I had a difficult time deciding on what I wanted my first blog post to be. I was choosing between many topics. I wanted it to be an easy and simple, yet informative read. I finally decided, I think sharing my most important travel tips is a great way to start!

1. If you get lost, don’t panic.
   • I have gotten unintentionally lost so many times despite using Google Maps and other apps to help me. However, I never get upset (maybe because I’m used to it). One of the joys of traveling somewhere new is discovering new things! Wandering through a city or town is a great way to get to know it and meet friendly locals. You may be surprised by what you find.
2. Wear comfortable shoes.
   • This is surprising coming from someone like me that believes fashion > comfort. However, when you are walking around all day, you will regret not wearing comfortable shoes. I remember I wore heels to walk around in Florence, Italy and by the end of the night I could barely walk lol!
3. Learn some phrases in the native language of your destination.
   • I cannot stress this enough! Knowing some basic phrases will help make your trip so much more enjoyable. You will be able to interact with the locals a lot easier. I recommend learning: “thank you”, “you’re welcome”, “hi”, “how are you?”, I’m good”, “how much is this?”, “where is the restroom?”, “goodbye”, and “nice to meet you”.
4. Try different restaurants than what you are used to.
   • One of the perks of traveling is getting to try out new foods. Don’t be afraid to go into a restaurant you have never heard of or try a dish you have never had. Also, try to go to different places throughout your stay.
5. Avoid eating in touristy areas.
   • Why? Well because the closer you are to tourist attractions the more expensive everything will be. Good food does not have to be expensive. The best food I had while I lived in Italy was also one of the cheapest meals I had.
6. Be friendly, but keep your guard up.
   • Say hi to people, initiate conversations, make friends. However, be careful. As I’m sure you know by now not everyone has good intentions. Stay safe and alert. To all my ladies out there, carry pepper spray with you. You can also purchase something at your destination to use for the time being.
7. Avoid Taxis if you can.
   • Seriously though, Taxis will try to rip you off big time. I highly suggest using Uber, taking the bus/train, renting a car or having a driver. Bicycling and walking are also options. I love to walk! I remember I walked around Paris for 6 hours straight. It was a lovely experience and a nice work out.
8. Have cash set aside for emergencies.
   • You never know when you might need it. Having emergency cash set aside is a great way to prepare for anything that may occur. Never carry all of your cash and cards at one time though! Also, this is absolutely not including shopping money! Set aside money for shopping as well.
9. Make copies of your Passport and other important documents.
   • You never know when you might need some sort of documentation on you. If something was to happen, like you lost your Passport or it got stolen, having an extra copy will come in handy.
10. Please be respectful.
    • You’re in a new environment with new people. Most likely the place you are traveling to does not have the same customs and traditions you are used to. Keep an open-mind and be willing to learn.
11. Take all the photos!
    • As someone that’s always talking about living in the moment I will admit taking pictures on vacation is a must. You are going to want to look back on all the incredible memories years from now.
12. Let your bank know you are traveling.
    • This is something that I always make sure to do! The last thing I need is for my bank to freeze my account or call me thinking I am being hacked from the other side of the world.
13. Research the country you’re traveling to.
    • The last thing you want is to accidentally offend someone. Research the culture and history of the place you are traveling to. Your trip will feel much more rewarding and fulfilling if you already know some information about the area you’re visiting.
14. Only carry what you need.
    • You don’t need to bring your whole suitcase with you every time you leave your hotel. Just carry the essentials, things you’ll know you will need/use. Walking around holding items can get annoying as well. Bring a purse, backpack, clutch, etc. to hold stuff in.
15. Step out of your comfort zone!
    • This is so important! Please do take risks and step out of your comfort zone! That’s part of what makes traveling so memorable and life-changing.

I hope some (or all) of these tips help you. Of course, mistakes and accidents will happen. We’re human! But as long as you’re having fun, immersing yourself in the culture, learning new things, taking risks and creating memories then I call that a traveling success.