The beauty of the online world is that all things are convenient and right at your fingertips. You no longer have to go shopping for groceries because they can be delivered right to your doorsteps by simply putting in an online order, apparel can be delivered to your preferred mailing address within 24 hours, and my favourite, you can plan an entire vacation in a single day on the couch with your laptop or just a smartphone. Here is our guide for a successful vacation planning.
1. Choose Your Destination
Whenever I want to find a place worth visiting, I look for popular travel blogs. People who travel all around the world put together blogs to share their experiences, like what to do and what not to do in a particular location, or what to expect when you go some place, stuff like that. The more information you gather, the better. You don’t need unpleasant surprises along the way. Especially when there is so much information going around. The secret to finding a perfect location is to go through as much info as you can. That way you cannot fail.
2. Flight, Accommodations & Tours Reservations
For a carefree vacation, you should book everything from plane tickets to accommodation and tours. If you want to go scuba diving, for example, book your session ahead of time. Not only that you will get a great deal, but you’ll know for sure that you will be able to do everything on your list. Plane tickets are a lot cheaper if you buy them a few months ahead, and hotels have fantastic deals for early bookers. You have only to gain from using booking sites. Some platforms even provide booking for everything, so you don’t have to use differents sites for every little thing.
3. Check Your Required Documentation
Most of the countries require a visa upon entry. Especially if you are travelling from the US. Only Europeans can travel with their ID inside the continent. However, some states put together a system that can release visas online. In countries like India, for example, you have access with an e-visa. But it only applies if you travel by plane and land on one of the 16 listed airports, or by sea and arrive at one of the three listed seaports. I find it very convenient. You don’t have to go to a consulate and stand in line probably for hours. Just fill in an application, and the visa will arrive in your inbox.
When it comes to your passport, the same principle applies. You can find passport photos online at a very low price. Put in your information, a credit/debit card, and stand in front of your webcam. It’s cheaper than a drugstore, and you can have as many takes as you want until you have that perfect photo.
4. Do Your Research
I suppose you heard the saying ‘When in Rome, do as Romans do.’ It is a legitimate concern. Not all of your habits are considered okay in some countries. Do your homework, learn about the culture and the people, and your experience will be as pleasant as possible. Also, try to learn a few basic words in the language of the country you want to visit. You don’t know when it will come in handy. The point is to gather as much information as you can in order to avoid awkward situations. Happy planning!
