Planning a trip internationally? Well I am almost always planning for, recovering from or in the midst of enjoying a trip abroad. From an early age I have enjoyed seeing what is just around the bend in life. So whether you are in the dreaming stage of travel or the "by hook or crook I am going somewhere this year" stage of planning here are a few planning tips to bear in mind. Plan early, six to 12 months out for international travel. Maximize the places you see while abroad. It is cheaper in the long run to jump on a plane to Spain when you are already in Portugal versus returning home and returning to Spain. Take advantage of your proximity while in those countries. Use a travel agency that specializes in the country(ies) you want to visit to help plan your itinerary. Don't be afraid to explore on your own versus spending lots of money on organized tours. They often have tremendous markups. Get around by train or boat once you arrive. It is often a beautiful way to see the inner intricacies of foreign countries. Consider having a private guide. Yes, more expensive but you learn so much more and they usually have very flexible schedules and customize your time around your specific taste.
Make sure the travel agent knows what you like and don't like. Talk about this upfront. No need for her to book you on a night club crawl when you hate the night life. Be selfish with your money. Read up on tipping and the tipping culture. Some countries don't really have a custom of tipping so anything you give is a surprise and delight.
Cover up your US passport. Put it inside a discreet outer cover. Believe it or not, there are a lot of places around the world who simply don't care much for Americans. Best to be safe than sorry.
Be sure you understand the macro politics of the country you will be visiting. If in doubt don't share your ideas a lot if at all. For instance, a casual disparaging remark about the government of Thailand or Cuba can get you put in prison for years. This is a true statement so don't test it.
Finally, keep a journal, especially if you don't expect to return to that country again. You will be amazed at how quickly you will forget the small things that made the country so special.
Now keep dreaming or get going. In either case ENJOY!!!!
Make sure the travel agent knows what you like and don't like. Talk about this upfront. No need for her to book you on a night club crawl when you hate the night life. Be selfish with your money. Read up on tipping and the tipping culture. Some countries don't really have a custom of tipping so anything you give is a surprise and delight.
Cover up your US passport. Put it inside a discreet outer cover. Believe it or not, there are a lot of places around the world who simply don't care much for Americans. Best to be safe than sorry.
Be sure you understand the macro politics of the country you will be visiting. If in doubt don't share your ideas a lot if at all. For instance, a casual disparaging remark about the government of Thailand or Cuba can get you put in prison for years. This is a true statement so don't test it.
Finally, keep a journal, especially if you don't expect to return to that country again. You will be amazed at how quickly you will forget the small things that made the country so special.
Now keep dreaming or get going. In either case ENJOY!!!!
Cuba
Kenya
Australia
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