Important tip from the Canada Travel Guide – Learn about the destination that you plan to visit
Find out as much as you can about the country, city or area that you plan to visit. The more prepared you are, the less culture shock you will experience.
Do research on the internet, read travel books, newspapers, magazines, whatever you can and learn about the history, culture, customs and politics.
Read travel blogs, watch travel related shows on TV and above all, seek help from Google for specific details regarding any place/country. Social media sites are also helpful when it comes to interacting with people and knowing about their culture/interesting facts, etc.
It is also a good idea to learn a little about the language if possible. Just knowing a few key words like “Hello” or “Where is the washroom” in the other language can help.
According to Life Hack, here are 6 more things you should consider before traveling:
1. Currency
Exchange rates are definitely one of the things you should keep an eye on. It’s also a good idea to figure out the conversion rate before you go. One of the biggest money mistakes travelers make is exchanging their money for foreign currency before they reach their intended destination. Because of exchange rates, you actually lose some money if you buy from your bank and even more, if you exchange while at the airport. You’ll most likely get the best rate if you use the ATM when you arrive in your travel location.
Also, remember to inform your bank that you’ll be traveling so they can place a travel alert on your account. This will prevent any temporary holds/freezes on your account due to any spending they perceive to be suspicious.
2. Mode of Transportation
How are you going to get around once you’re there? Depending on the country you’re in, taxis might not be the best idea. If you need to travel longer distances, it might be best to rent a car, in which case you should look into different companies and rates. If you’re backpacking and/or traveling between different countries in Europe, you may want to go for a Railpass. Also, keep in mind that some locations (like Hawaii) might require short flights between islands and others might have water-travel, such as ferries.
4. Electronics
Unless you’re traveling in the U.S. or Puerto Rico, or going off the grid, you’ll probably need an adapter to charge your electronics. And depending on your phone coverage and/or plan, you might want to get a prepaid phone card for international calls. Otherwise, wifi might be your friend for communicating with people back home.
Before you head out, do your research on the different customs (the do’s and don’ts) of the country you’re traveling to. For instance, what percentage do they typically tip? Are there certain gestures, words, or actions that might be considered offensive that are different from the US? Are there different laws? Are there common tourist scams? Will there be any cultural events while you’re there?
6. Travel Insurance
Yes, this is a thing. Travel insurance exists for things like injury or illness while traveling, trip cancellations, baggage loss or theft, and many other things. Getting travel insurance isn’t required, but it is a good idea, so again—do your research!
Even though half the fun of travel is the unexpected, I’m a firm believer that you should always be prepared for as much as possible. If you’re having trouble planning, try to talk to a travel agent or someone you know that’s experienced in traveling. Whether you’re traveling domestically or abroad, it’s good to cover the basics, plus a little bit more. The unexpected will likely still happen, but it’ll be worth it.
Other places to find information
travel agents and travel websites can provide brochures and tourist information about the countries that you wish to visit.
CAA provides maps and travel brochures for free to members
foreign embassies or consulates can provide up-to-date information on their countries.
Consult the Canada travel guide
Country Travel Reports before your departure to find out about security and safety conditions, health questions and entry requirements for the country or countries you are going to. The Department publishes reports for over 200 destinations around the world.
libraries
bookstores-Best Travel Guides
friends and relatives that have been there can also give you great information and tips!
