When we’re out of this pandemic, the world will be calling for us to come back into it and travel around the world. There may be some new international travellers who have become curious to explore the world during the lockdown. Here’s some travel advice to you – travel far enough to meet yourself. A trip to a new place, far from home will do your mind, body and soul some good. Below is some advice for first-time travellers…
Learn A Language
Learning the local language of the country or place you’ll be visiting will come in handy to give you a better understanding of the locals. It can be a good way to start conversations, as well as making lifelong friendships! By using language apps such as Babbel, picking up a new language will be easy.
Although some may question how effective Babbel is since it’s just an app. Its real-life conversations and lessons from mother-tongue speakers actually make it a valid resource. Start learning the language of the place you want to visit once it’s safe to travel. Or any language you’ve been dying to learn but never had the time.
Pack Light
“He who would travel happily must travel light”, is a quote stressing the need to pack light. It can be tempting to bring more than you need. However, you’ll be able to find most of the things you need abroad too. Packing light will save you the hassle of lugging a heavy backpack for weeks. Unless you’re going somewhere cold where you’ll need extra layers! You can use space saver bags to help you pack light for your trip.
Get Insurance
Don’t leave home without making sure you’re well protected in case something goes wrong. Stuff does happen! To ensure you’re protected, buy travel insurance that covers a variety of policies. Luggage loss or even health insurance. Safety first! Getting insured will give you peace of mind and the confidence to travel knowing you’re covered.
Check Visa Requirements Before Going
You can use a visa search tool. Simply enter the destination you are travelling to. This will help you to know the travel visa requirements before you leave. You will have enough time to prepare for the travel recommendations and you will find up-to-date information about the country you want to travel to.
There are tons of resources to help you out with visa requirements. From government agencies to travel blogs who’ve done it before. Nothing’s worse than showing up in a country, and being sent on a plane back home because you didn’t have the proper visa or documentation needed!
Embrace Flexibility In Your Itinerary
While planning your travel itinerary, consider the value of maintaining some flexibility in your schedule. This approach allows you to make impromptu decisions, explore hidden gems that aren’t on your original plan, or simply enjoy more downtime.
An aspect often overlooked by new travellers is the convenience of utilising luggage storage in various cities, which can free you from the burden of heavy bags when you decide to go off the beaten path. By embracing a flexible travel plan, you’ll find more opportunities to create memorable experiences and enjoy spontaneity, which often leads to the best travel stories.
Always Visit A Local Tourism Office
The local tourism office is there to make sure you get the utmost best out of your stay in the new city or town, and enjoy it well. Before you leave for another country do your research as to where you can find these offices as they can protect you as a tourist. The tourism offices will give you the simple basics of do’s and don’ts so that you do not end up offending people without you knowing.
Travelling is easy but it can be stressful, especially if you’ve only travelled throughout the UK or Europe. By following these tips, you can ensure a seamless, worry-free trip. Of course, once it is safe to see the world again!
What piece of advice would you give first time travellers?
*Written in collaboration with Emily Jones
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