I don't have a lot to write about this week as I have just been planning and prepping for my upcoming trips, while still living in the present ;) I have also been catching up on some very overdue reading. I was reminded of an old website that helps me keep track of all the books I have read: Goodreads
1) Location
Where do you want to go? I personally have a travel bucket list of countries that I want to visit and what I would like to do in them. I want to go everywhere so narrowing down where to go is always the hardest part for me.
2) Time frame
What is the length of time you have to travel? Make sure your flight is included in that time frame. Depending on where you are flying out of, it may take you an entire day to travel to your location.
3) Travel advisories
Don't let the media scare you into not traveling to a certain location but be mindful. Check out the Travel Alerts here to ensure your safety.
4) Know your budget
Obviously some places are going to be more expensive than others. Be sure to know how much you're willing to spend and the local conversion rate. Travel rewards credit cards tend to help. They can knock off your international fees which will help save you a little money as well. Speaking of credit cards, be sure to tell your bank that you will be traveling so your card won't get declined. I like to convert a little bit of cash to the local currency as well. Not only does it make a memorable souvenir, it's nice to have on hand for those little local markets that don't take cards.
5) Book Your Flight
There are a ton of websites that can help you look for the cheapest flight. My personal favorites (I do not get paid from these companies; these are my personal opinions): orbtiz.com; google flights; momondo; or the actual airline. I will let you in on a little secret, check for flights on Tuesday afternoons and use the incognito window on your browser in order to get the cheapest option. Although, sometimes last mintue deals are cheap - I personally wouldn't do that for a big trip though.
6) Pick your hotel
What kind of experience are you looking for? Do you want just a place to crash at night or the resort/all inclusive experience? A few websites that can help you out are Airbnb; hostelworld; tripadvisor; or any chain hotels.
7) Vaccines
If you are traveling internationally, chances are you're going to need vaccines. Check out the CDC in order to see the government recommendations.
8) Must-dos
What do you want to do when you get there? Outdoor activities, see wildlife, museums, historic memorials, food tours, shows? Tripadvisor is a great website to help you find what you are looking for as well as reviews of all the tours. Pinterest, as most people know, is a website I'm constantly on, and it can help you figure out what the "must-dos" in your location are. Make sure to check the distance of the tours and restaurants from your hotels to give you a better idea of what you might be spending on transportation.
9) What Other To Dos?
I always make sure that I check out what local food that you need to try while there. What better chance to experience the real culture of a place than to immerse yourself in it with the food. Some people like to bring souvenirs back for themselves as token of remembrance. I know some people like plates, spoons, shot glasses, etc. I like to bring back the local currency and locally made items. For example, in Costa Rica, I brought back a wooden craving, coffee, and a miniature ox-cart.
11) What to pack
Be sure to check the local weather, local culture, and local holidays. All of these things will influence what you can and cannot, or should and shouldn't wear in your specific location. For example, the king of Thailand recently died and it's custom to wear all black for a year while the country is in mourning, but yellow on his birthday.
12) Phone
Check with your phone provider to see if you have international calling. Know the phone numbers to your hotels as well as the local emergency services.
13) Ready, Set?
Print your itinerary, grab your passport, charge all your electronics, make sure all your last minute plans at home are finalized. Be prepared with back up plans in case something on your schedule falls through. You need to be flexible when traveling or else you won't enjoy the spontaneity of the adventure!
13) Enjoy!
Bon Voyage! Take lots of pictures and videos!
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