Below are a few common travel problems along with solutions that are of utmost use for people traveling abroad.

While you will find shopping streets, public squares throbbing with activity, and eateries welcoming guests till late into the night in different parts of the world. Quite the opposite is true for other countries though, where shutters are down by dusk and you’ll barely find a sole on the streets. This is true for cities in Italy, Switzerland and Netherlands. If you are postponing buying essential stuff for later in the evening, don’t do that as stores close as early as 6. Though early to bed and early to rise is an ideal thing to follow, the sight of empty streets and closed shops are a huge disappointment for tourists!  So, if you are traveling to Europe, surely pay heed to this fact.

As we all know, everything has its plus and minus. Ever wondered why some of the cities in this continent have the privilege of being labelled as the happiest in the world? Prioritizing family life, self care, having fixed work hours so as to  spend ample quality time with family and friends is the way of life.

Less Luggage make happier travelers

We’ve always been advised to travel with minimum luggage, and its benefits are immense. The importance of traveling light is realised in countries where you have to do most tasks on your own!  In cities where there are no porter services available at stations or hotels, having less baggage is highly recommended. Moreover, if you are commuting by train, there is limited space for keeping luggage. Secondly, the halt time of trains for boarding at platforms is like the `blink of an eye’. At airports too sometimes you may not get a trolley easily or have to pay for it. Therefore, being aware saves passengers a lot of trouble.

Food during Travel

For most of us, food is an important component of our overall travel experience, and trying out local cuisine and flavors is exciting . But, if you are particular about food and have finicky eaters with you, finding a restaurant of your choice in a foreign land may not be very easy. Furthermore, if you are able to locate one, premium joints require reservations. To overcome this problem to some extent, it is beneficial to carry your favorite ready-to-eat meal or snacks. Even if it doesn’t last for your entire trip, it would still be handy.

Mismatch in timings

Often you may face a situation where there is a gap between your time of arrival at a destination and hotel check-in time. This is bound to leave you flustered after a long and exhausting journey, something that you least expected. To avoid this uncomfortable scenario, prior to doing your hotel reservations don’t forget to enquire details like check-in and check-out time. Alternatively, if you do not have a choice you can always plan for some activity to occupy yourselves, provided you are prepared in advance.

Finally, last on my list of common travel problems and their solutions is to have extra items that are essentials, like, spectacles or lenses. During packing, we may be inclined to carry the least amount of items, thinking these might not be needed. Nonetheless, having spare things comes to our rescue when we lose them.

So, be mindful of these while traveling to your favourite place. A certain degree of caution and awareness would guarantee a great vacation !

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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As the discussion with friends over a cup of coffee, veered from planning a trip together, to tips for packing our bags. One issue that most of us had faced and were looking for solutions was how to carry our moisturizers, creams and toiletries. It’s true that skin care products, are an important part of our daily regime and are absolutely essential to have when we are traveling. Being exposed to different weather conditions, pollution and so on, it is even more vital to keep our skin protected and hydrated on the go. As such, we cannot afford to miss them. But these may not be one of the easiest items to bring with you,  as you need to find them in a usable condition on reaching your destination. 

This blog is a guide to help travelers do exactly that –  carry the best skin care products with them, without it becoming messy or spoiling other items in your luggage. Here’s a list  of the best 7 travel size beauty products that are available in different sizes. Purchase small, compact ones , that are convenient to carry and don’t occupy much space . As per my experience, most of the products mentioned, last up to a month. So you don’t have to be worried about searching in super-markets in between your trip, in case you’re going for a longer holiday.  

Here are my top picks of 7 Travel Size Beauty Products for your skin care needs : (Affliate links have been provided for purchasing)

Neutrogena Hydro boost water gel –  this light gel cream is perfect for oily skin and sold in an attractive jar of  14 gm. The soothing powder blue colored moisturizer blends well into your skin, making it dewy and free from excessive shine.  

