Top Planning Tips For Your Next Trip Abroad

Nov 2, 2023

Last Updated on: Feb 24, 2024

Travel Guides

Traveling is one of the most exciting and fulfilling things we can do with our time. However, without proper planning, it can quickly become one of the most stressful events I our calendars too.

In particular, takes a lot of thought and preparation if you want every step of the journey to run smoothly. If you have an overseas trip coming up, there are a few key things you’ll want to start getting in order long before you hop on the plane.

Here’s what you need to start thinking about the moment you decide to go on holiday.

Research Your Destination Thoroughly

First things first – you need to know a little about where you’re going. Where in the world is it? What are the travel documentation requirements? What’s it like there and what do you plan to do while you’re there?

Once you know the essentials, it’s also good to do a little bit of reading up on the culture, the cuisine, the tourist attractions, what the weather’s like, and all the other little details that will impact your experience. Find out what the people are like, what the “must try” foods are, and if there are any tourist traps you should be avoiding like the plague.

Also, don’t forget to check whether you need an international driving permit if you plan on renting a car during your travels – this often overlooked document can be essential for hassle-free road trips in many countries.

Prep Your Travel Documents Early

One of the most stressful aspects of travel is all the admin that comes along with it. When you’re traveling abroad, there’s a whole lot of documentation that needs to be in place to avoid hiccups, so make sure you start getting it all in order well in advance to avoid last-minute panic sessions.

Sort out your visas and flight tickets pronto. You’ll also want to make sure you know how you’ll be paying for things in your destination country, that you get any required vaccinations, and that you’re covered for any emergencies. Opting for a comprehensive travel insurance plan like Blue Cross Travel Insurance will wrap everything into one.

Overshoot Your Budget

There’s no worse feeling than realizing you’ve gone way, way over budget on something you were sure of – and yet this is pretty common. This is why when you’re budgeting for a big trip, it’s always a good idea to prepare yourself to go a little over.

We all know that saving money while travelling is a priority for most people, so if you have hard limits, set them. However, then you need to make sure you’re strict with your daily spending! If you know that you’re the spontaneous type who might vanish into a nearby pub when you were meant to be out for a leisurely (and free) park stroll, you might want to leave some wiggle room in your budget.

Look To Locals For Recommendations

If you’re looking for accommodation, restaurants, bars, clubs, parks, museums, theatres, activities, or even just a really good coffee, the best people to ask are the locals.

Locals have done all the hard work of experiencing the not-so-great options that inevitably exist in every city, so getting their advice on where to go and where not to go simply makes sense. If you like to plan ahead, try to find an online community group (such as on Facebook) where you can ask for recommendations from the locals of whatever cities you’ll be visiting.

Create A Flexible Itinerary

When traveling abroad, there are inevitably going to be countless things you want to do and see and experience. It’s not unlikely that you’ll be able to fill up every moment of your trip in a pre-planned schedule to make sure you get to everything.

However, a lot of the magic of travel lies in spontaneity – stumbling across hidden gems or losing track of time at some natural beauty you discovered. It’s a great idea to plan your trip and make a list of the must-do moments. However, making your itinerary flexible and adaptable will ensure that you don’t pressure yourself out of the things you’re really enjoying.

Learn The Local Lingo

If you’re traveling to a foreign country that speaks an unfamiliar language, it’s always a good idea to get a little clued up before you go. Of course, you can rely on translation apps while you’re there to help you read signs and order your meals, but knowing some of the basics will help make communication a lot easier.

In this case, language learning apps are almost always the way to go. They might not be an ideal option for someone looking to seriously study a language, but they provide an excellent platform for some quick, basic learning. Try to pick up some basic phrases you might be using on a regular basis on your trip. Learn to ask for the restroom, directions, and where to find a cold beer!

