Exploring The Globe: A Guide To World Travel

Traveling the world is an enriching way to expand your knowledge of other cultures, gain new work experiences, and obtain unique educational insights. However, it can be expensive, and travelers can quickly find themselves in over their heads. World travel takes planning, frugality, and an independent spirit. Through careful planning, both before and during your trip, you can have an enjoyable international travel experience.

The first step is to decide where you want to go. The world is a big place, and there are many different places to visit. Do you want to spend all your time in a single country, a single continent, or do you want to travel the globe? It can be helpful to start your international travel in a location you've been to before and branch out from there. Certain countries, especially in Asia, can be less expensive for Western travelers, although they may lack some amenities.

Next, you should make a travel schedule. Before you set off, you'll need to have at least a rough idea of where you'll be going and how long you'll spend at each destination. It can be easy for a worldwide vacation to take more time than anticipated, so try to set out a specific schedule in advance. Alternatively, some people prefer to leave their travel open-ended and plan only one week and one destination at a time.

You should also research the countries you'll be visiting. Learn about their histories and current events, local customs, and any conflicts or dangerous areas to avoid. If you know anyone in the country, get in touch and ask them about any disruptive events that may interfere with your travel plans.

Budgeting is another crucial aspect of world travel. In addition to transportation costs, you will need to pay for food and lodging, which can quickly become expensive. Plan your budget in advance so that you can limit your spending and avoid unpleasant surprises.

To make your trip more affordable, consider letting your travel pay for itself. For example, you can work for an international teaching organization, stay at hostels, or work on a cruise ship.

Finally, don't forget to take care of the necessary documents, such as passports and visas, and update your immunizations.

Planning ahead for your travel

The first step to planning a trip around the world is to create a wish list of destinations. These must-see spots should be prioritised when designing your itinerary. Consider any narrow windows of time that provide the best travelling experience in these destinations. For example, if you plan to visit Serengeti National Park in Africa to watch the wildebeest migration, the best time to visit is between July and September. You can then work out your itinerary on either side of these dates.

Next, decide on the direction of travel. You can choose to travel from west to east or east to west. Travelling from west to east means losing an hour each time you cross a time zone. For instance, a flight from New York to Barcelona results in losing five hours, and you will gain back all that time once you cross the International Date Line. Travelling from east to west means losing an entire day when crossing the International Date Line, but you will slowly gain that day back as you move through time zones. Many people experience less jet lag when flying from east to west.

Now, you can start looking into booking your flights. You have two main options: a Round-the-World (RTW) ticket or a series of one-way tickets. An RTW ticket is a series of flights linking cities around the world, offered by a single airline alliance. The main companies offering these tickets are Oneworld, Star Alliance, and Air Treks. RTW tickets tend to be more cost-effective and convenient, with a single contact for changes or travel interruptions. However, they may have rules that penalise backtracking during your route. On the other hand, booking one-way tickets as you travel offers more flexibility but requires more work and may be more expensive.

When deciding on your travel dates, consider the peak, shoulder, and low seasons for your destinations. Peak season usually coincides with better weather but also higher crowds and prices. Low season means lower prices and fewer crowds but less ideal weather. The shoulder season offers a balance with pleasant weather, relatively low prices, and moderate crowds.

Finally, remember to add some downtime into your itinerary. Travelling can be exhausting, and it's important to have some free days built in to relax and recharge. Aim for at least one day of downtime for every two to three days of sightseeing. This will help prevent travel burnout and ensure you have the energy to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Budgeting for your trip

Save up

If you want to travel for an extended period, you will need to save a substantial amount of money. Here are some ways to do that:

• Sell your possessions: You can sell items you no longer need or want to help grow your savings account.
• Cut down on unnecessary expenses: Avoid spending money on things you don't need, such as takeaway coffee, new clothes, or eating out at restaurants. Instead, cook at home, shop sales, and find free local activities to enjoy.
• Reduce your fixed costs: Evaluate your monthly expenses and cut any costs that are not essential. For example, you could cancel subscription services, gym memberships, or streaming services. You could also consider moving to a smaller or less expensive living space to reduce your rent or mortgage payments.
• Increase your income: Take on extra shifts at your current job or find a second job to boost your income. You could also consider freelancing or starting a side hustle to earn extra money.

