travel tips Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VACATION

Jun 3, 2023

For any trip, there are certain tips for a successful vacation that will apply. One of the most important from my perspective is to engage a travel agent who can help you with planning. Whether you want to go on your own, take a tour or cruise, they can help you navigate the ins and outs of your destination.

That being said, there are still some tips for a successful vacation that you can and should take responsibility for.

Research

When you meet with your travel advisor, it can be a great help if you have done some preliminary research. Here is another great use of a list. You can sketch out the places and things you most want to see or do. Making this a family or group project will help you narrow down what is important to everyone. Some things that might be done by only certain members of your group. This will have the effect of energizing everyone about the trip.

Planning

I’m a big proponent of lists. You will certainly end up with several checklists. There will be dates to remember such as deposits, final payments and details to check off when they are completed. Even if you have a great travel agent, you will want to make certain you are on top of the schedule.

If you are planning on travelling outside the United States, you need to make certain all your documents are current and correct. Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six (6) months after your trip. Another little thought of item is that your passport must be in good repair. No rips or spilled coffee stains. Make certain you have any information on additional documents needed, such as visas or vaccinations.

Have Passport Will Travel

Put a copy of your contact information inside your suitcase. If it doesn’t arrive when you do, they can look inside to find out the owner of the luggage. Another thing which is becoming more common, is to put a tracking device in your luggage. That way, you will be able to see” where your bag is.

Make copies of your itinerary with phone numbers of when and where you will be with someone at home. You should also carry a copy of your passport information with you in the event your passport is lost or stolen. This will give the authorities the information they need to issue you new documents. Leaving a copy at hone with someone is also a good idea.

The day for your departure has finally come. You have checked off all the items on your list and you are ready to go. Here are some more tips for a successful vacation. They are just as important as itms packed in your suitcase.

Patience

One of the first things you should pack is your patience. Travel can sometimes be trying and you need to believe that everyone is trying their best and being impatient does no one any good.

You also need to understand that when you enter a different country, their time frames and cultural norms may not be yours. In order to have a successful vacation you need to “go with the flow”.

That brings up some other tips:

Respect

Noted, every country and region has their own way of doing things and their own viewpoint of events. Even though you may disagree with their point of view, you are a visitor in their region and should respect their right to their beliefs.

Common Sense

This is another intangible you should pack along with your suitcase. Everyone on vacation wants to have a fabulous time, but in order to do that, there are certain precautions you should take in order to make that successful vacation a reality.

You are a tourist and no matter what you do, you will stand out as a tourist. You might stand on a street corner reading a map or stare at your phone or other device. There are, however, some things you can do to make yourself less vulnerable.

There are pickpockets and thieves everywhere in the world. Leave your shiny and expensive jewelry at home. You won’t impress anyone and thieves will literally rip them off you.
Don’t carry large sums of money and flash it around. Take only what you think you will need for the day and leave the rest in your hotel, cabin, etc.
Women should invest in a good cross-body bag and men can use a money belt so that your money is available, but not easily parted from you.
Be situationally aware. While you want to explore, you shouldn’t venture into an area that has few people or is not well lit. You wouldn’t do that in your hometown and you shouldn’t do it on your vacation where you don’t know areas well.
If you are staying at a hotel or sailing on a cruise ship, take a card with you that has their address and contact information. If you do get slightly disoriented or lost, you can use that to communicate with a taxi driver even if you don’t know the language.

You are taking all the precautions and you are having a great time. Here are some further tips for a successful vacation:

Courtesy

When you go into a shop instead of leading with “What does this item cost “, begin your conversation with a greeting in their language. Even if you don’t get the pronunciation perfect, people respect the fact that you are trying.

Another aspect of courtesy is about taking photos. If you are taking pictures of a large scene, that is one thing, but if you are taking pictures of individuals, it is customary to ask permission and even give a small gratuity for their participation.

You should also not snap photos in area which many people consider sacred, such as places of worship. When you visit such sites, they usually are open and people are there to practice their religion. To them it isn’t a tourist area, but a place of contemplation and you should honor that. Ask someone in authority if you can discreetly take photos.

Curiosity

Everyone likes to talk about themselves, so ask questions of the locals. Ask them about their town, family and community. If you are in a restaurant, ask if they mind sharing a table and giving you some insight into the area. They most likely will be glad to do it and you will be rewarded with information and insight into their way of life.

Taking the time before your vacation to organize and meet deadlines and then following some simple, straightforward guidelines will ensure that you have a successful and enriching vacation.

Unique Journey –https://www.unique-journeys.com is here to be your partner in planning the perfect vacation enabling you to relax and enjoy your time collecting memories. Here is an article which highlights some of the reasons you need a travel agent to help you realize that perfect trip of a lifetime. https://unique-journeys.com/why-you-need-a-travel-agent.

