| Travelling can be the greatest adventure. Meeting | | | | them when I went to Europe and got really lucky |
| new people, discovering new places and let us not | | | | because the hotels let me borrow one for the |
| forget about the food. But what could ruin your | | | | time I was there. Adapters are definitely a must! |
| wonderful vacation? Bad shoes, cheap luggage, | | | | Communication is very important when travelling |
| electronics and miscommunication can all turn a | | | | abroad. If you do not know the language of the |
| great trip into a nightmare. | | | | country you are visiting, do not worry. There are |
| Research is key when planning a vacation. Look | | | | plenty of translation books out there. You can |
| up the weather history in the area that you will | | | | pick one up at your local bookstore. It is true that |
| be visiting. Find the high and the low temperatures | | | | in many countries a lot of people speak English, |
| and bring clothing to accommodate both. Perfect | | | | but do not assume that they will. While I was in |
| weather is what we all hope for when planning a | | | | France, as soon as I said "Bonjour," a lot of |
| trip, but never assume that the weather will | | | | people began to speak English with me. I guess |
| always be pleasant. I suggest always bringing an | | | | they could just tell where I was from. I believe |
| umbrella and shoes that you would not mind | | | | that as long as you try they will help you out. But |
| getting wet. | | | | definitely try to speak their language. |
| I truly believe in investing in quality luggage. The | | | | Researching the customs and history of the place |
| last thing you want is to lose a wheel to your | | | | you are going could make your trip more |
| suitcase on the Metro in Paris, trust me. This | | | | enjoyable. Look up things like tipping, shopping and |
| happened to me the first time I went to Europe | | | | other daily activities. Other countries do some of |
| and I was lugging my wobbly suitcase, which felt | | | | these things differently. Learning some of this |
| like it weighed more than me, all around Paris until | | | | before you go on a trip can make life easier. The |
| we got to the hotel. Paying a little more for your | | | | last thing you want to do is offend someone |
| luggage could save you a headache in the long | | | | about something that could be easily avoided with |
| run. | | | | a little research. Look up different historical |
| If you are travelling internationally, make sure you | | | | attractions. Places like this are great ways to learn |
| bring the proper adapters for electronics. Some of | | | | about the place you are visiting and help you |
| the nicer hotels may lend you one, but it is better | | | | understand the culture. |
| to bring your own just in case. I forgot to bring | | | | |