New Year, New Trip

As we begin the new we all have hopes and dreams for the new year. If you love traveling, like myself, you may be dreaming of new adventures and the experience of different cultures. My advice while planning a trip in the new year is to immerse yourself before you even leave. When visiting foreign countries it is always more enjoyable if you can find your way around easily. Here is my advice...

Learn the Language

If you are visiting a country that speaks a different language try to learn a few basic words that might help you get around.
For example:
"where to eat"
"where is___?"
"how much does it cost?"
and greetings

Begin with food

Try something easy that you know is popular amongst that culture. Try it at home so you know what to expect while there.

If you do not like it, make sure to try other recipes until you find something that you can enjoy. You do not ever want to be stuck hungry because it can ruin your entire day. 

Know traditions

Depending on what time of year you go traveling, there may some sort of festivities or celebrations happening that you were not aware of. It would behoove you to do some research on the traditions and holidays practiced in the country you are visiting so that you know what to expect.

Pictured to the left is a religious practice in Toledo, Spain during early June where the people of the town parade statues of saints around the town. 

Music

Music is always fun to explore. It is an easy way to immerse yourself in a culture and even learn more about it. If you try to listen to a little bit of that country's traditional music each week you might find yourself learning more about their traditions and customs.



No matter where you find yourself this year, make it an adventure. Make sure you have a good balance of spontaneity and planning. A good way to plan is to understand the culture of the people and place you are visiting. Have fun!