MEDIA TOUR Issue 1 | Page 36

10 tips Travelling tips you should grasp By Tracy Gesare Y ou can google travel tips all you can before going on a trip but some things will not make sense until you are physically on the ground. Experiencing the very things, you very much ignored. Traveling as a group cushions you from mishaps but you can never be too prepared. Here are some of the tips I found useful: 1. Research and prepare an itinerary: this will help you have the rough idea of what exactly it is that you are going for, what to expect and what you can achieve. After settling on places, plan an itinerary for the sake of order. It will allow you to save up on time and give you peace while you are on the trip. 36 2. Plan ahead This could be months before or up to a year. For you to get the time slots of your choice, early booking is key. This can save you a lot of money from flights, accommodation and other excursions. 5. Live in the moment: Put the camera back in the bag and be present. Appreciate your surround- ings and be thankful for the mo- ment. 6. Not everything will go according to plan, focus on spon- taneity. Don’t stress on the could haves and should haves. Have an open mind and don’t leave space for complains. 3. For your own satisfac- tion set aside time to roam: by yourself or in a smaller group. A larger group will not always have the same sentiments about every other detour. If you find yourself alone, don’t be afraid to explore. 4. Document your trip: these are places you have dreamt of going to and cam- eras have been made for a reason. Take a few minutes to take pictures and videos for keeps sakes or for sharing. The memories can bring you joy when you feel low or spark an inspiration. 7. Save up: for the things you would like to do. Eating, shopping, partying and other extra excursions will cost you an extra coin. It is not a good feeling not being able to do something because you don’t have the money for it and you know you could have. 10. Ask: Directions, price, for bargains or whatever really. Just ask. If you do not know something, ask. You will be surprised how many people are willing to help you. Who knows, you could as well make a friend for keeps. 8. Inform your bank: in good time to allow your trans- actions to go through. You can’t look cool when your card is de- clined. It is embarrassing even if you don’t care about what other people think. Or you could travel with cash. Whatever works for you. 9. Use a map: you would rather look like a tourist than be lost. An elaborate physical map is better because if you depend on it you could run out of battery or you could get really slow or lim- ited phone service. 37