by admin | Dec 19, 2024 | africa, Travel, travel advice, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations
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Eli Solidum, aged 28, embarked on an impressive journey across 8 African nations during his adventure on the continent.
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He reveals which nation is considered ‘otherworldly’ and which one boasts the ‘most friendly’ folks.
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READ MORE:
I sold my home to embark on travels — here are the top countries I love.
‘I have visited more than 70 countries spanning five continents, yet nothing could truly ready me for many of the experiences I had in Africa.’
TikTok
traveler and writer Eli Solidum
@elisolidum
From the Philippines, he is sharing with MailOnline Travel about his incredible four-month adventure across Africa, a trip filled with numerous challenges yet also marked by ‘surreal’ and ‘otherworldly’ moments.
The 28-year-old shares insights into the top African destination for newcomers, describes how encountering local fauna can be overwhelming, and points out typical errors travelers often make when organizing an African adventure.
However, firstly, what were the main challenges he encountered?
Eli journeyed to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania,
Rwanda
, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and
South Africa
, and discloses: “In terms of logistics, this could very well be the most challenging journey I’ve undertaken. Due to the sparse and inconsistent public transport, limited affordable lodging choices in some areas, plus outmoded and incorrect maps, along with scant online resources for my intended locations, I found myself having to improvise frequently and adjust spontaneously.”
I did not encounter numerous fellow travelers to share tips and strategies with. Being a foreigner was also intellectually taxing since I stood out regardless of circumstances. It was difficult to remain inconspicuous, and I simply wasn’t accustomed to perpetual scrutiny, despite much of it stemming from innocent curiosity.
The 29-year-old explorer mentions there’s an optimal point when it comes to organizing a journey across Africa. Eli states, “My itinerary wasn’t fixed regarding the specific nations I would visit; therefore, unplanned side trips to Uganda and Rwanda necessitated obtaining visas that took time.”
The delay forced Eli to remain in Kenya for a longer period than initially intended, requiring him to ‘rework’ his visa amidst a ‘ten-day ordeal’ involving extensive running around Nairobi to resolve all the issues.
He shares: “Although you may not enjoy organizing your travels, and I definitely do not, I would suggest investigating each country’s visa prerequisites, verifying the necessary vaccinations and medicines needed or advised, identifying key transport centers and airports, and proceeding accordingly.”
However, on the contrary, Eli cautions that it’s simple to commit the usual error of overscheduling your journey to the continent.
The traveler remarks: “If you meticulously overplan and rigidly book all segments of your journey along with specific flights, that itinerary will likely crumble sooner than later.”
‘Processes tend to be slow around these parts, much like the three-day journey by train from Dar-es-Salaam to Lusaka. About three days into the trip, we came to a halt well before reaching our midpoint. Later on, in Luska, I encountered individuals who intended to take the very same train and arrive at Dar-es-Salaam just in time for an outbound flight scheduled precisely three days after departure. Though I lost contact with them, my hunch says they likely missed their flight.’
Next up are the buses. Typically, they simplify travel between locations; however, there’s always a risk of boarding the incorrect one.
Eli clarifies: “In East Africa, buses and shared minibuses known as matatus were abundant, making travel between locations quite straightforward. However, bus terminals frequently appeared disorganized or intimidating. As a foreign traveler carrying two backpacks slung beside me, I would typically find myself being shuffled around by individuals attempting to direct me onto various buses, sometimes without ensuring they were headed towards my intended destination.”
‘Events are destined to unfold, and a single tile toppling can ruin your whole plan.’
Fortunately, you don’t need any prior planning to appreciate Africa’s amazing wildlife. Eli mentioned he was astonished by how common it was everywhere.
He elaborates: “You don’t necessarily need to embark on safari adventures to spot wild animals. Once, as I cycled down a path, I had to halt so a giraffe could pass by easily. Another time, during a stroll towards lunch, a baboon tore into a garbage bin right before my eyes, while simultaneously, a warthog seized some refuse and dashed off with it. In Botswana, when I caught a lift somewhere, our vehicle came to a standstill on the expressway for about 30 minutes since a large group of zebras and elephants alternately approached a waterhole alongside the road for drinks. This sight was truly breathtaking and remained impressive every single time.”
