Travel hacks Part 1

 Assalamualaikum all

T. R. A.V. E. L

It’s becoming a trend now. Some went on their own, they termed it DIY (do-it-yourself), while others went  in tour groups that is handled by tour agents. Some others arrange for their own flight and accommodation, and engage with the ground tour agent for entourage. All are feasible, all are with the pros and cons.

1. D-I-Y

This requires months of planning, passion and be meticulous. Having a partner to discuss the itinerary will be the best. You can share your findings, discuss the best possible route, plan for transportation and where to stay. Having two heads is always better than one.

First, you need to decide on the travel destination. 

Next is to identify and locate the interesting places to go. You can get this from the many blogs, websites, instas post or now perhaps from TikToks (but I find sometimes TikToks are overly exaggerated). You have to have a map for this. Pin it on the map to have a better perspective on the geographical distances. To check the feasibility of the traveling time and means of transportation.

Then, select places that you want to go to. How to get there? The transportation? Or if you are driving, identify the possible routes that you can take. If you are taking the public transport, find out the route, the schedule and if possible, the fees too. Find out how long does it take for you to move around from one place to another. Determine whether you need to check-out and move to another place to stay. You need to perform all this for an organized trip. You can ignore all this, if it is a free-and-easy trip.

Next, finding places to stay. You can choose to stay in a hotel, motel, air bnb or homestays. It depends on your budget and convenience. Some factors to consider are price that is worth the value (of course), near to the eating places or utilities. Read and search for safety in the neighborhood as well.

Once done, you are ready to go now.

Pros: You managed your own schedule and time. Flexibility is all yours. Need not wait for others, or delayed by others.

Cons: You are on your own. Sometimes it may incur some mental stress, for example due to navigating, deciding what to eat or where to stop. And pray to Allah that the trip is a smooth sailing, no hiccups that requires involvement from the authority.

To be continued .....