World travel is the act of moving between distant geographical locations. It can be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, airplane, train, ship or bus and may be one way or round trip. Many people travel for business, education, adventure or to experience different cultures and lifestyles. Regardless of the motivation, world travel is an exciting and enriching activity. However, some people are hesitant to travel due to fears about safety and costs. The good news is that with proper planning and research, most travelers can avoid these concerns.
It is essential to determine your travel goals before embarking on a world tour. Doing so ensures you create a travel itinerary that fits your personal schedule and budget. You will also be able to set realistic expectations about your trip, which will help you avoid frustration or disappointment. For example, it is unlikely that you will visit five countries and four continents in under two weeks or see the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids and Machu Picchu in a mad 25-day marathon!
In addition, it is important to plan and book your accommodations well in advance. This will allow you to secure lower rates and avoid the risk of overbooking. You should also book your transportation early to avoid a last minute rush and to guarantee seats. You should use online tools such as Rio2Rome and 12Go to explore route options and identify the quickest and most cost effective mode of transport. Lastly, it is important to remember that not all destinations accept credit cards. For this reason, you should have a stash of local currency on hand to cover your expenses. It is also a good idea to avoid changing money in small exchange stores, which often charge a fixed fee for each withdrawal. Instead, withdraw cash directly from ATMs to avoid excessive charges.
Another tip for saving on world travel is to pack light. It is easier to move around with a lighter backpack or suitcase and it will make your trip less stressful. If you want to save even more, consider packing cubes, which compartmentalize your clothing and keep your bag organized. Finally, try to eat locally sourced food whenever possible. It is usually cheaper and much more flavorful than the westernized dishes served in touristy restaurants.
Despite the recent economic challenges, world travel is not going away. It is likely that some businesses will shutter and others will reshape their offerings, but the industry as a whole will survive. Those that adapt will thrive, including niche operators such as boutique hotels, luxury tour operators and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the importance of developing and implementing robust traveler safety protocols. Fortunately, these are largely universally applicable and can be applied to any type of travel. Ultimately, the future looks bright for world travel, with technology making it even more accessible and affordable than ever before. This is good for the industry, and for us, as travelers, too.