Month: October 2017

The thought of traveling alone can be daunting for many especially if you have never traveled anywhere alone. The questions that come to mind are security, accidents, getting lost and many more self-doubts that may arise from the sheer thought of it.

However, many advantages come from traveling alone, and the disadvantages can be minimized by taking precaution and following some simple tips on how to travel alone. Below is what you need to do to have the best individual traveling experience.

1. Research and plan your destination

Before you embark on your solo traveling, research the destination you intend to visit. The research will help you prepare adequately and determine critical things such as;

• Weather conditions
• Topography of the area
• Security of the destination
• Price range for various commodities

After acquiring the relevant information plan accordingly by packing the necessary gear to combat any huddle that you may come across. Remember not planning is planning for disaster so take your time and use as much information and resources as possible.

2. Determine a path and follow it to the letter

When you are embarking on traveling alone make sure you pre-determine the places you will visit; don’t wander off this route or path for whatever reason. This is imperative especially for the first time solo travelers for purposes of avoiding accidents or unprecedented, unpleasant events that you had not planned for.

A pre-determined path will also save you the trouble of getting lost forcing you to spend more resources and wasting a lot of time retracing your steps.

3. Make and adhere to your budget

If you know you have limited resources, it will be great if you could make a budget to ensure you have maximum fun while traveling but still keeping to your budget. It is also advisable you save some cash for emergencies or miscellaneous costs. Knowledge of the currency of the country you are traveling to in case of international travel can also come in hand.

4. Book accommodation in advance

Booking accommodation in advance may be wise since some destinations have an unpredictable surge of visitors and tourists, forcing you to settle in crappy motels. Look for good hotels and book in advance to ensure you have a beautiful and nice place to spend the night.

5. Buy travel insurance

Many people ignore travel insurance, but when traveling solo, your well-being and protection should be a priority. Ensure to look out for the best insurance cover just in case you encounter accidents or loss in your adventure.

6. Pack light

You are not moving to another city; you are only traveling; this is mostly for the ladies. Remember you may end up buying some things while you are vacationing. Because you will be outdoors most of the time, don’t carry a lot of bags with unnecessary items. Just pack the necessities and embark on your travel.

7. Security

Finally, ensure to be always aware of your surroundings. Avoid eating things from strangers or following strangers to less populated areas. Make sure you are in constant communication with a friend or a family member. Develop a check in of every 2 hours where you call and inform them on your locations and activities. Take your security seriously and in case of anything contact the police or notify the hotel management.

For some more ideas on this topic check out this Rick Steves article.

The airport lounge is an interesting place to see a variety of characters. From the outside, travel is all glamorous no matter the stars or airplane ticket one has. However, there are hidden hassles and frustration of parking shuttles, airport drives, frisking, rude passengers, lines and more lines, lost luggage, you name it. Here are some dos and donts to guide you on your behavior at the airport lounge.

Loud calls

Try as best as possible to keep your voice in check. A whisper is not necessary; your normal speaking voice will do. Nobody really wants to hear the details of your trip or adventures so keep it down.

Share the power outlets

As only a number of power outlets are available in lounges, don’t be selfish if you happen to get a hold of them first. Sometimes other people need them urgently even for just a bit. If you happen to be the one requesting to use one, be polite and courteous to avoid unnecessary confrontations.

Don’t hog on food and drinks

First off, if you have to drink before boarding a plane, make sure you are hydrated. A few drinks are okay but don’t overdo it and be labeled as the intoxicated passenger. You have to at least remain a sober mind for your safety and that of your luggage. Intoxication will lead you to become a nuisance to your fellow travelers.

Clean after yourself

That they aren’t trash cans in many lounges is appalling but that shouldn’t be an excuse to make a mess of your area. Wrap up your peels nicely or whatever litter you have and dispose of it once you get the chance. But for pits sake don’t throw it on the floor.

Check the bags you bring on-board

The staff is normally on the look-out for too big or too many bags. To save yourself the embarrassment or unnecessary arguments, follow the airport’s rules and policy for everyone’s peace of mind.

Park your luggage well

The lounge is a pretty crowded place and so what might help matters and ease of access by other people is strategic placement of your carry-ons. Try not to put them along walkways rather prop them against the walls or the chairs if possible.

Use earphones/headphones

If you are going to use your computer/phone to listen to music, play movies, or Skype, use some headphones. It can be quite annoying to be the one sitting next to people who assumes you are interested in whatever genre of music or movies they are listening to watching.

Control your kids

Nobody wants a screaming child at the airport lounge. It’s understandable that kids do throw tantrums from time to time but you can help prevent this by warning them way beforehand to avoid the frustration and shame that comes with their public tantrums.

Queueing

It takes at least 20 minutes before everyone settles in the plane so take your time and relax in the lounge. You don’t have to rush when the gate opens but be cautious and attentive so that you don’t miss your flight.