Many people love to travel, because it’s a great chance to learn new things, visit new places and discover their secrets. Some tourists prefer spending their holidays relaxing in exotic places, while others love traveling to new places, discovering different cultures and going on adventures.
No matter which of the 2 types of tourists you are, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to make sure that you’ll get the most out of your vacation. We thought it would be a good idea to share with you some of the ideas that we consider to be the most important for having a great vacation.
Without further introduction, let’s jump straight to the point!
Do a research of the place you’re traveling to prior to your visit
Of course, this does not mean that you have to read the place’s whole Wikipedia page, but you need to know some important aspects characteristic of the area where you are going. See what their cultural traits are, what traditions they have, what types of food are preferred, and any other helpful tip you could get.
Also, try to make a travel plan to stick to. It will save you a lot of hassle, and you can plan it thoroughly from the comfort of your home, so you don’t waste any precious time doing it when you’re on your vacation!
Respect the local culture.
As we said earlier, the world we live in is very diverse, and we must always keep this in mind when we choose to travel. For example, some cultures might not appreciate women wearing shorts or a deep neckline. You have to take these aspects into account, because, after all, you are a guest in that country and its culture, and you should respect that.
Before taking a picture of someone, ask for permission.
It seems that this is a great way to show your respect for people. In some cultures, being photographed means losing a small piece of your soul, while in others, after being photographed, they are expecting to be paid. So do not be offended if a dancer or an exotic animal refuses to be photographed.
Learn a few phrases in the local language.
Even if it’s hard to say, try to do your best. When you are in a foreign country, nothing is more terrible than when you know you can’t conduct a basic conversation because you do not know a word in their language. In addition, you don’t have to be ashamed at all if you aren’t an expert in speaking their language, because most of the locals will really appreciate the efforts you are making to say “good”, “please” or “thank you”.
Get to know new people.
Frequent travelers know that the most precious thing you can come back with from a foreign country is friendship. And, to be honest, we have to admit that the people that we met on a trip and still keep in touch with, are one of the best souvenirs. In addition to this, if you become friends with a local you have the chance to learn more secrets and stories from that country, you will get to know other locals and, if you are lucky, you will have the chance to see the most beautiful landscapes to which tourists don’t normally arrive, because no guide knows about them.
If possible, try to rent accommodation in a local family’s house.
Forget the expensive hotels. They will never give you the opportunity to see how a family lives in a particular culture and what traditions and customs they have. Besides, you’ll have the chance to taste some of the local, home cooked food. Stay with a family for just a few days and you will see that without too much effort, you will get to know the place you’re visiting more. Let’s not forget that you have the opportunity to become friends with entire family!
Try the local food.
You will probably have the tendency to go to Starbucks or Burger King, but to find out what culinary tastes are specific to each country; you have to try their meals. Don’t be afraid to jump out of your comfort zone here, you’ll be happy you did. Trust us!
Take everything step by step.
One of the biggest differences between a typical tourist and a person who really loves to travel is their perception of traveling. Remember that you aren’t there to mindlessly visit as many places as you can for a few moments, take as many pictures for Instagram as possible, and walk away. That won’t really mean that you actually visited the place.
A person who really loves new experiences will enjoy every moment, observing everything in detail, getting to know everything from the surroundings, to the people, how they dress, what they love to do. Remember that you can find pictures of any tourism attraction on the internet. You are traveling for the experiences, not just to have a quick glance.
Most importantly, remember that traveling is all about the experience you’re getting. Try as many new things as you can, get to know people, and create unforgettable memories. Chances that you took, conversations you’ve had with random people and crazy stories you’ll come back with are the memories that will stick with you the most!
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