How to Avoid Sunburn when Traveling

The main reason why many people love traveling to tropical destinations is because of the sun. Linda from Southwest Appliance Repair once blogged about a sunny vacay she went on and expressed that despite the relaxing touch of the sun, it can also be hazardous, leaving you with sunburns. However, this does not mean you should avoid the sun when on an adventure in summer. There are ways you can still enjoy the sun without sustaining sunburns. The following are tips on how to avoid sunburn when traveling.

Apply Sunscreen

If you will be spending a lot of time in the sun during the trip, it is advisable to carry sunscreen. Broad spectrum sunscreen at least 30 SPF is the best. If you performing water activities, apply a water resistant sunscreen and do it again after coming out of the water. Remember to apply sunscreen on your feet, back and other parts of the body too.

Put on Sunglasses

The eyes are also quite vulnerable to the sun rays. To protect the eyes and sensitive skin around them, wear sunglasses when out in the sun. When shopping for sunglasses, choose that offer 99+ UVA and UVB rays protection. Those with 400nm UV absorptions are also great.

Cover the Skin with Hats and Clothing

Wide-brimmed hats that cover the top of your head, parts of the ears and face can also help you avoid sunburn. When planning the trip, you can also get UV protective clothing from online stores to avoid sunburns.

Get Some Shade

The sun is often at its strongest between 10am and 4pm. If you must be outdoors during these times, try to find a shady space to relax. Alternatively, you can also simply opt to go outdoors early in the morning or later in the evening.

Apart from the physical damage to the skin, sunburn can also easily ruin your moods and alter the entire experience. Putting the tips discussed above into use when visiting tropical climates can offer you the best protection against sunburn.

Backpacking through Southeast Asia is a rite of passage for many travelers. With its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and budget-friendly options, it’s no wonder why this region is a favorite among backpackers. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your adventure, offering tips on top destinations, budgeting, packing, and more.

Why Backpack Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and affordability. Whether you’re exploring the ancient temples of Cambodia, diving in the crystal-clear waters of Thailand, or trekking through the lush jungles of Vietnam, this region has something for every type of traveler.

Planning Your Trip

1. Research and Itinerary

Start by researching the countries you want to visit. Popular destinations include Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Create a rough itinerary that allows flexibility. Consider the weather, festivals, and visa requirements for each country.

2. Budgeting

Backpacking in Southeast Asia can be very affordable. On average, you can expect to spend between $20-$50 per day, depending on your travel style. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Accommodation: $5-$15 per night for hostels
• Food: $1-$5 per meal
• Transportation: $1-$10 for local travel; $20-$50 for inter-country flights
• Activities: $5-$20 per activity

3. Packing

Pack light and smart. Essential items include:

• Lightweight clothing
• Sturdy backpack
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Travel-sized toiletries
• First aid kit
• Travel insurance

Top Destinations

1. Thailand

Thailand is a backpacker’s paradise with its vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and rich culture.

• Bangkok: Explore the Grand Palace, street markets, and nightlife.
• Chiang Mai: Visit ancient temples, enjoy elephant sanctuaries, and explore nearby mountains.
• Islands: Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao offer stunning beaches and diving spots.

2. Vietnam

Vietnam offers a mix of bustling cities, historic sites, and natural beauty.

• Hanoi: Wander the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, and enjoy street food.
• Ha Long Bay: Take a cruise to see the limestone karsts and caves.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum.

3. Cambodia

Cambodia is home to ancient temples and a tragic history that’s important to explore.

• Siem Reap: Visit the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex.
• Phnom Penh: Learn about Cambodia’s history at the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

4. Laos

Laos offers a slower pace with its beautiful landscapes and relaxed vibe.

• Luang Prabang: Explore the town’s temples, waterfalls, and night markets.
• Vang Vieng: Enjoy tubing, kayaking, and the scenic countryside.

5. Indonesia

Indonesia is an archipelago with diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty.