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Barsha Bhattacharya is a senior content writing executive. As a marketing enthusiast and professional for the past 4 years, writing is new to Barsha. And she is loving every bit of it. Her niches are marketing, lifestyle, wellness, travel and entertainment. Apart from writing, Barsha loves to travel, binge-watch, research conspiracy theories, Instagram and overthink.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Chiang Mai

Why Chiang Mai Is The Biggest Hub For Digital Nomads?

BY Ankita TripathyMar 20, 2024

Nomad living is never easy- without a stable place to live, one has to face a lot of difficulties. But it’s all worthwhile when one gets acquainted with different cultures and traditions. However, an important consideration for simplifying the nomad life is to find a perfect escape. One such destination is Chiang Mai, which has helped various digital nomads escape reality.  Located in the heart of northern Thailand's mountains, Chiang Mai is where digital nomads from around the world can find refuge. With its charm emanating from its wonderful scenery and culture, as well as cutting-edge amenities, a digital worker can break away from the constraints of office premises. Here are the top reasons Chiang Mai is the perfect place for digital nomads. Introduction To Chiang Mai In Thailand, Chiang Mai is the true epitome of a global tourist hub. What makes this destination so unique is its cost-efficient living, multiple co-working spaces, and, of course, the lightning-fast Internet. Yes, you can access high-quality Internet even while relaxing in nature’s lap. Other than that, one finds solace in various cultural attractions and traditionally rich restaurants.  You can literally visit the place anytime as it is just one drive away from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a major city. Chiang Mai is perched on snow-capped mountains where a mesmerizing temple lies. One can easily access it through the popular Red Songthaew or Rod Daeng.  In fact, most people visit Chiang Mai as their weekend escape, which brims with cultural charm. Let’s check out why this place is the biggest hub for nomads and why people prefer it over other options.   Reasons To Visit Chiang Mai: The Biggest Hub for Digital Nomads Now that you know the cultural glory of the place, let’s talk about how it benefits the digital nomads. People who work remotely want an escape from their mundane life. However, remote work calls for some crucial necessities like good connectivity or a soothing atmosphere. Guess what? Chiang Mai does offer them and much more:  1. Fast and Reliable Internet These days, good internet access is like a remote job life support system. In Chiang Mai, you can have an Internet connection speed of up to 29 Mbps, which can help you with your file uploading and also in virtual meetings. Also, it can help you with your favorite shows watching. A local SIM card is also available with unlimited data for a few dollars a month. 2. Large and Diverse Nomad Community In Chiang Mai, you will interact with digital nomads coming from every part of the world who are the masters of SEO tricks. Hence, you can hire an SEO agency in Chiang Mai for your online business to help grow your online presence as you immerse yourself in ancient temples or hike to the hidden waterfalls. 3. Low Cost of Living Transportation, residence, food, and healthcare costs are significantly lower in Chiang Mai. For $500 worth of monthly rental, you can have a unique and trendy apartment with a pool. What is more, street food vendors offer a great assortment of drool-worthy foods starting just from a couple of coins. Therefore, irrespective of your circumstances, as a low-budget freelancer or startup founder, you can have a good living in Chiang Mai without overstraining your budget. 4. Rich Culture and Nature The city of Chiang Mai gives you the chance to embrace the wonderful lifestyle. Investigate temples as old as centuries, such as Wat Phra Singh, or enroll in a traditional Thai cooking class. When a peaceful break from work is all you need, take a hike in the nearby mountains. You can also visit hill tribes and admire the waterfalls. Life here is bliss, being a unique combination of the buzz of the city and the restorative force of nature. 5. Availability of Cafes and Coworking Spaces Whether you’re a fan of hipster joints or peaceful gardens, you’ll find the ideal place to work in Chiang Mai. It is easy to find yourself in a co-working space with good office chairs, unlimited coffee, and a community of other digital nomads. And honestly, who doesn’t like to work in a co-working space surrounded by alluring mountains and scenic beauty? Chiang Mau is a perfect destination for digital nomads who want a peaceful working area.  The Nomadic Escape: Land Of Mesmerizing Beauty We have talked a lot about how Chiang Mai is a perfect destination for digital nomads. But this is where we are talking about how beautiful this place is geographically. Visitors coming here can immerse themselves in the Lanna architecture and experience the breathtaking views of the mountains.  If a digital nomad wants to gear up for their very first tour, they should definitely visit Phra That Doi Suthep. Visit the mountaintop and catch the day’s first light. One might also take a pause to meditate and breathe some fresh air. Switch things up by moving a down-to-earth life at Mae Kampong Village.  If you are in Lamphun, do not miss going to the ancient Hariphunchai temple. It carries a rich history of 900 years and is a spiritual hub for the Lamphun people. There are annual festivals held every year from October to November. These vibrant months make the temple look lively and full of colors.  Conclusion Chiang Mai is a star among digital nomad hotspots due to its broad spectrum of luxurious, up-to-date facilities, low cost of living, high comfort level, beautiful nature, and fascinating culture. It is an environment where job and relaxation are combined in an unconventional way, which may only be found in this metropolis.  Regardless of whether you are an experienced digital nomad or just a beginner, Chiang Mai welcomes you warmly, assuring you that your journey will be as productive as it is mystic. So, are you excited to visit this picture-perfect nomad escape? If yes, comment below and share your thoughts on this. Thank you for reading till the end.  Read Also: Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel November Trips In 2023: From London To The World Zanzibar Or Oman: Which Do The Hungarian Tourists Like?

