It can be very exciting to travel. There are so many places around the world to explore. The call of exotic people and cultures can be endlessly fascinating, but don’t forget that there are also smaller excursions to enjoy. You can even find interesting things to see and do close to home, if you are familiar with where to look.
When traveling abroad, rather than doing local currency exchanges, use ATMs to make withdrawals. Many times banks get better exchange rates, meaning an ATM can save you money. This can end up saving you a good bit of money in the long run.
Any time that you travel abroad, you need to make sure you have certain types of important info with you in case you run into trouble. Addresses, phone numbers, names of hotels and attractions you’re visiting should all be listed. This way, you will have an emergency backup plan if you encounter serious problems. They have much experience with the issues travelers face, and they’ll help.
Create a list of what needs to be packed. You should begin creating the list of things to pack a few days or weeks in advance. Having a list will keep you organized and clutter-free, even if you don’t actually pack until the last minute.
Aisle Seats
Aisle seats can allow you to have more options. While a window seat will give you a nice view, it can also lead to some problems. It’s trickier to get up and use the bathroom or get to your baggage when you’re sitting in a window seat. Aisle seats are also more comfortable.
If you are traveling in a foreign country, be careful of the taxis you choose to ride. Prior to getting into a taxi, be sure it is legit. Anyone can fool you with a taxi sign.
If it just won’t do to leave your cherished pet at home, figure out how she can come along! Pet-friendly vacations are growing more and more popular, and some places offer deals for pet lovers. There are even pet day cares and spas. Some cruises also allow pets. Don’t fear taking your furry friend along, as long as you make sure you can before you do.
Pack some clothespins for your next vacation. They have several uses, and since they are small they take up hardly any room.
Tip the bell boy and housekeeper when staying in a nice place. A good rule of thumb is $1 per bag/luggage and about $2-5 a day for housekeeping. Tipping will show your appreciation for their work, and will help you maintain a good relationship with hotel staff.
Place contact and information on the inside and outside of your luggage. It is easy for a baggage tag to come off the exterior of your suitcases while they are en route. Put your ID inside your luggage so it can be returned to you if it is lost.
Traveling by motorcycle can often be the best way to experience road trips. A motorcycle moves quickly, has great gas efficiency, and will make your trip more fun, in general. Get out there and enjoy the sights and sounds of traveling on a motorcycle.
If you drink coffee, sit out some hotel ice so it melts. Instead of tap water, put ice in your bucket the night before so it has time to melt. The next morning, you can brew your coffee with this filtered water.
If you are planning foreign travel, be prepared for emergencies, like possibly losing your U.S. passport. The United States The State Department offers a site that gives instructions on contacting the Consulate or Embassy in countries you may be visiting. Make sure to have this information handy on your trip. Most of the time, your passport replacement will be available within a couple of days.
Make sure you get the latest e-newsletters of the airlines you use. E-newsletters show you any special discounts or last-minute offers they have available. It’s true, this means one more email to fill your inbox, but the amount of money you can save could by well worth it.
Bring an extra passport picture when you take a trip abroad. It takes quite awhile to replace a stolen or misplaced passport. When you carry a spare photo of yourself, you will quicken the process. Copies of any documentation you may need is also advised to help get you on your way.
If you want to try to avoid flight delays, try to take a flight that is as early as possible. Airports are typically filled to capacity; if the first plane is delayed there is a domino effect, because each plane must wait for the last one to fly out and make room at the gate. There are fewer reasons for delays early in the morning on the first flights.
Exchange Rates
Exchanging currency will be very costly if you do it abroad. Check with your bank before you leave, and notify them you are traveling overseas. They will help you find the best way to purchase and also let you know the exchange rates for using your credit card or ATM overseas. Before you travel find out if the area you are traveling to has bank ATM machines available. Besides being more convenient, ATMs tend to have more generous exchange rates than brick-and-mortar exchanges.
Earth is an immense field of discovery. Destinations are available for every type of tourist. No matter where you wish to go, there is a new discovery awaiting you.