10 Travel Mistakes to Avoid
6. Relying completely on guidebooks
Most of us do this when we are traveling abroad. Though guidebooks can really help you, relying on them completely may not be that wise. You could probably take a couple of suggestions everyday from the guidebook and then interact with the locals for suggestions. You might end up finding a hidden gem of a place somewhere which the guidebook has failed to mention.
7. Wasting too much energy on bargaining
Do you really think that bag or that stole is worth the 30 minutes that you spent bargaining for? For a mere 50 cent profit, you end up wasting precious energy and mental calm. If you try too hard to chisel out a bargain, you will start off on the wrong foot with the locals. Bargaining is not bad but if you keep at it for too long, it will only cause you anxiety and irritation.
8. Not buying something that you like
When you are at a new place, you might go out shopping and find something that you really like. But many a times we give it skip because we hope to get a batter bargain somewhere else or we wish to come back later and buy it. The fact is that if you do not buy what you like, then there are chances that it may be sold out when you go back to buy it. You might end up regretting your decision for the rest of your life. When you are traveling to a new place, don’t postpone buying things that you really and truly like.
9. Staying away from street food
It is true that one must try everything to ensure that one does not fall sick while on a vacation. However, if you are way too careful, then you may miss out on gathering the essence of the country or the new place. There is no harm in trying the local delicacies and relishing the street food. Just make sure you go to a place that has a long line of locals. This is an indication that the preparation will be hygienic. If after trying first you do not feel comfortable, then you can choose not to eat the rest of the dish. But, you should try and give local cuisines a shot.
10. Not interacting with the locals
It makes sense to keep to yourself if your travel destination ranks very high in terms of crime and corruption. However, if you are traveling to a place that provides a safe environment for tourists, then you must make the most of it and try and understand the culture. You can do this free of cost if you simply interact with the locals and understand their history. If you have a professional tour guide, then do not simply listen to what he has to say. Ask questions so that you get to know more and more about the country that you are in.
