Travel Tips

  • Flexibility is your friend. More flexible you are, the more money you save.
  • You don’t need to prebook your flights or tours far ahead because then you will be stuck in a schedule.
  • Less expectation = Less disappointment.
  • Always try to get on the last minute deal of any tour if you wish to go for a cheaper price.
  • Travel slower, the faster you travel, the faster you burn out, and more transportation cost will add to your budget.
  • Fully explore the area where you will be going to. It is worth it to spend that extra dollars even if you don’t think you have it. If you don’t think you can fully explore the area, then don’t go, leave it for next time.
  • Treat this trip as a full time job. I wake up early each day, sightseeing until dust, and take break Sat and Sun.
  • Stay Healthy. Be mindful what you eat. Stay hydrated and avoid refined sugar if you can. Constantly keep moving and exercising. And remember to take care of your teeth!
  • Be open-minded. Something unexpected always happen and that will add to your story to tell to the others later.
  • Try to bargain. You will probably get what you want most of the time.
  • Carry a “Point it” book or have pointing picture app on your phone to show to local what you want if you cannot speak the language.
  • Stay connected back home. Tell your close friends or your family where you will be. This will be your insurance when something goes wrong.
  • Always carry a set of earplug, eye mask  and headset. It’s not people’s fault if they snore in the shared hostel dorm room. 
  • Hostel also provides private room that is a friction of a price of a hotel. You still get to meet people and have your own space at the same time.
  • If you are planning to make your trip as your “business”, you should either try to setup as corporation, or setup your travel lifestyle as business to write off all your ticket and expenses.
  • Go out of your own comfort zone from time to time, and take only measured risk.
  • Avoid the temptation buying souvenirs, take a photo of them instead!