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Many people wish to travel yet few succeed because of the expenses. Travelling might cost a lot if you haven’t planned the trip out well.

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Matthew Hudson is an assuring and perfect platform for the ones looking out for travelling opportunities at lower rates. Apart from the rates, safety and exploring in the right direction is essential for you take care.

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Therefore, our travel expert’s layout a perfect plan which will help you in planning out cheap yet a detailed travel plan to enjoy the time fully.

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From our various adventurers and professional bloggers people can get great insight of various places and take inspiration for travelling or any other lesson.

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Travelling can teach you various life lessons

Travelling can teach you various life lessons therefore, travelling is an essential part which you must opt for. To ease your decision we help you by offering:

1. Planning your tripr

Planning your trip for you at most affordable rates

2. staying safe

Providing you with detailed tips to enjoy the trip while staying safe.

3. accommodation

Providing you with accommodation and food options.

4. maximum of your stay.

Listing out places which you should visit to get the maximum of your stay.

Recent Articles

7 Incredible Ways How Travelling Can Benefit Students

Learning is not just limited to books and research projects. In fact, the lessons learned from travelling and exposing oneself to the many wonders of nature and a variety of different cultures can shape one’s personality.

Aside from making the memories of a lifetime, students can learn about customs, traditions, and even languages from other parts of the world that can enhance their knowledge and make them better human beings.

It Makes You Compassionate

Young people can learn a lot about life and problem-solving when exposed to different parts of the world. This can also create feelings of compassion and empathy in young students, especially towards the less fortunate and privileged.

Having this awareness and exposure can help students think differently about their lives and put others before them. It also helps create political correctness and awareness so they can learn things from a cultural perspective and learn to truly admire the world beyond their own boundaries.

It Makes You More Confident

Spending time with another culture that is away from home can make students a lot more confident when faced with real problems. It helps prepare them for worldly problems in a more profound and long-lasting way than any textbook or boot camp would.

Facing these new challenges and finding solutions to unfamiliar problems can toughen up your resolve and prepare you for life’s many hurdles. Not only are you able to improve your communication skills, but you feel a lot more comfortable when tackling daily problems head on.

It Builds a Global Network of Contacts

Students can greatly benefit from international travel as it allows them to get to know new people from a variety of cultures, religions, traditions, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, etc. This builds a global network of contacts and references that can open different paths of opportunities.

Meeting new people and making friends along the way can teach a lot about life and perspectives of different places. Instead of following hearsay or relying on second handed experiences, you can establish your own perspectives about different cultures and people and gain their respect in return.

It Tests Your Boundaries so You can Leave Your Comfort Zone

Travelling can help you find the strength to challenge your boundaries and exit your comfortable little bubble so you can explore the many wonders of the world.

Leaving your family, friends, and the comforts of home behind can be daunting and thrilling at the same time, but overcoming those fears shows conviction and ambition which can greatly benefit students in the long run when they are applying for jobs.

Such adventurous character traits are greatly valued by all and can help pave a path to your dream career in the future.

It Significantly Improves Your Academic Performance

Travelling can be refreshing and rejuvenating for young minds. It is especially good for students’ academic performance as it adds to general and academic knowledge.

Not only do you learn about budgeting, insurance, etc., you are exposed to a variety of different cultures, languages, art, music, literature, history, and more. It opens your eyes to the world and helps you understand cultures and traditions beyond your boundaries.  

It Challenges Existing Perspectives

Facing the unfamiliar can change your opinion about a lot of things. Be it people’s way of life, traditional values, customs, etc., students can learn a lot from travelling locally or internationally.

It allows them to challenge preconceived notions and conventional norms, replacing those ideas with more informed opinions. Travelling challenges young people to open their minds to many possibilities, friends, foods, languages, customs, cultures, etc.

It Helps with Growth and Independence

Most young college students today live in their own little bubbles and are surrounded by friends, family, and elements that are wholly familiar to them.

Travelling allows you to distance yourself for the time being from all the familiar realities and place yourself in a new environment where you are challenged to survive on your own.

This helps with strengthening your emotional and physical resolve, especially if you are extremely reliant on friends and family for emotional and mental support.

By pushing yourself in uncharted territories, students can enjoy personal growth and independence in everything they do. 

5 Most Beautiful Places On Earth To Add In Your Travel List

From the pearly white sands of Whitehaven Beach, the imposing mountains of the Lofoten Islands to the magical Northern Lights in Iceland, travel with us to the most beautiful places on earth. Because our world is so gorgeous, making a list with only 5 locations is nearly impossible! But let’s give it a try anyway and share the most beautiful destinations inside and outside Europe. These places and countries, far from home and close by, deserve a place on your travel bucket list!

1. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Imposing fjords, snow-dotted peaks, sheer cliffs bordering white sandy beaches, hidden coves, and picturesque villages. The Lofoten archipelago is considered as one of the most magnificent destinations in the world, not just in Europe. Travel to this unique, rugged archipelago above the Arctic Circle and discover its 80 fascinating little islands.

What is there to do in Lofoten?

  • Beat the rough waves on a surfboard! The Lofoten Islands are counted among the northern surfing destinations.
  • Go skiing or snowboarding with a sea view.
  • Spot the Northern Lights! Due to its extreme northern location, the Lofoten archipelago is one of the best places to admire this magical color spectacle.

2. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is very high on the bucket list. Why? Can’t wait to see the clear, bright blue water reflecting the surrounding snowy peaks of Lake Moraine with your own eyes. You must visit this special photogenic – and also oldest – national park in Canada. You will be fascinated to see such crystal clear water.

What else is there to see in Banff National Park?

  • Get in the car for a road trip along the Icefields Parkway connecting Banff National Park to Jasper National Park. The ultimate Canada road trip!
  • Visit the thermal waters in the caverns of the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
  • Discover Banff National Park by bike and follow the Banff Legacy Trail right through the park.

3. Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Secretly my personal favorite and if you ask me the most beautiful beach in the world: Whitehaven Beach in Australia. From Hill Inlet, you look out over the swirling waves that flow through the water in all kinds of shades of blue and the pearly white beach. Walk over the smooth, white sand with your feet and dive into the crystal blue sea. It’s so bright that you can count each and every grain of sand.

My tips for your visit to Whitehaven Beach

  • Combine a trip to Whitehaven Beach with a multi-day sailing trip through the Whitsunday Islands. Three magical days on the water in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia!
  • Book a plane trip and see this amazingly beautiful beach from above!
  • Camp at Whitehaven Beach and enjoy one of the most beautiful places on earth for even longer.

4. Machu Picchu in Peru

Machu Picchu in Peru should of course not be missing from this list of most beautiful places on earth. The ruins of the former Inca city are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and are called one of the seven new wonders of the world. Yes, you really have to go here!

