Welcome back to “My Travel Classroom!”
In Part 2 of this three part series, I will continue to share the lessons I’ve learned from decades of travel starting with letter I and continuing through to P.
So please read on..
INSURANCE…
for to protect you and your fellow passengers when traveling is a personal choice and one that I cannot make for anyone but my own family. But…
a changing world, unexpected illnesses, aging relatives — all of these are reasons for at least checking out insurance options as a possible safety net.
I have to admit that when I first started traveling, I opted out of purchasing any travel insurance, no matter what the travel journey was. In the last decade, however, I have found this purchase to be invaluable when traveling to Europe and/or cruising.
But again, this decision is a personal choice. If I had one bit of advice if you choose to get insurance..Research different companies to get best options with the best coverage at the best cost.
JET LAG…
is something all travelers will deal with when flying for more than 3 hours and across time zones.
There really isn’t a magic bullet to eliminate this but there are actions one can take to minimize its affects. Keeping hydrated (water, water water!). No alcohol when flying and trying to nap on the plane (especially on over night flights) really are the only things that work.
If you are flying overnight, staying up when you arrive is also key. Get a good breakfast, take a walk, then start your day.
KEEPSAKES…
are memories of our travel journey.
Start a “travel collection.” At each travel destination, purchase an item for this collection. Pick a theme that keeps you focused on not buying junk.
For example, my husband and I collect Christmas ornaments. We have found that even in the warmest climates and “off season,” we can always find an ornament.
When we decorate our tree each December, putting up these ornaments really provide memories and conversation. Here’s just two of our many ornaments. Unfortunately, our tree is put away now until next Christmas to show it will all its ornaments. But next December…
LANGUAGES…
different from your own can be quite intimidating. And visiting places where you don’t speak the language can be downright scary for some.
Don’t let a language barrier stop you!
My family actually enjoys this aspect of traveling. Part of traveling is educating yourself and others. We have found that more often than not, locals are happy to try and help you with their language as well as trying out their English speaking skills.
Learning helpful phrases in different languages may actually spur on the desire to learn a new language. Go for it!
MARKETS…
provide travelers with a way to explore the local cuisine culture.
For my family, exploring the local markets has become a tradition for us. We enjoy picking up fresh fruit, cheeses, breads and other assorted items for lunch. We get to meet the locals while enjoying some of the best, INEXPENSIVE, food.
NATIONAL PARKS…
are travel gems for all ages. And the reasons to visit them are endless.
They are perfect destinations for travelers on a budget. They’re educational and actually good for your health! The list goes on.
But trust me, once you visit one, you will be hooked. The landscapes, the animals, the flora…they are purely magical places.
These national gems have provided some of my family’s best travel memories. So get out there and start exploring!
OUTDOORS…
is something we can all share and enjoy without traveling far at all. And most of the time, it doesn’t cost us a dime!
The great outdoors offers us a wealth of recreational activities including hiking, camping, biking, rock climbing… The list goes on.
Explore nature in your own backyard. Go to a local park or beach.
But get out there, take a deep breath and enjoy!
PLANNING AND PROBLEM SOLVING…
are two proactive actions that any savvy traveler will learn are invaluable.
I am a planner and a list maker and always have been. I require structure in many aspects of my life and I understand many of us are not like this. But I believe wholeheartedly that a successful student of travel will always do their homework. Remember…
Savvy planning — from itinerary planning to packing — will eliminate many headaches and probably, some gray hairs!
Read more on how to be the Best Travel Architect by visiting https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/be-a-smart-travel-architect-2/
Be a proactive problem solver. Act on solving potential problems you may face on your trip BEFORE they happen. For example, create a list of medications and open pharmacies where you visit, make copies of important documents, and most of all..
Be open to possible issues while you’re away that you have no control over such as a flight delay or cancellation. Take a deep breath and move on.
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Hope you enjoyed the second installment of this series. For lessons learned Q through Z…
Click here for final installment https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?page_id=1698