Botswana is also where Eli had one of ‘the most tranquil encounters’ of his lifetime, even though an intimidating unexpected visitor showed up. He shares this insight: “Paddling along in a mokoro—a slender canoe—across the Okavango Delta’s waters during sunrise was among the calmest moments I have ever experienced. The serenity was palpable; the quiet surface of the water combined with the bird calls created an almost surreal ambiance, as if I were dreaming.”
While you’re floating on this small, vulnerable wooden raft amidst waters teeming with numerous hippos and elephants, danger lurks around every corner. On our return journey to where we started, a charging hippo confronted us, turning moments into hours as tension mounted. Fortunately, it was just a mock charge, yet it sent waves of adrenaline surging through us—a stark shift from the serene tranquility of the early morning. This experience underscored the raw wilderness, unyielding nature, and pristine isolation of the locations I explored during my trip.
Therefore, besides Botswana, what are some must-visit destinations on your list?
Eli suggests visiting Sossusvlei in Namibia, a salt flat encircled by sand dunes, describing it as “the most surreal, otherworldly location I explored.” The ascent up Mount Kenya left an equally impressive impression. According to Eli, “The climb to the peak of Mount Kenya remains etched in my memory due to its difficulty; battling against the high elevation and starting our trek towards the top just after midnight.”
He adds that Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Zambian National Park that’s home to half of the Victoria Falls waterfall, is ‘awe-inspiring, living up to the hype and then some’.
And don’t miss Uganda.
Eli shares: “When I arrived in Kenya, Uganda hadn’t crossed my mind at all. However, I encountered numerous Ugandan people who seemed perpetually cheerful and jovial. This piqued my interest; I wondered what made everyone so incredibly content consistently. Although my stay lasted just ten days, I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
‘This place offers a mix of adventures. You can go gorilla tracking, chimpanzee trekking, visit Murchison Falls, explore the origin of the Nile River, discover crater lakes, and see the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains with their towering summits – some of the highest in Africa. This country stands out as one of the lushest destinations I have visited; plus, the locals are incredibly friendly and humorous. Its night life is top-notch and likely unrivaled within East Africa.’
For those visiting Africa for the first time, Eli suggests starting with South Africa as an ideal ‘beginner’s gateway’. He elaborates: “In Cape Town and along the Garden Route, you can experience a blend of Western and African cultures which helps ease you in. This way, you get accustomed gradually rather than jumping right into areas that might be more isolated and culturally distinct.”
If I didn’t explore Cape Town half a decade earlier, I believe adjusting to travel across the remaining part of Africa might have been tougher for me. It’s an excellent spot not only for sightseeing but also for connecting with fellow travelers where you could seek their insights or perhaps rendezvous with them during your journey.
Although Africa may not be a popular destination on the typical backpacking trail, this could offer some surprising advantages. Eli shares: “When I visited, there weren’t many fellow backpackers exploring the continent. This meant that sometimes you’d shell out $10 (£7.88) for a bed in a shared dorm at a hostel but end up having the entire room—or occasionally the complete facility—to yourself.”
Eli mentioned that certain luxurious accommodations priced at several hundred dollars per night also provide campsite options for much less money. He would occasionally opt for staying in hotels or apartments whenever he felt like resting post an adventurous day, yet mostly his lodging expenses stayed within a budget of $20 (£15.76) or lower each night.
What advice might Eli offer to someone hesitant about visiting Africa?
He states: “It’s beneficial to experience some hesitation and worry before setting off. This isn’t an ordinary place to visit, and you’ll face various obstacles. African backpacking might not suit everybody, yet if thrill-seeking is what you desire, very few regions worldwide provide the kind of experiences that Africa offers.”
The majority of travelers I’ve encountered have shared similar sentiments. Although challenging, it turns out to be an incredibly enriching adventure—possibly the most satisfying journey I’ve undertaken so far. Should you desire to leave your travels with numerous tales and enduring recollections, Africa offers this abundantly. This continent provides an unparalleled travel experience compared to anything else I’ve experienced previously.