READ MORE Motorcyclists In Los Angeles

Common Road Elements That Can Be Disastrous For Motorcyclists In Los Angeles

BY Ankita TripathyDec 21, 2023

Riding a motorcycle in Los Angeles is fun as well as beneficial. You get to experience the cool breeze and the adrenaline rush that comes from the high riding speed. One advantage of a motorcycle is that you'll save on fuel. But there is a drawback. The rate of motorcycle accidents is very high. Not only is it high, but the fatalities are so common due to the lack of protective cover while riding.  Statistics by NHTSA show that the fatalities are more than 5,579. Most of the accidents are severe, and the percentage of deaths and serious injuries is higher compared to minor injuries. Statistics show that among the 2,803 motorcycle accidents that occurred in 2021 in Los Angeles, the fatalities amounted to 133 people.  Because of the severity of the accidents in the city, residents should reach out to Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys. With the help of the attorneys, your rights will be fought for, and you will receive fair compensation. They, however, have to prove that the injuries you sustained resulted from the defendant's negligence. Let us see some common injuries you can suffer from and the common road elements that can be disastrous for motorcyclists in Los Angeles.  Injuries You Are Likely to Suffer From By now, you have an idea of how serious a motorcycle accident can be. The accident can leave you with long-term effects, such as:  Head injuries The muscles are affected as you fall. This can be leg or hand muscles Paralysis caused by damage to the spinal cord Leg injuries Let us now focus on the disastrous road elements that cause motorcycle accidents. Common Disastrous Road Elements The common road elements that can cause devastating effects on motorcyclists in Los Angeles include: Slippery/ Wet Roads Hydroplaning, which can happen on wet roads, is particularly hazardous when there's a mix of light rain and oil residue on the road. Both normal cars and motorbikes are at serious risk when hydroplaning, but motorcyclists face an even greater threat due to the reduced number of wheels.  When you're out on your motorcycle in the rain, maintain a low speed so you can stop quickly if necessary. Riding at fast speeds and suddenly braking increases the likelihood of an accident. Debris Debris can cause a lot of harm to motorcyclists. Debris is any loose object on the road that is not part of the road. Some of the examples include: Trash Leaves Pieces of tires Rocks Fallen objects from other cars Always be careful while on the road, and watch out for debris.  Edge Breaks There are edge breaks between variously sized lanes. Edge breaks will pose a greater threat to you as a motorcyclist, especially when riding at high speeds on highways. To lessen the likelihood of an accident, you must exercise extreme caution when riding near edge breakers. Rough Roads Rough roads are another common road element that can be disastrous for motorcyclists in Los Angeles. The accident's severity depends on the speed at which the motorcyclist was riding. Rough roads generally mean roads with:  Potholes Loose gravel Roadway resurfacing Poor maintenance Construction zones You must ride at a reasonable speed and watch out for uneven or rough roads.  What Can You Do to Reduce the Impact of Motorcycle Accidents?  You should: Make a habit of wearing your helmet every time you ride Service your motorcycle regularly When riding, you should wear thick layers of protective clothing Do not ride your motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs Do not cross the speed limit Conclusion  Though some road elements might be harmless to vehicles, they can cause catastrophic motorcycle accidents. Such elements include debris, wet roads, edge breaks, and rough roads.  The services of a motorcycle accident attorney will come in handy when you are involved in an accident that was not your fault. With their help, you can determine who is liable for the accident and ensure the appropriate damages are settled. Read Also: How The Weather Can Affect Your Motorcycle Riding Gear? 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India 15 Unexplored Destinations In India Worth Visiting

