No matter where you travel in the world, you will want to experience a range of cultures, history and new environments. It’s important to be respectful to those around you and be safe when on your trip. Here are some ways on how to benefit the most out of your travelling experience, making it one to remember.
Research Your Destination
Before you head out on your trip, you should do as much research as you can on the destination you’re travelling to. There are all sorts of resources that you can use to your advantage, including the internet, books as well as friends and family who may have visited the area you’re going to. Having some knowledge beforehand can only be a good thing, preparing you for what lies ahead. Learning about dress codes, lingo and typical behaviors will ensure you are ready and raring to go for your trip.
Learn Some Phrases
If you’re planning to travel to a foreign country, one of the best things you can do is start learning a foreign language. Even if you only learn a few basic phrases, it can make a huge difference in how well you’re able to navigate and communicate with locals. As mentioned before, phrases like ‘hello’, ‘please’, and ‘thank you’ are always good to know. However, depending on where you’re going, you might also want to learn some other useful phrases such as ‘where is the nearest pharmacy?’, ‘how do I get to the airport?’, or ‘can you recommend a good local dish?’ By taking the time to learn some phrases in advance, you’ll be able to show your appreciation for the local culture and have a more authentic travel experience.
Check Weather Forecast
Knowing the weather forecast of the destination you’re travelling to can help you when it comes to what to pack for your trip. Depending on the time of year you travel, the temperatures will differ, so there’s no point packing shorts and sandals if you’re visiting in winter. Just before you head out on your travels, check the current weather forecasts (which you can find online) so you have a realistic idea of what you should and shouldn’t pack.
Create an Itinerary
Creating an itinerary can be a great way to add structure and stability to your trip. If you like to be organized, it’s best to outline everything you want to see and do before you go. Make sure that you keep your boarding passes and flight information with your itinerary as well as the hotel you will be staying at. Also, make a note of local restaurants in the area, the types of attractions and excursions you want to go on as well as transport links to get you from A to B. The more organized you are, the easier your journey will be.
Exploring Your Destination
Once you have arrived at your destination, it’s time to explore! If you are close to public transport, hop on board so you can explore all the different restaurants, tourist spots and shopping malls around you. If you are staying in a hotel, have a look around your accommodation, locate stairs and elevators and make note of fire exit doors in case of an emergency. It’s better to be safe than sorry if you find yourself in danger, so make sure to always devise an escape plan.
Soak Up the Culture
There are all sorts of areas that you can visit once you arrive at your destination. If you want to go down the touristy route and visit popular hotspots, or explore areas that are mainly frequented by locals, you are bound to find something to do that is enjoyable. Whether you visit a museum or go shopping in a mall, you are sure to soak up some of the culture and atmosphere of your destination. However, bear in mind that if you are visiting tourist spots, they can get incredibly busy at peak hours so it’s best to know what times to visit.
Try Something New
Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone may feel initially daunting, however trying something new can be extremely liberating and give you a whole new perspective on life. Whether it be eating cuisine you have never tried before or participating in an activity you would never normally dream of doing, challenging yourself can be fantastic, building your confidence and self-esteem. Don’t be afraid to try new things as you never know, you may end up loving it! Whenever you try something different, make sure that your safety is your number one priority. Regulations and instructions are there for a reason so ensure you adhere to them, so that your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
Be Respectful
Being respectful to those around you is incredibly important when travelling somewhere new. If you are heading somewhere with a completely different culture, you should bear that in mind and not be insulting to locals. You will encounter people from all walks of life who will share different viewpoints to your own, so having a level of respect and appreciation for other cultures is essential. Being polite and friendly to those around you can transform your trip for the better, especially if you want to engage with locals. Also, always be mindful when visiting landmarks and attractions, especially if they are heritage sites or religious establishments. The way you conduct yourself should be the same as how you would be in your hometown.
Stay Alert
While being in a new environment can be incredibly exciting, that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. If you are visiting a popular destination, you may be surrounded by thousands of locals and tourists walking amongst you, so ensure that all your personal belongings are always kept on you. If you have valuables or sentimental pieces with you, make sure that you store them in zipped up pockets, reducing the risk of theft. Being alert and aware of your surroundings is incredibly important, helping you stay safe and secure when on your trip. If you notice anything suspicious or you need help, ensure you contact the local authorities immediately. Having the local police department number in your mobile device should be one of the first things you do when travelling somewhere new.
Booking Your Flights
Once you have decided on where you want to go, the next step you should take is to book a flight. Make sure to browse options on flyporter.com for a wide range of destinations that the company travels to. Make sure not to forget your VIPorter number when making a booking as you can earn points for each dollar you spend. If you are not a member, there are plenty of great benefits that you can receive. If you aren’t sure where to fly, there are over 20 fantastic Canadian and United States destinations to pick from, some of the most popular being Montreal, New York and Toronto.
Whenever you travel somewhere new, you should do a hefty bit of research beforehand. That way, you can gain a better understanding of where it is you are going to and what sort of things you should pack for the trip. Always ensure you keep your personal belongings with you, keeping valuables in zipped up pockets. Your travelling experience should be a journey of a lifetime, so make sure you take on board all the tips listed for an unforgettable trip.