EAGER TO SEE MORE FROM ELI?
Join him on his journeys and pick up some travel advice from
@thepartyingtraveler
(Instagram),
@elisolidum
(TikTok) along with his backpacking blog –
thepartyingtraveler.com
.
Read more
by admin | Dec 9, 2024 | health, health & fitness, Travel, travel advice, vacations
As a vacation approaches, it’s easy to get consumed by anticipation. However, once the thrill of traveling overseas fades, numerous travelers confess experiencing exhaustion.
What steps can be taken to avoid travel fatigue? This was the issue discussed within Reddit’s travel community when a user shared their experiences regarding post-travel feelings.
“I traveled frequently during my youth, but nowadays I am in my 30s. This week, I went on a round trip for work purposes, which was my first solo journey in nearly two decades,” they shared yesterday.
Wow! Ever since returning, all I want to do is catch up on sleep, relax, and binge-watch shows. However, my body feels achy, my throat is irritated, and my head is pounding as though I might be ill. This has been going on for two days now post-travel! Is this typical?
Users on Reddit promptly offered reassurance to the original poster, sharing similar experiences of their own.
It’s typical. I find that constantly changing hotels really exhausts me quite a bit more than.
slower holidays
“These days,” answered a fellow traveler who was around thirty years old.
“I embarked on an 18-day journey through Western Europe… when we returned to Paris for our last three days, we found ourselves reluctant to venture out anymore,” shared another traveler.
Does traveling leave you feeling exhausted or invigorated?
For certain seasoned travelers, the journey serves as an energizing and invigorating experience, whereas exhaustion sets in after it has concluded.
“Strangely enough, traveling makes me feel invigorated, whereas returning home leaves me feeling drained,” noted one individual.
I can manage up to 20,000 steps and an entire day full of activities effortlessly for two whole weeks. However, once I return home, I revert to my lazy routine. Perhaps it’s the excitement and thrill of traveling that keeps me energized throughout this period. I simply adore it.
Several individuals on Reddit highlighted that
travel energy
(the absence of which) does not occur in isolation — but is naturally connected to a traveler’s overall vitality and physical condition.
How much does age matter in this situation?
Just as usual, the response with the highest number of ‘upvotes’ had a humorous twist: “At 40, I feel drained whenever I step outside my home, so yeah,” commented one user.
However, a more earnest reply contended that the poster ought not to feel so exhausted at such a lively age.
A 44-year-old sharing their personal story mentioned that they are still
backpacking
And by residing in hostels, accumulating between 25,000 to 40,000 steps each day through their journeys. They also mentioned, “I mainly contribute this habit of maintaining around 10,000 steps every single day throughout the year.” This routine helps them stay agile and energetic.
Some people worried that the poster’s symptoms genuinely indicate a real medical condition.
One commenter notes, receiving over 100 upvotes for their input: “It’s worth mentioning that you might be ill.” They add, “Feeling tired after a hectic journey is common, however, experiencing symptoms like a sore throat, muscle pain, and headaches isn’t typically part of the norm.”
Traveling may entail encountering various situations.
illnesses
” emphasized another. “Adequate rest is essential afterwards.”
Prepare in advance — but don’t overdo it. Key advice for steering clear of travel exhaustion.
Although evading a common cold might be challenging, particularly during December, seasoned travelers had plenty of suggestions for combating travel fatigue.
A 35-year-old highlighted the significance of
planning
Ahead, so you’re not overwhelming yourself in the current moment.
“I generally schedule my holidays for about eight to ten days. So far, I haven’t felt exhausted. After spending quite some time on vacation, my feet tend to ache because I often keep going without taking breaks; I fill each day with activities. However, I consider that discomfort worthwhile,” they penned down.
They proposed that the lack of planning could be the issue,” referring to the original post’s situation. “I typically create comprehensive daily schedules which keep me motivated. It’s uncertain whether I’d remain equally driven if someone were to drop me off in an unfamiliar place without prior investigation and treat it like a holiday.
Planning requires time, and my vacation time is meant for relaxation, not for making plans.