READ MORE best travel sites

Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022

BY Barsha BhattacharyaMar 11, 2022

When the last two years forced me and the rest of the world to stay home, my favorite pastime was looking up the best travel sites online. The moment things turned a little normal and restrictions were lifted, I packed my bags and tools the help of these sites made as many as four trips in a time span of four months. It’s 2022, and I already have my travel plans for the year sorted, thanks to these terrific sites. It was surprising when people started asking me questions related to travel. One of the most common questions was, ‘what are the best travel sites?’ So I decided to answer the question with a list featuring the top 10 best travel sites in 2022. Scroll down to find out which can help you the best! Best Travel Sites In 2022: So, here are the top 10 travel sites that you can check while travelling anywhere in 2022. 1. Expedia If you are planning a long trip with a lot of people, your best option is Expedia. Expedia is one of the best travel sites of all time and is also pretty well-known. People love their wide range of bundle alternatives and the customization feature for meeting the requirements of every vacation type. Pros: Extensive alternatives for every type of vacation. Updated deals. Easy user-interface. Cons: At times, competing sites might have better offers or deals. 2. Priceline One of the best travel sites known for its sheer accuracy even during last-minute deals, Priceline has several sources all over the internet. However, the site became famous when Canadian actor William Shatner started promoting it in the late 90s. So, if you were wondering what are the best last-minute travel sites, then Priceline is definitely one. Pros: Very well-known, which means the brand is trusted by customers. Updated and user-friendly website. Prioritizes accuracy, especially when it comes to booking data. Cons: At times, competing sites might have better offers or deals. 3. Booking.com A number of people might find it annoying that I am mentioning Booking.com on this list. But let’s face it! The site has lucrative deals, and I simply couldn’t ignore it, but then again, they have a horrible customer support team. So if you prioritize crazy deals over poor customer service then you can totally check this one out. Pros: An underrated site that allows you to book places all over the world. Users can book as well as list properties for rent. Better reviews from users compared to Tripadvisor. Cons: Terrible customer support. 4. Kayak There was a time when Kayak used to be legendary. Those were the days when Kayak gained popularity after offering crazy deals to users that other competing sites could never match. However, the popularity was short-lived because once competition arrived, Kayak was reduced to just another great site.  Pros: A solid search engine with accurate information. Competitive price structures for busy times during the travel schedules. Has maintained the consistency of being a good travel site. Cons: The website has zero mobile-friendliness, especially if you are still using older versions of Android or iOS services. You could still make do with the mobile app, though. You May Also Like To Read This: Most Exciting Places To Visit In Bulgaria In 2022 5. Airbnb When Airbnb had just appeared on the scene in 2008, people couldn’t quite relate to the idea, and the company was under a debt of 40,000 dollars. However, the brand got itself out of all the problems and made a name. Presently, it is known as one of the best travel sites, with listings in 34,000 cities and 190 countries across the globe. Pros: Users can book as well as list properties for rent. The concept of a unique experience is unique in reality. Simple to use and comprehend. Cons: During busy travel schedules of the year or even during weekends, it is difficult to get a booking on your preferred dates. Also, property owners are not always honest about describing their properties. So inaccurate information is present in several areas. 