It’s been a minute since I poured out some wisdom when it comes to travel. After just getting back from a 10 day European excursion, I learned a few things. And so here I am, ready to share so that you don’t make the same mistakes I may have.
1. red eye (overnight flight) when you can
Sounds kind of silly to choose the overnight flight. But in cases were you are traveling through multiple time zones, it can be one of the best tools to restart your circadian rhythm upon arrival of your destination. The other reason I will push for red eye on longer flights is because I know that 8 hours spent in the air during sleep vs during the day is a good use of time. Rather than spend a full day at the airport, spend your whole day doing whatever you want and head to the airport after your day is complete.
2. learn basic phrases in the local language
To me, this comes down to showing respect. When you attempt to communicate with someone in their native language, it shows you have a respect for their dialect. When I say basic phrases, at least know the following: hello, goodbye, how are you, thank you, & please. Granted there are a ton more that can benefit you, usually just by attempting to start your conversation vulnerably, they will empathize and switch to the english. You also don’t come off as such a tourist when you can surface level chit chat with the locals.
3. cash is king
This one probably comes to no surprise, but cash really is king. Depending where you go, some taxis do not accept credit card. It’s really important in any instance to have some local currency cash on you at all times. The best way I’ve found to access different currencies is by visiting an ATM in the country destination upon arrival. Unless you have good exchange rates at your local bank. Stick with the small ATM fee and avoid the airport currency premium price exchange rates.
4. keep a re-usable water bottle
Dehydration is no joke, especially when you are on a vacation in the peek of summer. You may not know the next time you’ll be at a store, so always have a water bottle on you. Stay hydrated so you don’t look thirsty!
5. befriend a local
Who knows better about an area than the locals? It doesn’t need to be a full on friendship. Something as simple as the taxi driver who brought you from the airport to the hotel. Stay curious and ask from their perspective what some must-do activities are in the area. Chances are you will learn or add a few things that you had no idea were in walking distance of your accommodation.
I took it as far as hanging out with the locals in Indonesia. After getting to know my taxi driver a bit more, I asked if he would want to taxi me around the island one day. He agreed and showed me all of the best surrounding spots. Both busy touristy and really intimately local. I wouldn’t have had any of the activities on my radar had I not let the local lead the way.
xx