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8. Embrace using maps. Consulting a map while traveling might make you seem unfamiliar with the locals, but it's the most basic way to avoid getting lost.
9. Don't fear the unknown places. Aimlessly wandering through a new city is a great way to acquaint yourself with it. You might be surprised by what you discover afterward.
10. Seek out local tourist offices. They know everything happening in the town/city you're visiting. They can suggest free entertainment activities, special events occurring during your trip. Utilize this resource for your journey!
11. Carry only the necessary amount of cash. Avoid carrying too much cash; instead, bring along various types of bank cards.
12. Always carry a... padlock. Don't laugh, because it's really useful. Especially when you're in a hostel or guesthouse without adequate amenities.
13. Prepare additional copies of passports and important documents. Don't forget to email yourself copies of essential documents, so you can print and use them when needed.
14. Look both ways when crossing the street. Especially in countries with complex traffic flow.
15. Inquire essential information from hotel receptionists – even when you're not staying there. They know where to find cheap eats and exciting spots to hang out.
16. Learn the local language of your destination. Locals appreciate when you speak their 'language,' and it'll make your trip much smoother.
17. Read a historical book about your travel destination! You can't understand the current position you're standing in if you don't know anything about its past.
18. Don't feel ashamed to step into a Starbucks café.
19. But do feel ashamed if you enter a McDonald's! This is serious business. Because the food there isn't too healthy for you.
20. When checking into a hotel, don't hesitate to make requests. Most hotels are very accommodating, and in urgent cases, they may even switch rooms for you!
21. Visit libraries, cafés (most cafés offer free Wi-Fi) if you're somewhere and need to connect with people.
22. Lunchtime is the best time to visit historical sites. It's the least crowded time for tourists.
23. Avoid eating in overly touristy areas.
24. Locals don't dine out every night, and you shouldn't either. Go grocery shopping, and you can learn a lot about local eating habits by seeing the types of food they buy.
25. Try having lunch at upscale restaurants. Usually, restaurants offer special lunch menus (same as dinner) but at half the price.
26. Pack a flashlight. It will help you see the way at night, where there are no street lights.
27. Bring a basic first aid kit. Accidents can happen anytime, so be prepared. It's best to have antiseptic creams and ointments ready for cuts and scrapes...
28. Opt for staying in hostels. Hostel prices are usually cheaper than hotels, and you'll have the chance to interact with many people.
29. Be open to strangers. Not everyone is difficult, but not everyone is easy either. However, you can still make friends with some people.
30. Additionally, know how to protect yourself. Some people may cause trouble for you, so know when to be suspicious of others.
31. Be adventurous and try new foods. It doesn't matter what it is. Just try it and decide if you like it. If you don't try, you might miss out on some delicious local dishes.
32. Joining free walking tours will give you an overview of the city you're visiting.
33. Take photos of your luggage and belongings. This will help you quickly find them if your luggage happens to get lost.
34. Equip yourself with a good pair of shoes. You'll be walking a lot during your travels. So, equip yourself with a good pair of shoes, and it will take you to wonderful places.
35. Get vaccinated against basic diseases. Because falling ill abroad is not a good thing.
36. Learn to bargain. Bargaining is a joy, and it's even an art of negotiation.
37. Bring a jacket. Because nights can get really cold.
38. Try street food. If you overlook street food, you may well miss out on an entire culture. Don't be afraid. If you're worried, you can seek out places where children are eating. If they're safe, then you'll be safe too.
39. Purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance is something you should definitely buy even though you'll never want to use it. Especially travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, property loss, and even life-threatening situations while you're on vacation.
40. Be patient. Travel is a journey, not a destination. So, be patient.
41. Respect everyone. Locals are willing to help you throughout your trip, but you may encounter language barrier issues. So, control yourself and respect those who assist you.
42. Don't plan your trip. Let your journey unfold naturally.
43. Relax during your travels.
44. Take photos with all the people you meet along the way. Because after the trip, you may well remember them.
According to Nomadicmatt.com
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourOctober 6, 2014
