We try and make time for short one week getaways abroad over the course of the year. It is far more educational as well as exhilarating to discover different lands and cultures rather than sticking to the same old haunts year after year. A new country can give you a fresh perspective on life and the things you normally take for granted as well as provide a much needed break from the routine of the daily rigmarole.
After many such trips abroad we have learned a few key lessons when planning holidays. Initially, we spent hours poring over maps and flight details trying to fit everything into our budget, and the result was added stress. Even after all the plotting and planning, we were unhappy with our choices which invariably led to arguments, ruining our vacation before it even started. Hopefully, some of the tips mentioned here will help you make the most of your holiday without the added tension.
Planning Ahead is Key
Over the years, the travel industry has grown savvy and adapted to the needs of the increasing global travelers. Flights are more competitively priced, and the economy has allowed for more affordable accommodation options.
Planning in advance is the key to taking advantage of these more affordable options. First and foremost, understand your needs as to the kind of vacation you want. Is it the sun and beach with sparkling sands or a cozy mountain retreat that attracts you? Maybe you’d prefer a vacation that offers lessons in scuba diving or cooking or you feel adventurous and want to explore a city with an active night life.
Once you have established your ideal vacation, start researching. The Internet is an excellent flight search tool with many travel companies clearly segregating the countries that would offer you the type of flights and transportation options that you need. Make a list of the places that interest you and visit fare comparison websites to find the best deals. Going to each and every individual travel website can get frustrating and time consuming.
Keep Your Options Open
When you do find a price that fits your budget, bookmark it. Choose a few places instead of sticking to simply one since you still need to factor in the accommodation cost. Flights to one city maybe cheap but the hotel prices could be sky high.
There are many comparison websites for accommodations as well. Also, visit a few independent travel websites that offer opinions and ratings on your chosen hotels. Consider the distance of the hotel from the points of attraction. Travelling in a dusty bus for miles to reach a beach would not be fun.
Before finalizing your accommodation reservations, make sure that you have your basic requirements met. For example, if you’re traveling on an extreme budget and you choose to stay in a place, such as a hostel, they often have a common bathroom which may not appeal to some. Pack light and carry your toiletries in miniature containers and, choose clothing that would suit the climate of your chosen destination.
After you book your flights and stay, it is time to get into a holiday mood. Turn the entire planning process into something enjoyable for you to do with your partner or by yourself. Read up on the culinary delights offered and different sites of interest. Plan out in detail what you will do on some of the days of the trip and leave some days open for spontaneous exploring. Map your days and note the names of restaurants, shops and architectural sites that sound interesting.
Factor in Downtime
You will need time to recoup after a hectic day, so take books and movies to occupy yourself. Leave your guilt at the door and indulge yourself in favorite foods and drinks. Spend a few days lazing and relaxing, letting yourself forget your pressures back home.
Another important factor that we have learned over the years is to respect other cultures and behave accordingly. Safety is paramount when travelling abroad, and it’s imperative to keep basic rules in mind such as staying out of dangerous areas, never venturing alone into dark alleys and steering clear of countries that are in a state of unrest.
Visit your doctor and have your vaccines up-to-date. Diseases like malaria and typhoid are a very real threat and you need to be prepared well in advance. Speak to a health care provider for more guidance. Each country has a different set of rules, regarding visas, so ensure that you have the required travel permits. Always keep lists of emergency numbers including your travel document details with you at all times. And last, but most certainly not least, finally enjoy your holiday!
Martin Rosenthal is a self-professed travel junkie, an epitome of the adage “live life to the fullest”. His typical weekday involves hitting the road with a bike and a backpack. He makes the most of his weekends trying his luck in a casino hotel or playing in golf courses with his friends.Image by Phillie Casablanca