• Bali: Enjoy beaches, temples, and vibrant nightlife.
• Yogyakarta: Visit Borobudur and Prambanan temples.
• Komodo National Park: See the famous Komodo dragons.

6. Malaysia

Malaysia offers a mix of modern cities and natural beauty.

• Kuala Lumpur: Visit the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves.
• Penang: Explore George Town’s street art and enjoy delicious food.
• Borneo: Trek through rainforests and see wildlife in Sabah and Sarawak.

7. The Philippines

The Philippines is known for its beautiful islands and friendly locals.

• Palawan: Visit El Nido and Coron for stunning beaches and lagoons.
• Cebu: Enjoy diving and whale shark watching.
• Boracay: Relax on the white sandy beaches and experience the nightlife.

Travel Tips

1. Stay Flexible: Plans change, and it’s important to stay flexible to make the most of your trip.
2. Stay Safe: Keep your belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and respect local customs.
3. Stay Connected: Get a local SIM card for internet access and use travel apps for navigation and bookings.
4. Stay Healthy: Drink bottled water, be cautious with street food, and keep a first aid kit handy.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a visa for Southeast Asia?

A: Visa requirements vary by country. Research each country’s visa policy before you travel. Some countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas for certain nationalities.

Q: What is the best time to visit Southeast Asia?

A: The best time to visit is during the dry season, typically from November to April. However, this can vary by country and region.

Q: How can I stay on budget while traveling?

A: To stay on budget, eat at local restaurants, stay in hostels, use public transportation, and take advantage of free activities.

Q: Is it safe to travel alone in Southeast Asia?

A: Southeast Asia is generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s important to stay cautious and informed about local conditions.

Conclusion

Backpacking through Southeast Asia is an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. By planning ahead and staying flexible, you can make the most of your journey through this diverse and exciting region. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, relaxing on pristine beaches, or tasting delicious street food, Southeast Asia has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Traveling to explore the top 5 iconic landmarks in Europe is an excellent idea. Europe has many historical and cultural treasures, and visiting these landmarks will give you a memorable experience. Here are five iconic landmarks to see on this continent.

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower is a recognizable landmark in the world. It is in Paris’ heart and offers breathtaking city views from observation decks. Stroll along the Champ de Mars and admire this iconic structure, especially when the lights are on at night.

1. Colosseum, Rome, Italy

The Colosseum is a magnificent ancient amphitheater that stands as a symbol of the Roman Empire’s grandeur. As you explore its vast ruins, step back in time and learn about the gladiatorial contests and spectacles that occurred centuries ago. Remember to visit the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for a complete historical experience.

1. Acropolis of Athens, Greece

Dominating the Athens skyline, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Greece’s architectural and cultural achievements. At its summit, you’ll find the iconic Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena. Explore the other ruins on the Acropolis, such as the Erechtheion and the Propylaea, and soak in Athens’s incredible history and panoramic views.

1. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, is an unfinished, awe-inspiring basilica. Its intricate and unique architectural design blends Gothic and Art Nouveau elements. Explore the interior to witness the breathtaking stained-glass windows and marvel at the stunning facades depicting biblical scenes.

1. Buckingham Palace, London, England

This site is the official British monarch’s residence. Buckingham Palace symbolizes the British monarchy. Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs outside the palace. And you can enjoy it and even explore the magnificent State Rooms during the summer when they are open to the public. Also, you can stroll through the beautiful nearby parks, such as Hyde Park and St. James’s Park.

Remember, these are just a few of Europe’s countless iconic landmarks. Plan your itinerary wisely, considering these landmarks’ geographical proximity, and immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine, and history along the way.

Road trips are amazing because traveling with others, probably family, friends, or coworkers, is pleasurable. Irrespective of who or where you are traveling, make your road trips great memories by adopting some essential travel tips.

Involve Everyone

The most important travel tip to have that exciting road trip is to involve everyone from the beginning. Like in other types of travel, you will need to plan and take the road trip. Involve everyone in every step of the process, from planning. That’s important to avoid unnecessary experiences where some of the people involved feel like you ignored their interests.

