new foodstuff, and get cheaper souvenirs to bring home,” shared one.
“I love going to supermarkets in foreign places! All sorts of different cheeses to try,” a second replied. “My favorite part of traveling by far is visiting the supermarkets.”
5. Be Flexible
“Be flexible,” replied another. “Not everything will go according to plan. That’s when the best stories begin. Remembering it’s the adventure you’re after really helps.”
“Agreed,” a third acknowledged. “Flexibility is critical. First off, I suggest having things planned. For example, only fly to a foreign city if you know how to get to your hostel or hotel. Prepare backup plans in case the original plans fall through.”
6. Be Mindful of Food and Drink
“Avoid salads, produce, and fruits without a rind, and make sure the water is safe to drink. These can help you avoid food poisoning. Try to get plastic dishes, and do NOT get ice in your drink if the water is not good. As long as your food is cooked, you should be fine. But always pack some medication just in case,” suggested one.
7. Most of the World Is Not Scary
“Most of the world is less dangerous and frightening than you think. Don’t avoid going to a place because people think it’s scary. Look at travel advisories-research what areas are safe and what aren’t. Iran is safer to go to than Mexico.”
“Morocco is safer than Jamaica. Most cities in Asia and the Middle East have lower murder rates than major U.S cities. Be aware of where you’re going, and you’ll find that the world isn’t as scary as you believe,” another offered.
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8. Check Visa and Passport Requirements
“Check your visa and passport requirements. You may be shocked to find out that you need a visa or pay a reciprocity fee upon arrival. Look at that before you go anywhere. For instance, Canadians need a Visa for Australia and pay fees before entering South American countries like Chile and Argentina,” volunteered one.
9. Beware of Scammers
“Scammers are everywhere,” stated one. “If a random person begins talking to you in English, they’re probably trying to scam you. Very few people will randomly strike up a conversation with you and offer to show you around out of the kindness of their hearts. Instead, they want your money.”
10. Stay Up Until 11:00 P.M.
Finally, someone suggested, “When you arrive in a country with a 6+ hour time difference, stay up until about 11 pm their time. Then, you’ll very quickly adjust to their time zone, and jet lag won’t hinder your first couple of days of travel.”
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