Revitalift Crystal Toner – a refreshing toner that comes in an unbreakable, transparent bottle and is a must-have in every women’s bag. A sure shot remedy to boost tired skin! Good customer feedback makes loreal quite a popular brand. It’s cosmetics and creams too are highly recommended .

 Bobbi Brown face base – this vitamin enriched face cream is great for dry skin , leaving it supple and moisturized. This has a cute packaging in a tiny glass pot. 

Face Guard –  a wonderful sunscreen with spf 30+ /50+  gives a smooth matte finish and is great for sun protection throughout the day.  It’s packaging in a slim tube  is quite different to what we usually get.

Maybelline lip balm – for a fancier experience, this color changing lip balm, moisturizes, plus has a sweet fragrance that’s so appealing. 

Estee Lauder – consider buying this twin combination of cleanser and moisturizer from Estee Lauder : the Estee Lauder Day wear sorbet crème (15 ml) and the Perfectly Clean Foam Cleanser (30 ml) . Not only is it a luxury brand, the quality and sleek packaging makes it worth having.  

Lastly, the travel friendly nivea roll on sun protection lotion is the best choice for your spf needs. It’s non messy application is what makes it superior to other products. 

I’ve tried to include a range of travel friendly products (7 Travel Size Beauty Products) to make things easier while traveling.

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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Though quick travel programs decided at a short notice are exciting, occasionally. We cannot take chances for every trip, being prepared in advance assures an untroubled holiday. It makes life much easier if you gather information and plan things out before traveling.   

This blog is about points to be taken care of before a trip to hillside getaways, like, Munnar, Kodaikanal or Ooty, things to be carried and mistakes not to make. 

How to manage meals while on the go? 

Tourists may not find the choicest of restaurants or popular fast-food joints in these places. As such it is highly recommended to have meals in the hotel where you are staying. Packinging some of your favourite eatables could be an option, if you are very particular about food. Another way to handle that is to eat a proper, hearty breakfast before venturing out for the days sightseeing. As you never know which location you would be in during lunch time and what food you’ll find there. Even if you pick up munchies and snacks when hunger pangs hit, it would see you through till dinner time. 

One mistake to avoid is  not to stuff yourselves with food immediately before commencing the journey upwards into the mountains or when descending. Have a light meal and wait for a short while if possible. 

Which are the spots to skip visiting? 

If you’re planning to visit any tourist sites on the outskirts, situated at a distance from the main town, it’s better to find out whether it is worth going all the way and also condition of the roads. From my own experience of going to a waterfall in Munnar, named Ripple. After traversing half the distance, found ourselves in the middle of nowhere! The roads were inaccessible, and we were informed by another traveler also returning, that there was hardly any water in the falls, and it wasn’t worth seeing. Moreover, only jeeps could  go on that narrow, rocky path, so it was best that we ditched the idea and went back . The moral is to do your homework well, gather information to avoid disappointments!   

As these mountains are not at a very high altitude, (up to 3000 meters above sea level maximum), the weather is not extremely cold or snowy. 

What are the list of Things to Carry While Traveling to Hill Stations ?

•  Light jackets, preferably water proof ones. The rains are quite unpredictable and frequent in these places, therefore having umbrellas is a must.  
• The uneven terrain and slippery walkways require wearing sturdy walking shoes with non-slippery soles. Don’t forget to keep an extra pair. 
• Medicines, especially for motion sickness. Extra throwaway bags must be handy inside the car for immediate use.  

What else visitors should know? 

People coming from outside Kerala by a hired taxi, have to take a permit from the regional transport office to be allowed entry into Munnar. Coimbatore is the place where you can get it, and this process may take up to half an hour. So, make sure that you take this route and not any other route. Sometimes there maybe delays also, so keep that in mind. Further ahead, checking is mandatory at the Annamalai forest reserve check post for security reasons. Travelers just need to be careful and answer the questions asked.  

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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Beach Vacation Packing List for Family

How to get there :

Where to Stay :

Things to Pack

Sunscreen lotion – unmistakably, a good sunscreen lotion with spf of 50 should be the most essential item in your bag. As per my own experience you tend to get sunburnt very quickly on this coast . So slather on generous amount of the cream before hitting the sands. And to deal with humidity that’s a characteristic weather condition, buy a mattifying one.

