The first thing Covid-19 pandemic has adversely affected is international travel. While most European countries and the US have been opening up their borders as per the government-issued guidelines, some like Australia and New Zealand have completely suspended international travel and tourism. But, as mass inoculation takes place the world over, there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel. Experts predict that by early 2022, we’ll see a semblance of normalcy return, and that international tourism will be restored to its former schedule. so, if you are wondering, yes, you can start planning your international trip now. This guide will help you prepare!
Planning Your International Trip
Planning an international trip can be an ordeal, especially if you are travelling for the first time. However, with this guide in hand, you need not worry at all.
Before planning on visiting, check the visa requirements of the country and be sure to read the travel advisory for the pandemic, and all emergency protocols. This will be especially important in times of any crisis or emergency border closures.
Here’s how you can be all ready!
Deciding On Which Place To Visit
The first step is to decide where you want to go. For this look at travelling deals online and/or consult a travel agent. If you are going to the preferred destination for the first time, it’s better to read up on it and book a package which will allow you to explore the most places in the shortest amount of time.
The Duration Of Your Trip
When planning a trip, it’s best to think of it in terms of days and nights, and then break it down further into your travelling time. Your actual duration of the trip will be the time you spend not travelling.
To make the most of your trip, this will help you plan your activities and sightseeing effectively.
Money To Carry
Each country has its own currency, however, if you are anywhere in Europe, you can easily carry Euros. As a tip, always think of your expenditures in terms of the foreign currency of the country you’ll be visiting. This will help you better plan everything. Moreover, you can always use American dollars in most parts of the world. So you can exchange your Pakistani currency for dollars as you depart, and then change it back when you land into the new country, provided this new country’s currency is not readily available, such as that of Central Asian Republics.
Exchanging your currency for dollars will easily help you to spend during your transit. Here’s how you can keep your money safe while travelling.
Packing Accordingly
If you are a shopper and you’re going somewhere where you’ll be going out shopping, it’s best to pack lightly. This is because on most international airlines no one is allowed to carry more than 30 kg in baggage, and 10 kg additional in hand carry. If you want to bring back some stuff, you should have more space in your luggage even before you depart.
Check for weather updates not just for the coming days but try to understand the pattern of the previous weeks as well, to get a better understanding of how the temperature can change. This is especially important for areas that are arid, such as the Middle East or tropical countries like Malaysia.
If you are an explorer, be sure to pack your sneakers.
A tip, for a longer layover, no matter the weather, carry a light jacket or shawl because the airport can get too cold.
Read Before Planning
Now that you’ve decided where you want to go and for how long, the next step is to read up on the place! Scroll through Instagram to find the perfect spots you would want to visit. Again, discuss these with your travel agent so once you land at your destination, you don’t have to worry about transportation to your preferred spots.
In addition, read about the weather, food, and language. Understanding the weather pattern will help you pack accordingly so you’re neither too cold or too hot. The best way to go about this is to log on online chat rooms and ask the locals directly, since Google can’t always be trusted.
If you have specific food preferences or are allergic to some foods, it’s best to find out the local names of those foods so you can order comfortably. This, of course, applies if your destination is a country where English is not spoken widely. As for the language, install Google Translator if you haven’t already. It’ll be your best guide when all else fails, dialect wise.
Acquaint Yourself With The Law Of The Land
As a tourist, it is absolutely essential that you understand the Do’s and Don’ts of a new place, beforehand. This will help you acquaint yourself with what’s legal and what’s not in the country you’re visiting, so you don’t break any law and can have a fun time.
In addition to understanding the law, be mindful of the cultural values of the people as well. As a tourist, you should be aware not to inflict any kind of harm on the citizens through your actions, but rather have an immersive experience through which you can learn more about the unique culture and people.
Travelling During Covid 19
Now that you’re fully prepared for an international trip, you need to account for Covid-19 as well. Be sure that you’re fully vaccinated and have the required Vaccination Certificate. Despite being vaccinated, carry a sanitizer, gloves, and do not remove your face mask under any circumstances.
At the airport, be sure to maintain social distancing. Throughout your trip, keep monitoring your body temperature, and see a doctor if you have any of the coronavirus symptoms. If you have seasonal allergies, it is advisable to carry your prescribed medications, with a prescription so you are fully prepared. Check out this guide on travelling safely during covid.
If you are looking to travel inside Pakistan, check out this guide. For solo female travelers, these are the safest destinations.
With this you should be prepared enough to head on to your favorite vacation spot. Where are you headed next? Write to us at blog@zameen.com. if you’ve been travelling during the Pandemic, let us know your tips and tricks that worked by commenting below. For the latest updates, keep checking Pakistan’s largest property blog, Zameen Blog.
