Retire Early
Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler
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.
About the Authors
Retire
Early Lifestyle appeals to a different
kind of person – the person who prizes their
independence, values their time, and who doesn’t
want to mindlessly follow the crowd.
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