Great point! As another commenter put it, “Many individuals overload your daily itinerary with numerous activities. Incorporate extended intervals of free time for wandering or relaxing at a café. A holiday shouldn’t feel like work; instead, focus on savoring the experience.”
One Reddit user emphasized the importance of paying attention to your body’s signals to know when to “ease off.” They also recommended taking supplements that boost immunity during travel.
Self-awareness and avoiding overexertion are recurring topics on various advisory websites. In her initial work, expert traveler Louisa Rodgers explores these ideas further.
tip
The aim is to “understand your adversary.” Do crowds or heavy traffic set off your fatigue, for instance? Plan accordingly.
By the conclusion of your holiday, you might find it challenging to escape the reality that traveling extensively can take a physical toll. However, the joy of exploring different locations ultimately refreshes our minds.
by admin | Aug 8, 2024 | culture, Travel, travel advice, travel destinations, travel recommendations
From fjords to woodlands, from castles to lakes, Sweden unfolds before you during a 1000-kilometer road journey. Over six days, uncover the secrets of a nation where natural beauty and cultural heritage intertwine seamlessly.
From the Stockholm Archipelago to the docks of Gothenburg, this road trip will take you through
Sweden
Comprised of contradictions, this nation juxtaposes ancient woodlands with storied urban centers, awe-inspiring bodies of water against jagged shorelines. It showcases how untamed landscapes and cultivated societies thrive together seamlessly.
Heading to Sweden? Check out these articles to assist with planning your journey:
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Sweden: 3 Unmissable Hikes for Summer Exploration
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Stockholm: 5 iconic museums you simply have to see
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Sweden: The Most Stunning UNESCO Sites Worth Visiting Immediately
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The Pater Noster, an extraordinary opulent hotel situated on a distant and unwelcoming island within Sweden’s most perilous maritime region.
Day 1: Stockholm, Northern Europe’s Water City
As dawn breaks over Stockholm, it casts light upon the vibrant facades of Gamla Stan, the historic center of Sweden’s capital. This metropolis is intimately connected with water, having been constructed across 14 islands. Situated at the core of this intricate network of waters, the Vasa Museum displays an impressive 17th-century vessel.
th
-a 19th-century warship, a symbol of Sweden’s historical maritime aspirations. Located in the once industrial neighborhood of Södermalm, you will discover stylish shops and modern coffeehouses. At the center of the city lies Kulturhuset, a cutting-edge cultural hub teeming with creative events and community dialogues. If the weather cooperates, it could be quite enjoyable to explore this area.
take a swim
in the end… indeed, the water is pure!
Must-sees
:
A boat trip through the Stockholm archipelago, navigating among rugged islands and charming scarlet cabins, includes a halt at Vaxholm to taste regional delicacies.
Day 2: Heading to Tiveden, the untamed core of Sweden
Escaping the chaos of urban life, the route meanders towards the interior. Tiveden National Park offers an untouched natural haven where ancient trees appear to narrate stories from Norse mythology. A network of lichen-covered stones, pristine lakes, and Scotch pines forms a trekker’s utopia. Serpentine trails ascend to breathtaking vantage points like Lake Stora Trehörningen, which reflects its surroundings with towering granite walls encircling it. Along the Stenkälla path, colossal boulders left by glaciers weave through the dense woods, crafting a surreal lunar landscape right at their core.
Must-sees
:
An evening trek for observing stars, held away from all sources of artificial lighting, accompanied by a local park ranger who will recount the folklore and tales of the woodland.
Day 3: Örebro, with its medieval skyline
The towers of Örebro Castle reach towards the heavens, resembling numerous stony guardians watching over the enigmas of Swedish history.
th
A 17th-century fortress, where King John III of Sweden ascended to power in 1569, narrates the tale of a country’s emergence. Within this stronghold, chambers adorned with tapestries and historical armors evoke the ambiance of medieval Swedish royalty. Meanwhile, the quaint town featuring timber-framed buildings and bustling plazas transports visitors back through history as well.
