Everything can be for the first time. First day at school, first date, the first smartphone, first best friend etc. And travel is not exclusion. Especially, the trip abroad can happen for the first time. Most people are afraid, scared or nervous before the first trip. And it doesn’t matter whether you travel alone or with someone else.
Tip #1. What is What
It is better to learn at least something about the place you are going to. So, before going somewhere, try to check at least common things: local currency, payment types (credit card or cash), the local language, traditional food, transportation types and fees etc. I don’t mean that you have to learn the local language, but at least what is the local language? Also, if you are going to a Muslim country, I would recommend checking the outfit regulations. In some countries, it is prohibited to wear short skirts or shorts outside.
Sometimes it is very useful if you read a little bit about the history of that country or a particular place. For example, when I travelled to Cambodia, I was reading about each temple before visiting it. Otherwise, all the temples will look the same, and after the trip, you will forget what was what.
 |
| Edinburgh |
Tip #2. Must SEE
Of course, it depends on the purpose of your trip, but if you want to explore a new city/country/place, then you should make a list of Must-See or Must Visit places. How to do it? Just google it. There are plenty of recommendations by bloggers, travellers, travel agencies or journals, local travel organizations etc.
Pick up the place which you want to visit. If you have too many places to visit and too little time to do it, I would recommend you to split your list into 2 parts: MUST and Maybe next time.
 |
| Manchester |
Another important thing is the well-planned trip schedule. Put the places which are located near to each other together. It will help you save time, and money and increase the chances that you will visit more places. For example, on the first day of the trip you can visit the sights from district A, on the second day you can explore district B and so on.
Tip #3. Must EAT
Well, maybe some won’t agree with me, but as one who likes yummies and like to try new things, I always try the local food! I believe that local food helps to feel and understand the local culture. I never understood people who prefer McDonald to pizza or pasta in Italy. I am not saying that during the trip you have to eat just local food. But you definitely should try it at least once.
Most countries have a broad variety of local dishes. Also, the traditional food can vary from city to city. For example, in South Korea, Andong city is famous for the so-called JjimDak (braised chicken), or the most delicious bibimbap is in Jeonju city.
 |
Dubai
|
Tip #4. Find locals
It is not just to do things, it is tips. From my personal experience, I would be happy to hang out with locals or with those who live here for a long time. Only from these people, you can learn real facts about that country. But here I would point out the fact that not all ex-pats really know about the country. I know many bloggers who tell about the country nonsense. Why? Because, not only how long you live here or where matters, but also how you live there, what kind of experience you get, with whom you communicate… If you live in the country for 5+ years and stay just at home or all your friends are the same ex-pats, you will never really learn about that country.
 |
Traditional Korean Masks used for the performance
|
Tip #5. In case of Emergency
You never know what can happen. You may lose your wallet, or bag or get lost by yourself. Therefore, you should try to reduce or eliminate all possible risks. Don’t keep all your money in the same place. Put some into your pocket, another part into the bag, put your card into another pocket… Learn emergency phone numbers (police, your friends, embassy etc).
 |
Seoul
|
Tip #6. Check your budget
Even if you have a platinum VISA card, estimate your budget for the trip. Try to estimate your future expenses for the upcoming trip. If you plan to visit some sights where the entrance is not free, check the fees online. Some places provide a discount if you make an online booking or reservation, or if you travel in a group. And sometimes you can save around 50% on online reservations. Also, you can share your experience and give some advice to others.
Tip #7. Just do it!
Don’t be afraid! Don’t worry! Just do it! Take all from your trip! Even if you travel alone, be brave! You will never get the same experience, the same impressions, the same memories again.
 |
Stone monuments which protected the place/house in South Korea
|
Conclusion
Each trip is unique, and try to get the most out of it. You can find me on Instagram and ask me any questions. Or if you be somewhere around South Korea, DM and we can have a short trip together!
Comments
Post a Comment