6. Hotwire If you were asking around what are the best last-minute travel sites, then Hotwire is another alternative other than Priceline. If you are an adventurous explorer, you will love Hotwire. The site allows you to buy hotel rooms at dirt cheap rates, but the catch is you won't know where you will be staying before the booking is made. Pros: Dirt cheap rates for hotel rooms. Crazy vacation packages are always available. Cons: You might have to compromise on quality just to pay less money. Read More: Few Excellent Ways To Get Discount On Hotel Booking 7. Vrbo Vrbo is pretty similar to Airbnb. It is also a vacation rental, but it is far cheaper than Aribb. This is because Vrbo charges costumes way lesser than Airbnb in terms of service fees. Industry experts have often compared pricing between the same property listed on the two sites before arriving at this conclusion. Pros: Cheaper than other vacation rentals like Airbnb. The concept of a unique experience is unique in reality. Cons: During busy travel schedules of the year or even during weekends, it is difficult to get a booking on your preferred dates. 8. Agoda Agoda is one of the best travel sites for people with impromptu and low-budget plans. The app allows users to find rooms in more than 200 locations depending on which city they are staying in. Users love it because it saves time and even lets you compare places side by side. Pros: User-friendly and always have plenty of alternatives to choose from in terms of hotel rooms. Deals are cheaper than both Booking.com and Airbnb. Quick bookings and even faster check-ins. Cons: Poor customer support. Additional fees are charged in specific locations. Refund-related issues crop us often. 9. Southwest You might love them or hate them, but you can definitely not ignore Southwest. So if you are wondering what are the best travel sites for flights, then you have come to the right place because Southwest is one of the best travel sites for people who prefer traveling on flights. Pros: Very cost-effective with the lowest price being honored by the brand. Trustworthy and adheres to timings. Two pieces of checked bags are given for free, accompanied by a companion pass. Cons: Southwest tickets do not come with meal provisions. The brand also does not believe in confirming seats. With no partnerships in the airline industry, Southwest has only those Boeing 737 airplanes. 10. AA.com One of the biggest competitions to Southwest and the last name on my list, AA.com, is very similar to its competition. Moreover, AA.com managed to make it to the list of best travel sites solely depending on the plethora of positive reviews on its site. After all, customer reviews are the backbone of the hospitality industry. Pros: Cheap, punctual flights. Great customer reviews especially highlighting the ‘comfort’ aspect. People have also highlighted other elements like ‘value for money’ and security. Cons: There are several customer reviews indicating that there were no provisions for water on some flights. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. Which Travel Website Is Best? The best travel sites in 2022 are as follows, Expedia.com Priceline.com Hotwire.com Kayak.com, and CheapTickets.com Q2. What Is The Number 1 Vacation Spot In The World? The Great Barrier Reef is the number one vacation spot in the world, closely followed by Plitvice Lakes in Croatia and the Taj Mahal in India. These are all results depending on the popularity of the locations with travelers. Q3. Where Is The World's Most Beautiful Place? The most beautiful places in the world are as follows, Milford Sound in New Zealand, Santorini in Greece,  Isle of Skye in Scotland,  Huashan in China, and  Prague in the Czech Republic Conclusions: Now that you know all about the best travel sites in 2022, all you need to do is pack those bags and leave. Because if you don’t leave now, then you are stuck in front of your desktop till you are 60 one day and it’s time to retire. After all, let’s be realistic. Yes, at 60, you will have enough time but will you be able to jump off a cliff by the sea just for the fun of it? Then what are you waiting for? Put those travel plans into action today! Read Also: Reasons To Book Cottages For Your Honeymoon! Dharamshala’s Snow Story: A Guide To Visit During Winters 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip