Embarking on an adventure soon?
1. Travel Alone |
This is something everyone should do, at least once in their life. I traveled for one month, solo, in the south of India when I was in my mid-twenties. Best month ever. I learned simple stuff like, how to enjoy a meal alone in a restaurant; more importantly, I learned how to be super comfortable being alone in general.
2. Book Well in Advance |
This goes without saying, but come on, we've all been there: paying through the nose for a last minute trip. Hello 250 bucks from Dublin to Scotland! Use sites like Skyscanner and Holiday Guru, 2-3 months in advance of your next trip. Your bank will thank you. For an added bonus/money saver, if you have air miles with a rewards club, check out sites like Award Bird, where you can use your hard earned miles to get cheaper trips. Winning!
3. Learn the Language |
This, I feel, is more a little mark of respect to the people of your chosen destination. Don't assume everyone you meet is going to speak your language. If I'm going somewhere I'll at the very least attempt some of the native tongue. Don't worry if you f**k it up, people will appreciate that you're trying.
4. Get Lost |
Stop planning everything. Put your map down. Become a real explorer. Yes, when you go to to a new place, act like you know nothing. There's nothing better than sauntering around a new district, borough in a city you're not familiar with.
Talk to Strangers |
There's enough space in life to be both silent and passive, as well as being proactive and active. Some days, you'll need to—as I said above—saunter around, in silence, not wanting to talk to another human; but on other days, say hi to everyone! Okay, maybe not everyone, but don't be afraid to interact with a stranger. Exhibit A: Me and my main man are on a trip to Barcelona, when out of nowhere appears a lovely British lady who had a string of bad luck, but a great proposal for us. We made an amazing new contact, had some great conversation, some beers and will probably be seeing her again in the future. All because we said hello!
