Teacher's Handbook
TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR NEW
EDUCATORS
O
nce you have settled in, you
will realise that a popular
pass time for expatriate
teachers in the UAE is that
of travelling. Whenever a break or
extended holiday comes around, bags
are packed and teachers are off on an
adventure. One of the great things
about living here is that you can take
advantage of deals and travel to many
different countries.
This short guide will provide you with
some tips on how to travel like a pro.
We already know that the teachers you
meet will help you to add more names
to your bucket list of places to visit.
Start with home
Try vacationing here for shorter breaks
(long weekends or one week breaks). If
it is luxury that you seek, look no further
than the world-class five star hotels that
deck the waterfronts of Abu Dhabi,
Dubai, Fujairah and Ras al Khaimah. If
you want to get out of the UAE, head
over to Muscat, Oman. Depending
on where you are located in the UAE,
it could be a four-hour drive or a short
plane ride.
Plan early, book early
This handbook comes with a calendar
that has school and national holiday
breaks. Use it when checking to see
the various places that you may be
able to travel to with the time that each
break allows. Both Etihad Airways and
Emirates Airlines offer specials on ticket
prices at different times of the year. If
you find a good deal, take it!
Don’t get carried away
Some educators are able to take luxury
vacations at almost every break. Don’t
try to keep up with them. Remember
what your financial goals are and what
you are able to afford. Plan for the
vacations that are most important to
you and your family.
Cash vs. credit card
Yes, it is more convenient to pay with
your card. However, using your UAE
credit card in another country can incur
high exchange rate charges. As much
as possible, use cash. Remember to
notify your bank prior to leaving the
UAE, in the off chance that you may
need to use your credit card.
Weight issues
Extra and/or overweight bags incur
extra charges. If you want to keep your
travel budget for what it’s intended,
pack lightly. If you need to pay for an
overweight or extra bag, this should be
on the return leg of your trip, when you
have great souvenirs to show for it. Book
your extra bag ahead of arriving at the
airport, as airlines tend to offer cheaper
rates when you book in advance.
What kind of traveller are you?
Do you travel to shop, seek out exotic
locations or simply to relax? It could be
all of these things. For each time that
you travel, be clear on your agenda
because this affects your budget. If
you are adventurous, save money by
taking the bus/subway instead of taxis,
which can be expensive. Try an Airbnb
that comes with good reviews and suits
your pocket. If you are single, find a
travel buddy. This will help you to save
up to half of the cost on hotels and
excursions.
Stay alert
It is easy to get lost in the moment
while on vacation. After all, there are
many wonderful distractions to drink
in. Keep in mind, that there are still a
few unscrupulous characters in every
country that target tourists. Be on your
guard. Leave expensive jewellery and
other valuables in a safe place at your
accommodation.