Well, well, well, look who’s got the travel bug! You’re itching to take a trip abroad, huh? Don’t worry, we won’t judge. In fact, we’re here to help! We know that international travel can be overwhelming, but with a little bit of preparation, you’ll be navigating foreign streets like a pro in no time. So buckle up, grab your passport, and let’s dive in!
Navigation
Navigating international environments can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language and customs of your destination. However, fear not, as there are ways to make your experience much easier. One great tip is to download a translation app such as Google Translate or iTranslate. These apps allow you to easily communicate with locals and understand signs and menus in foreign languages.
Another important factor to consider when traveling internationally is staying connected. It’s always a good idea to check with your cell phone provider to see if they offer international roaming packages. If not, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card or renting a mobile hotspot to stay connected.
More often than not, purchasing a local sim will be cheaper than paying your international roaming fees. Something to keep in mind, you are only able to use a local sim if your phone is unlocked. You can call your phone carrier prior to leaving to find out if your phone is unlocked or not. In addition, downloading an app such as WhatsApp can also help you keep in touch with friends and family back home for free with WIFI.
If you are anything like me, you may have the sense of direction of a drunken sloth. In the case you won’t have phone service immediately after landing, having already downloaded the city maps of your destination in an offline map will be beneficial. Download Google maps prior to arriving and download the offline map of your destination. This way you have an added layer of security for navigating after arriving to your destination.
Passport and Visa Requirements
Ensure that your passport is valid and has at least six months validity left. Also, check if you need a visa for your destination country, and if so, make sure to apply for it well in advance.
Some countries require at least 1-2 blank visa pages in your passport to be allowed entry. Doing proper research on the subject prior to departure can ensure you avoid being denied entry into a country.
Check the embassy or consulate website. The embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit is a good starting point for information on visa and travel requirements. They usually have a section on their website dedicated to visa information, including application procedures, processing times, and fees.
Use a visa service. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of researching visa requirements and filling out application forms yourself, you can use a visa service. There are many companies that specialize in assisting travelers with obtaining visas for various countries.
Check with your airline. Airlines often have information on visa and travel requirements for the countries they serve. You can usually find all necessary visa and travel requirements on your airlines website.
Check with the destination country’s immigration website. Most countries have an immigration website that provides information on visa and travel requirements for foreign visitors. This can be a good resource to check before you travel.
It’s important to note that visa and travel requirements can change frequently, so it’s always a good idea to check with multiple sources and to do so well in advance of your trip. Some countries may require certain vaccinations or medical tests as well, so it’s important to research these requirements as well. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and information for a smooth and hassle-free international trip.
Money
Now, let’s talk about money. It’s important to research the currency of your destination before you leave, as well as exchange rates and fees associated with converting your money. One great tool for this is currency converting apps like XE, which allow you to easily convert currencies and track exchange rates.
When it comes to budgeting for your trip, it’s important to be realistic and plan ahead. Consider all expenses, including transportation, lodging, food, and activities, and set a budget for each category. Don’t forget to factor in exchange rates and fees, and always leave a little wiggle room for unexpected expenses.
Determine your travel style. Are you a backpacker on a tight budget or a luxury traveler looking for high-end experiences? Your travel style will greatly impact how much you’ll be spending on a daily basis.
We highly recommend ordering some local currency from your bank prior to departure. It is always good to at least have a bit of cash to get you started when you arrive in a new country.
Be sure to contact your bank prior to departure and let them know where and when you will be traveling to avoid your card being flagged for fraud. Also, its a good idea to ask them what type of international transaction and withdraw fees they have so there are no surprises at the ATM while you are on your trip.
Safety
Safety should always be a top priority when traveling internationally. Research the areas you’ll be visiting and be aware of any potential dangers or scams. Keep your valuables close and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Look up the local customs and laws, and be aware of any safety concerns. The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories are a great resource for up-to-date information on safety and security issues in different countries.
Be aware of your surroundings! It’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Stay in well-lit areas, and be cautious of anyone who seems suspicious or is approaching you for no apparent reason.
Use reputable transportation services. When using transportation services, make sure to use reputable companies. If you’re taking a taxi, make sure it’s a licensed taxi with proper identification. You can look up what a proper taxi looks like in the country you are traveling to prior to arriving. If you’re using a rideshare service, verify the driver’s identity and the vehicle before getting in.
Know how to contact emergency services. Make sure you have the emergency numbers for your destination country saved in your phone, and know how to call for help if you need it. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your passport and other important documents stored somewhere safe (like a cloud storage service) in case they get lost or stolen. Having multiple copies stored in different areas of your luggage and some copies with a loved one back home is also a good idea.
Go With The Flow
As a seasoned traveler, I’ve learned that Murphy’s Law applies to travel – if anything can go wrong, it will. So, my advice to you is to expect the unexpected and prepare for the worst, but don’t forget to have a sense of humor about it!
For example, when your flight gets canceled, you can choose to have a meltdown and scream at the airline staff, or you can channel your inner zen master and use the extra time to perfect your yoga poses in the airport lounge. And when you accidentally order a dish that turns out to be more adventurous than you anticipated, you can either refuse to eat it and sulk, or you can dive right in and tell everyone it’s the most exotic thing you’ve ever tasted (even if it’s not).
Remember, travel is all about embracing the unknown and stepping out of your comfort zone. So, go ahead and say yes to that invitation to join the locals for a night out, even if it means you’ll be dancing to music you don’t understand and drinking a beverage that looks suspiciously like motor oil.
Travel is full of surprises, and the best way to deal with them is to have a positive attitude and a sense of humor. Who knows, maybe your travel mishaps will turn into the funniest stories you’ll ever tell! I know ours have!
Hire A Travel Advisor / Agent
As your travel agent, I will provide you with personalized attention and take the time to get to know your travel preferences, budget, and needs. This allows me to create a custom travel itinerary that is tailored specifically to you, ensuring that your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
With my extensive experience in the travel industry, I have a wealth of knowledge about destinations, accommodations, transportation, and more. I will use this expertise to help you plan a trip that meets all of your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Planning a trip can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the destination. By hiring me as your travel agent, you can save valuable time and energy, as I will take care of all the details for you.
As a travel agent, I have access to exclusive deals and discounts that are not available to the general public. This means that I can help you save money on your trip while still ensuring that you have a fantastic experience.
Traveling can be stressful, but by hiring me as your travel agent, you can rest assured that everything is taken care of. From flights to accommodations to transportation, I will handle all of the details so that you can focus on enjoying your trip.
I am dedicated to making sure that all of my clients have the trip of a lifetime, and I would be honored to work with you to plan your next adventure!