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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The key factor involved  in choosing what to wear while traveling is comfort; and as most of us have experienced, trousers, track pants or leggings are the most convenient outfit. So, though comfort and convenience reign supreme when buying travel garments, the third element `style’ cannot be altogether brushed aside. Infact, trousers are a piece of clothing in our wardrobe which we need every single day. That apart, be it air travel , train travel or road trips, weekend getaways or casual wear, pants rule the roost. Here are the top picks of  travel trousers for women, links for buying have been provided :

Van Heusen Athleisure Stretch Lounge Pants With Pockets 

The most likeable quality about these lounge pants is that they are made of cotton with a very small percentage of other material. This makes it breathable and at the same time stretchable, therefore easy to move around in. Though available in different colors, nevertheless navy blue looks the smartest. Apart from that it’s smart, regular fitting and functional pockets makes it ideal for long journeys. 

Marks & Spencer Women’s Slim Pants 

The fitting and looks of these trousers are very stylish and stand out. These are versatile and have the bonus of having a nice fitting. The fabric is easy to maintain. Even if you drop something on it , the stain can be easily removed immediately and doesn’t get absorbed. It’s ideal for longer trips, where you can repeat wearing them. Keep aside these attractive slim pants for traveling.  

Garmin Forerunner GPS Running Smartwatch with Music and Advanced Dynamics

Reebok Women’s Slim Pants 

 A favorite of many, and as the majority of us are aware Reebok is largely into sports wear.  These track pants are great for travel purpose or casual wear too as I’ve discovered. The best part of this product is that it is crease free, low maintenance and of a superior quality. 

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 Amazon Brand – Symbol Women’s Relaxed Pants 

These are perfect for a road trip, adventure or weekend getaway. And there are varied colors to select from. You can wear them to the  gym,  or yoga /jogging/cycling etc, and are not limited to travel wear only. Lightweight hence solve the problem of fitting into your bag without occupying much space. 

 Skechers Womens Go Walk GoFlex 4 Pocket Boot Cut Pant 

Sketchers has forever been a high-end, luxury brand and it’s products too outshine any other. They provide a dual purpose of being very stylish (boot cut and high wasted) soft and snug. Go ahead and buy them, without batting an eyelid, they are worth it! 

Jockey Women’s Cotton Lounge Pants 

You can relax in these lounge pants, their composition is cotton making them bestsellers. Comfort, value for money plus a range of colors are the highlights. Suitable for lounging in your hotel room or going around places for sightseeing. 

Some trouser brands enlisted here have this unique feature of never wearing out, they are everlasting until you get bored of them and decide to do away with it. 

Amazon Brand – Myx Women’s Tapered Fit Slim Pants 

These type of products you discover on Amazon while randomly browsing and they turn out to be superb finds. In almost all hues of the rainbow – from beige to fuchsias, mint to mustard, raising the fashion levels without compromising on comfort. 

Ideal for you fitness needs : Reach Air Bike Exercise Cycle With Moving Handles & Adjustable Cushioned Seat at Discounted rates

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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In our contemporary life, the frequency of traveling has increased manifold. Regardless of whatever reason we travel for – holiday, business or leisure, it is important to travel in style. We usually stay in the best hotels and travel to exotic destinations, so why not have the most stylish travel accessories and bags. Depending upon whether you are traveling for official work, leisurely vacation, adventure or weekend getaway you require the right type of luggage. Modern travelers are conscious of their outward looks and hence it is vital to carry the right travel gears matching that. 

When buying travel bags we need to consider functionality, appearance, value and convenience. With a wide array of brands and designs at hand, it becomes hard to select. To make this process easy, here is a list of the most stylish travel bags online. Click on the images to buy : 

Cabin Trolley – Amazon 

A slick, superior quality suitcase, best suited for international travel. Being high on functionality is an added advantage .