Plan your trip

Once you have saved up a substantial amount, it's time to start planning your trip. Here are some tips to help you stretch your budget:

• Choose affordable destinations: Opt for cheaper countries where your money will go further. For example, Southeast Asia, Central America, South America, and Eastern Europe are known for being budget-friendly destinations.
• Travel slowly: The more you move between countries, the more you will spend on transportation. Taking your time to explore each place will help reduce your travel costs.
• Use budget accommodation: Stay in hostels, Airbnb, or guesthouses instead of hotels to save money. You can also consider house-sitting or couch-surfing to eliminate accommodation costs.
• Cook your own meals: Eating out at restaurants for every meal can get expensive. Opt for accommodation with a kitchen, and cook your own meals using ingredients from local markets or grocery stores.
• Use public transportation: Taxis and private shuttles can be costly. Whenever possible, walk or use public transportation to get around.
• Look for free or cheap activities: Many cities offer free walking tours, and there are often free local events you can enjoy. You can also opt for hiking, visiting free museums or galleries, or enjoying nature instead of paying for expensive tours or activities.

Work while travelling

If you want to extend your trip or earn some extra money, consider working remotely or finding temporary work while travelling:

• Freelance online: There are numerous websites that connect freelancers with clients, offering opportunities in various fields such as writing, graphic design, programming, virtual assistance, and more.
• Teach English online: If you are a native English speaker, you can teach English to students online from anywhere in the world.
• Find temporary work at your destination: Look for temporary work at your destination, such as working at a hostel or teaching yoga or diving. You could also consider volunteering in exchange for room and board.
• Start a travel blog: If you are passionate about writing and sharing your travel experiences, you can start a travel blog and eventually monetise it through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling digital products.

By following these tips and prioritising your travel dreams, you can make your long-term travel plans a reality.

Learning some key phrases in the local language

Language Phrases in Transit

While most airports will have English as a secondary language on signs and documents, not every agent speaks perfect English. Once you depart from the airport, you will encounter various means of transportation such as taxis, buses, and trains. It is a good idea to have pertinent addresses and important phrases written down in the local language. Knowing how to ask for directions and communicate your destination will be helpful when navigating unfamiliar places.

Language Phrases for Health and Wellness

Knowing basic health and wellness phrases is essential when travelling. In addition to carrying a document stating your health issues in the local language, learning relevant phrases can help further explain any concerns or emergencies. Knowing how to ask for a doctor or describe your symptoms can be crucial in receiving timely and appropriate medical attention.

Accommodation Phrases

Familiarising yourself with essential accommodation phrases can make your stay more comfortable. Whether you are staying in a dorm, hotel, or hostel, knowing how to ask for directions, inquire about amenities, or express any issues will enhance your experience. Learning how to greet staff, ask for recommendations, and communicate your needs will make your stay more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Dining Phrases

Dining in a foreign country can be intimidating, especially if you have dietary restrictions or allergies. Learning essential dining terms in the local language can help you navigate menus, communicate your preferences, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Knowing how to order food, ask for recommendations, and inquire about ingredients will make your culinary adventures much easier and more enjoyable.

Shopping Phrases

Learning some basic shopping phrases can be advantageous when travelling. Many parts of the world encourage haggling as a form of commerce, and being able to negotiate prices can help you get better deals. Understanding numbers and basic phrases will enable you to bargain effectively and make informed purchases.

Language Phrases for Meeting New People

Meeting locals and making friends is a wonderful aspect of travelling. Learning introductory phrases, such as how to greet people, ask their names, and engage in basic conversation, can break the ice and foster connections. Carrying a pocket-sized dual-language dictionary or using translation apps can also be helpful when communicating with new people.

Emergency Phrases

While we hope for smooth travels, it is always good to be prepared for emergencies. Learning essential phrases for emergencies, such as how to call for help, explain your situation, or ask for assistance, can be crucial in difficult situations. Knowing how to ask for a doctor, contact the police, or express your needs in an emergency can make a significant difference in receiving timely aid.