What to do at Machu Picchu?

  • Walk to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail. This 45-kilometer hiking route takes you through the Andes Mountains to the lost Inca city.
  • Is walking 45 kilometers a bit too far for you? Take the train from Cusco!
  • To limit the number of tourists that visit Machu Picchu per day – and thus protect the historic site – you need an entrance ticket. Book this well in advance, because Machu Picchu is popular!

5. The Cook Islands

Have you ever heard of the Cook Islands? On this island group in the Pacific Ocean, you can imagine yourself in an episode of Expedition Robinson. Imagine: with a coconut in your hand you are lying in a hammock on a vast, white sand beach. Your eyes wander over the clear turquoise sea and the sun leaves freckles on your skin. You never want to go home!

On holiday to the Cook Islands

  • Prepare for a long journey. The Cook Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean near New Zealand. That’s a lot of hours on the plane.
  • The long journey is well worth it: time to go island hopping between paradisiacal, uninhabited islands!
  • Tired of lounging on the beach? Paddle in a canoe through the Aitutaki lagoon.

Bottom Line

Put these places on your next trip bucket list!

Our earth is full of beauty. We cannot explore each and everything in our universe but we can explore the most beautiful places that are within our reach. Take a break from your hectic schedule and relax in a tranquil location. Plan a trip to the destinations mentioned above and have a good period of your life.

5 Reasons Why Traveling by Car is the Best Mode of Traveling

When COVID-19 spread like wildfire across the world, many countries put a ban on international travel due to safety and health concerns. That yearly vacation to your favorite international destination may have been delayed by a few months, or even a whole year, but that should not stop you from exploring the many wonders around you or just a few hours away.

Road trips became more and more popular during the pandemic and traveling by car was now the new fad that could sate your hunger for travel and exploration. Taking the plane or a train to another country may be incredibly fun, it simply does not compare to the thrill of traveling by car and enjoying nature and civilization up close.

You Choose Your Itinerary and Your Schedule is Your Own

One of the main reasons why traveling by car is superior to other modes of traveling is because you are not restricted by time. When you purchase a plane or train ticket, you need to follow the timeline and ensure you present a few hours before the time of departure.

While that may not bother you, having your own schedule and traveling by your own rules liberates you from time constraints and pressures.

If you are staying at a destination you really like and your mode of travel is by car, you can easily extend your stay for another day or two without fretting over the expenses of missing a flight.

When traveling by car, you can plan your own route and pick the most scenic road to your destination. The choices are limitless, and you are the captain of your ship!

There is More Room to Pack Items

The main concern for many airline passengers is the restricted baggage weight that they are allowed to travel with. Anything above that threshold and you are not granted a boarding pass. You will need to remove excess baggage and either go all the way out and hand it to a family member before getting in the queue again or paying a lump sum for additional baggage.

If you are off to a destination with a cold climate, you will need to carry heavy warm clothes with you and this will require additional baggage, especially if you are planning to stay for longer than a week. The standard airline baggage allowance is simply not practical for the average traveler.

When you are traveling by car, you can pack as much stuff as you can fit in the trunk or even the backseat. Overpacking is never an issue when traveling by car because at least you will not be forced to leave behind essentials.

You Can Save a Lot More When Traveling by Car

If you have ever traveled via plane or train, then you are familiar with the expenses involved. Even standard or economy seats in a train or an airplane will suck your wallet dry but traveling in a car is far cheaper and all you need to spend on is fuel.

Sure, you may get a flat tire but that is rare, especially if you get everything checked prior to traveling. Paying for maintenance or getting a flat tire replaced is still far cheaper than an airline ticket.

In addition to this, you can travel with friends and family without having to pay thousands of dollars for airplane or train tickets alone. This way, you can also share the cost of fuel.  

You Can Experience Nature and Civilization in All its Glory

When you choose to travel by car, you can enjoy the scenic views all around. Be it mountains, lakes, waterfalls, flower fields, views of the sea, etc., you can soak it all in when driving yourself.

Airplanes can be fun too but once you are high in the sky, there is not much to see from outside the window. Even when traveling by train, you cannot make a stop and enjoy the sights whenever you want, but you can certainly do that in a car.

You Can Explore Areas Around the Country You Never Thought of Visiting Before

It may not be international travel, but we often forget to savor the many natural wonders around our country or nearby regions. Traveling by car gives you the opportunity to explore these stunning new places that you never thought of visiting before.

It will also be inexpensive compared to international travel and you do not need to switch to a different currency. Car travel gives you more incentive to explore your own region first before you explore the rest of the world. 

Why You Should Support Local Businesses When Travelling Abroad

Who would not want their travel destinations to be economically and socially successful communities? Tourists can leave a positive impact on local businesses by travelling ‘responsibly’ and help the travel destination in ways that protects its culture, environment, and economy.

A major part of responsible travelling is helping local businesses so they can flourish. Instead of splurging on goods and services by big corporations, you can explore the location and look for small local businesses that provide similar services with a touch of local culture.

Choosing to buy local is the first step toward sustainability and can also educate you about local customs, norms, and cultures.

1. You Enjoy a True and Authentic Experience

When you are out shopping, exploring, or even enjoying a meal at a restaurant, you can indulge in a more authentic experience when buying from local businesses.

Exploring shops and eateries where the locals go not only gives you a glimpse of the character of the city, but also into the lives of the residents. You can meander around fields, parks, small locally owned cafes, bazaars, etc., to absorb the culture and customs of the place.

You can even hire tour guides or travel with tour companies that will take you to the hidden gems of your travel destination and tell you local stories. They can help you familiarize with the culture and history of the place in ways that you would never be able to know on your own.

Visiting local shops and bazaars is another spectacular way to help small businesses where you can check out unique hand-crafted items and products made by local artisans that have a personal touch to them.

Exploring the narrow streets and each nook and cranny can lead you to hidden secrets and treasures that you could only find in local shops. No mass, factory-produced item could even come close to the love and care embedded in locally manufactured products that give you a true glimpse of the culture, values, and history of the location.

2. You Are One of Their Own

As a foreign tourist, if you have ever ventured inside a local tea shop or any other business, you may have noticed the love and kindness people shower you with. This is because most local businesses hunger for tourists and because it is rare, they will treat you with the utmost care as if you were one of their own.

Local businesses believe in familial values, and they cherish their close bonds, especially if it is a family-owned business. These small businesses are very much part of the communities and the landscape, and they treat their customers like family.

3. It Educates You About the Local Culture

There is no better way to learn about local culture than by indulging with the residents and buying from local businesses around the location. This gives you the opportunity to learn what makes this place so distinct.