American Touristry – Check-in Luggage 

From my own experience of using this for years this piece of luggage is very durable, looks good and is easy to move around with. There’s plenty of storage space and pockets, so is suitable for longer trips. This comes in two sizes, though choice of colors is limited to two.

Skybag – Cardiff 

A very smart looking, convenient bag with wheels and above all very spacious. It comes in three colors, so choose your favorite  .

Safari Travel Bag 

A piece of luggage having a pocket on the outside is quite useful. If you remember something at the last moment, you can quickly put in the pocket, instead of opening the entire bag. This bag has that additionally, having both handles and wheels makes it easy to be carried.

Stylish Travel Bags Online

 Travel Backpack – Fur Jaden 

Highly recommended for hikers and trekkers, this backpack is spacious and a unique feature is that there is a separate compartment for shoes. Available in different colors .

Duffel Bag – Fur Jaden 

Though made of artificial leather, this duffel bag is water resistant and is good for short trips. Smooth, shiny exteriors enhances it’s looks,  cost wise too it’s quite affordable.  

Foldable Duffle Bag – Amazon 

Packs in a lot of stuff. The key element here is that it is foldable, therefore easy to store in your home. Ideal for adventurous trips, camping or rough travel where you need to have sturdier luggage. 

Office Bag/Satchel – Hammonds Flycatcher 

This is a premium, pure leather office bag, that’s quite classy and has a statement to make.

Women’s Tote bag  

This eco-friendly canvas bag is a must-have for women. It’s washable and trendy,  having a variety of colors and designs to choose from. Shopping, travel or work – it’s a multi-purpose bag. 

Click on the link below for easy return from travel tips :

https://travelsimplygo.com/7-things-to-do-before-you-travel-easy-return-tips/

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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We all usually do a great deal of preparations and planning before undertaking a trip/ vacation though hardly think about ways for a smooth return home. 

What to do to make your after vacation come-back easy?  Here is a list of helpful tips. 

Organize Your Home 

Foremost, is to leave your home in a neat and tidy condition. Packing does lead to a disorderly state where clothes and things are strewn all over the place. No matter how hectic our schedule maybe due to last minute shopping or attending work calls, it’s best to keep aside some time for clearing and organizing your home.  

Begin by putting the clothes and items lying around back in the cup-boards or in their original places. Next, make the beds. After all, who doesn’t long to come back from a wonderful though exhausting holiday to a neat and tidy home. 

Clear the Clutter 

Coming to the kitchen – make sure that no dirty vessels are left on the table or sink, as that is something quite unhygienic.  A basic cleaning of the counter top is adequate for you to quickly prepare a meal! Also any left over food must be finished off or removed before departing and not stored in the fridge. Dispose off all kitchen and other garbage. Nothing uplifts our mood more than cleanliness! 

Contact Neighbours/ Friends 

It’s a good idea to let a close friend or neighbor know about your travel plans, who can contact you in case a need arises. Probably give them a spare set of keys of your house as well. Additionally, it’s ok to ask them for help and delegate tasks, like taking care of plants etc.  

Make sure to pay all your regular bills – electricity, phone etc., so that you don’t have to worry about that in the midst of a vacation if you’ve forgotten . This is all the more important if you’re going for a longer time of more than twenty days and to avoid any inconveniences later on. 

Take a Day to Rest 

Plan in such a way that a day or two is in buffer after you return.  Getting proper rest before the commencement of office or school is essential. The best way to get over jetlag is to take a warm shower, light aromatic candles and sleep for few hours no matter what time of the day it is. This does wonders in helping you to recharge quickly.  

You are sure to bring back a pile of dirty clothes from your travel, as laundry is not possible everytime during or soon afterwards . As such, before going, keep some necessary clean clothes ready as those are the first things you would need when you are back home. Also unpacking the suitcases can be pushed to later on and need not be done immediately. 

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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The most common question that crops in our mind when we are travelling long distance for the first time is –  how would I spend 10 to 15 hours in an aeroplane ? Similarly I too had been getting quite anxious about managing a 15 hour flight –  how would I spend my time, that too in a cramped space? But, contrary to what I expected, my maiden long haul flight was quite alright. 

