While traveling, you can not only see new countries, get tanned, get acquainted with other cultures and local sights, but also expand the horizons of consciousness, enrich yourself intellectually and get out of your comfort zone. However, whether you just want to sunbathe on the beach or expand your intellectual boundaries and experience the local flair and adventure, there are some tips to help you get the most out of your trip. British Airways has shared a few life hacks with travelers to make your vacation perfect!
Do something unusual
The most vivid memories are when you get new experiences, so when you relax, try to push the boundaries of your comfort zone a little and go beyond your usual behavior. When choosing a vacation destination, think about those countries and cities that you have always wanted to visit, but constantly put it off for later - Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Cape Town (South Africa), Hong Kong, Bangkok (Thailand), Dubai (UAE)), Lima (Peru) and San Jose (USA). All of these places are sure to give you a new experience and help you get to know yourself a little better. Leave the hotel and visit the restaurant where the locals eat, wander the ethnic shops and markets, try to navigate the city with only the advice of strangers.
Stop looking for excuses
Many of us want to travel to exotic countries, learn new things, see beautiful places and even get on a real adventure to feel like Indiana Jones or Lara Croft. However, not everyone decides even on an exotic country when planning a vacation, because it is much easier to find reasons not to do something than to take it and do it. New Year is approaching, and we recommend visiting at least one place of your dreams in 2017 - make your wish come true!
Rational approach
Traveling is always very exciting, but to make your stay in another country as comfortable as possible, make sure you have everything you need. In addition to a visa and a return ticket, when choosing an exotic country, take a phrasebook with you or simply download a dictionary to your phone, this will make you feel more confident when communicating with the locals and will give you the opportunity to see the country from the inside. Also, if you dream of going to Africa or South America, take care of vaccinations and the route of your trip in advance - these are things that should not be neglected.
Moreover, if you regularly fly somewhere on vacation, use it rationally. British Airways has an Executive Club loyalty program that will allow you to accumulate bonuses that can later be spent on upgrades and tickets for new travels.
Leave work and affairs behind
It's no secret that gadgets are a huge blessing and at the same time a "heavy burden". On the one hand, they allow us to always be in touch with our loved ones, on the other hand, it is because of them that we cannot 100% let go of work, check work mail, minor everyday problems. While on vacation, try turning off all your electronic devices at least temporarily. We know how difficult it can be, but just try … For the most desperate, a more extreme option is possible - go where there is no mobile connection or Internet access. Make the most of your vacation.
Face to face with fears
Most importantly, fight your fears. Even if you don't know the local language, try chatting with the locals anyway, don't be afraid to sound stupid. Step outside the hotel and take a stroll around town, sample local food and entertainment, visit the colorful local market early in the morning, then rent a car to tour the area.
For many, fears begin with the flight itself. In order not to postpone your vacation and not to read it with stress, be sure to take something to read with you on the plane, this will help you switch and distract from your worries. Second, drink plenty of water during the flight! Dehydration on board is common, so make sure to replenish your water supply regularly. This will help avoid dizziness, a classic symptom of anxiety.
And finally, for those for whom flying is a real phobia, British Airways is launching a program to overcome the fear of flying, British Airways Flying with Confidence. Classes under the program are held in different cities around the world and are conducted by British Airways pilots and flight attendants with the participation of a clinical psychologist. During the lesson, passengers experiencing aerophobia learn facts and myths about air travel, and interact with other passengers who have similar feelings. At the end of the day, there is often a test flight, during which participants can put into practice all the advice and knowledge gained from the one-day training.