Must-sees:
A sampling of “Örebropastej,” a renowned local pâté, was enjoyed at an establishment in the historic downtown area paired with a handcrafted beer made using a time-honored recipe.
Day 4: Vänern, the colossal lake
As you approach, the vista reveals itself across the vastness of Lake Vänern. This expansive inland sea, which remains from the previous ice age and stands as Europe’s largest reservoir of fresh water, showcases gleaming sandy shores and smooth boulders. On islands like Torsö, one can find an extraordinary array of fauna including ospreys and freshwater seals. Alongside the lakeside, quaint towns such as Mariestad narrate tales of local seafaring heritage through their vibrant boathouses and historic boat-building yards.
Must-sees:
Fishing for pike, a common Swedish fish species, with the help of a local angler who will impart his methods and tales about the lake’s “beasts.”
Day 5: Trollhättan, the strength of water
The rumble of the Trollhättan Falls resonates in the far-off expanse. This remarkable location has been harnessed by 19
th
A thousand-year-old system of water locks showcases the ageless battle between humans and nature. These locks stand as an impressive engineering achievement, enabling vessels to navigate a 32-meter height difference. Paths alongside the riverbanks provide breathtaking vistas of the rapids, while ancient hydroelectric plants continue to symbolize Sweden’s period of industrialization.
Must-see:
A trip to the Saab Museum, which narrates the story of this legendary automobile marque from Trollhättan, featuring a display of exclusive models and cutting-edge concept cars.
Day 6: The Finale at Gothenburg, the Port-Town
The scent of Gothenburg fills the atmosphere, with the maritime mist signaling the conclusion of your travels. As Sweden’s second biggest urban center, this city welcomes you.
vibrant port
melds traditional seafaring customs with modern advancements. The Feskekôrka, a fish marketplace located within a former church, encapsulates this combined legacy. The city’s waterways, bordered by cafes and fashionable shops, evokes the Dutch impact on regional architectural styles. The historical area of Haga, featuring its 19th-century buildings, further illustrates this fusion.
th
The century-old wooden houses stand in stark contrast to the contemporary design of the Museum of Contemporary Art and the daring architecture of its Opera House.
Must-sees:
An experience featuring exceptionally fresh seafood at Feskekôrka, often referred to as a sanctuary of oceanic cuisine, followed by a guided exploration of the renowned craft breweries in Gothenburg.
by admin | Jun 23, 2024 | safety, Travel, travel advice, travel destinations, travel recommendations
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For first-time solo travelers, choosing a vacation spot can be quite intimidating.
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Security, the capacity to form friendships, and affordable accommodations are crucial.
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MailOnline reached out to specialists from The Points Guy, Aditi Travel, and Travel City for their insights.
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Which one of these cities would you like to visit? Scroll down to cast your vote in our poll…
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READ MORE:
The top five lesser-known Mediterranean islands worth visiting
Journeying solo can bring sheer happiness — since you’re the sole architect of your travel plans.
Yet, choose the incorrect destination and the ‘solitude’ aspect of your arrangement might abruptly turn into an issue. This is particularly true if there are concerns about safety.
Then, where exactly are these appropriate locations?
We have consulted travel experts from The Points Guy, Aditi Travel, and Travel City for their top recommendations on ideal cities for solo adventures. These range from locations in what’s considered the ‘safer nation’ of South America to places known for easy social connections due to welcoming residents and numerous hostels.
Keep scrolling for additional options—and remember to cast your vote in our poll for your preferred lone traveler location…
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Tbilisi, Georgia
Helen Youngman, who manages a company specializing in solo travel vacations,
Aditi Travel
, I recommend visiting ancient Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Helen informed MailOnline Travel: “Tbilisi is a vibrant and varied city featuring an ancient downtown area, striking Ottoman-style buildings, and friendly inhabitants, making it ideal for independent exploration.”
Unwind in the city’s renowned sulfur baths, savor wine tastings in charming underground pubs, and experience authentic Georgian warmth and gastronomy by having dinner at a local household.
‘Stay at:
Rooms Hotel Tbilisi
, situated within a charmingly refurbished structure and serves as an excellent starting point for immersing yourself in the dynamic local culture.’
