1. There is often a lot of controversy about taxi scams at the airport. When in doubt grab you bag and upstairs to arrivals and grab a cab that someone else is exiting.
2. Make copies of your passport and credit cards and send a copy to your own email. Carry a paper copy too. But also take pictures with your camera or phone. Even if you lose your camera, chances are no one will be looking at your pictures.
3. Ever experience an uncomfortable odor in your hotel room? Test a few scented oils at home before you leave, then bring a small bottle and dab lightly on the pillow. You'll sleep soundly.
4. Take the top attraction from you guidebook and cross it off your list. Chances are it is substantially over-touristed and will never live up to your expectatons. (same goes for restaurants)
5. Ask for an English language menu - they often exist if you ask and the translations are "interesting" but helpful.
6. Register with the embassy in the country you are travelling - Chile (enough said)
7. Call your credit card companies and advise them of your travel plans. Make sure you have an overseas number for them (no 800 numbers won't work). Make sure your ATM pin is four numbers - many foreign ATM won't take more or letters. Keep a few USD 20 in your wallet just in case.
8. Don't advertise yourself as a tourist. Do some research in advance. In Latin America most locals don't wear shorts. Baseball caps are very American. White tennis shoes are fine in South America - not so much in Europe. If you don't want to stand out as a tourist don't dress like one.
9. If you are a solo traveller and want to meet people take a small group tour. Yes, they can be canned and over-planned they are a great way to meet other travellers. (And an adult beverage, to loosen the lips, doesn't hurt either)
10. Fat people wearing cow t-shirts are funny (but that could be the adult beverage talking)
No comments:
Post a Comment