When you walk in shops, the owners can tell you exactly how certain items were manufactured or constructed, and the resources used to create them. Local crafts and traditional clothing shops are an excellent source of information and education about fashion, culture, and predominant customs.

When you are not covered incorporate, branded wear from head to toe, you get a chance to try locally produced items including clothing and foods. This can greatly help you in learning about people and their daily lives and values.

Local ‘mom and pop’ shops are buzzing with a lively culture and local vibe that you can experience to the fullest and educate yourself about the location. You can listen to people’s conversations or engage with them just to get a feel of the place.

4. Helps Better the Local Economy

Buying locally ensures that there are ample job opportunities for locals, and it also encourages innovation, expansion, and entrepreneurship.

There are clothing items, foods, décor, books, and a variety of other items that are specifically designed and manufactured in specific locations. These unique products cannot be purchased from anywhere else unless corporations decide to monopolize and sell cheaply priced knockoffs.

These high-quality artisan products can be found in small locally run shops in specific areas. Instead of feeding more money into corporations, try buying from local craftsmen and businesses for an authentic feel and to help the local economy.

Corporations may overtake smaller businesses and dominate the market if we do not play our part to ensure their survival. To keep them economically stable, purchase from community vendors so get a taste of what is unique in your travel destination.

5 travel things to do before you are 30

Being 30 is one of the most exciting times of one’s life. You are finally settled or almost settled in your life. Your career is picking up pace, you are done with your college and in a good state emotionally as well. Some people might be worried about getting a mortgage and a house but don’t worry all of that can wait. Let’s focus on getting you some amazing experiences.

It is a confusing world. We all earn money to do things that we want to do and then end up not doing them. To ease off your bucket list a little, here are 5 things travel-related things you should definitely do before you are 30:

  1. Travel solo

There are only a handful of things that have the capacity to give you the same thrill and feeling of liberation as traveling solo. Before you hit 30 it is absolutely vital to your exposure to travel solo. Learning how to navigate in a foreign country all on your own, it empowers you. This experience is one of a kind as you are truly your own boss. You get to decide where to go, what to eat when to go to sleep etc. You don’t have to burn the bank, you can try traveling inside your country but it’s a must.

  1. Go on African Safari

Speaking of unforgettable experiences, if you love animals and dirt you will quickly fall in love with safaris. Be it the one in Kenya or South African safari, watching those cheetahs roam around freely is one of a kind. Spot the big five, the elusive rhino, cape buffalo, lion, leopard and the African elephant. Going on a safari can also include something as peaceful as bird watching. We also recommend glamping if you aren’t too scared of the bears knocking on your door.

  1. Make foreign friends

While your friends or significant other can be fun, the magic of traveling with a foreign friend or finding friends in the countries you travel to is a whole new ballgame. The bonds you will develop will be beyond words, pun intended. Getting in touch with people of different cultures, ethnicities, and mindsets can expand your horizons beyond measure. You learn to become more tolerant, accepting, and forgiving. 

  1. Go camping

There is something magical about sleeping under the stars. Camping is one of the most thrilling forms of living. It activates and nourishes our primal instincts. We recommend setting up your tent under beautiful mountains, barbecuing under the moon, and then finally falling asleep under the stars. Unless a bear shows up, you will end up with one of the most cherished experiences of your life. Moreover, it is a great opportunity to disconnect from the online world and just breathe. Steer clear of glamping, do the real set up your own tent wrong three times and then get it right camping.

  1. Take a cross country road trip

Feeling the dirt on your face from a long road trip is different from luxury plane travel. Make sure to have good company or go alone because road trips are not about the destination but about the journey. We recommend taking a road trip of at least 7-10 days. Not only will you remain friends forever with the people you take but also learn quite a few life lessons on your way there.

Traveling is on the bucket list of every individual alive. Be it mountains, waterfalls, safaris, and what not. Odds are if you start planning today, you can cross some of these off your list soon. Remember traveling isn’t expensive, it’s about priorities. Let us know what you have done so far and what other ideas you have on your travel bucket list.

6 Unique Business Ideas That We Need More Of

Every day man has come up with new ideas for business and some of them are so well thought of and unique in their own respective ways that we might look at them and think that we need more of these. Some of these very unique and different but good business ideas are listed below:

1.   Cat Cafés 

Animals are such a cute company and we all love spending time with them. Based on this very concept, a Cat Café was opened in Japan and Taiwan where you do not necessarily have to own a cat yourself but you can always come by for a cup of coffee, tea, a slice of cake, and pet the cats there. It’s getting so popular in some areas that a reservation is usually recommended. 

A few such cafés have also been opened in Montreal and the first of such a café also started operations in California on October 14, 2014. All you feline lovers would love this as a purr-fect business idea. 

2.   Board-Game Cafés

Smartphones, even though a revolutionary invention that has brought the world to literally our doorsteps but has also pushed us further away from a lot of things and activities that would otherwise require for people to be physically present at a location to do, for instance, board games. Now thanks to technology, you could be anywhere in the world and still play a board game on your smartphone but is it the same feeling? 

This business idea appeals to both children and adults as children would love to play the classic board games that we used to play in our childhood and for adults to remember how they grew up playing all these games. 

For instance, Ludo. Ludo is a board game that needs 4 players to play. Now a café could have a ludo board and people could come with their friends for an evening cup of coffee and play a game or two. There is an ever-increasing desire to go back to the roots and look for unplugged, old-style forms of entertainment and this would be an appropriate way to do just that.  

3.   Garden Designers

A professional who you can go to for consultancy, plan, and design of your garden. It could your regular garden or a rooftop garden with everything from the beginning like the structure to the kind of plants, the flowers, the trees, if it would have a sitting area with chairs and a table meaning everything you want your garden to look like and for it to go with the look of your house, you name it and these professionals will sort everything out for you. 

They would survey the site first and plan accordingly, especially the landscape, the construction, management, maintenance which includes sourcing the plant and all material necessary for the end result. 

4.   Website rentals

There are many web developers in the market but how many website rentals do you know about?

Web developers are usually engaged in creating websites for their clients but it’s a one-off thing and they pay the developers. Well, let’s change that to actually creating a lot of websites for a certain kind of niche and then customize them to cater to different kinds of clients and their needs/requirements. The customer would have to pay a monthly charge for maintenance purposes. It’s a great way to make consistent money. 

5.   High quality or raw pet food:

Pet owners are always worried about the contents of the food they’re feeding their pets. As humans, we like the best for ourselves and when it comes to food, we would want it fresh, well-cooked, so why not the best for our pets? We would not like to feed our furry friends cheap food that might weaken or kill our pets. 

If these are some of your concerns and you’re worried about the health of your pet, you would want to spend your money on the right things. So it’s a very good initiative and a business idea to sell high-quality pet food. You can offer to sell raw, organic food for pets with allergies. You could also start a website for your business and deliver pet food to the doorstep as well. 

