Best Travel Tips

you don't have to be rich to travel well

Embark on a global journey with me! 🌍✈️ Over the past 10+ years, I've explored 25 countries and 100+ cities, learning valuable lessons from smooth adventures and unexpected mishaps. Now, I want to share these insights with you! If you're curious about travel tips and destination recommendations or want to be part of the adventure, join me on this exciting ride. Let's swap stories, plan dream itineraries, and create a community of passionate travelers. Ready to explore the world together?

Simplify your travels with this curated collection of the best travel hacks – because smart exploration is the best exploration!!

Check passport and visa requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before departure— I continually renew it on year 9. Check visa requirements well in advance and apply if necessary, although most destinations offer visas on arrival. VisaHQ is an excellent source to check.
Secure your documents: By nature, I always plan for contingencies— copies of passport, visa, travel insurance, etc. Store them separately from the originals or digital copies on your phone. I use the Genius Scan app— an easy plan B.
Get travel insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events by purchasing travel insurance (medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost/delayed luggage, and other emergencies). In the smallest of unforeseen circumstances— like landing in Israel on Shabbat— I had my suitcase arrive a couple of days later than me. I went shopping and got reimbursed!
Global Blue: At the time of purchase, request a VAT refund form from the store staff— the document contains the necessary information about the purchase and VAT amount. When leaving the country at the airport, go to the Global Blue tax counter after passing security. Depending on the country, you will need the goods, receipts, passports, and boarding passes for verification. You can get your reimbursement as cash at a refund counter or directly to your credit card, depending on the country's regulations and the services offered by Global Blue.
Stay connected: Nowadays, it is essential to have cell service. You can pay the insane premiums through your carrier or the Airalo app— check it out and thank me later!
Inform your bank and credit card co.: I always notify my bank and credit card company about my travel plans to avoid issues. Also, always carry USD with you in case of emergency or non-emergency because it's widely accepted globally— try buying last-minute World Cup tickets off the street in Moscow with Russian Rubble... well, you can't. Also, you don't need to go old-school to get instant conversion rates; even offline, use the xe currency converter app. Love it!
Be respectful of local customs: Nobody likes the annoying tourist— familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions to avoid offending anyone. Dress appropriately for religious sites and be mindful of local etiquette.
Learn basic local phrases: Learning a few essential words in the local language can go a long way in making connections and showing respect to the locals— they treat you better, too.
Embrace the local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture and be open to new experiences— that's where the magic happens. Meet locals, try their cuisine, and participate in cultural activities.
Stay safe: When traveling internationally, I always check travel advisories and register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). In this service, the US Department of State gives you updated safety and security info for your destination country so you can make informed decisions regarding your travel. It also helps during an emergency overseas— after what we've collectively been through, it's worth the extra STEP.