For both rookie and experienced travelers, visiting a place that you have never been can be both fun and frightening. Before you hit the road or take to the skies, take a look at our tips to make traveling more fun and less stressful.
Once you know where you're traveling, you can take some time to learn about where you plan to go. Pick up a map of the location you're going to, so you can locate all the fun things to do, and how best to go about visiting them. Memorizing some of the area will help you navigate it easier.
Be aware of food allergies when you visit a foreign country or new place. If you do have an allergy, you will need to have a good handle on the language of the country you are eating in. This way you can be sure to alert wait staff of your allergies to specific foods and, in the worst case scenario, be able to inform medical professionals of your condition.
When planning a flight and searching for the lowest prices, make sure you check the official website for each airline that has flights to your destination. You could find a very good deal this way, and it may even beat that of sites like Travelocity.
Some people find that they miss the luxuries of home while away. You can take a few things you love with you. Try to pack just the items you really need, however. Jot down those toiletries use typically use each day. Pack other valuables on your trip, as well.
Always remember to tip any hotel staff. You should give about a dollar per bag and 2 to 5 dollars per day of housekeeping. Tipping the staff will make sure that you receive good service while you are visiting.
Carry a business card or book of matches from your hotel with you everywhere you go. Having this will be helpful, should you become lost. Show someone the address and they can direct you back to the hotel. This is very useful if you do not know the language well.
You don't save much space using travel size toiletries and when you run out, the local stores often charge more for products that you need to replace. Instead, try different, space efficient folding techniques for packing clothes. This can free up some space for other things you will need.
Check to see if your credit issuer provides any type of insurance when traveling abroad. For example, you may enjoy coverage for flights that get cancelled, as long as they were charged to your card. You should research a bit before leaving.
Use melted ice for your morning coffee. The tap water might not be that tasty, so try filling an ice bucket and letting it melt overnight. When you wake up in the morning you will be able to brew fresh coffee with decent tasting filtered water.
By remembering the tips in this guide, you will surely be able to discover new and exciting things on your vacation. You will find that if you follow these tips it will be the best vacation you have ever had.