6 Reminders For Your Next Trip

This is for the person going to a unique and estranged destination. If your traditional vacation spot is to the beach or mountains, this may not apply to you.

Pack for your destination

Check the weather, research traditional outfits, and bring comfortable shoes, if there is a lot of walking! If you're planning multiple destinations where you have to travel with your bags – like multiple airports, train stations, or buses - be mindful of the journey. You don't want to get on a train with a heavy suitcase(s) - most of them are placed on a wrack over your head. Likewise, you don't want to walk through airports, train stations, or the city with heavy luggage. Pack light. Simple as that.

Know the basics about the destination

Where is your hotel or Airbnb? How close are restaurants? What monuments, parks or buildings do you want to visit? Do the people there speak a different language? If so, learn key phrases in that language. Always be aware of where you are and where you’re going. It could also be beneficial to know street names.

Create a solid itinerary

Itineraries make it easy for loved ones to follow along and have a basic understanding of where you’re going. Whether you travel with a group or by yourself, its good to have an outline of what things you plan to do. Make sure all details of the itinerary are complete – train tickets and flights are booked; museum tickets and restaurant reservations are secure. Take it from me, it doesn't feel good to get to the train station expecting tickets to be $20, but instead turns out to be $100. Do your research, book online and get your tickets early.

Be open-minded

This is my favorite recommendation. Have an open mind for when things don’t go your way. When meeting other people, when trying new foods; be open to it. You never know what you will like or dislike. The best meal I had in Spain was a dish the server recommend. It was amazing and I have no idea what it was called. Be open to the cultures that are different than what you're used to.

Be kind to everyone

Millions of people travel each year and depending on your destination, you will run into other travelers. From strangers on the street, servers in a restaurant, to travelers who live in other parts of the world – you will encounter all of them. When you approach people with kindness, you have a better opportunity to learn something you haven’t learned before. Having conversations with strangers is one of my favorite things about traveling.

Be safe

Research your destination to understand the good and bad that comes with traveling. Danger is everywhere. Evil people do evil things, but love is everywhere too. Kind people do kind things. Never pack anything you aren’t willing to lose. Clothes and technology can be replaced, your life cannot. Trust your gut instinct. If something feels off trust it and get to a safe place.

Sidenote, if you don’t feel safe in traditional situations in your hometown, you won’t feel safe in strange situations. In other words, if you are afraid, don't even leave your house.

Whatever you believe will always be your reality. Safe travels and wheels up to your next destination!!