Traveling is a good way to see new places in having a new perspective of the world. It does, however, require an investment of time and money. Here are some helpful tips for making the most of your precious vacation time to travel and keeping it affordable.
If your travels will take you to a port of call prior to your cruise, try to find a reasonably priced hotel with included parking and check in the night before. Check with the hotel staff about parking deals even if none are published.
Be aware that in some foreign cities many criminals will pose as policemen. Never give them your original passport as you may never see it again. If an officer or official asks you to come to their office, do so on foot. Never, under any circumstances, get in a car with an unknown local.
If you want to get the best prices available for a flight you’re taking, go to the official web page for each individual airline that flies to the place where you’re going. Travelocity and similar websites aren’t the only place to find deals on airfares.
Always go out of your way to tip any bell station and housekeeper appropriately. You don’t have to overdo it, though, just a simple dollar per bag and no more than five dollars a day for the housekeeper is adequate enough. You can almost guarantee that you will have a pleasurable stay by doing so.
Remember to carry a book of matches or a business card from the hotel your are staying at with you at all times. Should you be in a foreign location and get lost, this item can be perfect for getting directions or telling a taxi where you need to get to. It is particularly useful for those who haven’t mastered the language.
Prior to making any reservations, do your homework. Look for review websites that have opinions on places you plan on visiting. Ask your friends and family for advice on destinations. When you do thorough research you can make good plans and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Steer clear of rush hour when traveling by car. At the very least, take a stop during that time. This is a great time to grab a bite or give the kids some exercise.
Not a lot of people can afford the Ritz Hotel, and sometimes have to stay at a less desirable hotel. If the area makes you uncomfortable but there’s no other choice, take a rubber doorstop. You can slide it under your door for your hotel room all night long (as well as using the chain and lock). While it is relatively simple to break a chain or lock, entering the room will be almost impossible if you have the extra protection of a doorstop.
State Department
Check the alarm in your hotel room when you arrive. You never know what the person who was staying there last might have had it set to. Turn off the alarm or set it to the time you want it on.
If you are visiting another country, do your research ahead of time. It is important to know what to do if you lose your passport. The US State Department is one place that can help you prepare ahead of time for traveling abroad. The State Department offers a site that gives instructions on contacting the Consulate or Embassy in countries you may be visiting. Write all of this information down and keep it handy during your trip. Usually, you can get a replacement within a couple days.
Research currency rates prior to your departure since this will make it easier to budget. Clearly knowing what the exchange rates are will save you headaches down the road. By doing so, you will maximize your fun and minimize overspending.
Jet lag is an all too common complaint for travelers who cross time zones. Begin your journey well rested. Also try and get a bit of shut eye on the plane.
Keep track of all of your valuables at all time when traveling. If you have a purse with you, keep it close to your body at all times. Do not carry a bag with easy access to any of the pockets. These are but a few tips to consider when shopping for a safe bag for your travels.
When taking a long road trip, plan for service stops along the way. When traveling by car, you may have long periods when there are few options for vehicle service. Plan your route around repair places that can fix your car if need be. Keep the numbers handy in case you need to use them.
Use these travel tips for a quick road trip or an extended vacation to a foreign country. Get out and start your adventure. Traveling is truly interesting and fulfilling.