When my friend and I were
single in the good old days……we were independent working women who wanted to
explore the world. So one fine evening over coffee we decided that we should travel
together. And with that i got my first stamp on my passport and lots of
journeys have unfolded since.
This blog is about my travel experience and how to ensure
one has a safe, economical travel.
1.
You can save
money on travel. Many people book tickets on impulse and don’t do enough
research. For ex: Flight to Colombo is cheaper in Chennai when compared to
other cities. If you are from Bangalore it makes sense to book flight from
Chennai. And you save on travel time as well (only 45 min flight to Colombo as
compared to 1.25 min from Bangalore).
2.
If you are travelling alone or visiting for the
first time to any foreign destination always ask hotel where you are staying to pick
you up from airport. Even if it is expensive it’s worth it. After a flight journey
and tiring immigration check-ups you are exhausted enough.
3.
Always carry
local currency from home. Carry enough for emergency and later once you
land you can exchange currency.
4.
Have a travel
itinerary. This is caveat to any trip (local or international)l. Seek
advice from people who stay at that place or someone who has visited the place
recently. The hotel Concierge will also guide you well.
5.
Most places have good local transportation so
opt for it.
6.
Always decide your route and ensue you cover as
many places at one go.
7.
Check weather
forecasts and carry clothes and footwear accordingly.
8. Also
some places have strict dress codes…especially religious places .Some places
women can’t wear sleeveless tops or your head needs to be covered. So carry a shawl/stole.
Quirky tip
-
Wednesdays are ladies night at all pubs at Clarke
(Singapore) where you get discounts and free drinks.
-
The weekend market at Bangkok called Chatuchak
market is a must visit where you have more than 15000 stalls selling all kinds
of stuff from clothes, perfume, handicrafts, bags. You are sure to get dizzy
shopping here.
-
In SriLanka SAARC countries have special
discounts when compared to other tourists. So carry a photocopy of passport everywhere.
-
Never carry original passport when you are
visiting tourist spots. Most hotels provide vaults where you can leave your
passport
Lastly once you come back from that awesome
trip write a review about the place on TripAdvisor or HolidayIQ. Talk about
your experience and most importantly mention place which is not listed on
internet and if a place is not worth the visit do mention that as well.
A memorable trip is one where the weather has
been favorable, safe, explored many places and been economical. All this happens
with proper planning and precautions taken.
Bon Voyage