Packing light

Plan what to pack

Consider the 1-2-3-4-5-6 Rule: one hat, two pairs of shoes, three bottoms, four tops, five pairs of socks, and six pairs of underwear. Customise this list to include swimwear, rainwear, or other items specific to your trip. You can get by with fewer clothes than you think—no one really notices or cares if you wear the same thing multiple times.

Make a packing checklist of things you need and things you want. Then cut the list of wants in half. If you're not absolutely sure you'll need something, don't take it. Lay out all of your planned clothes and gear before you go and think carefully about each item.

Choose the right items

Make sure every item does double duty. For example, a poncho can replace a rain jacket, umbrella, or backpack rain cover. A sarong can be used as a towel, picnic blanket, or skirt. Pick clothes that are versatile and can be layered, such as shirts with roll-up sleeves, or convertible pants that can be zipped off into shorts.

Choose lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that breathe well and keep moisture away from your body. Merino wool is a great choice as it doesn't retain odours, breathes well, and is lightweight. Synthetic fabrics also pack well and dry quickly. Stick with a simple colour palette so you can easily mix and match tops and bottoms for several outfit combinations.

Keep it simple

Don't bring lots of toiletries—you can get most things at your destination if you need them. Bring sample-size toiletries, including toothpaste—containers can't be larger than 3.4 oz. in carry-on bags. Consider alternatives to liquids, such as soap bars instead of shower gel.

Choose the right luggage

Think small and light. Aim for one carry-on bag if possible. That may not always be practical, but challenge yourself to start small and make it fit. The right luggage will depend on the type of travel you're doing and what you'll be doing there. If you're exploring multiple destinations or spending a lot of time on public transport, a travel pack with shoulder straps is a good choice for mobility and versatility.

Use packing organisers like packing cubes, stuff sacks, compression bags, or zip-top bags to maximise space and keep your things organised.

Prepare for the worst

Keep essentials with you in your carry-on bag, including your passport, money, eyewear, and medication. Wear or carry the heaviest and bulkiest items, or anything that would be hardest to replace, such as hiking boots.

Weigh your luggage

Use a scale to prevent any surprises at the airport. Knowing the weight of your luggage can also help you prioritise lighter items.

Staying healthy

Prepare Before You Go

Before you set off, there are a few things you can do to ensure you stay healthy during your trip. Firstly, get a health check-up and book any necessary vaccinations. It is also a good idea to read up on travel advice for your destination, and to get travel health insurance. Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as painkillers, insect repellent, antibacterial wipes, and any prescription medications you need. If you are flying, keep your medications in your carry-on luggage.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial when travelling. The air in planes is very dry, which can dehydrate you, so be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol. The World Health Organization recommends that adults drink about 2 litres of water per day.

Eat Well

It can be challenging to eat healthily while travelling, but there are some simple steps you can take. Pack healthy snacks like nuts and dried fruit, and do some research on the local cuisine so you know what to expect. If possible, opt for self-catered accommodation so you can cook your own meals. Be cautious when eating raw fruits and vegetables, especially in less-developed countries, as these may have been washed in contaminated water.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system, so try to get a good night's rest before you travel, and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night while on your trip. If you are crossing time zones, try to gradually shift your bedtime and waking times to match your destination in the week before you leave.

Stay Active

Incorporating physical activity into your trip will make you feel better and help you stay healthy. Take advantage of hotel gyms, explore the local area on foot, or do some simple exercises in your room. If you are flying, select an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs, and get up and walk around every few hours.

Keep Good Hand Hygiene

Washing your hands regularly is one of the easiest ways to avoid getting sick while travelling. Wash your hands before meals, after using the bathroom, and after touching surfaces in public places. Carry hand sanitiser with you for when you don't have access to soap and water.

Avoid Risky Foods and Drinks

Be cautious about what you eat and drink when travelling. In some countries, tap water may not be safe to drink, so stick to bottled water and avoid ice cubes. Only drink beverages that have been sealed, and be wary of raw fruits and vegetables, especially if you are unsure about the local food safety practices.

Frequently asked questions