 Just to think that you’ll be inside an aircraft for hours together might make you  uncomfortable and claustrophobic . Luckily, for me all these assuaged after my first trip. The flight was quite satisfying, and the reason for that are enumerated in this article.  

This blog is about top tips for a long haul flight.

Go For The Best  – Top Tips for a Long Haul Flight

1) Book your ticket on a top-notch airline ( preferably, Emirates, British Airways ) , to get maximum comfort. This not only assures a pleasant journey, also you’ll reach your destination feeling fresher. Not only are the insides spacious and hygienic, they even provide passengers with an attractive  kit with all essential items – eye mask, socks, lip balm, tooth-brush and tooth-paste. So you’re saved from carrying these in your hand baggage.

Do not compromise on quality for the sake of slightly higher prices. Moreover, kids are quite happy as they are given a goody bag full of soft toys, puzzles and games to keep them occupied. 

It is always a good idea to stick to one airlines for all your trips if possible, so that you can collect miles, and utilize it later on for discounts and upgrades. The same principal applies to hotels also. Keep your membership number handy while booking and during check-in, so that you don’t miss on getting your points added. Members are also given access to lounges and other perks.  

WHAT TO CARRY IN CABIN LUGGAGE

2) What you need to carry in your hand baggage are firstly,  a soft jacket/ hoodie / scarf as the temperatures inside may be pretty low. A neck-pillow, to help you relax, get some sleep and not end up having a neck or back pain . My favorite calming product is essential oil (lavender or tea tree) which I bring along for soothing the senses. 

Flights aren’t the place to  be trendily dressed in the latest fashion.  Wear your most comfortable, loose clothes and footwear! 

Noise cancellation headphones – though you are provided with  normal earphones, but that doesn’t cut off the background noise. As such having your own insulated ones is worthwhile. 

For me the in-flight entertainment is sufficient enough for the entire duration of the journey. Depending on your requirement you can have your own movies, shows or playlist downloaded . This will come handy in case you don’t find movies of your choice or if the system has some problem. 

One important item which we usually miss is a pen, it’s required to fill up immigration forms and other documents.  

Medicines are essential, you never know when you may need them. It’s best to carry all medicines  with you in your bag.

Having these things with you  in addition to a hand sanitizer and mask, specially now during  pandemic time is an absolute necessity.  

Few things that are not allowed in the cabin baggage is liquid more than 100 ml (to be carried in a bottle kept in a transparent pouch), lithium batteries, any hazardous items. Make sure you don’t carry any of that. 

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Put all the hard copies of your travel documents in one place, preferably a file – this includes tickets, travel insurance, proof of identity, passport, visa and now the covid test reports. For safety sake, you must also have soft copies of all of these in your device.  

Reach the airport 3 hours in advance, that’s a requirement for an international flight.  

Keep all your travel documents handy, as you enter the airport. You wouldn’t want to search your baggage at the airport if you’ve forgotten where it is kept! Next,  get your baggage checked in and collect your boarding pass. It’s here that you can request for seats of your choice, so check it out.  All this may take some time, depending on the queue .  

After this is the immigration and security checks which are mandatory. Once through with these two steps, you can be fairly relaxed. If there is time you can window shop or buy if you wish from the plethora of stores open 24/7. 

Or head to one of the fine restaurants, (offering a great variety of cuisines to choose from) and enjoy your favorite meal. This will not only uplift your spirts before boarding the flight, sometimes meals served on flights may not be of your liking.  

 As most international flights are in the nights, be prepared to be awake. A day or two prior to your departure, take proper rest and sleep. Better not to exhaust yourself, with last minute packing or shopping etc. 

If you’re not one of those travelers who gets to sleep easily on a plane, perhaps you can try reading a book or practice meditations or deep breathing exercises . These would surely help you in getting some shut-eye. 

These are basic guidelines for what first time travelers need to know for a long haul flight.