Hit the Road Early

Starting your road trip on time is essential for several reasons. Apart from being a good way of evading traffic since not so many people will be on the road, it can give you great sunset views. Traveling during heavy traffic can be hectic and a safety risk too. Moreover, starting on time gives you enough time to cover a lot in terms of distance and other things on your travel plan.

Avoid Traveling At Night

Avoid night travel as much as possible. Assuming that you started early enough, you would not need to continue traveling when it gets dark because of safety issues. To begin, traveling at night is risky because of poor vision. Additionally, you are all likely to be exhausted from traveling the whole day, reducing your ability to drive safely.

Carry Some Cash

While people use credit cards widely in big cities and towns, you may need to use cash in other places that you visit. For example, you may need to refill gas at a local gas station that only accepts cash payments. Carrying cash can save you a lot of trouble on your road trips.

Conclusion

These essential travel tips will help you a lot on your road trips. Implement them in your next road trip to enhance your enjoyment.

The high costs of traveling can discourage you from making that dream vacation. You wonder how you can cater to all the expenses and still manage your basic needs after the trip. Worry no more because, with these travel hacks, traveling doesn’t have to be a financial headache anymore.

Travel During Off-Peak

Most people travel during peak periods, such as on holidays. Traveling in the peak period comes at an additional cost because everything is more expensive. Hotels and airlines will charge more during the peak periods because of the high demand. You can, however, travel during off-peak seasons and enjoy more favorable prices. You will still enjoy your trip but at a lower cost.

Earning When Traveling

You can earn some money when traveling. How about doing some freelance work on freelancing sites like Upwork and making some dollars while traveling? You can use the additional funds to offset your travel expenses. You can also decide to sell your knowledge or skills to locals, such as teaching children German or singing in the local bar. The idea is to ensure that traveling is not just a money-burning experience.

Free Wi-Fi

Have you ever paid for Wi-Fi when traveling before? You didn’t have to. There are many free Wi-Fi hotspots for travelers today. You will likely find free Wi-Fi everywhere, whether at the airport, on the bus, in your hotel, or at the local restaurants and bars. So, instead of buying data or paying for it, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi hotspots to access your social media networks or do your freelance work.

The Bottom Line

Traveling doesn’t always have to burn a hole in your pocket. By trying these travel hacks, you can save funds and use them to extend your trip. 

Coronavirus has negatively affected many economies worldwide and disrupted life in unimaginable ways in just a few years. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the travel sector the hardest, with the uncertainty running high as the medical experts are working hard to understand the new variants and manage them. Below, find how different vacations look these days and how some changes may persist in the future.

Workstations are On the Rise

Many people opted to work remotely during the pandemic. And this model has led to more workcations. Where possible, people now work from the beach. 

Health Protocols will Stick Around.

Proof vaccination will stick around in the foreseeable future, so you better get accustomed to it to make your travels easier.

Road Trips Will Kick in High Gear

For many, road trips are the only safe travel option right now. Driving across states can be exciting as flying across International borders. Road tripping can quench your curiosity and expose you to newness in your travel.

Travel Advisors have become Essential.

Travel advisors will come in handy to provide valuable knowledge and industry connections. The financial protection of booking through a travel advisor will outweigh the extra amount you pay. Additionally, you would feel confident dealing with someone specializing in the field.

Ethical Tourism is More Important than Ever

Many people want to help local economies, so they choose not to stay in multinational, large, and corporate hotels. Travelers in 2022 are choosing to stay in local hotels and eat at new local restaurants. People are looking to stay in eco-friendly vacation spots.

Takeaways

One silver lining of the pandemic is that the travel industry has responded positively with active measures to prioritize health over profit margins. Thus, the future looks bright for the sector. 

The idea of traveling to a distant place brings excitement, energy, thrill, and happiness to most people. Traveling abroad provides a way to enjoy quality time away from home. It’s an escape from daily life pressures. For some people, traveling is a great way to improve yourself. That’s because even planning a trip brings a sense of happiness, relief, enthusiasm, and joy. And all these experiences can relieve stress. Here’s why traveling is a good stress reliever.

