Most Common Travel Myths You Should Never Listen to Again
The internet can be overwhelming. Nowadays, there is SO much information available. While this is great in most cases, it can also confuse us as to what is accurate, persuade us in the wrong direction, or give us unnecessary information. Have you ever thought of a hobby you wanted to start, and then after looking it up online it told you to buy 1,000 different items in order to get started? Let me guess, the minute you read that you completely changed your mind and moved on to the next idea until you found something simpler. We get an idea, look it up, and then believe the first thing we read.
This happens way too often with travel. There is so much mixed information out there, and sometimes it is so overwhelming that people just decide not to take the trip because it just seems too complicated. If this is you, don’t worry. Lucky you, we are your new best friend ready to set the facts straight, as well as guide you to finally take the trip you’ve always dreamt of.
Ready to debunk some of the most common travel myths so that we can move on with our lives and stop believing fake information? Me too.
Traveling is expensive
This may not be the most creative travel myth but it is so important that you know IT IS NOT EXPENSIVE. Of course, if you want to sleep in 5 star hotels, fly first class, and dine in michelin star restaurants, yes it is expensive. I have nothing wrong with this kind of travel. It sounds so luxurious right? But my point is, this type of travel is so unnecessary to be able to enjoy yourself and see a new country. Depending on the location, your lifestyle, and currency, the price can range so much. I’ve traveled so many places in my lifetime, and let me tell you, my top priority is not luxury. What I want is a clean and comfy room, in the heart of the action, with a good cup of coffee in the included breakfast. You might be thinking, but even that is expensive! My answer? Nope. So what’s my secret? How do you travel comfortably while cutting costs? It’s quite simple actually. Flexibility is key. Having flexible dates allows you to choose cheaper fights, with better routes. This is the first step- finding a good price on the flight. When it comes to the hotel, I always prefer to spend a little more here, without needing a 5 star room. Like I said, I want cleanliness, a comfy bed, and good coffee. I want to be able to walk to the main parts of the city easily. Many people think that staying in a hotel out of the center is cheaper, but the amount you end up spending on taxis, trains, and ordering room service because there is nothing around may end up coming to more. This is when you really have to set your priorities straight and decide what you need in a hotel, and what you can live without. And then the last point- food and spending money. Again, going back to your lifestyle. If you prefer fine dining, that’s amazing! You should definitely do that if you can afford it. On a budget? Take it as an opportunity to eat some of the local street food and check out the products in the supermarkets. Some of the BEST food I have had traveling was from little stands serving up hot, homemade local dishes. Grab a slice of pizza or panini and head to the plaza steps or bench to enjoy your lunch. Then, splurge a little more to go to a restaurant for dinner. It’s all about balance!
Keep in mind that prices vary depending on your destination- many destinations are quite cheap to visit as a traveler, while others may be the opposite. Depending on the place, you may be able to live like a king in one place, and be counting your pennies in another.
Traveling solo is dangerous
Before I say anything, this point 100% depends on the destination and should this by no means mean you’ll be completely safe anywhere. However, it is also true that there are safe ways to travel solo! Thinking it is dangerous should not stop you. If you have concerns, there are so many resources and strategies out there to stay safe while traveling! Some destinations are probably much safer to travel alone than many US cities. What I’m trying to say is that it doesn't have to be dangerous. So what can you do to stay safe and still travel alone?
Being aware while traveling solo is key. Watch your surroundings and be aware if there is anything suspicious around you. Traveling solo can be the most rewarding experience learning to navigate a new place on your own, but keep an eye out too.
Share your location! Make sure someone back home always knows where you are. Share as much info with them as you feel necessary.
Remember the address of your hotel! If you ever feel unsafe, grab a taxi and head back for the night.
Be careful with your phone and money out in public.
Craving a solo trip, but not sure where to start? Let us plan a trip for you! We will go over all of your concerns and choose a destination where you can feel the most relaxed while enjoying your time alone in a new place. Fill out your questionnaire here!
Summer is the best time to travel
Many people have this idea of summer as the best time to visit some of the most popular bucket list destinations. Why? Because the idea of warm weather and sun makes any place appealing. Have you ever seen a pic of the Amalfi coast in the high season? It’s nothing like those Pinterest pics you've been looking at for months. What you’ll end up experiencing is high prices and heavy crowds. Why not visit some of these places during the off season? Imagine being in the Amalfi Coast when it isn’t full of tourists, in your nice hotel in a stunning location (because it was half price), and all of the tourist prices in restaurants gone. You can actually strike up a conversation with the locals and hear more about the history of the place you’re visiting. I’m all for summer travel, but it isn’t always the best time to visit certain places and walk away with a true picture of what the city has to offer.
English is spoken everywhere
Yes, while English is considered a universal language, it also doesn’t mean that everyone speaks it. Many people are so excited to speak with you and practice their English communication skills. However, many smaller cities and less touristy destinations may not speak any English at all. So what do you do if you don’t speak their language? First, try to learn a few words- at least hello, goodbye, thank you, where is the____, This will help you immensely, and people will appreciate your effort when visiting their country. Still running into issues? Use google translate, and dictionaries. Not sure what the menu says? Look it up! Never expect people to speak English as if it is a requirement. Try to learn a bit of their language too!
Organized travel is more expensive
I don’t really like to associate as a “travel agency” as I consider myself a travel lover, who connects people while planning awesome trips people will remember forever. Unlike many travel agencies, this is my passion, not my job. Every single trip I plan comes from my heart, carefully researched and catered to your requests. To set the record straight, nothing about World Mystery Trips can be associated with a typical travel agency. Think of us more as a friend.
With that said, organized travel does not have to be expensive. My biggest goal for our trippers is to keep the costs low and find the best deals. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget travel, I will find the perfect trip for you. Many of our past trippers have told us that traveling with World Mystery Trips ends up being cheaper than planning everything themselves. This may come as a surprise to you as usually having someone else plan everything is more expensive, as you are receiving a service too. My promise to you is to always find the best deal, taking into account all of the circumstances of the trip, destination, and currencies. You set the budget, I’ll book the trip. Deal?
Ready to join one of our trips? Sit back and let me take care of all of the details. Sign-up here!