Traveling can be an adventure, it can be a headache, or it can be both. Though I’m young, I’ve traveled more than most adults. Being exposed to travel at a young age and experiencing both the best and the worst is the only way to learn. Going off to college in Europe in just a few months, being in close distance to the best travel there is, makes me look back on all that I have learned from traveling.
Let’s start at the beginning–the planning stages. In recent months I’ve learned that last minute deals only apply to domestic flights, not international. International flights need to be purchased months in advanced to ensure the best price. Also, carefully choosing arrival and departure dates help to lower the cost of flying. There are plenty of articles discussing which days are best to fly, so I won’t waste time repeating what they already said. If you need a hotel, book a package deal to save. Be sure to check that you are actually saving by researching into it before buying. If you need to make a connecting flight, be sure to allow at least an hour in between for domestic and two for international. One late flight from the start can give you a travel headache as you try to get yourself on the next flight or even stay overnight an unfamiliar city. Things become even more difficult if the connecting flight is of a different airline company. Don’t put yourself though that stress and be proactive.
If you plan to see or visit any sites that aren’t free, be sure to purchase tickets online beforehand. Being in Versailles is fun, waiting two hours outside to purchase tickets in freezing weather to enter the palace, is not. Take advantage of student and senior discounts as well while traveling to save money. Avoid weekends if possible. Weekends mean crowds, and crowds mean waiting.
When traveling, you want to eat in safe establishments, but avoid the over-touristy places. The prices are high and the food is mediocre since they realize that you are a tourist. They won’t have a chance at getting your regular business, so why should they put the effort to make the best tasting meal you ever ate? Look for local favorites off the beaten path and rejoice in good food and better prices.
The best advice of all though is not to overdo it. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and make wise choices. The last thing you want is to be in a hospital that doesn’t speak English, which I have personally experienced. Be a smart traveler and set off on the adventure of a life time!