15 Common Travel Myths That Could Ruin Your Trip
Travel is supposed to be fun, a chance to discover, adventure, and relax. But, of course, misinformation and misunderstandings can make what should be a great experience a logistical nightmare. Too many travel myths exist that might trip you up, from flights and accommodation to safety and planning.
With that said, let’s bust a few of these myths wide open. You will find that a lot of what you’ve heard is not so good and you will be better prepared to plan your next vacation.
Booking Flights Last Minute Is Cheaper
Of course you’ve heard that waiting until the last minute will get you the cheapest flights. Unfortunately, this is more fiction than fact. Algorithms determine the prices airlines use, and last minute seats are often priced higher. Between one and three months before your trip is where you’ll find the sweet spot for finding the best deals. And if you’re a procrastinator, this is a habit you may want to break.
Hostels Are Dirty and Unsafe
Most people think of dingy, poorly kept rooms when they hear the word “hostel.” In reality, hostels have come a long way. Several are clean, modern, and travelers report them as safe. There are some even, with private rooms and expensive amenities. It doesn’t have to cost you a lot and you can still enjoy comfort and security.
The Closer to the City Center, the Better
Staying in the middle of a city sounds nice, but that’s not always the best choice. Areas that are popular as tourist places can be crowded and expensive. Sometimes, it is worthwhile to explore neighborhoods just a little further out of the center of the main attractions to experience a more authentic experience. On top of that, you can still get around with public transportation or affordable rideshares.
By Staying Awake, Jet Lag Can Be Avoided
Lots of travelers believe that staying awake on the whole flight is the way to defeat jet lag. This isn’t exactly true. Staying awake won’t fix jet lag. It’s when your body’s internal clock is out of sync with your new time zone. To do this, you need to begin changing your sleep schedule before you travel and when you get there, expose yourself to sunlight.
You Can Only Travel on a Big Budget
You’d think travel is a luxury only the rich can afford, but that’s far from the truth. Budget travel is endless. With a little research and preparation, it is possible to travel the world without spending a fortune and there are many ways travelers save money on accommodation, flights, and transport. It’s about knowing what you value and cutting costs everywhere else.
To Get by, You Need to Speak the language
It’s not a requirement to know some basic phrases in the local language. English is often spoken in many tourist areas, and you’ll be able to do a fair amount with a combination of hand gestures, translation app and a bit of patience. It’s not the case that if you don’t know the language it’s a deal breaker — learning a few key words like “please,” “thank you,” and “hello” can go a long way in making connections.
Travel Insurance Is a Waste of Money
Travel insurance is just one more expense to add to a long list of cost, but it can be a lifesaver when things go wrong. Insurance can pay for everything from lost luggage to an unexpected medical emergency that wouldn’t otherwise hurt your pocket. One of those things that you hope you’d never need, but if you ever do, you’ll be glad you had.
All Inclusive Resorts Offer The Best Value
An all-inclusive resort sounds good, pay once for everything! However, if you’re someone who loves exploring local culture, eating out, or taking on some part of the adventure yourself, you may wind up spending more than you would have, had you just booked a hotel. Consider how much time you want to spend at the resort versus being out exploring.
You Shouldn’t Eat Street Food
Street food often gets a bad rep, as many think it’s dirty and unsafe. Shockingly, street food can be the freshest and most delicious food you’ll find anywhere. The ingredients are used quickly because vendors often specialize in just a few dishes. Of course, you use your judgment—look for stalls with a good flow of customers and food that is cooked fresh to order.
Travel Solo Is Dangerous, Especially for Women
Of course safety is always a priority when you travel alone, but the notion that solo travel is dangerous, especially for women, is more myth than reality. If you follow common sense safety practices, like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding risky areas after dark, then solo travel is as safe as traveling with a group. Moreover, many women will actually find solo travel to be empowering and liberating.
You’ll Get the Best Exchange Rate at the Airport
While exchanging money at the airport may be convenient, it’s never your best option. According to Investopedia, fees and rates are high at airport exchange booths. If you withdraw cash from an ATM or use your credit card you might get a better deal. Just make sure your bank doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Off Season Travel Is Not Worth it
Some people believe traveling off season means you will have a second rate experience. Off season travel, though, can be one of the best ways to avoid crowds, snag a great deal and see a destination in an entirely different light. Of course, you’re going to miss out on peak season events, but you’ll likely have a more relaxed and intimate experience of the place.
The More Packing, the Better
No one wants to be caught unprepared for any situation, and over-packing can become a hassle. Heavy suitcases and trying to remember to pack too many things are just more stressful. The truth is, you don’t need as much as you think. Keep it simple, and know that most things can be purchased on the go if you need to.
It’s Too Hard Travelling With Kids
Of course, traveling with children has its challenges, but it’s not impossible. Family travel can be a fantastic experience, but with a little prep and a bit of flexibility, it can be just as rewarding. The good news is that many destinations have family-friendly accommodations and activities and, to be honest, kids tend to love the adventure just as much as we do. Expect things to go wrong and then do, try to go with the flow.
For Safety Reasons, Avoid Public Transportation
The public transportation system can also sometimes get a bad rep, but in most cities around the world, it’s safe, efficient, and cheap. Before your trip do your research, if the local transit system is well-rated, then it can be a great way to save money and get an authentic experience. Travel smart, and trust your instincts, but don’t be scared to jump on a bus or train to get around.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
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