Travel is full of pitfalls.
One wrong move and your trip may be ruined by bad hotel experience, overpriced eateries or a long haul flight crammed in the middle seat.
That's why I recommend planning thoroughly before you embarked on your journey.
1. Plan your Itinerary
I have friends (including locals.. which i was kinda surprised because i thought planning for trips is a very ASIAN thing!!) that tells me that they like going to a country and just start exploring from there. I guess I am more kiasu but well, i just want to make the most and best out of my trips.
*Read Traveler Reviews - u can look up forums like TripAdvisor who has millions of reviews on hotels, attractions and even restaurants.
*Google keywords like "Taiwan Trip Blog" - Most major cities has bloggers who have recently visited and are following about what's great, what's new and what's not. Don't just read their contents, try contacting them for recommendations.
*Research on Places to EAT Too!! - Don't just research on hotels and attractions. Trust me, i have tried to pop in to any random restaurants and ended up with crap. I'm sure it doesn't kill to do more homework... right?? One of the sites i use is http://www.yelp.com/ or you could just google keywords like "myeongdong korean bbq" etc.
*Compare Fares - sites like Zuji and CheapTickets.sg shows you your options at a glance.
*Compare Fares - sites like Zuji and CheapTickets.sg shows you your options at a glance.
2. Change Money
Always change money before travelling as i believe the rates may not be as good. Also, SGD is not really considered a international currency and some countries may not allow you to change it at their money changer. As i work in the CBD, i frequent Arcade for most of my transactions. I can't say they have the best rates in town but at least they save me the trouble from travelling elsewhere.
If you forgot, you can always change it at Changi Airport before your flight.
3. Staying Connected
I like to stay connected and its not just for posting of photos on instagram or facebook. Google Map is almost like the best thing on earth. Log on, key in the location where u wanna head to and tah-dah. it will show you how to get there from where u are standing, I mean you can always do this before heading to your destination.. it more for people who has a bad sense of direction.. like myself!
Always buy a Local Data Sim Card from their telco. Usually i got mine at the airport but you could always get it at convenience stall or telecom booths which should be available at most shopping malls.
This would be much much cheaper than activating your roaming data.
Always buy a Local Data Sim Card from their telco. Usually i got mine at the airport but you could always get it at convenience stall or telecom booths which should be available at most shopping malls.
This would be much much cheaper than activating your roaming data.
4. Your Flight & Hotel Details
Screenshot your flight and hotel details on your phone. You will be thankful you did this if you lose your bag or have no access to wifi. At least with the details, you will be able to ask around for directions.
Do email a soft-copy of your Itinerary to yourself or save it on cloud database.
Screenshot your flight and hotel details on your phone. You will be thankful you did this if you lose your bag or have no access to wifi. At least with the details, you will be able to ask around for directions.
Do email a soft-copy of your Itinerary to yourself or save it on cloud database.
5. Check in Early and Choose your Seats
I'm pretty certain you do not want to end up cramming in the middle seat beside 2 strangers especially on a long haul flight.
6. Remember your Water bottle
ok. this is yet another kiasu act. This is if you are departing from Singapore Airport. I always bring an empty water bottle and fill it up after getting through the security checks. This will ensure that i will always have access to water on my flight and this is a great tip if you are travelling via budget airlines. U do know how pricey drinks can get on board right?
7. Firstaid and Medication kit
pack your own and keep it small. just what you need to get through any emergencies till you get access to the next pharmacy.
8. Bring a Travel Pillow and Something to keep yourself warm
(if you are travelling on budget flight)
Unless you are travelling on commercial flights, its best to bring along a travel pillow and a scarf/shawl/cardigan. To me, having a pillow really makes a difference as its really uncomfortable to seat on an empty seat.
(if you are travelling on budget flight)
Unless you are travelling on commercial flights, its best to bring along a travel pillow and a scarf/shawl/cardigan. To me, having a pillow really makes a difference as its really uncomfortable to seat on an empty seat.
9. Pack a Pair of Slippers
A pair will come into handy when you run to the nearest pharmacy/convenience store or a short walk around the hotel/vicinity.
A pair will come into handy when you run to the nearest pharmacy/convenience store or a short walk around the hotel/vicinity.
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