6.   Social Food App

A food app that lets you order and then you go and pick your order. It’s a step further from the concept of ‘drive-through’ where you do not even have to wait in line for your order. You place your order online through the app and the app suggests an estimated time for the order to be ready and you can just go and pick it up from the place. 

These are some of the out-of-the-box business ideas that could also appeal to the masses as well as prove to be really successful as well. Choose your niche and know your market well before stepping into a particular business but once you do, the key is to remain focused. Any idea is never a bad one, just needs proper execution. It could be challenging but hard work will make it worth it. 

5 Travel Safety Tips For First Time Travellers

Travel can be an interesting learning experience but It is quite easy to get involved in the excitement of the experience and forget to take care of some of your important things. You should know about travel safety and laws while you are in  a new country, especially if you are travelling for the first time as there are chances that you do not have any idea about the security issues abroad.  

Follow these 5 travel safety tips to help you go on a trip that will be memorable for the right reasons. 

  1. Research About The Location In Detail

Doing research is so important. Get information and learn everything about the destination before you arrive. Research about the famous places, restaurants and hotels that you will stay at. Write down all the problems that the tourists face by searching on the internet. Another significant travel safety measure is to know whom to contact in an emergency. Get the contact data for the closest embassy, police stations, and other nearby emergency departments. 

  1. Always Take Extra Copies Of Documents With You

No one can really tell when you may require a duplicate of your visa, driver’s permit or another type of ID. Scan these important documents to save on the web and print out a few copies. That way, you will not be struggling to find legal documentation on the off chance that you need to return home or you cannot find the original documents in the case of an emergency. You will need extra copies for several other purposes so it is better to take them with you to avoid any difficulty.

  1. Do Not Share Information With People You Do Not Know

In case you are at any point enticed to give away important information, such as a Facebook post, just remember that it very well may be information about your plan and movements– simply the kind of thing somebody with sick expectations could not imagine anything better than to know. We additionally don’t suggest sharing an excessive number of insights regarding your plans or accommodation subtleties with individuals you have quite recently met. For instance, don’t tell a shopkeeper where you are staying when he asks you about it. 

  1. Take Extra Care Of Your Money

You should keep a limited amount of money in your bag, and keep duplicates of the fronts and backs of all of your cards. Additionally, remember to inform your bank that you are travelling so that if an emergency arises, they will be able to block your cards immediately on the off chance that you don’t. While travelling in buses, trains, take extra care of your bag and if you have a backpack, wear it from the front and not from the back as there are chances your things will get stolen easily from the back.

  1. Learn Important Phrases In The Local Language 

Learn the important phrases such as “stop,” “kindly,” “thank you,” and a couple of others in the local language to avoid any difficulty. Now How to learn these words? Search it on the internet and you will find your answer. Also there are different apps as well to translate what you want to say in different languages. This will help you in communication and you won’t have to struggle in communicating, especially in areas where people do not know how to speak English and in order to understand what they are saying, you should know the important phrases.

Travelling is an experience that has a lot to offer. It is important to be well prepared for this experience and be less vulnerable while travelling. By taking the necessary safety measures, you will not only keep yourself safe from any harmful situations and risky circumstances but will also be able to enjoy it to the fullest. 

5 Lessons Living Abroad Taught Me

Living abroad whether for studies or job or any other reason puts you up for alot of great experiences. It includes the people you meet, the half broken languages that you speak.

These experiences you get shape your personality, beliefs and general views about the world. You will experience the good, the bad and the ugly but you will never stop learning. Here are some of the things that living abroad teaches you:

1.Appreciation & Acceptance

Meeting people and experiencing a different culture teaches you just how different things are in your country. People are usually living under dire circumstances. You then being privileged enough to travel fills your heart with a general appreciation. You also develop a higher level of acceptance for things and people as you have seen quite a lot. Things that might not be acceptable in your country are completely normal in another country and will help you shift gears quite smoothly. Your tolerance goes up.

2.Adapt to change quickly

Wherever you go out of curiosity and to avoid getting robbed because you seem like a tourist, you tend to adapt quickly. Like saying hello and thank you in their language to dressing like them. Not only do the people of that place love it but also creates a judgement free open space in bothyou gain their genuine care while trying to blend in. This effort of blending in with them, connects you to them on a psychological level which turns the events in your favor. You make friends that treat you like family and offer you their homes and food and what not. 

3.Confidence

During your stay or travel abroad you will be faced with situations where you are forced to step outside of your comfort zone. It can be little things like trying to order something off a restaurant in a foriegn language, trying to find your way back to the hotel or talking to a stranger etc. These little things will be the collective sum of your confidence. The more these experiences, the more confident you become. Moreover, when in a foriegn country you always show confidence around strangers, you never know who might be eyeing to rob you thinking you are a first timer or a foreigner who knows nothing. Scammers are everywhere in the world.

4.Experience over things

As you begin to go on this journey of traveling or living abroad, your priorities over the years will significantly change. This usually comes with age but can also be a fruit of your travel experience. You will learn to value experiences more than things. You would want to spend your money on going deep sea diving, or going to the town nearby, or exploring the other side of the country rather than that super cute handbag or the stunning watch. These memories of travel will be cherished by you for the rest of your life including the people you will meet.

5.Letting go

Last but certainly not the least, living abroad teaches you how to get rid of stuff, whether its things, feelings or people. When packing and taking the minimum to survive becomes your way of life, it manifests itself in your daily routine and daily thoughts as well. It’s very convenient to get rid of that broken appliance or those pieces of clothing you no longer wear. The hard part is throwing away that t-shirt someone in a forieng country gave you as a gift, or that teddy you won at a carnival in thailand etc. But once you gather all of these things and muster up the courage to give them away, you will realize the things aren’t as important as the stories. Write those stories down somewhere with a picture of the “ something to remember me by”. Reading them will make you feel great and will make it easier to get rid of the stuff while traveling or moving again.

Living abroad can be one of the best and worst experiences of one’s life but it will teach you things either way. Being better prepared and having an “I will deal with this” mindset, can and will save you alot of stress and trouble in the longer run. Remember to celebrate your stupid as well as your achievements while roaming around the planet. We wish you the best of luck for your endeavours. Let us know in the comments, what lessons has living abroad taught you?

4 Tips To Become A Sustainable Traveler

Before you know how to become a sustainable traveler, you must know what sustainable traveling is. Sustainable traveling, as defined by the World Tourism Organization, is to secure the tourist regions for the future by the host regions and the present tourists. It’s a development that calls for the management of resources in a way that fulfills the social, economic, and aesthetic needs of people while providing enhancing opportunities in the time to come. And that requires a sustainable traveler to be more cautious about the tourism overuse and recklessness on their part. So how can you become a more mindful and eco-friendly tourist? Let’s have a look at these tips.

