Carry a notepad – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When traveling in countries where you don’t speak the language, always have a notepad and pen handy to help you communicate with others.

Written communication is clearer than spoken communication when there is a language barrier to overcome. The French train ticket agent might not understand what you are saying, but when you write your destination on a piece of paper, there will be no problem.

Offer the notepad to those with whom you are interacting in addition to using it yourself. Your Balinese taxi cab driver will be happy to confirm that he heard your hotel name correctly.

Include identification info inside your luggage – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

Be sure your luggage has your identification inside, along with your i.d. tag on the outside. (External tags can sometimes become separated from your bag.)

When I travel on long tours, I have a 2-sided information sheet pinned to the inside of checked bags. One side has contact info (usually the address and phone number of someone back home who knows how to reach me). The other side has my itinerary.

If my luggage is lost en route, there’s a better chance of locating me during my adventure, helping ensure that my bags don’t make it home before I do.

Be safe in overnight trains – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When traveling on overnight trains…

1.) Put your backpack/travel bag in a pillowcase while you sleep on it on an overnight train. It provides an obstacle for thieves.

2.) Also, set up the Coke-can warning system on your compartment door. Put some pennies in a drink can and tie it to the door.

Postcards as guides – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

The cheapest way to quickly discover what an unfamiliar city has to offer is to peruse a postcard rack and buy a few that intrigue you.

Postcards not only highlight “sight-see-worthy” locations, but if language is a barrier, just show the cab driver the picture, and you’re on your way.

Once you’re at your location, write a memory of your visit, mail it to your residence, and add to your scrapbook.

The biggest plus? No need to carry the heavy travel guides with you.