They say that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page. And while there’s certainly more to life than jet-setting, if you’re in a position where you’re able to do it, you probably can’t get enough.
Choosing the perfect destination can be tough – after all, with so many possibilities out there worth exploring, how do you choose the right place without getting overwhelmed?
That’s why we’ve put together these tips to help make your decision a little easier.
- Budget
The Seychelles might be one of the world’s premier island getaway destinations, but if it’s out of your price range, then you’ll need to find a more affordable (but just as enjoyable) location.
But fortunately, it’s never been easier to take control of your finances when it comes to traveling. There are many options out there that are wallet-friendly that also provide enriching experiences and many people get Oktoberfest reservation too for availing great offers. Think hostels and delicious street-food, rather than gourmet meals in expensive hotels
Airplane tickets can be extremely expensive – so keep your eyes open for any specials or discounts that might pop up. Try not to fly during peak season as well, because that’s when prices are at their highest levels.
You’ll also need to think about the exchange rate of the country you’re visiting. If your currency doesn’t have a lot of purchasing power, then look somewhere else, where a little can go a long way.
- Safety
Before heading out, it is imperative to check whether a country is safe to travel to. For example, smartraveller.gov.au says of Somalia, “Do not travel to Somalia. If you are already in this location, consider leaving.”
Clearly, it’s important to read advice from other travelers before setting your heart on somewhere.
Take a look at stats like crime and murder rates, pickpocket and mugging rates and whether the region is considered safe for solo travel.
But remember that these statistics represent the entire country. This could paint the picture that the entire country is unsafe, when in fact that is only the case outside of the city in outlying areas.
Look at Cape Town in South Africa as an example. Is Cape Town safe for tourists, you ask? The crime stats might say no, but travelers that have been say yes!
Practice common sense, and provided the country you want to visit is not currently a warzone, then you should be fine.
- Language
Traveling to a country whose main language is different to your own is not without its challenges. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go!
While there are smartphone apps that can translate in real-time, it helps to know a few words of the language.
Spending a few hours memorizing some common words or phrases, like ‘hello,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘my name is…’
If you’re in a situation in which you’re speaking with someone and can’t understand them, remember to be patient, polite, and just try your best.
A smooth traveling trip begins with the right preparation. Don’t just spin a globe and randomly select a country to travel to – take the time to know exactly what you’re getting into so that you can have a great time.