TRAVEL TIPS

Just a few tips for traveling that I've found helpful....

1.  Kleenex Packs

I suggest always carrying a pack of facial tissues with you while traveling...especially if you are traveling in a non-developed country.  You will probably find yourself in a bathroom without any toilet paper, and some kleenex stuffed away in your purse can be a life-saver.

As well as the kleenex, I also suggest doing squats everyday or practicing utkatasana in yoga so that you are able to go to the bathroom without touching anything.  I found this especially useful when in Peru.


2.  Hand Sanitizer

Always carry hand sanitizer with you as well.  Just as there is not likely to be toilet paper, there is not likely to be soap.


3.  Hotel Business Card

I think I learned this one from my cousin...

Upon arriving at your hotel, make sure to grab a business card with the hotel's name and address.  Make sure to do this if you are in a country where you don't speak the language, so that you can hand it to a taxi driver or friendly person in case you get lost and can't communicate.


4.  Map

I don't usually take my iPhone with me when I travel outside the country.  I don't feel comfortable carrying it around with me, and I don't have service.  This will probably change when I move back to the US and will have an easier time replacing if it is lost or stolen.  For now though, I make sure I have a tangible non-electronic map instead.

It's a good idea to mark your hotel and other points of interest before you head out.  I feel more empowered and less nervous with a map on me.  I also always get people coming up to me and asking me for directions when I'm traveling.  Instead of saying, "Sorry, I don't live here," I'm able to whip out my map and help.


5.  Be Friendly

Do not be afraid to ask questions or talk to locals.  You will learn great things and meet awesome people.  If you know another language...or 'kind of' know another language...swallow your damn pride and speak it.  Even if you mess up, people will appreciate your effort.


6.  Cross-Body Bag

Always carry a bag with a strap that goes across your body when you travel.  Hand bags are easier to steal.  I also suggest getting a bag with a zipper or complicated closure.  If you are going to bring a backpack, make sure to wear it on your chest instead of back in crowded areas or on public transportation.  Obviously, when you sit down to eat at a restaurant, never put your bag on the back of your chair.  I also suggest somehow wrapping it around your leg, so it's not easily carried away without notice.


7.  Damage-Free Dollars

If you are going to exchange dollars for local currency, make sure to bring dollars that are without any rips or writing.  Some countries only accept perfect dollars at currency exchanges and won't take anything smaller than a twenty.