Taking a Lifetime Adventure

Going on an unexpected trip to undiscovered and uncharted places is always fun and exciting. If you wish to go on an adventure, leave your comfort zone and explore the world. Travel to a place you’ve not been to before, enjoying breathtaking sights, exploring ancient sites and historical museums, or climbing a mountain. Even feeling the breeze while relaxing on the beach can give you a lifetime adventure. While at it, go with the flow without thinking about life back at home. That way, you will enjoy the stress-relieving ability of travel.

Know Your Life’s Purpose

When traveling, you meet people from all walks of life. You interact with people living in different cultural, religious, and socioeconomic settings. And this can come with many realizations regarding your life. What’s more, you will learn and understand more about yourself.

When you see how different people live and what they endure every day, you will feel a sense of warmth and compassion inside you. And this can motivate you to question life’s meaning, purpose, and even your existence. What’s more, your knowledge can relieve the stress that may have buildup inside you over time.

Learn New Things

Maybe you’re stressed because you don’t know how to do certain things in life. You could be wondering what you can do to achieve your goals in life. Well, traveling allows you to meet and interact with people that may teach you something new. Your interactions with them can change or improve your understanding of the world, perspectives, thought patterns, values, attitudes, and behaviors.

If you feel stressed, travel to a place you’ve not been to before. That way, you will experience the stress-relieving ability of travel.

Once you decide to go on a trip alone, you embark on a mission of leaving your comfort zone and pushing boundaries. And, whether you opt to go on a holiday or backpacking, the decision is not easy to make. Nevertheless, you stand to enjoy many benefits from solo travel. Here are some of them. 

Solo Travel Unleashes the Inner Superhero 

Solo travel pushes you to get out of your comfort zone. This is a major benefit because traveling alone is among the greatest things that some people can do in life. Comfort zone is a term that implies routine, familiarity, stability, and safety. This is a bubble that includes almost everything that a person loves and knows. As such, the chances of failure are low in the comfort zone. That’s why most people don’t want to leave it.

Traveling alone provides an opportunity to leave this comfort zone and unleash the inner superhero. You realize what you can do by dealing with the challenges that come your way alone. Solo travel pushes you beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone. That way, you know what you’re made of. 

Solo Travel Can Improve Your Personality 

Solo travel can have positive effects on your personality. Extended travel periods can boost your personality significantly. People who travel more often are more open, more outgoing, more conscientious, and more stable emotionally. Traveling alone compels you to speak to other people. What’s more, you face unexpected and unforgettable experiences that can boost your personality. 

Solo Travel Can Change Your Life 

Solo travel can make you start seeing the world differently. From exploring different places to volunteering experiences, you start seeing people and the world differently. Some people start understanding the value of food, money, family, and homes differently after traveling. Thus, some people start complaining less after traveling. 

If you’ve never traveled alone, start today to enjoy these benefits of solo travel. 

Generally, there is nothing wrong about allowing your child to travel alone. Most airlines allow minors to travel unaccompanied. However, there are certain precautions that you must take when planning to send your child on a flight unaccompanied. The following are important tips for minor travelers that you should observe. 

Know the Age Guidelines for Unaccompanied Minors  

Do not just assume that all minors can travel alone. Airlines consider children between 5 and 14 years old to be minors who can travel alone. If your kid is within that age bracket, they must be booked into the ‘’unaccompanied minors’’ service to travel alone. However, it is optional for minors aged 15 to 17 years old. 

Minors aged 5 to 7 years old can fly to single destinations alone but, not connecting flights. Those aged 8 years old and above can change flights but, with the help of flight attendants. 

Any minor under the age of 17 years old who is flying abroad unaccompanied may be asked to provide a signed letter of consent from a parent or guardian. 

