Health & Wellness Magazine HealthQuest Spring 2018 | Page 11

MARNIE OURSLER
must-sees (or the local gems only the most
prepared know about). But don’t forget to
leave room for the unexpected.
16. TELL YOUR PLANS TO SOMEONE
BACK HOME
Make your plans known to at least one
person who’s not on your trip so there’s
always someone who knows where you
are and where you should be.
17. BRING A FIRST-AID KIT
Blisters, cuts, colds, and all manner of
physical ailments occur when you travel.
Be prepared with the essentials so they
don't spoil the fun.
18. NEVER CARRY ALL OF YOUR
MONEY ON YOU
Take what you think you’ll need for the
day and leave the rest locked in your hotel
so you’re not caught penniless should you
lose your wallet (or have it stolen).
19. USE A MAP, BUT DON’T BE
AFRAID TO GET LOST
Maps are essential, especially the first few
days in a new city. Who cares if you look
like a tourist? You are one! But let yourself
get lost once or twice, too – you never
know what you’ll find.
20. LEARN THE LOCAL HISTORY
A little research on your destination’s past
is the best way to understand its present.
21. SHOP AROUND FOR FLIGHTS
You can often save serious cash by flying
into a nearby city and taking a train or bus
the rest of the way.
22. AVOID EATING IN TOURISTY
AREAS
The food is almost never good, and the
prices are jacked way up. You’ll have
better luck – and a better meal – by
walking a few blocks or minutes away. 29. PACK A SCARF
A good scarf (or sarong) is the most
versatile piece of travelwear. It can be
used as a blanket, a face mask, for sun
protection, to carry things… the options
are endless!
23. SAMPLE THE LOCAL CUISINE
Even if it’s something you would never
eat at home, try it anyway. You never
really understand a place until you’ve
experienced its food. 30. BECOME AN OBSERVER
Be mindful of where you are without the
lens of a camera or smart phone in the
way. Watch the locals, take in the scenery,
sounds, and smells, and be fully present.
24. USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Not only will you save a ton of money on
taxis, but you’ll also see your destination
as the locals do. 31. SLOW DOWN
Cramming too many places into one trip
results in a surface level experience. Gain
a deeper understanding of a location by
spending as much time there as your trip
will allow. Several days in a few spots
almost always beats a day or two in many.
25. DO A WALKING TOUR ON YOUR
FIRST DAY
It’s an excellent way to get a lay of the
land before you set out on your own.
26. ALWAYS CARRY CASH FOR
EMERGENCIES
It’s tempting to rely on credit or debit
cards for everything, but many places still
require cash – and you don’t want to be
stuck in a cash-only situation without it.
27. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES
There are so many good-looking and
comfortable options for footwear, so why
torture yourself? Treat your feet well and
they will take you to the most amazing
places.
32. TAKE NOTES
Journaling your travel experience is a great
way to reflect on and remember your trip.
Your notes may also prove invaluable if
you ever return to that location, or know
someone who is visiting for the first time.
33. GET OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Every destination has certain must-sees
that, although touristy, are must-sees for a
reason. But to truly experience a place and
its culture, venture away from the crowds
and live the way the locals do. That’s often
when the best travel memories are made!
Happy travels,
28. BE AN EARLY RISER
It’s the best