How to plan the perfect vacation

24 June 2024

Useful tips

How to plan the perfect vacation

Planning a summer vacation or a trip, especially when traveling to a country you haven't been to yet, is always a challenge, but in order not to return from the trip disappointed and with the feeling that you have thrown money into the wind, try to avoid the most common "travel" mistakes.

A busy travel schedule

Instead of "cramming" everything you want to visit in the few days you will spend on the road – from cultural monuments and historical sites to natural beauty and attractions, be flexible. Don't be afraid to change plans due to lack of time or money. Be aware of the time it takes to get from point "A" to point "B", taking into account not only the distance, but also the means of travel, additional time for possible delays as well as additional time for rest. Give up the idea of seeing the entire country in one visit. If you plan to do so, you will feel unfulfilled because you will not have time to enjoy the trip.

Too much luggage

A busy schedule, a cluttered suitcase. Instead of carrying extra pounds of luggage, pack only clothes that you are sure you will wear, not that you may wear. Instead of three pairs of shoes, bring one or two pairs of comfortable ones, because you will spend most of your time on the move and the last thing you need is blisters on your feet. Leave valuables, jewelry and luxury goods at home, a good camera will be enough to record the most beautiful moments on the road. If you are traveling by plane, be sure to check the restrictions for hand luggage and checked baggage with the airline before packing. Which items you are not allowed to enter, read here.

Blindly following the instructions and advice from the tourist guide

Traveling is an adventure, not preparation for an exam. Therefore, let the tour guide inform you about your trip, but define it yourself. Explore and discover the peculiarities of the country you came to, talk to the locals and feel the spirit of the country. Get to know the local customs and visit places that are not in the tourist guide.

Respect for local customs and culture

Always be well informed about the customs and culture of the country you are traveling to before traveling, instead of being surprised and disapproved on the "spot" that in India, for example, drivers do not use mirrors and turn signals when changing lanes, but simply honk. In South Africa, you should not refuse the food offered, otherwise the hosts will be offended and take it as a sign of disrespect. Lunch and dinner in Italy are important social events, and it is customary to stay at the table long after the meal is over. The situation is similar in Greece. Be sure to inquire about local customs and ways of communication before your trip so as not to inadvertently offend the hosts.

Checking documentation and reservations

Before you book your trip, check the validity of passports, other documentation, and all reservations, from hotels, flights, trains, buses, etc. Always confirm the time and location and make sure they are scheduled correctly. Also make sure your name is spelled correctly in the bookings.

Contracting travel insurance

Before you decide that you don't need travel insurance and that you will save money there, think about all the unwanted situations that may happen to you. Ten thousand suitcases are lost every day in Europe! That is why it is definitely recommended to insure luggage, especially if you are flying by plane. It is also good to have travel health insurance because the European Health Insurance Card does not cover all medical services (for example, the costs of transporting an injured patient to their home country, rescue costs, treatment in private institutions), but only covers the costs of urgent health care and only in public institutions. Also, the costs of treatment outside Europe can be dizzyingly high, so be sure to arrange travel healthcare. As part of travel insurance, accident insurance and travel cancellation insurance can also be arranged.

Continue reading: Prepare your home for your vacation (uniqa.bg)