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In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this financially independent lifestyle, they invite you to take advantage of their wisdom and experience.

8 Things to Consider before Going Abroad

Carey Beynor

Going abroad is a dream for many, an experience with different cultures, food and people. But to make it a smooth and enjoyable trip you need to be prepared. Here are 8 things to consider before you go.

1. Research Your Destination

Knowing the cultural norms, laws and customs of your destination is key. Different countries have different norms that can be very different from yours. For example tipping practices, dress codes and social etiquette can vary greatly. In some countries tipping is expected and seen as a sign of gratitude, in others it's considered rude. Familiarizing yourself with local laws can help you avoid legal issues by mistake. It's also good to learn a few basic phrases in the local language.

2. Health and Safety

You do not want to get sick while you’re on vacation - in fact, you would probably want to do anything in your power to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that you don’t have to stay huddled in your hotel room for days on end with a bug. Start by checking if there are any vaccinations required for your destination and consider visiting a travel clinic or your doctor to get the necessary vaccinations and health advice. Research the local healthcare system too. Also, there’s no harm in making sure where the nearest hospital or clinic is where you’re planning to stay. And don’t forget to buy travel insurance that covers health, theft and cancellations.

 

via Pexels

3. Documentation and Visas

One of the most important aspects of international travel is making sure your documents are in order. Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Some countries require this as a condition of entry. Research visa requirements for your destination. Some countries offer visa free entry or visas on arrival, others require you to get a visa in advance. The application process can take time so start early. And consider carrying photocopies of important documents like your passport, visa and travel insurance. In case of loss or theft, having copies will speed up the replacement process.

4. Financial

Managing your finances while traveling abroad requires some planning. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans so they don’t block your cards due to suspicious activity. It’s also good to carry multiple forms of payment, credit cards, debit cards and some local currency. Research the currency exchange rates and consider exchanging some money before you leave so you have cash on hand when you arrive. And be aware of the local banking facilities. In some countries ATMs may not be as common and credit cards may not be widely accepted. Planning ahead will prevent you from being caught in a situation where you can’t access your money.

5. Packing Smart

Packing is an art that can make a big difference in your travel experience. Like most things in life, start with a list of what to pack and what to do before you leave so you don’t forget the essentials and so you can get your thoughts in order. Think of the climate and weather of your destination and pack accordingly. If you’re going to a tropical place, lightweight breathable fabrics are the way to go, if you’re going to a cold place, layers and insulating materials are key. Versatile clothing that can be layered is always a good idea because you can adapt to changing temperatures and activities throughout the day.

Think of what you’ll be doing and pack the right gear and clothes. For example, if you’ll be hiking a lot, make sure to pack sturdy shoes and moisture-wicking clothes. If you’re going to formal events, pack at least one dressy outfit. Having the right gear and luggage storage plans for what you plan to do means you’ll be comfortable and ready for anything.

6. Communication and Connectivity

Staying connected abroad is important for safety and convenience. Research the best options for mobile connectivity in your destination. Depending on your length of stay and travel needs you may choose between international roaming plans, local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices. Each option has its pros and can help you stay connected for navigation, communication and information. And consider the availability of free Wi-Fi in public places like airports, cafes and hotels. Having reliable communication means will make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

7. Local Transportation

Many cities have multiple transportation options, buses, trains, taxis and rideshare services. Knowing how these systems work, their schedules and costs will help you move around more efficiently. And consider downloading local transportation apps or maps to your phone. In some places renting a car might be the best way to explore more rural areas. But make sure you know the local driving laws and road conditions.

8. Be More Culturally Aware

Cultural sensitivity and respect of local customs is important when traveling to most countries. Each culture has its own set of social norms and etiquette that may be different from what you’re used to. For example, in some cultures you remove your shoes before entering a home, in others certain gestures or behaviors might be considered offensive. Research and understanding these cultural differences will help you avoid misunderstandings and show respect to the locals. And engaging with the local culture in a respectful way will make your travel experience richer, you’ll form meaningful connections and gain deeper insights into the place you’re visiting.

Conclusion

Travel is a world of possibilities and adventure but it also requires thought and planning. By researching your destination, taking health and safety precautions, having your documents in order, managing your money, packing smart, staying connected, understanding local transport and being culturally aware you’ll have a better travel experience and make memories to last a lifetime. These will help you navigate the challenges of travel and live the adventure and make your trip as fun and fulfilling as possible. 

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About the Authors

 
Billy and Akaisha Kaderli are recognized retirement experts and internationally published authors on topics of finance, medical tourism and world travel. With the wealth of information they share on their award winning website RetireEarlyLifestyle.com, they have been helping people achieve their own retirement dreams since 1991. They wrote the popular books, The Adventurer’s Guide to Early Retirement and Your Retirement Dream IS Possible available on their website bookstore or on Amazon.com.

contact Billy and Akaisha at theguide@retireearlylifestyle.com

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