Santiago, Chile
Nicky Kelvin
travel specialist and Senior Editor at
The Points Guy
, recommended a hotspot in South America that’s surrounded by the snow-capped Andes and Chilean Coast Range mountains – Santiago, the capital of Chile.
Nicky told MailOnline, “Chile is regarded as one of the safest nations in South and Latin America, with the capital city boasting particularly minimal criminal activity.”
After exploring beyond Santiago, you can relish skiing in the Andes, hiking through the Atacameña desert, and even participate in bicycle tours for wine tasting.
When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty, the untamed Chilean vistas are difficult to surpass.
Moreover, the whole nation boasts a significant hostel scene offering choices for all budgets—both economical and upscale—which makes meeting new people quite simple. If you prefer urban stays, Santiago provides numerous viewpoints within reach, excellent museums, and some delightful dining spots as well.
Berlin, Germany
Travelers looking to discover Europe have plenty of options – however, Nicky suggests the German capital for individuals setting off solo.
He observed: “Berlin is a city characterized by its low crime rate, outstanding public transit system, widespread use of English, and an atmosphere that encourages progressiveness, making it welcoming for nearly everyone.”
There are numerous hostels and complimentary tours available, making it simple for you to connect with other solo travelers in a relaxed setting.
‘Berlin also boasts an excellent public art trail, making walking around the city particularly convenient and enjoyable.’
Melbourne, Australia
Lee Dobson, co-founder of
Travel City
, offering evaluations and recommendations on destinations, encourages travelers to explore Australia.
He stated to MailOnline: “For those traveling alone, Melbourne shines as an excellent city getaway because of its dynamic cultural atmosphere, various districts, and friendly residents.”
The city is famous for its vibrant street art scene, thriving coffee culture, and an abundance of festivals. Independent travelers have the opportunity to check out the National Gallery of Victoria, wander through lanes brimming with distinctive boutiques and cafés, and unwind at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
The vast tram system in Melbourne simplifies urban navigation. Additionally, the city serves as an ideal starting point for excursions to natural landmarks such as the Great Ocean Road and the Yarra Valley, great for short outings.
Taipei, Taiwan
Nicky from The Points Guy recommended that individuals traveling alone looking to discover Asia should consider visiting Taiwan, an island nation located off the eastern coastline of China.
While there, he suggested heading directly to Taipei.
He explained: ‘Taiwan is right up there with Japan in terms of safety – and [capital city] Taipei is much cheaper for a solo traveller to visit than Tokyo.
Given the wide array of accommodations available—ranging from affordable budget lodgings to upscale boutiques, along with reasonably priced big-brand hotels like those offered by Kimpton and Hilton—solo travelers have plenty of choices when looking for places to stay.
Many neighborhoods offer free walking tours which serve as great opportunities to meet fellow travelers who share similar interests; similarly, street food tours provide such chances.
‘an extra perk: The subway system in Taipei is pristine, well-organized, and secure. Interestingly, it also features classical music as the trains arrive.’
Read more
by admin | Apr 20, 2024 | common mistakes, Travel, travel advice, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations
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A technology specialist has cautioned against utilizing unknown websites for arranging flight bookings.
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They likewise advised tourists to verify their smartphone plans prior to placing calls.
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EXPLORE FURTHER: Maintain your technological edge with professional Kim Komando’s complimentary newsletter; more than 500k individuals subscribe.
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Concise travel preparation list: Bring along an additional mobile charger, save your boarding pass to your smartphone, and carry more food items than you anticipate needing.
I wish technical advice could be so straightforward. However, the consequences are far more severe as well.
From reservation to departure, here are five errors that can ruin your trip along with wise tips for a hassle-free journey.
1. Purchasing tickets from an obscure website offering an amazing discount
You look up airplane tickets on the internet or respond to an email. Faced with numerous websites and applications, you opt for the most affordable choice.
The website guarantees an excellent rate, prompting you to purchase the ticket. You reserve what seems like a confirmed seat and subsequently receive an email confirming everything is arranged.
![]()
You go to the airline’s primary website, input your details, and voila — you have your assigned seat booked.
