Opportunities to discover new things about the world and yourself are one of the best things about travel. Here are travel tips that can help you travel better.
Before the trip:
– Before you visit a destination, look at a variety of pictures from there, to get inspiration and to make sure you don’t miss any great angles.
– Do your own research instead of letting a guidebook dictate what are the best things to see, do, and eat.
– The best way to pack for a long trip with minimal space is to stick to a neutral palette and add color by way of accessories, jewelry, etc.
– Multi-tasking products really are your best friend when traveling. Face cleanser that doubles as a makeup remover or Argan oil that can be used on the skin, face, and hair… get on that.
– Become best friends with dry shampoo. A volumizer, a blowout prolonger…it’s a curly-haired girl’s holy grail, especially on those days you’re feeling lazy and rushed, but still need to look presentable.
On the plane:
– Don’t wear a full face of makeup on long-haul flights. You will end up with a blemish or two by the time you land. On that note, always keep lip balm handy and apply and re-apply generously throughout the flight.
– Load up on H2O and limit the champagne and salt intake while up in the air. You’ll thank yourself when you step off the plane.
– Spritz your favorite perfume in your suitcase so your stuff arrives at your destination smelling lovely.
Be a smart tourist:
– One of the best places to soak up local culture and sample local flavors is the supermarket and/or outdoor markets.
– Knowing the basic history of a destination can elevate your experience in more ways than you can imagine. It helps to put everything in perspective.
– Try to learn a few useful phrases in the local language – no matter how ridiculous you sound, the locals truly appreciate that you’re trying and have reverence for their language and culture.
– Cooking classes with locals is one of the best ways to get to know a destination’s culture, language, and food.
– Paris has some of the most amazing museums in the world, and it extends far beyond the Louvre and D’Orsay. Take some time to explore lesser-known gems and create your own Paris – one that goes beyond guidebooks and resonates within your soul.
– When in Chicago, you should indulge in its fine coffee culture and appreciating its diverse architectural styles.
– Do yourself a favor and visit Washington D.C. during fall or spring.
Be careful:
– Understand that perfectly normal and benign gestures at home could be considered offensive in another part of the world, and vice versa.
– No matter where you are, carry some local and home currency with you.
– Knees and shoulders should be covered when you’re visiting St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. They can and will refuse entry.
