Seeing the world is an experience like no other, and when done well it provides an education that cannot be gained in school. Travel teaches you economy, politics, history, geography and sociology in an intense and hands-on way no classroom can.
Planning your trip can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and the right tools you’ll feel confident and prepared to hit the road. Here are 10 tips to help make your round-the-world adventure a smooth, stress-free journey:
1. Don’t Cram Your World Tour into Two Weeks
When it comes to world travel, one of the biggest mistakes new travelers often make is trying to fit too much into their itinerary. It’s easy to cram all the main attractions into a tight time frame, and it can be stressful if you don’t allow yourself to enjoy what you’re doing.
2. Pick a few highlights and string them together instead of trying to see it all in one go.
You can create an incredible round-the-world itinerary by picking your own personal highlights and then fleshing out a route that takes in those highlights.
3. Consider Airline Alliances
If you’re going to be cruising or flying across the globe, buying a round-the-world ticket through an airline alliance can save you money and keep your costs low. These confederations of airlines have relationships with multiple destinations, so you can get a great deal on your round-the-world airfare by booking through them.
4. Don’t Book Your Plane Tickets Too Far Ahead
The best time to buy plane tickets is 4 – 6 months before your departure. This will give you plenty of time to adjust your plans if anything goes wrong or if you find that the flights are a lot cheaper than expected.
5. Vaccinate Before You Leave
It’s never a good idea to visit a doctor or hospital abroad without first getting the necessary vaccinations. There are a number of different diseases, and some even life-threatening, that can be contracted when you’re traveling overseas. Visiting a doctor or travel nurse before you leave can help you determine which vaccines are required for your particular trip and ensure that they are administered properly.
6. Stay In Contact With Friends & Family Back Home
It can be tempting to pack your bags, jump on a plane and go exploring. But it’s important to remember that your friends and family back home are a big part of your travel experience, so don’t neglect them.
7. Meet Locals
There’s nothing more rewarding than meeting locals who are as passionate about their country as you are. They’ll show you around, introduce you to the food and culture and become some of your most valued travel contacts.
8. Make Time to Rest
Whether you’re traveling for a few days or a few weeks, it’s important to give yourself time to recover from your long travels. Eat healthy, drink lots of water and make sure to take breaks throughout the day.