A Guide to Experiencing New Countries

If you’re looking to broaden your horizons and experience a new outlook on life, then immersing yourself in an unfamiliar culture might be exactly the way to do it. This is one of the best reasons to travel.

But getting the most from your overseas adventures might mean doing a little bit of planning and preparation. You’ll also want to decide on your priorities in advance. This way, you’ll be able to design your trip so that it delivers exactly the experience you’re looking for.

Research and planning

Several months before setting out, you’ll want to decide a few things. How long do you intend to travel for? How much are you going to spend? Are there any famous landmarks or attractions you’d like to visit? What level of luxury do you consider essential?

If you’re travelling alone, then you’ll want to also think about safety. What level of risk are you comfortable with, and what emergency measures can you put in place to ensure that you’re covered in the case of an emergency? 

It’s often a good idea to look for pre-planned tours. This way, you’ll know that you’re being looked after and that you’ll get the chance to meet new people along the way. In Southeast Asia, for example, you might look for Vietnam tours.

Pack Appropriately

Having done your research and made your bookings, you should know the conditions you’ll be facing. This should inform your choice of luggage. In some cases, you might get away with a single backpack, to carry a selection of lightweight items. If you’re going to be travelling in luxury, or during winter, then you may need several cases.

What matters, however, is that you don’t forget any crucial documents. Keep passports and other essential items in a special bag that you’ll keep on your person (or in a secure place) at all times.

Indulge in Local Cuisine and Cultural Traditions

If you don’t do as the locals do, then you can’t claim to have truly experienced a place. Look for street food and delicacies at local markets.

Don’t be sidetracked into tourist-trap restaurants. Ideally, your research will have uncovered local events and major traditions.

When you’re participating in these, however, you’ll want to be mindful that your presence doesn’t disrupt anyone else’s experience. This applies especially to religious events.

Experience Activities

Finally, we should mention the appeal of the outdoors. If you’re planning an adventure holiday, then you might already have thought about all the hiking, cycling and climbing you’ll be doing as you explore your destination.

But even holidays that aren’t geared toward physical activity might still be able to accommodate a little bit of outdoor fun. Do your research, and pick activities based on your personal preferences.