Read my other blog on `Easy return tips’

https://travelsimplygo.com/7-things-to-do-before-you-travel-easy-return-tips/

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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As the world is recovering from the onslaught of a pandemic, travel is slowly though surely making a comeback. At this stage, however,  everyone is treading carefully. Depending on guidelines followed by the EDC, countries are opening borders at their own pace . In this situation, what is trending in travel and what people are looking for, is what this blog is all about. The tourism industry too is going through it’s biggest shift ever, as it needs to adapt to revised health and safety measures. 

Before making any travel program, in the post covid era, we need to be very cautious than ever before.  Know in detail about the place – government regulation, health situation and of course your own intuition. Amidst the uncertainty of the situation, travel trends are surely towards slow travel, longer duration  and bubble destinations. 

What is trending in travel in 2021 ? 

As the tourism sector too is adapting to these changes, travelers would be taking it easy. Working together in co-ordination for the benefit of both parties. 

Travel bubble –  visiting  places with which your country has a travel bubble or corridor, seems the most logical step for overall protection and spread of the virus. A Pacific bubble created between Australia,  New Zealand, Singapore, and islands in the Pacific ocean – Fiji, Vanuatu and few others, allow residents to  travel freely  between these zones/ belt , without having to follow the fourteen day mandatory quarantine. 

Workcation – workcation is the latest travel trend to have gained momentum. With flexibility in people’s work schedule and being stuck at home for over a year now, people are preferring to go on an extended vacation where they can combine work and relaxation. As such, hotels and resorts are scaling up for the new requirements and coming up with innovative ideas to satisfy guests. Resorts like the Anantara Veli Maldives are already offering tourists an unlimited stay. 

Emphasis is on luxurious, indulgent trips – after a chaotic year full of ups and downs, holidaymakers  long to rejuvenate  their mind, body and spirits completely.   As such luxury and spa getaways where they can recharge or a  peaceful yoga/ meditation retreat  seem be ideal. 

Family reunion – being separated from loved ones for quite a while now. Meeting family and connecting with friends has become the top priority. This in fact is the safest type of travel as it is most likely within your own country, so social distancing norm is adhered to. Additionally,  all the more better if traveling by your own vehicle. 

With the pandemic situation still in a state of flux, here are key travel directives :- 

• Gather as much information as you can about your travel destination .  
• Secondly, keep yourself updated with news of flight, or whatever mode of transportation you are using for any changes .  
• Lastly, check quarantine rules and regulations or tests required before embarking on your journey. This goes a long way in an unhurdled trip experience. 

• Follow precautions, maintain social distancing and you are good to go !  

Though my own personal take –  put on hold any travel plans for some more time. Be flexible and prepared for any modification or cancellations in an ambiguous situation!

 Just as the world, so also the tourism industry is going through a turmoil never known before.  Gearing up, discovering innovative ideas to attract customers, while adhering to SOP’s is the need of the hour. Digitalization of processes and activities must be incorporated, for guests to have a contactless, safe experience .  

In this scenario a major chunk of tourists are preferring sustainable travel choices . As such, a flexible booking or cancellation policy has become mandatory. Travel trends in future would nevertheless create an exciting, challenging opportunities for the world to adapt to.  

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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Weather can be an unpredictable aspect, and when on a holiday it can make or mar your trip. Even though travelers always check the ideal time to visit a place, but has nature ever been in our control? 

 “One such damper was a short two-day  trip to Pondicherry. Reached the sea-side town in the Bay of Bengal – late in the night to clear, starry sky. However, the next day’s weather was a complete contrast , as we woke up to skies overcast with dense, dark clouds! Keeping our fingers crossed and hoping for the gloomy clouds  to melt away. Nothing of that sort happened though and in a short while , it started pouring!