Choose Sustainable Destinations

Every time you fly you leave carbon footprints around the world. That’s why Rob Wiesenthal, founder of Blade Urban Air Mobility and board member of Trip Advisor, believes that eVTOL is a better alternative methods of air travel. But the people who desire to see the world, there is a way that their approach could be more sustainable towards the environment. The simple way is to choose a destination that requires less travel, in this case you will leave less carbon footprint but if your bucket list includes roaming around the world, choose the tourist points that are the most sustainable on their own. For example, there are many tourist points in Spain, Slovenia, Palau, and Ljubljana that have the lightest carbon footprint there. These tourist points required the tourist to pledge before entering the premises to protect the cultural and natural heritage they are just about to explore and that is the pioneering step in sustaining the environment.

Protect Wildlife Tourism

The marked hiking trails are embossed to protect the native flora and the surrounding environment from the harmful effects of tourism overuse. Being a sustainable traveler you need to maintain your distance from the wildlife for your and their safety. Avoid feeding or touching them. Report if you see any activity like elephant riding or cub petting as this encourages the illegal captivity of animals and animal trafficking. To protect the ecosystem, make sure you don’t breach any stir-up sediment or Coral along the way. This way you will be able to preserve your precious natural surroundings and the wildlife in the area. 

Help Stimulating The Local Economy 

The tourist points in the developing Asian and African countries are mostly acting as the bread earnings for the nearby communities. So when you are exploring these places, hire a local guide to add to the local economy and learn about a new culture in a better way. Purchase artistic pieces and handmade souvenirs by the understated artisan. Eat food that is locally grown and buy from the businesses that are owned by local families. This will not only stimulate their local economy but your visit will be budget-friendly and your purchases will be of better quality. If you want to donate, look for a reputable local organization,  an international Charity group, or a social welfare program to avoid any culture of dependency among the locals.

Leave Locals With Good Memories

Encourage yourself to have a sustainable lifestyle when you are a guest on foreign soil. Make healthy choices throughout your way,  do not use plastic straws or plastic water bottles.  Avoid using sunscreens as it harmfully affects the coral reefs in the area. Use public transport to explore the places. Mingle with the locals, volunteer with them, eat with them, stay with them if suitable. Ensure that you leave their place better than it was before. 

The Environmental, Social, and Economic pillar of sustainability focuses on controlling the negative effects of tourism on the environment and wildlife, the second pillar calculates the impact of tourism on the local communities and the economic pillar of sustainable tourism is the contribution to the local economy. If your next tour relies on these three sustainability pillars, you are an official sustainable traveller.

Places You Should Travel to Before You Die

There are infinite stunning locations all across the planet to visit at least once before you die. From stunning towns to picturesque landscapes. The upside of every travel loving person is too many places and too little time. 

This planet is full of places you should visit but even if you are a frequent traveler or avid explorer. The number of interesting places is still too huge. To help you start on that bucket list we have created a list of beaches, resorts and natural wonders you should visit atleast once:

1.Phi Phi Islands

Tourism in Thailand has gained massive access by visitors from all over the globe, over the past few years. Phi Phi is a group of 6 Islands, dating back to the prehistoric era of Thailand. It’s clear water and beautiful beaches makes it an attraction for underwater sports and activities. Scuba diving is among the most popular. Vacationers get to see dolphins, leopard sharks and black tipped reef sharks in their underwater adventures. Most popular times to visit are May and November, when the frequent rainfall is minimal.

2.Santorini, Greece

Best known for its dramatic vistas, colorful pebbled beaches & soul soothing sunsets, Santorini is one of a kind volcanic island you don’t want to miss. Santorini is a high cliff island with traditional architecture, authentic wineries and ancient ruins. The capital city Fira is all white be it shops, taverans, cobblestone streets, hotels and cafes etc. For stunning sunsets head to Oia, a town along Ammoudi bay. This side of the town is whitewashed and decorated with majestic blue domes. The most popular times are May and October. A charter plane or ferry can get you to the island. 

3.Galapagos Island

Galapagos Islands is home to one of the most fascinating and rarest plant and animal life in the world. Located 1000 kilometers off the southern american coast of Pacific ocean, Galapagos is made up of 19 islands part of Ecuador. Peak seasons for natural life lovers are December and May while wildlife is also active in July and August. Remember to do your boat booking way in advance. Also go snorkeling to see marine wildlife,  check out the Charles Darwin Research Center and climb the Bartolome hill for the view of it. 

4.Positano, Italy

One of the most romantic people in the world are by far Italians. Positano is their most visited town in the Amalfi Coast south of Italy, for couple holidays. Visitors while experiencing mouth watering cuisines can expect to see pastel colored houses with charming medieval architecture throughout the town. The city is built on the face of a cliff and became popular with artists and writers in the 1950’s.The best way to get around Positano is by walking, be ready to take lots of stairs and remember to try their drink, limoncello. 

5.Maldives

Maldives are among the most exciting and stunningly gorgeous places on our globe. It consists of 26 atolls in the Indian ocean, near the subcontinent. The islands are popular for its beautiful blue water and peaceful resorts attracting people from all over the world. It’s a popular honeymoon destination. In the past Maldives used to be for luxury holidays only with their 5-star accommodation but with the rise of Airbnb that has changed. Now you can stay in the Maldives for as low as 50$ a day. This island is a perfect blend of peaceful holiday riding on your bicycles to adventurous thrill seeking fanatics, it has something for everyone.

Traveling speaks to the soul whether it is luxury, full of dirt road trips or other adventures. It’s a wonderful and beautiful world we live in. We hope you cover these places and immerse yourself in the splendor of nature all around you. We would love to know about some of the places on your bucket list that are rare and unexplored.

How To Pack Light For A Long Trip

Robert Louis Stevenson once said, “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move”. Packing lightweight doesn’t mean sacrificing vogue or comfort, however, it will need rethinking such travel basics as suitcases and shoes. Long stays will require a huge backpack and if you are wondering how to pack efficiently, this article will help you pack light for a long trip. 

Shoes For Multiple Occasions 

The requirement of a long trip is a couple of different shoes. For instance, comfortable walking shoes, flats for dressier occasions, comfortable slippers, and hiking boots. Boots are life savior especially when it comes to saving the limited space. Just try to use every inch of space in the boots. Things like extra socks, underwear, swimsuits, belts, anything that is soft and can fit put it in the boots. When it comes to shoes, put hiking shoes at the bottom so the bags are not top-heavy. 