The allocated space expires after two weeks, and consequently, your booking vanishes. Upon discovering this, you seek assistance from the airline. However, typically, they cannot offer much support because merely a reservation had been made.
Thieves excel at developing counterfeit applications and websites designed to deceive you. Luckily, there are indicators to be aware of that can assist in steering clear of such scams.
● Verify through reliable sources: The Better Business Bureau is an excellent resource for assessing whether a company is legitimate. This organization maintains records of genuine businesses; if your potential partner isn’t listed, it’s wise to reconsider.
● Online reviews and ratings: Check out online reviews and ratings on platforms such as TripAdvisor, Yelp, or Google. Be cautious with overwhelmingly positive or negative feedback as these might not be genuine. Look instead for an equilibrium of comments and recurring patterns.
● Accreditation and Licensing: Numerous reputable travel agencies belong to well-known professional groups such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or hold IATA (International Air Transport Association) certification. Look for these qualifications on their website.
● Clear cost disclosure: Reputable websites provide transparent information regarding all expenses involved. Be cautious with platforms that conceal additional charges or fail to explicitly outline the costs.
● Safe payment methods: Trustworthy travel websites provide secure, widely recognized payment choices. Exercise caution with platforms that accept payments solely through bank transfers or money orders.
2. Using a public charger at an airport
When your battery is running low and you have nowhere to charge, a public charging station can feel like a lifesaver. However, these stations are surprisingly vulnerable to tampering.
Using merely a USB cable, a cybercriminal has the ability to install malicious software or extract information from each device that gets connected for charging purposes.
If you urgently need power for your device, you can do so safely using a USB connection… provided you have the correct cable. Bring along a charging-only cable when traveling; they are inexpensive, small, and designed not to enable data transmission.
If your mobile device isn’t too outdated or recent, it might prompt you with an option to ‘trust this device’ or ‘share data’ once connected. It’s best to decline these requests while abroad!
These choices enable data exchange between your device and the charging station, potentially exposing you to malicious software.
Select the ‘charging mode’ instead. If this isn’t an option, continue walking.
3. Keeping AirDrop open for everyone
Keyloggers monitor everything you type, and cybercriminals often use Apple’s AirDrop function to distribute these malicious tools.
Do not accept items from unknown individuals during your journey.
On your iPhone:
● Navigate to Settings > General > AirDrop.
You have the option to configure your device so that it declines all AirDrop requests, accepts them solely from people listed as contacts, or allows them from anyone. (Choosing the latter might not be wise when traveling.)
On a Mac:
● Click on the Control Center in the menu bar (represented by an icon with two sliders).
● Tap on AirDrop. Here, you have the option to enable or disable it and select whom may send content to your device.
4. Giving your mobile device to an unfamiliar person to take a photograph
My buddy Mary was visiting Rome with her 14-year-old daughter.
They paused to snap some selfies when a friendly-looking stranger—a man around 30—offered to photograph them.
Mary entered her PIN code, passed the phone to him, but instead of helping, the person she thought was a good helper took off with the device and fled.
Your mobile device holds far greater value than what one might receive from selling it outright. (Although the resale price can be quite tempting, particularly for recent models.)
About Kim Komando
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Consider all the linked accounts: banking and various financial applications, along with your email inbox and confidential texts that may contain sensitive information.
Here are several straightforward methods to safeguard yourself:
● When in public spaces, protect your PIN. If you must unlock your device around others, opt for Face ID or your thumbprint instead.
● Avoid using a simple PIN; definitely avoid four-digit codes. Create one that’s lengthy enough for you to recall easily.
● If you prefer not using Face ID, opt for a passcode that includes both numbers and letters when possible.
5. Overlooking the inspection of data roaming charges/services
Ouch, your sore wallet. Before hitting the road, sea, or sky, visit your mobile carrier’s webpage or contact their customer service to learn about your entitlements while traveling. You might discover that services are restricted to particular countries, time periods, or usage limits.
Be aware of this beforehand; you won’t want to face the unexpected charges later. Based on your findings, opting for a travel SIM or an eSIM might be more advantageous.
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