Traveling can sometimes be tiring and troubling. Honestly, we have all been there. However, we are strong believers in that it doesn’t have to be like that. It shouldn’t. Most of the time solutions to our problems are very practical and logical, if we had only put some extra thought to them prior to the travel. In that scenario, we’re not sure if we can help. Nevertheless, we can offer you something that isn’t that obvious, but is still immeasurably practical and useful. Here are 9 expert travel tips you’ve never heard of.
- GET INFORMED ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Before visiting la plagne, try to read as much as you possibly can about it. Being aware of its history, architecture and culture, summons up a completely different atmosphere during your visit. Try to become more familiar with the map of the city, for it can make your wandering about much less stressful.
- DON’T SHY AWAY FROM LOCALS
If you ever find yourself being lost somewhere, in terms of not knowing where to have a decent meal, what museum to see, if there is an interesting flee market, never avoid asking the locals. The best possible advice will almost always come from them. As long as you go running for those touristy places, and actually miss the real local stuff, you might end up having a pretty bleak time. Sometimes you might stumble upon a map made by locals which highlights all those places that are worth visiting. If you find it, buy it. Honestly, you cannot imagine how much you will learn from it.
- LEARN A LITTLE BIT OF THE LANGUAGE
Everyone likes to feel welcome. However, reaching that feeling doesn’t only depend on other people. Learning a couple of phrases that would come in handy in some situations (in the supermarket, or on the street) is a nice way to interact with locals, because it will surely conjure up a smile or two. Additionally, it shows that you care, and people will often respond with praise if they recognize it. Being respectful and thoughtful toward other cultures, is one of the most universal keys for finding yourself in a myriad of memorable situations.
- PACK LIGHT
Having a small amount of luggage is rewarding in so many ways. However, don’t get tricked into thinking that longer trips require you to bring more stuff. Necessities are necessities, we respect that, but as far as some silly knick-knacks go, don’t be bothered. Instead, try to pack light, and during your travel you can update your clothing assortment with a bunch of local pieces. Trust us, when you are limited with what you have to wear, you’ll spend much less time thinking about how you look, and more about how you feel.
- PHOTOGRAPH YOUR DOCUMENTS
This is a very important tip. Before your departure, set aside a couple of minutes of your time to take photos of your documents. If something unfortunate ends up happening, you want to be prepared for it. Take shots of your passport, travel documentation, credit cards, etc. You want to be able to prove your identity, as well as have those important phone numbers at hand.
- SHARING IS CARING
Since we are usually traveling with somebody, it would be smart to utilize that scenario for practical purposes. For example, it’s very convenient to pack some of your necessities in your partners suitcase. Of course he or she should do the same. This way, you are protecting yourself and your partner from ending up in a situation where your luggage gets lost, and you don’t even have a pair of socks to your name.
- INFORM THE BANK
Some of you may have been in this situation. Everything seems settled and you set of to your destination, but tomorrow you are faced with the fact that your credit card refuses to cooperate. Always inform your bank or your credit card company about your future travels. Give them the dates and locations.
- EXCHANGE YOUR MONEY
As soon as you land, find away to exchange at least some of yourmoney. You never know when you’ll need to take a cab or the bus. However, try to avoid exchanging your money at the airport because the exchange rates are always horrific.
- BE FLEXIBLE
No matter how detailed your travel plan is, you have to leave some room for spontaneity. Nothing can match those experiences that come out of the blue, and they often end up being the most memorable ones. Whatever comes your way, if it’s safe, take the chance.
Make your travels fun and unforgettable. Somewhere in the process, keep in mind that it’s worth being practical and utilize some of our tips, for they can really make a difference. Call your friend, choose the destination, pack lightly and Bon Voyage!