There is nothing better than going on a decent holiday but there’s also nothing worse than one that goes wrong. Travel can be exhilarating, stressful, relaxing, life-changing, amazing, inspiring, disappointing, boring, horrifying and so much more. A seasoned traveller knows how to ensure that its more positive than negative! So here are some tips from a seasoned traveller and hopefully, your time abroad will be a positive, enjoyable experience.

First things first, plan… know what you are getting up to before going away. This will help you avoid disasters. Next make sure all your documentation, so passports, insurance, hotel information, flight information, emergency numbers are all packed and have copies. Before you book anything look online for reviews and do some research.

Do not over plan though! you don’t want to know all the nice little surprises or have the place you’re visiting hyped up so much that when you turn up its nothing like you imagined. Be flexible with your dates, transport, accommodation and you can save yourself money and stress. When booking your holiday try see if you can get any bonuses like fast-track entry on the plane or a free upgrade. Sometimes being extra nice to your travel agent might be the thing that got you the upgrade. Also with that in mind – make sure your travel agent knows your name and you’re not just another booking/email in their busy schedule!
Bring portable chargers and travel adapters! this will save your life especially if you’re flights delayed. Oh and if there is a few of you bring an extension cable/4 bar! You don’t want to not have to charge your phone because someone needs the socket to use the hair dryer.

Chat with locals! – Communicate with local people will help give you a sense of what the place is like and you’ll also get access to useful information too! they can advise you on what to do, where is good to go and maybe where you should avoid. This will certainly help you avoid tourist traps!
Don’t be afraid to go and explore on your own though, leave behind the crowd and do things yourself. Sometimes trips are ruined by groups of people in my experience. The thrill and stress of trying to find somewhere in a foreign country on your own all add to the experience. I mean don’t you think its just a little bit more special finding something on your own than finding it with a group of people taking pictures and selfies.

Just don’t sweat the small stuff! if the room isn’t perfect just put up with it.. are the locals being a bit rude to the tourists – just brush it off! and remember you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a good time! If you’re having a bad day take a break from whatever is stressing you out and try push forward – you’re not there long.

Looking Ways to Travel Better? check out Mark Warner for superb holidays to a selection of destinations across Europe.

TSF Singapore can help you complete the Schengen Visa application online. Go to the application page to apply online.