BON VOYAGE

Traveling with Toddlers Tips

May 5, 2023

Traveling with toddlers can be challenging. Especially with cramped airplane seating and busy waiting areas, this makes it difficult. Proper preparation and planning are essential to reduce stress and ensure a worry-free travel day. Here are some strategies for flying and traveling with toddlers, including tips from flight attendants:

Remember to RELAX and ENJOY

Schedule an early morning departure.
This is especially helpful when traveling with toddlers or young children who may be tired and want to nap.
Save your mileage upgrades for trips without toddlers. Traveling in first class with kids can be more stressful than it’s worth.
Prepare your kids for what to expect. Children do better when they know what to expect, so consider showing them a video that shows them the entire flight experience. Click here for some videos on YouTube.
Avoid aisle seats for kids. Aisle seats can be dangerous for toddlers as the food and beverage cart can reach them, leading to spills and burns. Consider seating your child by the window or in the middle seat instead.
Dress in layers and avoid shoes with laces. Whether you’re dealing with in-flight heat and air conditioning or changing climates, be prepared for changing temperatures when traveling with a toddler.
Bring surprises. A wrapped new toy can be a great way to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. Kids love to unwrap presents; a new toy can be a fun distraction.
Be mindful of germs. Wipe down surfaces when flying with toddlers, and avoid sending them to the bathroom without shoes. The bathroom floor is known to be a breeding ground for germs, and the plane’s movements can cause spills and puddles.
Opt for a compact stroller and consider a kid’s harness. Navigating an airport without a stroller is not always possible, but swapping your standard stroller for an umbrella one can make a difference. Gate-checking the stroller is also recommended. A kid harness can provide added safety and peace of mind for multiple young travelers.
Prepare for airport security. Make sure items that need to be removed during security are easily accessible. Keep in mind that snacks may require extra scrutiny during the screening process.
Pack essentials without overdoing them. Flight attendants advise parents to pack enough essentials for the flight but not to overpack and burden themselves. Avoid expecting food on the plane that interests children; instead, bring enough low-sugar snacks, diapers, wipes, and sanitizers.
Create a packing list based on necessity. A comprehensive packing list should include comfort items like pacifiers, sanitation supplies, headphones, art supplies, and low-sugar snacks. Avoid overpacking by being mindful of what is truly necessary.
Address air pressure concerns. If your child has had recent ear infections or colds, consult with a doctor before flying. To address air pressure discomfort, provide enough water for the flight and encourage your child to drink during takeoff and landing. This swallowing motion can help alleviate pressure and provide hydration.
Don’t hesitate to use Pull-Ups. Even if your child is potty-trained, Pull-Ups can be helpful when flying with a toddler or young child. They can help reduce the stress of rushing to the bathroom or dealing with an in-seat accident.
Show gratitude to flight attendants. Flight attendants appreciate a small gratuity when dealing with toddlers. Bringing some chocolates from the airport and handing them over during boarding can go a long way. This gesture is especially appreciated during the holidays when flight attendants may be away from their families. It can also lead to better service and even a free drink.
Keep your cool. Some passengers may not appreciate traveling with children, but as long as you’re making an effort, you have most people on your side. Don’t let negative comments get to you; focus on doing your best.
Choose an airline with family-friendly amenities. Look for airlines that cater to families by offering kid-friendly perks such as a wide selection of TV shows and movies, kid-sized headphones, and snacks. Consider airlines with family lounges or airports with play areas for children to burn off some energy during layovers.

CONSIDER ALL THE MEMORIES YOU ARE CREATING

We would love to help you plan your next vacation. Our passion for travel is River Cruises.
You may be considering taking a cruise; here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

7 Things to Consider Before Traveling

Feb 8, 2023

Check out the 7 Things to Consider Before Traveling

Plan your budget

If there were no costs involved to travel, everyone would be traveling the world. The first place to begin in planning where you want to travel to. That will help you determine your budget. How long are you staying? How are you getting there, flying, train, or car?

Found this free download to help you create your travel budget.

Free Download from upgradedpoints.com for creating your Travel Budget. They suggest two different styles of budgeting.

Currency

Depending on your location, the currency could be a real issue. One this to keep your eye on is the exchange rates. Check conversion rates before you head out on your trip. A big mistake travelers make is exchanging their money for foreign currency before they reach their destination. The best place to typically exchange is at the ATM at your location. Hard to believe, but you could lose money if you exchange at your local bank before you travel.

Remember to let your bank know when you are traveling, so they don’t put a hold on your bank accounts and affect your availability. Also, let your credit card company know you are traveling to avoid holds and disruption of your available credit limit.

