OVERSEA TRAVELLING

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“Travel leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller.”
~Ibn Battuta

Deep down, each one of us is a globetrotter. Haven’t we all at some point in our lives thought of packing our bags and leaving for a voyage? Haven’t we all wondered how overseas countries, cultures, places, cuisines, and people are? 

Each one of us desires to go overseas, most of us also plan but not everyone is able to execute it. Once you plan on a trip overseas and are done choosing your location, booking your accommodation, planning your itinerary, and packing your bag; you might feel you are all done. 

But that is not all; there are a few things you must know when you travel overseas to ensure you get the most out of your trip and return safe and secure. 

Visa

Commuting plays a significant role when going on a trip. Once you’ve chosen your location, check if the country requires you to get a visa. Some countries welcome you without visas while some countries are very uncompromising about it. Research and figure out if the country you’re visiting requires a visa, if yes then apply for it and have it in possession or you will be restricted from entering the country.

Weather 

Your entire luggage content depends on the weather. Become acquainted with the weather conditions at the place of visit during the month of travel. Weather, as widely observed, is very unpredictable these days; hence carry a few extras just in case the weather decides to go through a transition. 

Another aspect of weather is checking for natural disasters. The news or weather forecast provides intimation if there are chances of occurrence of a natural disaster. If there’s a potential risk, reschedule or cancel the trip. Remember, your safety comes first. 

Get Acquainted With The Laws 

Being oblivious can get you in trouble. Did you know? Littering in Thailand can get you in Prison, partying with illegal drugs is a ground for the death penalty in Singapore, drink and driving in Russia gets you immediately arrested. Every country has its own set of rules and regulations and few countries are very strict when it comes to those. Hence, before you visit a place overseas, be well-versed with the laws that differ from your own country. 

Currency

It doesn’t have to be explicitly explained to you that currencies at different places differ. Make sure you have your money in the required currency to avoid confusion. 

Know The Body Language Differences

Interacting with people comes complementary to visiting places. You need to make sure you do not offend people when you visit their country and make them feel respected. Facial expressions carry strong messages hence be well-versed with the body language – curled up an index finger with palm facing upwards is a common gesture to beckon but it’s considered highly disrespectful in some regions. In the Philippines, you can be arrested for it. The OK sign means calling someone offensively gay in Turkey and in Germany and South America it is associated with the Anus. 

Know The Mannerisms

Know manners. Tipping servers in Japan is considered disrespectful. Learn to use chopsticks well, don’t handshake with the left hand in the Middle East, don’t fill your own glass in Japan, it is considered Narcissistic. Get familiar with all such mannerisms pre-tour. 

Learn Basic Language 

You don’t have to be proficient with the language, but knowing a few common phrases can help in case of an emergency. If you are planning to go to the UK, then eSIMs give you the same cellular and Internet support as a regular SIM card to help in locating roads and communicate with locals hustle free.  Data issues are a common complaint of travelers, but since the introduction of Airalo E-sims, there are fewer troubles. E-sims are affordable and let you avail of digital sim cards no matter which corner of the world you are in.

Know The Health Necessities

It is a good idea to know about the immunizations required when visiting a country. Contact your medical health provider before and after the trip. Avoid experimenting with local food stalls, drinking water from anywhere, etc.

Check the Reputation Of Places You’re Visiting 

You should be safe wherever you are. Check for the crime rate at the place you are visiting. Ensure your accommodation area is free from crimes and gangs so you can have a peaceful trip. 

Know If Tourism Is Welcome 

You don’t want to visit a country that isn’t hospitable. Know if tourists are welcome in a particular country and know the attitudes of locals towards them. 

Traveling overseas can be daunting but way too thrilling! Travel is an investment in yourself. With the basics mentioned above, you are good to go and return safely. As Mae West quotes- “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough!”