Often we save all year for a holiday, and then when it’s time to go we realise we’re unprepared. However with a little research and by reading these tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your next holiday:
Do your research
Researching for your holiday can be fun, so jump online and read Tripadvisor to figure out the best things to do once you’re at your destination, or spend some time on Google to see where you should stay. If you’re not in the mood to do your own research or you find it frustrating, it can be a good idea to talk to a travel agent who can take care of all of the details for you, and make all of the bookings. All you’ll need to do is show up to the airport.
Be smart with your money
This doesn’t mean wearing an old-school money belt, although you should feel free to if you’re traveling to a place with pickpockets. What I mean is that you should transfer your currency before you travel using CurrencyFair. This is an ideal alternative to changing your money in a bank, or even worse-an airport, and you’ll find that since you’re actually swapping your currency with other travellers you’re bound to get a better rate.
Download some apps
There are plenty of travel apps available which can help you to get the most out of your holiday. Tripit is a free travel organiser and will keep all of your confirmation emails from your flights, accommodation and car rental int he one place, and converts it into an itinerary so you know what you’re doing each day.
Spotted by Locals is great for when you want to get real time advice, and you’ll be told where to find the best restaurants and bars, along with those little-known travel attractions. Tip Me is another good app for when you’re abroad, and will quickly calculate the gratuities so you don’t have to.
Stay Offline
Unless you’re using a map or finding tips from locals, try to minimise your screen time. We’re on our phones and laptops continually when we’re at home, so by reducing your screen time while you’re on holiday you’ll be free to take in your surroundings, and actually feel like you’re in the moment. Chances are you won’t even miss it.
Have Realistic Expectations
Often we can get so caught up in trying to make the holiday “perfect” that we forget it’s about relaxing and enjoying life. Instead of searching aimlessly for the best restaurant in the city, choose a cute local restaurant. The food may be the best you’ve ever had, or you could get food poisoning, but at least you’ll have a story.
There are only so many things we can control when we’re travelling, so simply go with the flow, and remember that you’re supposed to be having fun. If it helps, picture all of the people stuck in an office back at home.
Sophia