Accommodations

You have options, and many of them, when it comes to where you plan to stay. When working with a travel agent can save you a lot of heartaches choosing your accommodations if choosing a hotel. How important is a 5-star hotel to you? Maybe a 3-star may be just fine. There are Airbnb options, Swapping of homes, Couch Surfing (short-term lodging), Bread and Breakfast, and, of course, hotels and motels. Don’t make big mistakes; always do your research.

Know and be comfortable where you plan to stay.

Mode of Transportation

On a cruise ship or riverboat, you don’t need transportation unless you want to navigate and explore ports. However, if you are flying into an area and plan to sightsee, how will you get around once you’re there? Taxis in many countries are the best mode of transportation. For longer distances, consider renting a car. Check these out before you fly into your location. Be an educated consumer. Should you choose to go backpacking and you are traveling between different countries in Europe, you may want to go for a Railpass. If not on a cruise to Hawaii, you might be required to take short flights to go from island to island. Also, remember that some locations (like Hawaii) might require short flights or ferry rides.

Electronics

This is an area most travelers don’t consider their electronics and how they will use them. You will probably need an adapter to charge your electronics, depending on your location. Wise to check out your phone plans and what they cover, or you could be quite surprised at your phone bill when. You return. Wifi could become your friend when communicating with people back home instead of your phone.

Culture

You want to be aware of customs in certain areas so as not to get yourself in trouble. Before you head out, research the do’s and don’ts of your destination. For instance, are there certain gestures, words, or actions that might be considered offensive that is different from the US? Are there different laws? Are there common tourist scams? Will there be any cultural events while you’re there? Do you know what percentage they typically tip? Is it different from what you are used to? You might not even think of many things, but it’s simple enough to research the do’s and don’ts of any country. For example, in Dubai, here are some. Do Not Dress Inappropriately. Cuss In Public and do not Take Photographs Without Permission.

Travel Insurance

Working with a good travel agent would make sure you are aware of the need for travel insurance. Especially since the pandemic, it is highly recommended. It protects your travel plans because of injury, illness, cancellations, theft, loss of luggage, and much more. It is not required but highly recommended. Go prepared to know that there is a good chance something could go wrong but be prepared and protect yourself. Talk to your travel agent, as they can tell you stories that would make you cry. Just be educated and protected.

You may be considering taking a cruise; here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

Top 5 Tips for Traveling with Pets

Oct 31, 2022

Top 5 Tips for Traveling with Pets

Traveling with pets can be fun and joyful but also difficult and challenging. We know the excitement of sharing your travel experiences with your furry friends, though, and that is why today we have prepared our list with the top 5 tips for traveling with pets!

Know Your Pets and Make Sure They are Ready for The Trip

By far, the most important thing to consider when planning a pet-friendly holiday is whether your animal is actually ready for the challenge. For example, if you have a new small puppy, it might be too early to take them on vacation. Moreover, you should always consider your itinerary and activities and ensure that you have enough time to spend with your pet. Sometimes it is best to know your pet’s personality and know if they would be better left home and safe.

Get your Paperwork Ready

Once you are past the first step and you are sure that the holiday you are planning is suitable for your pet, you should start working on getting their paperwork ready. If you do not have previous experience traveling with your furry friends, you might quickly discover that special travel documents take a while to collect. Ensure that your pet has a travel passport, as well as all necessary health certificates signed by their vet. Always check your destination’s vaccination requirements and the airline’s boarding procedure.

Choose the Best Travel Crate for Your Pet

One of the most important elements to remember is the comfort and safety of your pets during the actual travel phase. It might be heartbreaking, but this means having a confined space, such as a travel crate. Try to experiment with crates before your trip to ensure you have the correct size. There is no need to overdo it, but it is also a good idea to add a toy or two in the crate, which will provide your furry friend comfort and relief if needed.

Pack all the necessary supplies

Besides the travel crate and their favorite toys, your pet would benefit from having the most common and necessary supplies you use even at home. A leash with identification tags, some food, fresh water, and comfortable bedding are some of the items worth having on your packing list. It might seem excessive at first, but these supplies will help you massively to prepare for a stress-free pet-friendly vacation!

Find the Correct Accommodation

Last but not least, one of the top 5 tips for traveling with pets is ensuring they are as comfortable as possible and feel safe and at home even while away. Finding the correct accommodation, which is not only pet-friendly but will also provide additional perks for your furry friends, is a great way to do so. Make sure to go above and beyond for your pets, and do not just count on the pet policy listed on the website. Give your accommodation a call, and double confirm the expectations, and requirements, but also any benefits they might offer!

Now that you have our top 5 tips for traveling with pets, do you think you are ready to start planning your next pet-friendly vacation?