I’m proud to say that I have been to a lot of places already although I can’t travel as much as I would like to. Nevertheless, I’ve learned a lot of things in my offshore sojourns like learning new cultures, meeting new people and more importantly how it feels to be part of the minority. Traveling gives you the feeling that you’re a complete stranger in a place that is perfectly well without your presence. Regardless, every traveler should enjoy every minute of his or stay because most likely you won’t be able to come back in the future. Here are some tips that would hopefully help you out when you finally decide to pack your suitcase.
- Know the Language
Make sure to learn as much as possible when it comes to learning the fundamental greetings and questions asked by foreigners. Don’t expect people to know how to speak English because most likely, you’ll just end up being disappointed. If you’re in Korea or even in Japan, not a lot of people there speak English so better be prepared. Also if you have enough time to learn their alphabet which countries such as China, Thailand, Japan and Korea have then better learn it before buying your ticket.
- Know the Culture
Most Westerners fail in this category especially when they’re in countries in the Middle-East or even in China and Japan wherein the disparity of Western and Eastern culture is huge. The global village might be in effect right now but don’t expect people to act the way you do when you visit another foreign country. In Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, it’s a pretty bad idea to be skimpily clad because they enforce strict Sharia laws that can get you in jail if you’re not very careful. On the other hand, just make sure that you know what to expect when you get to your destination. You might not be able to know every aspect of their culture but it’s better than being completely ignorant. So do your part, read and research.
- Know the Law
This does not mean that you have to take up a crash course in International Law. When you attempt to visit other countries, you should be aware that their laws differ from one another so should be careful. Other societies are very liberal while others aren’t, so make sure you know the laws so you won’t find yourself in jail. If you can get away smoking marijuana in Amsterdam you can get caught in Singapore by simply littering.
The Must-Haves
- Dictionary
Preferably a bilingual dictionary that will help you translate some words that you’ve never encountered before. Bringing this one will save you from the time-consuming process of asking questions and talking to locals who might have a not-so-good intention when it comes to foreigners.
- Pen and Paper
Although a PDA or laptop can also do for those who are technologically savvy, keeping it straight and simple using pen and paper would be enough. You can use these items by jotting down important information that you’ve seen, sketching directions so you won’t get lost and many other purposes that will surely make your traveling as stress-free as possible.
- Maps
Need further elaboration on this one? I don’t think so.
- Your Address
A lot of my friends forget the address where they are staying causing them so much time and trouble as a consequence. Not every taxi driver knows everything about the place where you’re staying in so make sure to know the complete address. Aside from that you can also bring your map to make things even easier.
- ID, Passport and Credit Card
Needless to say, you have to bring all these things all the time in case of emergency.
Traveling is all about fun and discovery but then again it helps to be always prepared because you don’t know what to expect. Stay out of trouble and marvel at what these countries can offer.
