Saturday, 17 December 2016

Travel quirks

These are my preferences or travel tips to myself.

Let's get this one out of the way: When to buy airline tickets or which sites to book accommodation through - a whole lot of luck and research are involved. I don't seek out low prices to the point of gambling on last minute deals so my input on this isn't noteworthy 😀

I have however found it best to compare the cost of airfares on a price comparison site against the airlines' own site. Weirdly, it can be cheaper through the latter quite often.

I tried airbnb once (Maldives) and it worked out well but the second time (UAE) I wasn't so happy with the options and booked a hotel instead. Therefore, I'd best try it a few more times before coming to a conclusion.

Agoda appears to be more transparent and offer better deals than Booking.com in my experience.

When I travel alone I prefer an aisle seat on the plane because I can get in and out to stretch my legs or to go to the loo without bothering strangers. This does mean everyone else bothers you when they need to get out. And you may also run the risk of being attacked by the refreshments trolley but I find it far better than the window seat.

On the other hand, if your flight is during the day and you're a photographer, a window seat does afford a great view. Mind you if you get a seat near the wings you might as well nap unless you fancy some pics of white metal 😆

Travel light. Regardless of where you're going, who you're going with or your means of travel, always, always, pack light. You can do laundry. You can buy supplies.

After 21 countries I can say that no matter how little I pack, there is always be one item of clothing that isn't worn. I'm yet to figure out the optimum number at some point.

Carry your phone charger - USB cable and plug-in type. Nowadays this means a single item with the cable being detachable from the plug. Many airports, airplanes and trains have either plugs or USB ports at hand as do coffee shops.

Check the plug type in the country you're visiting because you sometimes may not need to lug a bulky converter with you if your electronic items already have the same plug type.

Carry US dollars. USD is accepted everywhere. It's loved almost everywhere.

Be willing to walk. Be sensible about it obviously. If you can explore a new place on foot without putting yourself in danger, do it. It's cheaper, you see how the locals live and you get your bearings.

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