Travel Wardrobe 

Fold over your pants and then fold over the shirt in the middle so it’s putting a perfect line. One can put his socks and underwear in the same fold to have your whole outfit picked out for the day.  Rolling everything saves space and can also help with some wrinkles. One should usually wear clothes two or three times because changing every day is not an option. 

One should bring a dress just for a nicer occasion for whenever one goes out on a nice dinner. The folding method is something that we should learn and use for single items more so and then you bring the arms into the middle and make it into a straight rectangle turn it over and you roll it in the bottom part that you rolled you tuck everything else in it and you just have a little burrito baby. One can do it with pretty much anything. This rolling method is great for pajamas or anything lightweight and then just tightly rolls it up voila so we’re going to have four outfits; a dress and a jacket, some pajamas, and the outfit to wear on a special dinner. 

Pack Multifunctional, Durable Travel Accessories

 One should always bring a small going-out bag. When it comes to me, I won’t bring the big old backpack with me every time.  When one goes out on a trip, he should leave the big bag at home and bring the small bag. The small bag will hold everything that one needs. For instance, passport, money, facewash, tissues, and a pair of extra socks. One can put credit cards and money in minting and that’s kind of also a good way to hide some of your money.  

Before leaving the hotel, check the weather forecast and if it rains, bring a small umbrella. If you’re out in nature you can also bring a poncho to save some space and only try to bring what one is going to need. Leave big bottles at home so putting in a contact case is a great solution it’s compact and if one is on a flight or at a high altitude you know it’s not going to burst out of the bottle. If one knows you might need to do laundry you can pack a little bit into a small container. If you’re worried about toiletry spilling, putting some plastic wrap over the top and then putting the cap on it can help prevent leaks.

Opt for Protein-Rich Snacks:

High-protein snacks can increase feelings of fullness and decrease total calorie intake at the meal. For instance, a high-protein yogurt decreases hunger more effectively than high-fat crackers or a high-fat chocolate snack. It is very important that you don’t want to be starved on the trip. Every trip is different so just plan accordingly you might need to pack more than this. 

A beautiful quotation sums up the essence of traveling, “No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow”.  One might need to pack less but hopefully, you found some of these tips useful especially if you are an over-packer. 

11 Gift Ideas For Your Backpacker Friends

Every social group must have one member who is filled with wanderlust and is super excited to be on the road. It can be quite tricky to buy the right gift for them since; they are rarely home to us and cannot carry everything in their backpack. So here is a list of a few gift ideas, you can refer to, while  buying something for them. Nothing will cause them more comfort on the road than a thoughtful gift from you.

Travel Journal 

Every traveller needs a journal to keep track of all their adventures or human interactions. A diary to note down their thoughts during lonely nights on a solo trip. A travel journal will act as if you are listening to their heart even from a distance.

Backpack

A lightweight and compact backpack with maximum storage that can hold maximum things without being heavy. These can be very expensive and their travel blogger budget might not be enough to afford it. So an upgrade will make their life very much easier.

Travel Pillow

A travel essential while living a transient lifestyle. A soft and comfy travel pillow will be a blessing during the hours long flights, airport waits, camping nights, and cheap hostel stays. Such a gift will ensure that they enjoy a good night’s sleep while hopping  from one country to another.

Aquavault

Everyone faces the problem keeping their possessions such as mobile, wallet, and keys secure while swimming in the ocean. Consider it as a waterproof portable safe, they can put their belongings in, to enjoy a relaxing swim. A safe and easy way to keep track of their valuables.

Filtration Bottle

Finding clean drinking water can be a struggle for travellers and buying packaged water bottles is not ideal for our environment. Luckily, some brands have understood this problem and have taken the initiative to launch reusable bottled with a filtration system built in it. The filters installed in the bottle will purify the water as one sips through it.

Thermal Clothing

These are professionally designed to keep travellers warm and toasty in freezing temperature. Most importantly, these are lightweight, take up less space when folded, and do not restrict any body movement.

Leatherman

A minimalistic tool with maximum functionality. It is a handy gadget with a saw, scrapper, sander, and grinder, all in one body.  You can get their initials engraved on it for a personalised touch and also to make it feel special.

Gift Cards

Adventures like paragliding, skydiving, and scuba diving are often the highlights of a trip but they can be financially taxing as well. Most of the time, travellers have to cut down on some essentials just to afford them. Therefore, gift cards to such attractions which they can avail during their travels will be highly appreciated.

Shampoo And Conditioner Bars

These will make their life a whole lot easier while reducing their plastic waste as well. With these bars, they would not have to worry about their shampoo bottle exploding in their backpack resulting in a nasty mess. 

Hammock

Hammocks are easier to set up than a tent and ideal for warm climates where one wants to sleep under the glittering night sky. Most importantly, these can be packed down to the size of a water bottle and takes up less space in their carry on.

Solar Charging Power Bank

While roaming through offbeat tracks, your friend might struggle to find a power source to charge their phone. In that case, a power bank that charges itself using the energy from the sun will be a life saver.

These practical gifts will act as a token of your love and affection to your friends even when they are miles away from you on the other side of this world..

Ways To Motivate Yourself To Travel

As famously said motivation doesn’t last more than a day and so does bathing which is why we have to do it every day. Have you been feeling very low lately when it comes to traveling? When you are busy working and you have lived around family and friends it gets comfortable. This causes us to leave our beachy and mountainous travel plans for tomorrow. 

Years go by and you realize you haven’t even stepped out of your city for a while. While planning a trip you might get demotivated not only because life happened to you but also sometimes our family and friends just disparage the whole idea. Here are some tips to avoid thinking I should listen to mom, these long road hours are killing me:

1.Devote time

Let’s face it, stuff is always going to keep coming up and you will always have laundry pending when you sit down to plan your trip. We recommend devoting proper time to planning your trips from accommodation all the way to the places you are going to want to visit. Making it a consistent habit and part of your routine just 30 minutes a day of planning and keeping it on your calendar will help you be regular. After all it’s your calendar, you cant skip it. 

2.Hold yourself accountable

One of the best ways to keep us humans on track is holding ourselves accountable to others. Whether it’s a friend checking up on you, betting money, or just having someone involved in the plan. These tricks will help you stay focused. The societal pressure will also make sure you don’t fall off the wagon and give an extra boost of motivation to follow through

3.Make a list of places

Having a list of places you want to visit and regularly marking where and how you would like to go there. Seeing all these places helps keep the motivation in check. If you are creative pick a medium to express your love for travel such as a scrapbook or an illustration.

4.Meet other travelers 

It’s near to impossible to stay motivated for longer periods of time if the people around you keep questioning your decisions of traveling. If you are struggling to lurk around travel forums, attend travel story events. You can also use apps like couchsurfing and meetup to get together with other travelers. Moreover, try to distance yourself from naysayers till you get back on the road.

