December 08, 2015

(Tips) Travel: Sharing Some Tips


Through this travel blog, I learned and experienced so many different things.

We unexpectedly went around the world in 80 days as well. I didn't make the connection till I started and ended my day count for our trip. We flew eastward from Toronto over the Arctic Circle in order to get to Hong Kong. Then, we continued to fly east from Hong Kong/Japan/Cambodia, Australia, New Zealand and then Vancouver. Now... Toronto, our final stop.

I've learned so much, here's some that I'll share:

  • Download offline maps! If you don't have any internet, make sure you download sections of your Google Maps, it'll be helpful to view places you have marked/starred and it can help with strangers when you don't understand the language!
  • Don't have much time in a city/town? Do they have an attraction with a tower? It may be a nice glimpse of the surrounding from a high point like the Tokyo Tower. 
  • When doing a layover, make sure you research about your connecting airport's layout to minimize time and get to your gate in time!
  • How to endure a long flight? Bring a neck pillow, a deck of cards, portable consoles, external battery for your electronics and if possible, an awesome travel buddy!
  • Hydrate! I personally don't drink enough water, so Cambodia posed an issue, luckily we had an awesome driver who kept an ice box of cold water for us! So reminder, water bottles! 
  • If you're not sure about a food product, make sure it can be peeled, boiled or toss it! 
  • If you're trying to cook on limited supplies, the best spice to get is Italian Seasoning as it contains a mixed amount. 
  • Which side of the bus should I ride? Check your map and see what landmarks you will pass and sit on the side that you will see it! We sat on the correct side for several seaside sceneries during our NZ bus rides.
  • Where should I eat? Check out what's recommended by locals (if you're staying at an Airbnb) or Foursquare!

I know definitely my perspective on life and people have changed for the better. Especially the culture shock from Tokyo to Siem Reap was the biggest thing for me. And I will never forget it. The way people are living their lives day-to-day and they're still smiling. The generosity of all those that I've met on our trip via Airbnb and lodges/hostels were awesome. 

Take everything with a grain of salt, there's no need to be worrying about the details. 
What's going to be happening with this blog? I think I may end up using it to continue my weekly endeavours. There's always tons to see in your local area, we just need to be willing to browse or look at it from a different perspective!