Inform the Airline in Advance 

Do not wait until the time of boarding to tell the airline that you have a minor traveling unaccompanied. Instead, call them well ahead of time to know your options, related charges, and any other requirements. 

Consider Buying Non-stop Tickets 

Even if your child is old enough to hop onto connecting flights, you should buy non-stop tickets to avoid any confusion. It will also ensure a quick journey. 

Familiarize the Minor with the Itinerary 

You should also make sure that the minor knows the itinerary including the routes and things to do at each step of the way. That will enable them to keep to the plan, thereby avoiding any deviations.

Traveling as a minor might seem like a scary experience at first but, it is always a great way for the younger ones to explore the world and test their instincts. Instead of wondering about their safety, prepare a good travel plan and let them go experience the unique charms of new environments. 

Traveling has been lauded as one of the best ways to improve our personality. It broadens our perspectives, exposes us to new experiences and refreshes our minds from the daily routines. Read on to find out more.

Neuroticism

This refers to emotional instability. In life, we must cope with changes- whether subtle or intense regularly. Individuals who travel often are used to random changes and unfamiliar situations. Therefore, such people are adept at adjusting to these dilemmas, compared to those who don’t travel. Traveling thus helps to solve issues of neuroticism.

It Makes You More Agreeable

In addition to adding a fresher perspective to how you perceive things, traveling improves your confidence and social skills. This happens when you interact with new people from different backgrounds in terms of culture and language. It also opens your eyes to the dramatic differences between the people you meet and your own culture. These experiences help you to become more compassionate, agreeable and friendly as time goes on.

Conscientiousness 

This helps you to follow rules, complete tasks and remain cautious throughout. While traveling, conscientiousness is an attribute that you must possess to avoid bad travel experience. It helps you to avoid being driven crazy by loose travel plans or overexerting yourself due to overloaded to-do plans.

Makes You Open to Experiences

While traveling, it’s impossible to avoid meeting new people. These people bring with them new experiences as your interaction continues. As you get immersed in these new encounters, your personality develops openness trait.

You Look at Things from a Different Perspective 

When you travel, you meet and interact with new people. This opens your mind to see the world from a different perspective. You learn that different people have different ways of doing things. And, this broadens your perspective. 

Travelling, therefore, is a great tool for re-shaping your personality by exposing you to new challenges and experiences.

If you plan to travel with your dog on a plane, the process can be costly and tasking. This article will help you to gauge the options available.

Pets in the Cabin

You can take your dog on the plane, under the seat in front of you. In some major airlines like Southwest and JetBlue, this is your only option as they don’t allow pets in the cargo hold at all. Some airlines have restrictions for first and business class seats on certain types of planes. You need to schedule your pets to travel with the airline 14 days in advance. This is because there are only a particular number of pets allowed per plane. The cost on most airlines varies between a hundred dollars to two hundred dollars to carry your dog in a plane. 

The main problem with this arrangement is that the dog may not be small enough to fit under the seat.

Service Animals

In some instances, service animals help blind people to move easily. These animals walk the blind to their seats conveniently by avoiding them bumping into other passengers. Service animals are always welcome in planes as they perform an important task on the plane.

Emotional Support Animals

Since the cost of taking a dog on the plane is high, some people register their pets as emotional support animals to avoid charges. This has been made easy by the emergence of online companies that sell you an ESA letter easily. Normally, you need a letter from a mental health professional indicating that the animal performs a necessary function for its owner.

Species Restriction for In-Cabin Animals

Since January 2018, United have been restricting Emotional Support Animals to dogs above four months of age. This restriction now applies to United, Delta, Alaska, and Spirit. These airlines will also require three forms. These are the vet certificate, a letter from a mental health professional, and a liability waiver from the pet’s owner, and a 48 hours’ notice before the presentation of the ESA letter.

Dog in the Cargo Hold

 Some planes have pressurized cargo holds that ensures the survival of pets. This requires early booking, as there are limited spaces. Different airlines will charge differently.

It is important to read through the above options to avoid bad outcomes that may spoil your travel experience.