With not much luck – the weather God’s were unrelenting!! It was only by evening did the intensity of the  downpour decrease gradually.  As the program was for just two days, bouncing out of our despair, decided to at least venture out for a short rendezvous around. Unprepared for this eventuality, and with no rain gear, the first stop that we hunted for was an umbrella store.

https://amzn.to/3fGUjW0

Eventually, equipped with umbrellas and an enthusiasm to match, we headed to the main Puducherry beach area. Traversing the rocky boulevard of the beach, balancing umbrellas over our heads, with the choppy waves of the grey sea lashing against the rocks and pitter patter raindrops, this turned out to be a wet,  adventurous experience. What was anticipated as  a warm, sunny holiday to a beach-side, became a rainy getaway to Pondicherry . ” 

“Sometimes things go wrong in travel ! That’s where real adventure begins” 

 A similar incident, of having to deal with the vagaries of nature occurred during the new year’s firework celebration in Sydney. The area surrounding the Harbor and the famous Bridge is the venue of this  grand spectacle . There is always  a mammoth crowd and seats have to be blocked in advance. People wait since early noon, on the grassy lawns to reserve a premier viewing spot , bearing the harsh rays of the sun and the noisy, teeming crowds. Some had even come prepared for a picnic, with a food basket,  their mats spread out , thinking they’ll ring in the new year, celebrating with family and friends.  

 Imagine their anguish, when out of nowhere, thunderous showers came splattering down, just as the initial water show was about to begin. What a timing!! Utter confusion prevailed – as people scurried for shelter, leaving their prime positions, though the wiser ones with rain gears stayed put.  It was indeed a hilarious sight. The incessant rains continued for some more time, at length ceasing as suddenly as it started, prior to the main program.    

Finally, the fantastic firework display did take place amidst the excited, cheering spectators. Additionally, the goodness, such incidences bring to the fore is laudable. The helpful attitude of people, are  exemplary – a lady, who handed over her umbrella to children getting drenched, as she didn’t wish to stay back and was returning home.

https://amzn.to/3vHyvPu

 What to Do –  Get into the habit of carrying umbrellas or raincoat and if possible an extra pair of clothes. These are really useful in unforeseen situations, particularly if you’re going for  a whole day trip. A superior quality rucksack to fit all these is  a mandatory requirement.  

Also, while planning a trip, keep into consideration the best season to visit and weather forecast during that time.

If you’ve just landed in your dream destination and are just checking into your hotel. Exhausted after a long flight, you’re waiting anxiously with kids and family for the check-in formalities to be over. Rest and sleep are the top requirement at the moment,   when to your disbelief you’re informed that your credit card, is not working. On the second attempt also `transaction declined’ error message was displayed. This is what happened with an acquaintance, who was left high and dry in a foreign country.  

Any attempt to contact their bank back home  was declined as it was still early morning there. An awkward situation no doubt, but fortunately, the hotel management were kind enough to let the guests in, giving them the grace time of few hours to complete the payment. 

What to Do –  Always, have an additional credit card with you and also carry  some amount of cash in the local currency. Before departing, let the bank know of your travel plan. 

When You’re Late for your flight in spite of reaching the airport punctually. 

Having reached the airport quite in advance as you usually do, you’re quite relaxed to find just a handful of people at the check-in. Stopping at a café for breakfast, by the time you finish, you notice  there are more  people in the queue now. You proceed to join them. The person at the counter seems to be taking ages and  you heave a sigh of relief when your turn finally comes. 

 As you are handed over your passes, you’re perturbed when  told, “ Sir, you’ve got to hurry up….it takes 20 minutes from here to reach the gates” . This was the least you expected. Wondering  whether airports have transformed into  mini city nowadays? 

 As you hurry, and are minutes away from the gates, you hear an announcement calling out your name, requesting you to reach as quickly as possible as the plane is ready for departure. Nervous, almost running now, you enter the fully packed aircraft, to the  amused, cynical look of passengers.  

What to Do –  The day prior to your flight, check details and logistic of the airport. Airports are becoming massive, all-encompassing, having not just eateries and shops but entertainment points as well, almost equivalent to a mall . Distances within the airport may be quite a lot, so plan accordingly.  

Everything cannot always be smooth sailing and perfect. It’s not always when travel goes wrong. Be Prepared. Be Vigilant. And you’ll sail through!!

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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