Allison G
hello bec. this is an interesting blog topic - i love all the tips. do you have any advice on how to travel alone? sometimes that can be just as stressful (or more so!) :-).
Dear Allison,
Thank you for your comments. It is best to avoid travelling alone wherever possible, but if it is unavoidable, then I hope the following tips are of help to you.
Sincerely,
Bec.
If you have to travel alone:
1. Before you travel, do as much of the arrangements for on route and your final destination as you can before you leave. Travel agents can give wonderful assistance especially with accomodation and meal included deals. Don't forget travel insurance, and sufficient visas.
2. Always stay away from red-light districts, especially when choosing your accomodation; many countries have accomodation run by missionary or Christian groups, which are reasonable, clean, and respectable. Backstreet hostels or inns are not advisable either.
3. If you are to meet up with friends or family on the other end, always make sure you have ALL their contact details, address, phone, cell-phone etc.
4. Do your homework, study up on the places you are to visit, having some knowledge under your belt, helps you to keep a level head and make clear decisions. Learning some key phrases in the local language also helps. The internet is a great tool. (Check out your government's own travel website - they give advice specifically for your own nationality).
5. Always carry ID on you, make photocopies of your passport, visa, and tickets, and keep them in your handbag and in your luggage. Keep your original travel documents in a very safe place, never leave them lying around in your room. (If you have a trusted friend or family at home, leave a copy with them too). NB: Always check the length of your visa to assure you don't overstay.
6. Do not carry a lot of cash on you. It is advisable only to carry what you will actually use at any given time, such as during lay overs, or shopping. Have a bankcard or visacard where you can use an Automatic Teller Machine. When using your bankcard, do not let it out of your sight.
7. Travel as light as possible, you will find that many of your necessities are easily assessible anywhere in the world today. It is advisable not to take a 'carry-on'. Just what you will carry your travel documents in will suffice. Using a document belt strapped to your person is best.
8. Carry some photos of friends or family. You never know when they may come in handy.
9. When shopping stick to the malls. If touring, go with tours from respectable hotels.
10. Always tell someone where you are, or are going, even if it is just staff at the reception desk.
Notify your embassy upon arrival especially if you are staying for some time.
11. Carry a 'For those little emergencies' kit with you. (See The Egg Basket).
12. Do not make it obvious that you are alone. If things get stressful - praying helps. :-)
Copyright. Rebecca Laklem
posted by Bec Laklem @ 1:28 AM
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