5.Read Travel blogs

Last but not the least, reading about other’s experiences of travel helps you realize that it’s much easier to travel than most people think. Advice and tips also assist us in realizing that gone are the days when travel used to be a luxury. It’s not only practical, realistic but also financially possible as well. 

It’s perfectly natural to lose motivation while traveling for long or not having traveled at all. Like most people, we all get excited about a trip, and then the doorbell rings, and it’s uncle sam asking for some salt. We usually forget things in the hustle-bustle of our life. Hope these tips keep you motivated and put you back on the road/airplane

5 Amazing Tips to Help Settling Abroad

No matter what drove your decision to leave your current course of conduct and move to a new country, maybe some family commitment or work requirement or studying in your favorite university influenced your mind but settling in a new country is no piece of cake. Although it is exciting to experience a new place, its traditions, culture, language, and people, the transition could be overwhelming and you need an integrated plan to adapt and settle into a new living atmosphere. Let’s find out these five amazing tips that help you settle in a new land more quickly and successfully. 

Learn the language

The key to settling in a new country is being optimistic and proactive about the adaptation and integration to the new life and the first step you can take about it is to learn their language. This will show your interest in the new culture and people and it will make your life easy as you will be able to converse with the new people easily especially if you are thinking of staying there for a longer period of time. You can also join a group or take up a course, this will allow you to meet people with the same interests and you will make friends in no time and it would be easy with the same language.

Understand their culture 

Dress color and hand gestures, table manners, and conversing etiquettes are different in different cultures. For example; the French appreciate the gathering of the whole family every day at the dinner table with a special arrangement of meals. For Americans, family gatherings at mealtime are rare and they prefer fast food while taking a stroll. As red color is a sign of good luck in China and bad luck in Korea, starting the meal or leaving the table before elders come is deemed rude in Asia and Europe. Burping is normal in the Middle East but in Asia, it is frowned upon and against table manners. When you make an effort to understand their tradition and manners, the locals are more appreciative and amicable towards you and it helps you settle better. 

Always go along 

Never miss the chance for a get together with your new people in the new land. Always be a yes man when your friends or colleagues or neighbors offer you to join for a cup of tea or official dinners or a day out. This will help you learn more about their culture, way of living, beliefs, and manners. Plus you get to make friends and free drinks. Not a bad deal, right?

Explore your new home

The second thing that would help you settle in your new home and country is when you stop comparing your new home with the birth or the previous home. And the first and the foremost thing that would help you settle at a new place is your optimism, willingness, and positive attitude towards the change. We know it’s a big change in your life and of your families. The kids are away from relatives, their schools, and old friends, but your positive attitude will help them explore and acknowledge the new country as their home. And make them understand that there is a lot in the new land that needs to be explored and enjoyed. 

Ask for help 

We understand that there are several instances that require you to support or help in any way. The transport route could be problematic or check out about the nearby market, the language barrier or the hotel address, anything or everything could be baffling in a new state. So it’s better to ask for help rather than googling or researching every time. The locals are accommodative when you are struggling to settle abroad. A little talk would help loosen your nerves and make things easy for you. 

6 Necessary Things To Do Before You Travel Abroad

Believe you’re prepared for that outing of a lifetime? Regardless of whether it’s examination abroad, a global entry level position, work experience abroad, or simply a deserved beach session on some fascinating island, the measure of planning you do before jumping on the plane will have a major effect as far as you can tell. Take the additional time presently to get ready and plan, so you can augment your time abroad. Wandering through side roads and eating local food seems like significantly more fun than agonizing over why your phone has unfamiliar connectivity issues.

To assist you with getting prepared, here’s a list of things to remember before going to the airport:

1. Get a Passport.

Before you can begin gathering beautiful stamps from everywhere in the world, you need some place to put them first. Apply for passport a month before your flight date to avoid any problems. While the identification cycle is generally pretty straightforward, now and again regulatory issues disrupt everything and cause everything to take any longer than you suspected.

In all likelihood, you should apply in person at your neighborhood passport agency. Be set up to give evidence of citizenship, an additional type of character, and latest record photographs. Check your neighborhood office for certain requirements before you head in to complete that application!

2. Apply for Visa.

Visa particulars vary for each country, however the primary concern is the equivalent: it’s monotonous and the process can’t be rushed.

Do some research and see whether the country you are going to requires a visa. Provided that this is true, what sort of visa will you need? A little over half of the world’s countries require visas for any length of stay, a large portion of these as a standard visitor’s visa. Be that as it may, on the off chance that you will study or interning for in excess of a short semester, you may need to apply for a student visa. If you want to work, you will require a work visa (however you might have the option to work abroad without a visa, as well).

3. Get done with your Routine Checkup.

This step may likewise not be fun, however consider the amount more dull it tends to be to go get a routine checkup or tooth cleaning in a country where you don’t communicate in the language and the “workplace” is a messy corner in somebody’s front room. Get a clinical registration and a proper checkup, so you can eat whatever you want with no concerns in the back of your mind and travel easily. Take all the measures as prescribed by your doctor.

4. Make a Budget.

This is especially useful on the off chance that you will invest your time and energy abroad with a study or volunteer program. Research the average cost for basic items in that specific area, and see where your costs will go each month: convenience, food, transportation, entertainment. In the event that you are simply going on a personal outing, make a detailed list about the amount you will spend on restaurants, travel, shopping, and so on.

5. Search the Country and Learn about it.

Regardless of how cool and receptive you are, you’re likely going to encounter culture stun (they eat what?!). No measure of exploration will change that. In any case, it’s great to go prepared with the goal that your time abroad can be spent enjoying and just being yourself as opposed to flipping through new manuals. Search the spots you need to visit, any festivals that occur during the time you’ll be there, and events that you can take an interest in.

6. Find out a way to communicate with your loved ones.

Regardless of whether you’re going out traveling to move away from everything, it’s in every case great to realize your alternatives to connect with loved ones back home (for when you do wind up in that dental specialist seat or get that undesirable mosquito bite). In addition, it’s ideal to call and tell your parents that you made it to the opposite side of the sea safely and you are enjoying every day.

Be open to challenges and enjoy every minute of it all. The process might look a little stressful but eventually you are going to live your dream so get excited!

Here’s Everything You Should Pack When Traveling Alone

If you have never had the chance to travel anywhere by yourself, there is a lot of planning you need to do. As a first-timer, you might be confused. You may want to travel light, but at the same time, you do not want to forget essentials that may lead you to have troubles during your solo travels.

Of course, there’s nothing more rewarding than exploring a new place all alone: the places you get to see, the new people you interact with, and so much more. But traveling alone also means you need to be all prepared because there will be no one to guide you or help you in case you forget to bring something.

