Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamt of traveling the world. Now, I’m blessed that I am able to achieve this dream one place after another. From all of my travels, I’ve learned a handful of things that I feel made me a better person/traveler, and lessons and tips I wish to share to other travel-dreamers as well.
1. People are inherently good and kind.
In most (or if not, all) of the places I've been to, people genuinely want to help out other people. Not because they need something in return, but just because it’s naturally human.
I was solo traveling in Batad, Banaue and teamed-up with 2 Austrian brothers. Apparently, these guys have little cash with them (barely none), and there are no ATMs in Banaue. Along the way, we’ve met Rene, an architect volunteer who’s helping out in the rehabilitation of the rice terraces. Rene paid for the brothers’ “environmental/entrance” fee and helped arranged accommodation and food in one of the inns for the least cost possible. The owner of the inn only charged P200/night and even shared their family meals to the brothers.
Yes, there are 1 or 2 people who will try to cheat/steal from you (pickpockets, merchants charging more than fair, cab drivers taking a longer route), but for every one or two who cheat, there are tens or hundreds who are truly willing to help.
2. Keep your senses up, especially your common sense
While traveling, all senses must be alert. As you’re in a new place, observe your surroundings and the people. Try to “acclimatize” yourself in your new surroundings and get your bearings in place. Also, trust your instincts or common sense. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
I’ve met a Taiwanese traveler who was “drugged and mugged” by an old lady. He said, he was approached by an old lady and offered him to show China Town and some churches. Next thing he remembered, they were riding a tricycle into a slum area, then he was asked to drink beer which he did, and woke up next day, drugged and without money.
3. The world is not that big scary place after all
Fear. This is probably what holds back most people from traveling. But trusting in the natural goodness of people while keeping your senses up, you’ll realize there’s really nothing to be afraid of.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask.
If lost, ask for directions. If you can’t understand, clarify.
When we were in Taiwan, the lady we asked for directions even logged online to find the directions to our hostel. In Nepal, a kid even walked with me to find the place I was looking for. Also, when I was asked for direction by another tourist, I gladly walked with her to find a good restaurant.
Again, most people are willing to help.
5. Learn to say “No”, politely
Merchants will ask you to go and check out their merchandise, tuktuk drivers will ask you to ride their tuktuks. If you’re not interested, you can politely decline. Smile. Don’t be rude.
6. Travel Light but with all Essentials
I try to keep my bag within carry-on limit (7kg) so it will be easier to lug around. I usually travel with my 30L backpack. Bring all necessary items such as medicine, printed travel documents, jacket/blanket, “enough” clothes. For short travels, I always bring a number of set of clothes equal to number of days (plus 1 or 2 extra). For longer travels, note that you can always send your clothes to the laundry (or do laundry yourself). You can always buy essentials such as extra shirt or toiletries wherever you are. The shirt you bought is a good trip souvenir.
7. Carry Cash and Call Your Bank before you leave
One travel mistake I made before was going to a foreign country without cash on hand. I relied on withdrawing in an ATM once I get to the airport. However, my ATM card was not accepted and later found out that I needed to call the bank to activate international withdrawal. Good thing I was traveling with a friend who lent me some money.
Also, exchange some local currency before you leave the airport for cab rides and other emergency purchases.
8. Call your mobile operator get and/or get a local SIM
Before traveling, call your mobile operator. Deactivate services you would not need during your travel such as mobile internet (there's wifi almost anywhere). Double check if your roaming service is on and ask for available roaming discounts/plans.
For longer travels, you may need to get a local SIM Card.
Traveling is a learning experience. Every time I travel, I learn something new, from personal encounters and stories of others. So keep traveling. Never stop exploring.
