My top 10 Common Mistakes Tourists Make and How to Avoid Them
1. Prioritising Saving Money Over Time
While economising is undoubtedly important, many travellers overlook the fact that their time is equally valuable and limited. It is indeed in my interest to suggest that you employ the services of a travel agent instead of spending hours researching your trip, as it saves your precious time. This time can then be better spent with friends, visiting a park, or indulging in other enjoyable activities. Sometimes, it is worth paying for museum admission rather than enduring slow queues and crowded conditions on a free day. Similarly, if a taxi costs you and your partner £5 more than two bus tickets, the twenty minutes saved can be well worth it. If ever time was money, it is when you are trying to maximise the enjoyment of your holidays.
Crowds are inevitable at major attractions such as the Eiffel Tower or the Anne Frank House, but standing in long queues is avoidable. Many popular sights offer advance tickets that guarantee timed entry. While hundreds of tourists endure long queues, those who book ahead can walk straight in at their reserved time. The small booking fee is well worth the time saved.
2. Not Booking Popular Attractions in Advance
Major attractions, such as the Alhambra, often sell out quickly. For instance, a family who did not make a reservation through me neglected to book their tickets in advance and missed out on visiting this iconic site. Only then they called me, seeking help, but even as a travel agent, I could not perform such miracles. It is essential to book tickets well in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
3. Never Leaving the Tourist Zone
Many tourists gravitate towards the most popular spots and subsequently complain about the crowds. Instead, venture beyond the main tourist areas to discover the true essence of a place. For instance, while Old Town Square in Prague may be packed, just a few streets away, you will find quieter areas with authentic local eateries. Exploring beyond the tourist zones significantly enriches your travel experience.
A fundamental goal in travelling should be to establish meaningful contact with locals. For example, in an English pub, sit at the bar where people converse, rather than at a table. In Coimbra, Portugal, visit the local university’s cafeteria to practise Portuguese with students and professors. Connecting with people enhances your travel experience and often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.
4. Ignoring Local Customs and Laws
Neglecting to research local customs and laws can lead to embarrassing or even illegal situations. It is essential to learn basic cultural norms and legal requirements of your destination to show respect and avoid trouble. For instance, during our trip to Egypt, we encountered a few, shall we say, awkward situations because one young lady in our group chose to wear skimpy attire. I fully comprehend that the heat can make dressing appropriately a challenge, but it is certainly not impossible. For example, I had brought along some linen long dresses which were perfectly suitable for the heat, demonstrating that it is entirely feasible to dress appropriately and comfortably even in scorching temperatures.
In Japan, tipping is not customary and can be considered rude. It is essential to learn basic cultural norms and legal requirements of your destination to show respect and avoid trouble.
5. Forgetting Visa and Passport Requirements
Imagine arriving at your destination only to be denied entry because your documents are not in order. This happened to a friend of mine who was turned away at the airport because her passport had less than six months' validity. The wife went ahead with the children and he had to return home, cannot even imagine what he felt! Always verify visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
6. Skipping Travel Insurance
Skipping travel insurance might seem like a cost-saving move, but it can backfire spectacularly in case of emergencies. For example, another friend of mine once had to cancel their trip due to a family emergency and lost all their booking costs because they had no insurance. Comprehensive travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, providing peace of mind.
7. Neglecting Health Precautions
Do not forget to check for necessary vaccinations and bring any required medications. For instance, failing to get a yellow fever vaccination before travelling to certain countries in Africa can result in being denied entry. Consulting with a healthcare provider before your trip can save you from health troubles while abroad.
8. Over-Scheduling Itineraries
While it is tempting to try and see everything, packing too much into your itinerary can lead to exhaustion and stress. For instance, a family I know were in a competition to visit as many countries as possible to outdo another family. During their first trip, they attempted to visit four countries in ten days and ended up too tired to enjoy any of them. Be sure to incorporate some downtime to relax and truly appreciate your surroundings.
9. Not Double-Checking Hotel Reviews
Booking a hotel without reading reviews can lead to unpleasant surprises. For instance, a traveller once booked a hotel that looked great online but was in a noisy and unsafe area. If you don’t want to use a travel agent who can advise on best places for your needs, always check multiple review platforms to ensure your accommodation meets your standards.
10. Overlooking Transportation from the Airport
Plan how you will get from the airport to your accommodation in advance. For example, arranging a transfer or knowing the public transport options can save you hassle and stress upon arrival. A mum who booked a package family holiday on a popular site was shocked to find out the hotel she was supposed to be staying in was a nine-hour journey from the airport, with no transport provided.