Here’s a list of top essential go-to things you need to pack when traveling to a destination on your own:

1.     Your Very Own Smart Carry-On 

It would be best if you went for a carry-on, TSA, and compliant approve by the airline you choose to travel with. A 360 spinner is a fancy option for many travelers. Go for a carry-on, which is spacious and has a USB charger port in it as well. Such a suitcase will help you charge your devices on the go. You also need to make sure that it has sufficient pockets for you to add items for different sections. 

2.     A Secret Scarf

As mentioned above as well, traveling alone can be scary. Roaming around with your stuff in one luggage can give you some major anxiety. It is essential that when you are traveling, you travel without any worries. Therefore, we suggest you get a multi-use (and of course, a worry-free) traveling scarf. The scarfs come with a secret pocket that can hold your valuable documents such as credit cards, passport, and license.

You really need to get this!

3.     A Comfortable Pair of Sneakers 

This one is a given when it comes to traveling. Regardless of what sort of location it is – be it a dessert or a hilly destination, you need to invest in a good pair of sneakers or joggers. By ‘good,’ we mean a comfortable pair. You do not want to be in a rotten mood because your feet feel uncomfortable or have a bruise because of the cheap pair you got from an untrustworthy brand. Investing in a good pair of fleets can go a long way. You won’t regret it.

4.     Anti-Theft Backpack 

Keeping your valuables close is essential when it comes to traveling. It would be best if you had a tech-friendly, water-repellent, and tear-resistant bag for your travels. The anti-theft zippers on such bags will keep your devices from any theft. Such a bag comes with a built-in USB port, so you may not want to get yourself a power bank because this bag would be enough for you.

5.     eAlarm

Speaking of safety (because that is a number 1 concern of many travelers on their solo trips), you need to get an eAlarm for yourself. An eAlarm is the smallest SOS alarm present in the world. It is the one thing you need in emergency cases. By pulling the black pin and re-inserting it, you activate and deactivate it on the go. 

6.     First Aid Kit 

This one is pretty self-explanatory, no? A first aid kit must include Tylenol, gauze pads, band-aids, antibiotic ointment, cleansing wipes, and all the medical prescriptions your medical advisor gives you. You do not want to leave without medicines, and the above mentioned medical gears.

Now that the list has been shared with you make sure you do not skip on any items. All of the mentioned items are equally important. Make some adjustments if there are weight issues, but do not exclude them from your traveling essentials.

Happy tripping!

Traveling safe: the definitive guide for travelers

Traveling safe: the definitive guide for travelers

According to research conducted by the International School of Ethics and Safety, as many as eight out of ten Italians do not take precautions before traveling to travel safely. A complaint resulting from a survey conducted in collaboration with tour operator security operators.

In fact, only two out of ten Italians leave a trace of the trip they intend to do, set their smartphones with the emergency numbers and with the contact of the diplomatic mission of the destination they intend to reach or provide alternative communication systems (such as social networks, for example) in the event that access to telephone lines is lost.

For many years, institutional bodies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Farnesina Crisis Unit have been distributing information material and providing behavioral codes to be used during those emergency situations that may occur during travel.

Unfortunately, however, media attention and people’s interest tend to focus on a particular event, such as a catastrophe, an earthquake, a flood or a terrorist episode. Business travelers and companies that send their employees overseas are also often not very security conscious. In fact, it seems that only a very low percentage of the 30 thousand Italian companies working abroad know and apply the regulations on the safety of employees abroad.

“When we organize a trip, we automatically inquire about mandatory vaccines, pack suitable clothing and get supplies of medicines, to be ready to overcome small difficulties, but we think very little about the risks connected to environmental, terrorist or related phenomena. local crime ” , explains Professor Paola Guerra, founder and director of the International School of Ethics and Security . “Not paying attention to these facts is probably a psychological defense: it does not depend on the fact that we do not know the actual risks, but on believing that those risks will never directly affect us. An attack of gastroenteritis is taken into account but not to be one of the Bataclan’s guests ” .

In those situations, everyone’s spontaneous reaction is to cancel the trips already planned or to postpone any travel. But once the fear of the moment has waned, we forget to organize travel in total safety.

Health on the road: the tips to leave safely

Health on the road: the tips to leave safely

Diseases, natural disasters, political unrest: anything can happen when you travel. If one thinks about it, one does not move from home. Fortunately, this is not the case, even if, sometimes, giving up a trip, even if organized long ago, is the best solution.

SiViaggia interviewed Paola Guerra, founder and director of the International School of Ethics & Safety, asking her for some advice on how to behave in the event that a trip can be put at risk by unexpected events. In a previous interview we had anticipated a project aimed at travel agencies with specific leaflets for travelers. Here’s what he recommends.

How and where to find information on protecting your health while traveling?
“Traveling health is very important, when we work with companies we prepare them for this theme which is often overlooked: the organizational unit and the numbers to call in case of need (sometimes it is enough to have even the help of a doctor who speak your language to deal with a health emergency), the ongoing consultation of the Farnesina ‘Viaggiare Sicuri’ website for the latest information on health, environmental, social or political risks, first aid kits, reporting periodic of your position to be able to intervene promptly, the correct eating behaviors.

These days, the site of the Ministry of Health and that of the World Health Organization are also related to Coronavirus. We prepare leaflets and communication campaigns for the employees of the companies with which we collaborate; in fact, companies have the responsibility and duty to inform their employees about the risks and safety when traveling abroad. “

What factors should pandemic travelers consider?
“In the first place, undoubtedly, those who travel in high-risk situations, such as in the case of health epidemics, must rely on secure, reliable sources of information.

The World Health Organization, the Farnesina, the embassies of your country are reliable sources. Unfortunately, not all government bodies in different countries demonstrate transparency and timeliness in information. You should not rely on social media and last-minute information, word of mouth which is often heavily influenced by panic and fear.

Professionals who need to move for work can turn to their companies for timely information and risk indications. The safety of its employees is under the responsibility of the employer always, during a trip and also in his spare time. It is a responsibility but also a legal obligation. It is the company that must implement the security measures necessary for the specific situation and for that area of ​​risk. The risk assessment must include risks related to health, accidents, the environment (earthquakes or calamities), terrorism, crime, just to mention the most important.

It is not uncommon in our job to be called by companies to assess the risks and come together, to the conclusion that it is better not to undertake that trip or that transfer, moving it for some time waiting to move in a safer perimeter “.

What precautions should travelers take to avoid getting sick?
“Of course, there are all the precautions to which, perhaps, we are more used to: washing your hands very often, wearing masks if you are present in the hot zone of the epidemic, not eating fresh food and using packaged water. And then common sense: using technological tools for a period of time, more conference calls and fewer trips … “.