🧭 10 golden rules for novice travelers
Setting out to conquer new horizons, we observe how people live in other countries, what a multifaceted culture is and what traditions different peoples of the world have. After your first trip, you won't come back the same. And so that the adventure goes without any unpleasant incidents and brings many exciting experiences, we will share tips for novice travelers.
Do not be afraid
Fear is what shouldn’t get in the way in the first place. Of course, adequately assess your capabilities, but you shouldn’t put off your trip because of this. When if not now? If you are afraid of something, then deal with the problem. For example , are you afraid to end up on the street? Book your hotel, hostel or apartment in advance. Have a backup plan that you can turn to.
If there is a problem, there will definitely be a solution. There is an exercise that psychologists recommend. Imagine that the worst has already happened. So what are you going to do? What would help fix this? Is there anything I can do to avoid this? By answering these questions honestly, you will have options for action.
You don't need a lot of money to travel
If it seems that the trip is expensive or you can’t organize it yourself, then contact travel companies. They will help you choose tours that fit your budget. They often have hot deals at great prices. See trips outside the holiday season. Due to increased demand, high prices arise. For example , Tiqets.com offers several interesting options.
Visa countries
Check to see if your country of departure requires a visa. If yes, then figure out how much it costs, what documents are needed and how long it takes to process the request. There are countries that you can visit without a visa for a certain period of time. Usually it is 30-90 days. In some other countries you can get a visa directly at the local airport.
Learn languages
You will be much more comfortable if you can speak at least a basic level of English. It is also important to consider that there are countries where residents do not particularly speak this language, for example , in China, South Korea and even Italy. French and Spanish may also be useful.
Basic phrases can be learned using the Duolingo, Drops, Puzzle English apps. And if this option is not for you or the trip is hot, then Google Translator will always come to the rescue. There are also applications that translate text when you point your smartphone camera at it.
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Documentation
Always check what documents you need to take with you. Make a photocopy of your passport and carry it with you always. As an option: one photocopy in your purse, the other in your luggage. It is better to leave the original document in the room safe.
Don't keep money in your passport. If you lose both, it won't be fun at all. If you don’t want to make photocopies, then take care of screenshots or photos of the document. Find out the numbers and addresses of the consulates of your country, so that in case of loss or theft of documents, you will know where to turn.
Keep in touch with your loved ones
This will make it easier for both them and you. Periodically remind yourself that everything is fine with you and there is no need to worry. Just in case, you can give your family hotel addresses and an approximate route where you are going.
Money
Try to have with you not only cash, but also a card. Don't worry if you have to withdraw money from an ATM. They will be converted at your bank's rate.
Book your tickets and accommodation in advance
This way there will be more chances to get comfortable seats and not at an inflated price. The closer the travel date, the more expensive the tickets and accommodation will be. You will always have time to refuse, but you will have less chance of purchasing something profitable. Don't forget to read reviews on different forums to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
First aid kit
It’s better for it to be there and not be useful than the other way around. Headaches, poisoning, bruises and cuts can be waiting anywhere. Having provided yourself with timely help, the trip will be remembered only on the positive side. And if there are medications that you need to take on an ongoing basis, then give them priority. And it’s better to take care of the prescription before leaving so that you can justify the availability and transportation of the drugs.
Insurance
The story here is the same as with the first aid kit. Let it be of no use. After all, in life there are situations worse than abrasions. And medicine can be very expensive. You can pay more than $1000 for calling an ambulance. And other medical procedures can cost a very large sum.
Download or purchase a city map
No one is immune from communication problems. Download the map to your phone to use it if the need arises. Having a paper map is a thing of the past. But if suddenly something happens to the phone, the card will come to the rescue.
Don't have high expectations
We all experience slight jitters before a trip. We begin to imagine how good it is there: the sun is brighter, the food is tastier and the people are kinder. Expectations are good. But you should understand that reality may differ from fantasy. But you shouldn’t be upset if something goes wrong either. Take this as an interesting story for friends and acquaintances, and as a life experience.
Leave room for souvenirs
The best souvenir is, of course, memories, experience, impressions and emotions. But still, family and friends who have not been to this country will be very pleased to receive a small gift.
And you must admit, it will be very disappointing if you find something interesting that will win your heart, but there is no longer enough space in your suitcase.
Traveling around your country
If for some reason it is not possible to go abroad, then start with a small one – your hometown, and then you can travel all over the country. Unfortunately, not everyone may like this option. I often encounter refusals when I propose to go on a short trip.
This is a reason to go on a trip on your own and spend time alone with yourself. Once I myself went to the city of Rakov to look at the Jewish cemetery and church. As a result, this spontaneous trip became one of the most interesting in my life.
So don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something. After all, life is much more interesting and richer this way.