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4 minute read.
While travel experiences can be enriching and fulfilling for us seniors, there are several common mistakes we inadvertently make due to differences in culture, customs, and logistics. Here are the top five:
- Overpacking. Pack what you need, period. Don’t underestimate your physical limitations. Excess baggage will lead to unnecessary stress and strain when navigating through airports or hotels, not to mention additional baggage fees that may occur. Consider dark clothes (think: more forgiving), items that can be easily washed in hotel sinks, and throw away clothing. Yes, that’s right. We all have old t-shirts and such that have seen better days, so pack 'em and toss 'em after you’ve worn 'em. Think of the extra space you will now have in your luggage for some souvenirs threads. Sweet!
- Time Change. Remember to prepare for time changes when traveling to mitigate any potential issues such as missed flights or appointments due to confusion about time differences. A quick refresher: When you travel eastward, you move into earlier time zones, and westward, to later ones. The International Date Line is an imaginary line in the Pacific Ocean. Crossing it results in a change of one calendar day. Moving west across the IDL, you subtract one day while moving east across it you add one day. Also, remember not all countries and regions observe Daylight Saving Time, and the start and end dates may vary. When crossing regions that observe DST, you may experience an additional one-hour time change. Consider using an online time zone converter to help keep track of these differences and plan accordingly during your travels. (Think: ride-hailing services may not run at 4:30 a.m. and walking might be sketchy. Been there).
- Neglecting travel documentation: Travelers often overlook the importance of having the necessary travel documentation when visiting other countries. This includes a valid passport, visa (if required), and any other required entry documents. Failure to have the proper documentation can result in denied entry at the border. (Side note while I'm thinking about it: leave items with personal attachment at home that could be 'donated' to Homeland Security or other foreign checkpoints.) Before traveling abroad, US Citizens should visit the State Department’s Website for travel advisories and stay informed about local news and events to ensure your safety and well-being during your stay. Locate where our nearest Embassy or Consulate will be, and save that contact number and address in your mobile device. Consider registering your visit via the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program on their Website just in case things go wonky.
- Forgetting about Jet Lag: Traveling across multiple time zones can disrupt your body's internal clock, resulting in jet lag. It may take several days for your body to adjust to the new time zone. Strategies to minimize this include gradually adjusting your sleep schedule before departure to match the time zone of your destination, staying hydrated, getting exposure to natural light, especially in the morning to regulate your internal clock, and finally, staying awake until the local bedtime. These can all help your body adjust more quickly. Above all, resist the urge to take a long nap upon arrival, as this can prolong jet lag. Remember that individual responses to jet lag can vary, so it's essential to experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you.
- Not researching the destination: When researching in your recliner, remember to look at operating hours and seasonal closures of iconic landmarks, museums, events, or attractions. Some require reservations months in advance. Tours often involve navigating stairs or walking on uneven terrain so keep that in mind. Also, don’t underestimate the language barrier. While English is increasingly spoken around the world, especially in tourist areas and major cities, many locals may have limited proficiency. It's essential to learn some basic phrases or carry a translation app to facilitate communication and navigate daily interactions more smoothly. Google Translate is a popular one, and free. Download it at home and familiarize yourself with its features before you leave. Learn about local customs and social etiquette to avoid misunderstanding. Travelers may unintentionally offend locals by not respecting cultural differences or behaving inappropriately. This means forget your graphic t-shirts and hats. It's essential to be respectful and open-minded when interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. And lastly, as you decide when to travel, keep in mind the local weather. Rainy season, and colder temps mean you’ll be packing more.
Remember, carefully plan and research your trip, consider your physical limitations and health needs, pack thoughtfully, and prioritize activities that are enjoyable and manageable within your comfort level. Avoiding these Top 5 Travel Mistakes Most Seniors Make, will help ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free experience wherever you go.
Until next time, Happy Travels.
Trudy
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